Unlock Business Class Seats to Tokyo with Award Booking Strategies

Booking a business class trip to Tokyo might seem like a daunting task, especially when aiming to utilize award tickets. However, with the right strategy, it's possible to secure those coveted seats without breaking the bank. In this guide, we'll unveil how to find award availability, the best ways to earn points towards your booking, and ultimately, how to redeem those points for business class flights to Tokyo for you and your loved ones. Maximize your credit card points and take to the skies in comfort and style.

Finding Award Availability

Closing Bookings: A Last-Minute Strategy

Closing bookings refer to award bookings made within 30 days of departure. They are a golden opportunity for travelers looking to book business class seats, especially during off-peak times. By focusing on these last-minute options, you stand a better chance of finding available seats for multiple passengers.

Utilizing United.com for Search

Instead of searching directly on airline websites, use United.com. This platform offers an easier way to search for award availability and provides a monthly calendar view of available flights. Here's a quick guide:

1. Go to United.com and select 'Book with Miles'.
2. Enter your desired route and flexible dates.
3. Look for flights marked with 100,000 or 110,000 United miles, indicating saver award space.

Earning Points

Capitalize on Credit Card Points

Transferring credit card points to airline partners is an efficient way to fund your trip. For ANA business class flights, two viable options are Air Canada Aeroplan and Virgin Atlantic. Here's how to accumulate points:

• Air Canada Aeroplan: Transfer points from Capital One, Chase, and American Express.
• Virgin Atlantic: Transfer points from Capital One, Citi, Chase, and American Express.

Both Air Canada and Virgin Atlantic offer a 1:1 transfer ratio, providing ample opportunities to gather the necessary points for your booking.

Redeeming Points for Flights

Booking Through Air Canada or Virgin Atlantic

After finding the award availability, the next step is to book your flight. Both Air Canada and Virgin Atlantic offer ways to redeem points for ANA business class seats, but the costs in points and fees vary:

• Air Canada Aeroplan: Typically requires more points but charges less in taxes and fees.
• Virgin Atlantic: Demands fewer points but incurs higher taxes and fees.

The choice between the two will depend on your points balance and your preference for saving on points or fees. Additionally, keep an eye out for transfer bonuses which can significantly reduce the number of points needed for a booking.

Tips for Success

• Be flexible with your travel dates to match award availability.
• Consider the taxes and fees in addition to the points required for booking.
• Act quickly on last-minute award spaces to secure your seats.

Booking a business class flight to Tokyo using award tickets can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to enjoy luxury travel at a fraction of the cost. With strategic planning, flexibility, and the right use of credit card points, you can make this dream trip a reality.

For more detailed insights and a step-by-step booking guide, check out the original video here.