How to Earn KrisFlyer Miles
With all major US banks as transfer partners, it's very easy to get the KrisFlyer miles you need for an amazing trip.
Method | Description |
---|---|
Credit Card Transfers | This is how most people earn KrisFlyer miles. They are a transfer partner of every major bank: Chase, Amex, Citi, and Capital One. |
Flying Singapore & Star Alliance | Earn miles when flying on Singapore Airlines or its Star Alliance partners. |
Hotel & Car Rental Partners | You can also earn miles through various other travel partners, including hotel stays and car rentals. |
How to Use KrisFlyer Miles
The main reason to use KrisFlyer is for exclusive access to Singapore Airlines' premium cabin award seats. These seats are not available to book through partner airline programs.
- Saver vs. Advantage Awards: Singapore has two award prices. 'Saver' awards are cheaper but have less availability, while 'Advantage' awards cost more but are easier to find.
- Join the Waitlist: If a premium cabin award isn't available, you can add yourself to the waitlist. If a seat opens up, you'll be notified and can book it.
- Fuel Surcharges Apply: Be aware that Singapore Airlines does pass on fuel surcharges, which can be significant on their own flights.
Pro Tip: Transfer, Don't Park!
The Best Deals (Sweet Spots)
These redemptions showcase why the KrisFlyer program is so legendary:
This is why the program exists for many travel hackers. KrisFlyer is the ONLY program that lets you book Singapore's incredible long-haul Suites and First Class products. It's a true bucket-list travel experience.
Even if you can't snag a Suites award, Singapore's Business Class is consistently ranked as one of the best in the world, and you can book it at reasonable rates with KrisFlyer miles.
Fly Singapore Airlines on cool, unique routes that don't even touch Singapore, like New York (JFK) to Frankfurt (FRA) or Houston (IAH) to Manchester (MAN).
For a small fee of $100 on a one-way award, you can add a stopover in Singapore, giving you a chance to explore the amazing city and its airport.
Partners & Rules
Singapore Airlines is a key member of Star Alliance and has several valuable non-alliance partners.
- Key Star Alliance Partners: United, Lufthansa, ANA, Turkish Airlines. You can use KrisFlyer miles to book flights on these partners, though it's often better to use other Star Alliance programs for this.
- Key Non-Alliance Partners: Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Australia, Alaska Airlines.
- The Rules: One-way awards are allowed. You can also purchase additional stopovers for $100 each, which is a great way to build a multi-stop trip.