What’s the best way to use Amex points?

Key takeaways

• You can use Amex points for travel, gift cards, and every day shopping

• Travel transfers typically offer the best value for points per spend

• Some redemptions have limits and restrictions, so always check before you convert points

If you’re a UK cardholder of American Express, you’ve got access to one of the most flexible and rewarding loyalty programmes available — Membership Rewards.

Whether you want to travel in style, shop smarter, or cut down your card bill, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to earn, redeem, and maximise your Amex points.

What is American Express Membership Rewards?

Membership Rewards is American Express’ points programme that lets UK cardholders earn points on eligible spending and redeem them for travel, shopping, or statement credits.

How long do I have to spend my Amex points?

Your points are active and do not expire, as long as your account is open and in good standing. If you close your card and no other card is linked to your points account, you usually have 30 days to use your points.

Your points may be forfeited if your account is cancelled for missed payments or other breaches of terms.

How do I earn Amex points?

Earning points is simple — but knowing where they come from and what does and doesn’t count can make a real difference to your balance:

Everyday spending

• Earn 1 point per £1 spent on eligible purchases with your Membership Rewards card

• Points typically post within 24–48 hours of the transaction appearing on your account

Bonus categories and welcome offers

• Some cards offer higher earn rates (e.g. 2× or 3× points) in categories like travel or dining

• Welcome bonuses can boost your balance quickly if you meet the minimum spend in the early months

• Targeted promotions and partner offers can also give temporary bonus earn rates

Referrals

• You can earn bonus points for referring friends who successfully apply and are approved for an Amex card

What doesn’t earn points

• Fees, interest, balance transfers, and cash advances

• Prepaid card loads and foreign exchange fees

• Refunds or returned purchases

Earning limits

• There’s no overall cap on Membership Rewards points in the UK

• Certain bonus categories or promotional rates may have spend caps

Top tip: Set up regular payments like utilities or streaming services on your card to grow your points balance steadily

What can I use Amex points for?

AMEX points can be used across a range of spending categories. Here are your main redemption options, with typical values:

Need to know: Transfers to travel partners are usually irreversible and must go to a loyalty account in your own name

How can I maximise my Amex points?

To get the most out of your points, look for high-value sweet spots — especially in travel. Travel transfers are often your best bet when it comes to maximising your points.

Why travel transfers are the best way to maximise your Amex points:

• Travel partners often give the best pence-per-point value

• Transfers can be boosted by limited-time transfer bonuses (e.g. +20% or +30%)

• Premium cabin flights (e.g. business or first class) often offer disproportionate value compared to cash fares

• Booking during off-peak dates can stretch your points further

Examples of popular UK travel redemption options:

• British Airways Executive Club (Avios): Excellent option for short-haul European flights or upgrades

• Partner airlines (e.g. Oneworld, SkyTeam, Star Alliance): Good for long-haul sweet spots

• Hotel transfers: Can provide solid value at off-peak rates

What to avoid using American Express points for:

• Using points at checkout with retailers like Amazon or PayPal gives less value per point

• Statement credits are convenient but usually less rewarding than travel

Before redeeming, always compare the cash price vs the points cost to make sure it’s a good deal.

Are there any limits on earning Amex points?

There are a few things to consider when it comes to earning Amex points:

• Transfers are one-way: Once moved to a travel partner, they can’t be reversed

• Transfers can only go to loyalty accounts in your own name

• Some redemptions have minimum transfer blocks (e.g. 1,000 points)

• If your account is closed or you default on payments, points may be lost

• Redemption values can change over time, so check the latest rates before redeeming

What's the best way to use my Amex points?

The best way to use your American Express points is to choose a card that fits your spending habits and look out for high earning rates and bonus categories.

It also helps to make the most of welcome bonuses and referrals, and stay flexible to unlock better deals from airlines and hotel partners.

Always make sure you compare the value of your points before you redeem an offer. Remember, travel is almost always the best value when it comes to spending your points.

Finally, keep your account active and in good shape. Don't lose points unnecessarily if you can help it.