How does KrisFlyer Miles work?
Flying Business or First Class with Singapore Airlines is highly regarded, but they aren't as simple to earn points with due to no direct card partner in Australia. Thankfully, you can earn KrisFlyer Miles through various Australian rewards credit cards that are transfer partners.
The best KrisFlyer miles credit cards in Australia can earn up to 0.8 miles per dollar spent at major supermarkets and petrol stations. Some cards also give bonus miles like dining or travel bookings –– this can help you build up your KrisFlyer balance faster for reward flights.
Transfer partner programs for KrisFlyer Miles
Australian transfer partners are as follows:
- Amex Membership Rewards
- Amplify Rewards
- ANZ Rewards
- Citi Rewards
- Flybuys
- HSBC Rewards
- NAB Rewards
- Suncorp Rewards
- Velocity Frequent Flyer
- Westpac Altitude Rewards.
What to consider before applying for a credit card that earns KrisFlyer Miles
When comparing credit cards that earn KrisFlyer Miles, consider these key features:
- Earn rate. Higher earn rates are preferable, but pay attention to points caps and tiers based on spending and elevated earn rates for specific spending categories such as dining or travel.
- Conversion rate. Since there are no directly linked KrisFlyer cards in Australia, conversion rates from credit card rewards programs to KrisFlyer may vary between programs.
- Sign-up bonus points. Look for offers with sign-up bonuses that can quickly boost your KrisFlyer Miles balance.
- Other benefits. Consider additional perks such as travel insurance, 24/7 concierge service, or airport lounge access, but only if they are of value to you.
- Annual fee. Keep in mind the cost of keeping the account open and whether the benefits justify the fee since there are few rewards cards that offer a no annual fee.
An expert's opinion on choosing a card to earn KrisFlyer Miles
Here is Credit Card Compare co-founder David Boyd's opinion on what you should consider when comparing credit cards to transfer to the KrisFlyer Miles Rewards program.
Picking the right KrisFlyer miles credit card can help you rack up points faster and enjoy extra perks.
How to maximise your KrisFlyer Miles Rewards
Boosting your KrisFlyer miles balance can lead to more travel rewards. Smart spending and taking advantage of special offers are key ways to rack up miles quickly.
- Optimising everyday spending. To get the most KrisFlyer miles from your credit card, focus on high-earning categories. Some cards offer extra points for dining, travel, or groceries. Check your card's rewards structure and use it for those purchases.
- Look for cards with good transfer rates to KrisFlyer. A higher rate means more miles per dollar spent. For example, some cards might give you 0.66 KrisFlyer miles per dollar, while others only 0.33.
- Sign-up bonuses. These can be a quick way to earn a large chunk of miles. For instance, some cards offer up to 100,000 bonus points, which could translate to 40,000 KrisFlyer miles
Expert opinion: What is the mistake Aussies make most when transferring points to KrisFlyer Miles
Andrew Boyd, co-founder of Credit Card Compare, explains the biggest mistake Australians make when transferring points to Krisflyer Miles.
They get a credit card and transfer the points back and forth.
How to transfer and redeem KrisFlyer Miles
Many Australian credit cards let you transfer rewards to KrisFlyer miles. The transfer rates vary and the following rates were last updated on 23/10/2024:
- American Express Membership Rewards: 3:1 ratio
- Amplify Rewards (St.George/Bank of Melbourne/Bank SA): 3:1 ratio
- ANZ Rewards: Variable ratio
- Velocity Rewards: Variable ratio
Some cards offer better rates. For example, the Amex Platinum gives 400 points for 250 KrisFlyer miles. Transfer times can differ. Some take a few days, while others are quick. Check your card's terms for details.
Best value redemption options
KrisFlyer miles shine for premium cabins on Singapore Airlines. Top choices include:
- Business Class to Europe
- First Class Suites on A380 flights
- Round-the-world Star Alliance awards
Economy redemptions often give less value. You might get better deals paying cash for these seats. Upgrade awards can be great too. You can bump up from Economy to Business on long flights for a comfy trip and a few glasses of champagne.
Redemption process and policies
Booking with KrisFlyer miles is straightforward:
- Log in to your KrisFlyer account.
- Search for flights.
- Choose 'Redeem Miles' option.
- Pick your seats and pay any fees.
Keep in mind some key rules:
- Book at least 2 weeks before travel for Saver awards.
- Changes or cancellations incur fees.
- Miles expire after 3 years.
Elite status members get perks like priority bookings and lower fees. Aim for KrisFlyer Elite Gold for the best benefits.
