How I Got $12,000 Business Class Tickets For $120!

When I returned home from my 3 month trip through Europe, you know I had to fly back in style!

So I booked two tickets for Val and me in United Airlines Polaris Business class cabin! Our flight was from Zurich to Washington D.C. so we got to enjoy 9 hours of business class comfort. The best part? If we had paid cash for those seats it would have cost a total of $12,000! 

Instead, we decided to go the travel hacking route and booked our two seats using 120,000 United Miles and $120.

So what can you expect from United’s Polaris Business class? Well for starters, the seats are incredibly spacious, they come with Saks Fifth Avenue pillows and bedding, and they recline to a full 180 degrees so you can sleep in comfort!

You’ll also receive a pair of cozy slippers and pajamas (upon request). In your amenity kit, you’ll find premium skincare items from Soho House’s Cowshed Spa to keep you feeling relaxed and refreshed, as well as earplugs and an ergonomic eye mask to block out any ambient distractions while you sleep.

Unsurprisingly, they feed you well too! United Polaris passengers enjoy a chef-designed, multi-course in-flight dining experience. In collaboration with chefs from The Trotter Project, a nonprofit organization committed to mentoring and internship programs for youth interested in the culinary arts. You’ll have your choice of sommelier selected wines, craft cocktails, and other beverages. Below is a sample list of some items you’ll find on their menu!

It’s worth mentioning that I don’t regularly fly United Airlines. In fact, prior to this redemption I only had 1,000 measly United miles in my account. So how did I manage to pull this off?

By using points earned from my credit cards!

You see, United is a transfer partner of Chase Ultimate Rewards points. So Val and I both transferred 60,000 Chase points to our respective United accounts in order to book the flights.

I earned these points by using the number one strategy I’ve written about extensively, the Chase Trifecta! By maximizing the points I earn for using cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, the Chase Freedom Unlimited, and the Chase Freedom, I’m able to earn 2, 3, even 5 points per $1 on certain purchases – even more if you’re purchasing items through their shopping portal! Check out the article for more detailed information and specifics on how the Trifecta works!

As always, if you’re interested in finding out what credit cards are the best fit for you and your travel goals, I offer consultations designed to match you with the perfect card!