How To Book Premium Economy Flights with Points and Miles

Are you dreaming of a more comfortable flying experience without breaking the bank? Look no further than premium economy! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to leverage your hard-earned points and miles to book the best premium economy flights. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to the world of travel rewards, we’ll help you elevate your journey without straining your budget.

Premium economy offers a sweet spot between the cramped quarters of economy and the luxury (and cost) of business or first class. With perks like extra legroom, improved dining options and additional baggage allowance, it’s an attractive option for those looking to upgrade their travel experience. So, let’s dive in and explore how you can make the most of your points and miles to book these coveted seats!

What Is Premium Economy?

Before we delve into the booking process, let’s clarify what exactly premium economy is and how it differs from other cabin classes.

Premium economy is a travel class that bridges the gap between standard economy and business class. It was first introduced by Taiwanese airline EVA Air in 1992 with their “Economy Deluxe Class” and has since been adopted by many major airlines worldwide. This cabin class offers a noticeable upgrade from economy, providing passengers with enhanced comfort and services without the hefty price tag of business or first class.

Key features of premium economy typically include:

1. Extra legroom: Seats usually offer 5-7 inches more legroom than standard economy.
2. Wider seats: Expect seats to be 1-2 inches wider than those in economy.
3. Enhanced recline: Seats recline more for better comfort on long-haul flights.
4. Improved dining: Better quality meals, often served on real dishware.
5. Amenity kits: Many airlines provide basic amenity kits, similar to those in business class.
6. Increased baggage allowance: Often, there is one extra checked bag, compared to economy.
7. Priority boarding: Board before economy passengers for a more relaxed pre-flight experience.
8. Dedicated check-in counters: Avoid long lines at the airport.
9. Larger entertainment screens: Enjoy your in-flight entertainment on a bigger display.

While premium economy doesn’t offer lie-flat beds or direct aisle access for all seats like the best business-class cabins, it provides a significant step up from the standard economy experience.

Is Premium Economy Worth It?

Now that we understand what premium economy offers, let’s consider whether it’s worth the extra points, miles or cash. The value proposition of premium economy varies depending on factors such as flight duration, route and individual preferences.

For long-haul flights (typically 6+ hours), premium economy can be a game-changer. The extra legroom and recline can make a significant difference in comfort, helping you arrive at your destination feeling more rested. The improved dining experience and amenity kits also contribute to a more enjoyable journey.

• Business travelers may find premium economy an attractive option when company policies don’t allow for business-class bookings. It offers a more comfortable environment for working or resting without the high cost of upper-class travel.
• Families traveling with children might appreciate the extra space and improved service, making the journey more manageable for both parents and kids.
• Solo adventurers or budget-conscious travelers may find premium economy a worthwhile splurge for special occasions or particularly long flights.

When it comes to points and miles redemption, premium economy can often provide good value. While it requires more points than economy, it’s less than business class—often 25% to 75% more miles. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to maximize their travel rewards without depleting their entire points balance on a single flight.

However, it’s essential to compare the points required for premium economy versus economy and business class on your specific route. Sometimes, the difference in points between premium economy and business class might be small enough to justify stretching for the higher class. Conversely, on shorter flights, the benefits might not justify the extra points compared to economy.

How to Use Points and Miles to Book Premium Economy

Now that we’ve established the potential value of premium economy, let’s walk through the process of booking these flights using your points and miles.

Step 1: Choose Your Destination and Airline

First, decide where you want to go and research which airlines offer premium economy on that route. Not all airlines have a premium economy cabin, and availability can vary by route.

Step 2: Check Award Availability

Use your preferred airline’s website or tools like PointsYeah to search for premium economy award availability on your desired dates. Be flexible with your travel dates for the best chances of finding award seats.

Step 3: Determine the Miles Required

Check how many miles you’ll need for the premium economy redemption. This can vary significantly between airlines and routes. Some airlines use fixed award charts, while others have dynamic pricing that fluctuates based on demand.

Step 4: Earn the Necessary Miles

If you don’t have enough miles in your account, consider these strategies to boost your balance:

1. Credit card sign-up bonuses: Many travel rewards credit cards offer substantial welcome bonuses that can quickly boost your miles balance.
2. Everyday spending: Use a rewards credit card for your regular purchases to earn miles on your daily expenses.
3. Transfer partners: If you have credit card points (like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards), you may be able to transfer them to airline partners.
4. Shopping portals: Earn extra miles by making online purchases through airline shopping portals.
5. Dining programs: Register your credit card with airline dining programs to earn miles when you dine at participating restaurants.

Step 5: Book Your Flight

Once you have enough miles, book your premium economy flight through the airline’s website or by calling their reservations line.

Tips for Maximizing Value on Premium Economy Redemptions

1. Be flexible with dates: Award availability can vary greatly, so having flexible travel dates can help you find the best deals.
2. Consider partner airlines: Sometimes booking through a partner airline’s program can offer better value for the same flight.
3. Watch for promotions: Airlines occasionally offer discounted award redemptions or transfer bonuses from credit card programs.
4. Book in advance: Premium economy award seats are often limited, so booking early can increase your chances of securing a seat.
5. Compare cash prices: Always compare the cash price to the miles required to ensure you’re getting a good value for your redemption.

Which Airlines Have the Best Premium Economy?

Not all premium economy products are created equal. Let’s explore some of the best premium economy airlines.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines is renowned for its excellent service across all cabin classes, so the fact that it has one of the best premium economy seats shouldn’t be a surprise. Passengers enjoy wide seats with a generous 38-inch pitch, full-leg rests and 13.3-inch HD monitors. The airline’s “Book the Cook” service allows premium economy passengers to pre-order their main course from an extensive menu.

Redemption tip: Singapore KrisFlyer miles can be transferred from American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards and Capital One Miles at a 1:1 ratio.

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic’s Premium Economy offers a 38-inch seat pitch, premium meal selections and amenity kits on most long-haul routes. Their innovative “Wander Wall” provides a dedicated area for Premium Economy passengers to stretch and grab snacks during the flight.

Redemption tip: Virgin Atlantic Flying Club partners with American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards and Citi ThankYou Rewards for 1:1 point transfers.

Air France

Air France’s premium economy cabin, now rebranded as “Premium,” features comfortable seats with a 40-inch pitch, adjustable headrests and large 13.3-inch entertainment screens. Passengers receive an amenity kit, noise-canceling headphones and enhanced dining options.

Redemption tip: Air France-KLM Flying Blue miles can be transferred from American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards and Capital One Miles at a 1:1 ratio.

Qantas

Qantas offers one of the most spacious premium economy cabins, with seats featuring a 38-inch pitch and a unique recline system that cradles the body as you adjust your position. Passengers enjoy multi-course meals paired with Australian wines and a self-service bar for snacks and non-alcoholic drinks.

Redemption tip: Qantas Frequent Flyer points can be transferred from American Express Membership Rewards and Capital One Miles.

All Nippon Airways (ANA)

ANA’s premium economy boasts a generous 38-inch pitch and seats over 19 inches wide. Passengers receive access to ANA lounges in Japan and Honolulu, a perk typically reserved for upper-class cabins. The dining experience is also noteworthy, with meals created in collaboration with renowned chefs.

Redemption tip: ANA Mileage Club partners with American Express Membership Rewards for point transfers.

Delta Air Lines

Delta’s Premium Select offers seats with 38 inches of pitch and 19 inches of width. Passengers receive noise-canceling headphones, an amenity kit and enhanced dining options served on Alessi tableware.

Redemption tip: Delta SkyMiles can be transferred from American Express Membership Rewards.

Elevate Your Travel Experience

Premium economy offers a fantastic middle ground for travelers seeking extra comfort without the high cost of business or first class. By leveraging your points and miles, you can enjoy these enhanced travel experiences while still getting great value from your rewards.

Remember to compare offerings between airlines, be flexible with your travel dates and always check both the airline’s own program and its partners for the best redemption rates. With a bit of planning and the right strategy, you can elevate your travel experience and make your journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Ready to start planning your premium economy adventure? Explore our resources at 10xTravel for more tips on maximizing your travel rewards. Whether you’re eyeing the best economy sweet spots or considering a leap to business or first class, we’re here to help you make the most of your miles and points.