How to Use Credit Card Points: Unlocking Free Travel as a Locums Physician

If you’re a locum tenens physician, travel isn’t just a perk—it’s part of the job. But what if those frequent trips could cover your next vacation, upgrade you to business class, or pay for luxury hotel stays? With the right credit card strategy, you can turn work-related spending into unforgettable travel experiences—for free.

---

Let’s break down exactly how to do that.

1. Know the Three Types of Points

To maximize rewards, you need to understand the currency you're earning:

Airline Miles

Earned through co-branded airline cards (e.g., Delta SkyMiles, United MileagePlus). These are ideal for booking flights directly with the airline.

Hotel Points

Collected via hotel-branded cards (Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, World of Hyatt), these points are great for free stays, upgrades, and elite status perks.

Transferable Points

The gold standard of points. Rewards from cards like Amex Membership Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards can be transferred to both airlines and hotels—offering the most flexibility and value.

Best Bet for Locums? Focus on transferable points. You’re often flying different routes and staying at a mix of properties—flexibility is your friend.

2. Choose the Right Credit Cards

The right mix of cards ensures every dollar you spend works harder for you.

Top Personal Picks:

• Amex Platinum – 5x points on flights, airport lounge access, and a big welcome bonus.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve – Excellent for travel and dining, with strong point value and great transfer partners.

Hotel Cards:

• World of Hyatt – High-value redemptions and automatic elite status.

• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant (Amex) – Annual free night, Platinum Elite status, and travel credits.

Business Cards for Locums:

• Amex Business Platinum – 5x points on flights, 35% points rebate, and premium perks.

• Chase Ink Business Preferred – 3x points on travel and business-related categories with a generous sign-up bonus.

3. Maximize Every Dollar

You're already spending on travel and professional expenses—make sure you’re earning points while doing it.

Book Flights and Hotels with the Right Card

Use Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire for max points and extra travel protections.

Put Work Expenses on Business Cards

If you're being reimbursed, you’re basically earning points for free. Don’t miss this opportunity.

Use Category Multipliers

Use Amex Gold for 4x points on dining and groceries. Use the right card for the right purchase.

Refer Friends and Colleagues

Most cards offer referral bonuses—an easy way to earn thousands of extra points.

4. Redeem Points the Smart Way

Here’s where most people go wrong: using points for gift cards or statement credits. Don't. You’re often getting half the value compared to travel redemptions.

Best Uses:

Transfer points to airline programs for business-class flights—like ANA to Japan for just 90,000 points round trip.

Book luxury hotels with Hyatt or Marriott—25,000 points can land you in a $500-per-night resort.

Take advantage of travel perks like Marriott’s 5th-night-free benefit or Hyatt’s waived resort fees on award stays.

Pro Tip: Always compare the value between booking through a credit card portal and transferring points to travel partners. Transfer options usually win.

---

Final Thought

You're already doing the work—why not let that work take you further? With a little strategy, every shift and every purchase can move you closer to free flights, upgraded stays, and travel that feels like a reward, not a chore. The points are there. You just have to claim them.

Want a glimpse of what that looks like in real life? Come hang out with us on Instagram @locumtraveler — we share stories, scenery, and insights from the road.

---

Financial Disclosure:

Just a quick note: This is for educational purposes only. The opinions expressed in this blog post are my own and are provided for informational purposes only. I’m not a licensed financial advisor, and the information shared here should not be considered financial, legal, or tax advice. Please consult with a qualified financial planner or tax professional before making any financial decisions. While I may discuss certain products, services, or financial strategies, it’s important to conduct your own research and consider your individual circumstances when making financial decisions.