Unlock Award Travel: Use KrisFlyer Miles for Searches

Singapore Airlines Now Requires KrisFlyer Miles in Your Account To Search Award Availability

If you’re a frequent flyer or a points aficionado, you’ve probably heard that Singapore Airlines has made a big shift in their award booking process. Previously, you could search for award availability without any KrisFlyer miles in your account. That’s no longer the case — and it’s crucial to adjust your strategy accordingly.

In my opinion, although this change might seem inconvenient at first, it opens up a more member-focused approach for Singapore Airlines. You now have a better idea of your redemption options upfront, which can ultimately make planning smoother. But before you dive into your miles or start transferring from your favorite credit card, let’s break down how this new requirement affects your travel plans and what you can do to maximize your KrisFlyer miles.

Understanding the New Award Search Requirement

Now, Singapore Airlines requires you to have an actual KrisFlyer miles balance to search for available award flights in their system. It’s a subtle but significant shift that can influence how you plan your travels. No longer can you casually browse without some skin in the game. With this shift, here’s what you’ll need to keep in mind:

1. KrisFlyer Miles Balance: You must have KrisFlyer miles in your account to initiate a search.
2. Redemption Values: Understand the cost in miles for the routes you frequently consider, and how that stacks against other airlines.
3. Chart the Changes: Familiarize yourself with the new award charts, especially if you plan on transferring points from other loyalty programs.

Step-by-Step Strategy for Using KrisFlyer Miles

Let me walk you through how to effectively navigate the new requirement for searching award availability. Here’s your step-by-step guide:

1. Check Your KrisFlyer Balance

Start by logging into your KrisFlyer account. If you don’t have enough miles, it might be time to rethink your strategy. For instance, Singapore Airlines typically charges:

• 15,000 miles for a one-way Saver award between the U.S. and Singapore (economy).
• 50,000 miles for a one-way Business class ticket.

2. Transfer Points if Needed

If you’re short on miles, consider transferring points from programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards. Here’s a handy ratio to keep in mind:

• Chase Ultimate Rewards to KrisFlyer: 1:1
• American Express Membership Rewards to KrisFlyer: 1:1

Make sure you calculate the value of transferring points based on the redemption rates you’re eyeing.

3. Search for Availability

Once you’ve got miles in your KrisFlyer account, visit the Singapore Airlines website. Enter your origin, destination, and travel dates. Keep in mind the availability can vary widely. Best practice? Search for flights during off-peak times or be flexible with your dates.

4. Review Different Cabin Classes

If your initial search doesn’t yield results, consider checking different cabin classes. Sometimes, while the Saver awards may be taken, Standard awards might be available. For example:

• 30,000 – 45,000 miles for Standard economy tickets.
• 75,000 miles for Standard Business class ticket.

A Closer Look at Cost and Value

To help you visualize what you get for your KrisFlyer miles, here’s a simple comparison table comparing typical mileage costs for various routes:

Route	Saver Economy (Miles)	Saver Business (Miles)	Standard Economy (Miles)	Standard Business (Miles)
U.S. to Singapore	15,000	50,000	30,000	75,000
Singapore to Tokyo	5,000	25,000	20,000	50,000
Singapore to Sydney	8,000	40,000	25,000	60,000
Singapore to Delhi	12,000	50,000	27,000	70,000

Effective Ways to Accrue KrisFlyer Miles

If you’re looking to fill your account with KrisFlyer miles, here are a few strategies to consider:

• Flight Bookings: Whenever you travel, fly with Singapore Airlines or its Star Alliance partners to earn miles directly into your KrisFlyer account.
• Hotel Stays: Use partners like Booking.com for your accommodations. Many hotels offer mileage earn rates for stays, helping you build your miles while enjoying a vacation.
• Rental Cars or Activities: Consider using platforms like Viator or GetYourGuide to book local activities when you land. Some may offer mile bonuses that can help grow your KrisFlyer balance.
• Dining Programs: Singapore Airlines has a dining program where you can earn miles just by dining at qualified restaurants — a tasty way to accumulate miles for your next trip!

Take Action Now

Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge on how to navigate this new award availability search requirement, it’s time to take decisive action. Check your KrisFlyer balance today and look for upcoming trips. If you’re low on miles, consider transferring from points you might already have sitting in Chase or AmEx. Don’t wait too long — award space can disappear quickly, especially for popular routes.

Once you’ve evaluated your balance and potential flights, don’t hesitate to book! Utilizing points effectively can give you a great travel experience without breaking the bank.

Rates and availability verified as of July 2023. Subject to change — always confirm on the program’s official website.