Can I Use Travel Credit And Miles Together United? A Comprehensive Guide

Are you wondering if you can combine your travel credit and miles on United Airlines? Absolutely! SIXT.VN is here to guide you through the ins and outs of maximizing your travel rewards for your next adventure to Vietnam. Let’s explore how you can strategically use your United travel credits and MileagePlus miles to unlock incredible travel experiences. With SIXT.VN, planning your trip to Hanoi and beyond becomes seamless and rewarding, giving you more value for your journey.

1. Understanding United Airlines Travel Credits

Before diving into how you can combine travel credits and miles, let’s first understand what United Airlines travel credits are. These credits, often in the form of TravelBank cash, are issued for various reasons, such as compensation for flight disruptions, promotional offers, or as benefits from United co-branded credit cards. Understanding their terms and conditions is key to maximizing their value.

1.1 What are United Travel Credits?

United Airlines travel credits are essentially digital funds that can be used to pay for United flights and other eligible purchases. According to United’s official website, these credits are typically stored in your TravelBank account and can be accessed when booking flights. These credits provide a flexible way to reduce the cost of your travel.

1.2 How to Obtain United Travel Credits

You can earn United Travel Credits in several ways:

• United Credit Card Benefits: Certain United co-branded credit cards, like the UnitedSM Business Card, offer travel credits as part of their annual benefits. For example, you can earn a $125 United TravelBank cash each calendar year by making five United flight travel-related purchases, each totaling $100 or more with your UnitedSM Business Card. These purchases include seat upgrades, Economy Plus, inflight food and beverages, Wi-Fi, and baggage service charges.
• Compensation for Flight Disruptions: If you experience a flight cancellation or significant delay, United may issue a travel credit as compensation.
• Promotional Offers: Keep an eye out for special promotions from United Airlines that offer travel credits as an incentive.

1.3 Types of United Travel Credits

• United TravelBank Cash: This is a common form of travel credit that can be used for booking United- or United Express-operated flights.
• Statement Credits: Some United credit cards offer statement credits for specific purchases, such as United Hotels or rideshare services. For example, the UnitedSM Business Card offers up to $100 in United Hotels statement credits annually and up to $100 in rideshare statement credits each calendar year.

1.4 Key Terms and Conditions

Before relying on travel credits, keep these factors in mind:

• Expiration Dates: Travel credits usually have an expiration date, so make sure to use them before they expire. For example, United TravelBank cash must be used for reservations made within 12 months from the issue date.
• Usage Restrictions: Travel credits may have specific usage restrictions. For instance, TravelBank cash can only be used for United- or United Express-operated flights.
• Non-Transferable: Typically, travel credits are non-transferable and can only be used by the person to whom they were issued.

1.5 Maximizing the Value of Your Travel Credits

To get the most out of your travel credits, consider these tips:

• Keep Track of Expiration Dates: Maintain a record of all your travel credits and their expiration dates.
• Plan Ahead: Plan your trips in advance to ensure you can use your credits before they expire.
• Combine with Other Offers: Look for opportunities to combine your travel credits with other discounts or promotions to maximize savings.

2. Understanding United Airlines MileagePlus Miles

United Airlines MileagePlus miles are earned through flying, credit card spending, and various partnerships. These miles can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses. Knowing how to accumulate and use these miles is vital for savvy travelers.

2.1 What are United MileagePlus Miles?

United MileagePlus miles are the loyalty currency of United Airlines’ frequent flyer program. These miles can be accumulated through various activities and redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other rewards.

2.2 Earning MileagePlus Miles

There are numerous ways to earn MileagePlus miles:

• Flying with United and Partners: Earn miles for every flight you take with United Airlines and its partner airlines. The number of miles earned depends on the fare class and distance flown. According to United, miles earned on United flights are based on the fare and are subject to exclusions.
• United Co-branded Credit Cards: Earn miles on everyday purchases with a United co-branded credit card. For example, the UnitedSM Business Card offers 2 miles per $1 spent on airline tickets purchased from United, at restaurants, gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
• Hotel Partnerships: Earn miles for hotel stays booked through United Hotels or with partner hotels.
• Car Rental Partnerships: Earn miles for car rentals booked through United’s car rental partners.
• Shopping and Dining: Earn miles by shopping through the MileagePlus Shopping portal or dining at participating restaurants.

2.3 Redeeming MileagePlus Miles

MileagePlus miles can be redeemed for a variety of rewards:

• Award Flights: Redeem miles for flights on United and its partner airlines. Award availability and pricing are subject to change, as noted by United.
• Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade to a higher class of service on eligible flights.
• Hotel Stays: Redeem miles for hotel stays through United Hotels.
• Car Rentals: Redeem miles for car rentals through United’s car rental partners.
• Merchandise and Gift Cards: Redeem miles for merchandise and gift cards through the MileagePlus program.

2.4 Premier Status and Benefits

MileagePlus offers various Premier status levels (Silver, Gold, Platinum, and 1K), which provide additional benefits such as:

• Bonus Miles: Earn bonus miles on flights.
• Complimentary Upgrades: Receive complimentary upgrades on select flights.
• Priority Boarding: Enjoy priority boarding on United flights.
• Free Checked Bags: Receive free checked bags on United flights.
• United Club Access: Access United Club lounges.

2.5 Tips for Maximizing MileagePlus Miles

• Choose the Right Credit Card: Select a United co-branded credit card that aligns with your spending habits to maximize mile earnings.
• Take Advantage of Bonus Offers: Keep an eye out for limited-time bonus offers on flights, hotel stays, and other purchases.
• Book Award Flights Strategically: Be flexible with your travel dates and destinations to find the best award availability and pricing.
• Consider Upgrade Awards: If you have enough miles, consider using them to upgrade to a higher class of service for a more comfortable travel experience.

MileagePlus members can redeem miles for award travel on United-operated flights.

3. Can You Combine United Travel Credits and Miles?

Now, let’s address the key question: Can you use travel credits and miles together on United Airlines?

3.1 The Short Answer

Yes, in many cases, you can combine United travel credits and MileagePlus miles when booking flights. This can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost of your travel.

3.2 How to Combine Travel Credits and Miles

1. Book Your Flight: Start by booking your flight on the United Airlines website or app.
2. Select Payment Method: During the payment process, you will typically have the option to use both travel credits and miles.
3. Apply Travel Credits: Apply your United TravelBank cash or other travel credits to reduce the total cost of the ticket.
4. Redeem Miles: Use your MileagePlus miles to cover the remaining balance or a portion of it. You can choose how many miles you want to redeem.
5. Complete Your Booking: Review your payment details and complete your booking.

3.3 Restrictions and Limitations

While combining travel credits and miles is generally allowed, there may be some restrictions:

• Minimum Redemption Amounts: United may have minimum redemption amounts for using miles.
• Availability: The ability to combine travel credits and miles may depend on the specific fare class and availability.
• Terms and Conditions: Always review the terms and conditions of both your travel credits and miles to ensure they can be combined.

3.4 Example Scenario

Let’s say you’re booking a flight from New York to Hanoi and the total cost is $1,000. You have $200 in United TravelBank cash and 50,000 MileagePlus miles.

1. Apply Travel Credits: Use your $200 TravelBank cash to reduce the cost to $800.
2. Redeem Miles: Redeem 40,000 miles to cover another $400, leaving you with a final cost of $400 to pay out of pocket.

3.5 Alternative Options

If you cannot combine travel credits and miles for a particular booking, consider these alternatives:

• Use Credits for One Flight, Miles for Another: Use your travel credits for one flight and your miles for another to maximize their value.
• Redeem Miles for Upgrades: If you can’t use miles for the flight itself, consider using them to upgrade to a higher class of service.
• Save for Future Travel: Save your travel credits and miles for future trips where you can combine them effectively.

4. Using United Travel Credits and Miles for Flights to Vietnam

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Here’s how you can strategically use your United travel credits and MileagePlus miles to make your dream vacation a reality with SIXT.VN.

4.1 Planning Your Trip to Vietnam with SIXT.VN

SIXT.VN offers a range of services to help you plan your trip to Vietnam, including:

• Airport Transfers: Ensure a smooth arrival with SIXT.VN’s reliable airport transfer services.
• Hotel Bookings: Find the perfect accommodation with a variety of hotel options to suit your budget and preferences.
• Tours and Activities: Explore Hanoi and other Vietnamese destinations with guided tours and unique experiences.

4.2 Booking Flights to Vietnam Using United Credits and Miles

1. Check Award Availability: Use the United Airlines website to check award availability for flights to Vietnam. Be flexible with your travel dates to find the best deals.
2. Combine Credits and Miles: As described earlier, combine your United TravelBank cash and MileagePlus miles to reduce the cost of your flights.
3. Consider Partner Airlines: United partners with other airlines in the Star Alliance network, which may offer additional flight options to Vietnam.

4.3 Maximizing Your Savings

• Book in Advance: Booking your flights well in advance can help you secure better award availability and lower prices.
• Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: Traveling during the off-peak seasons can often result in lower fares and better award availability.
• Use Credit Card Benefits: Take advantage of any travel benefits offered by your United co-branded credit card, such as free checked bags or priority boarding.

4.4 Example Itinerary

Here’s a sample itinerary for a trip to Vietnam, incorporating the use of United travel credits and miles:

1. Flight to Hanoi: Book a flight from your home city to Hanoi using a combination of United TravelBank cash and MileagePlus miles.
2. Accommodation in Hanoi: Stay at a hotel booked through SIXT.VN, taking advantage of any available discounts or promotions.
3. Explore Hanoi: Take a guided tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and other attractions, booked through SIXT.VN.
4. Visit Ha Long Bay: Take a day trip to Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, booked through SIXT.VN.
5. Return Flight: Book your return flight using any remaining United TravelBank cash and MileagePlus miles.

4.5 Enhancing Your Trip with SIXT.VN

• Customized Tours: SIXT.VN can create customized tours tailored to your interests and preferences.
• Local Insights: Benefit from SIXT.VN’s local expertise and insights to discover hidden gems in Vietnam.
• 24/7 Support: Enjoy peace of mind with SIXT.VN’s 24/7 customer support.

Explore the vibrant streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter with a guided tour from SIXT.VN.

5. Optimizing United Credit Card Benefits

To maximize your travel rewards, it’s essential to understand and utilize the benefits offered by United co-branded credit cards. Let’s delve into how these cards can enhance your travel experience and savings.

5.1 Overview of United Co-branded Credit Cards

United offers several co-branded credit cards with varying benefits and annual fees. Some popular options include:

• UnitedSM Business Card: Offers bonus miles on United purchases, restaurants, gas stations, and office supply stores, as well as travel credits and other perks.
• United Club Infinite Card: Provides United Club access, free checked bags, and other premium benefits.
• United Explorer Card: Offers a balance of benefits and a lower annual fee, making it a great option for frequent travelers.

5.2 Key Benefits to Look For

• Bonus Miles on Purchases: Earn bonus miles on United purchases and other spending categories.
• Free Checked Bags: Receive free checked bags for yourself and a traveling companion.
• Priority Boarding: Enjoy priority boarding on United flights.
• United Club Access: Access United Club lounges for a more comfortable travel experience.
• Travel Credits: Earn annual travel credits to offset the cost of flights.
• Premier Qualifying Points (PQP): Earn PQP to help you achieve Premier status.
• Statement Credits: Receive statement credits for specific purchases, such as United Hotels or rideshare services.

5.3 Maximizing Credit Card Rewards

• Choose the Right Card: Select a card that aligns with your spending habits and travel goals.
• Meet Minimum Spending Requirements: Take advantage of sign-up bonuses by meeting the minimum spending requirements within the specified timeframe.
• Use the Card for Everyday Purchases: Use your United credit card for everyday purchases to earn miles on all your spending.
• Pay Your Balance in Full: Avoid interest charges by paying your balance in full each month.
• Take Advantage of Bonus Categories: Maximize your mile earnings by using your card for purchases in bonus categories.
• Redeem Miles Strategically: Redeem your miles for high-value rewards, such as award flights or upgrades.

5.4 UnitedSM Business Card: A Closer Look

The UnitedSM Business Card is an excellent option for business owners who frequently travel with United. Here are some of its key benefits:

• Sign-Up Bonus: Earn a generous sign-up bonus after meeting the minimum spending requirements.
• Bonus Miles: Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases, restaurants, gas stations, office supply stores, and local transit and commuting.
• Travel Credits: Earn a $125 United TravelBank cash each calendar year by making five United flight travel-related purchases, each totaling $100 or more.
• Free Checked Bag: Receive a free checked bag for yourself and one traveling companion.
• Priority Boarding: Enjoy priority boarding on United flights.
• 25% Back on Inflight Purchases: Receive 25% back on food, beverage, and Wi-Fi purchases on board United and United Express-operated flights.
• $100 Rideshare Statement Credit: Earn up to $100 in rideshare statement credits each calendar year.
• $100 United Hotels Statement Credit: Earn up to $100 in United Hotels statement credits annually.
• Earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQP): Earn 1 PQP for every $20 in net purchases, up to a maximum of 4,000 PQP within the calendar year.

5.5 Integrating Credit Card Benefits with SIXT.VN

• Use Credit Card for Bookings: Use your United credit card to book hotels and tours through SIXT.VN to earn bonus miles.
• Take Advantage of Travel Credits: Use any travel credits earned from your United credit card to offset the cost of your SIXT.VN bookings.
• Enjoy Priority Travel: Use your priority boarding benefit to make your airport experience smoother and more efficient when traveling to Vietnam.

6. Navigating United Airlines Policies and Fees

Understanding United Airlines’ policies and fees is crucial for avoiding surprises and maximizing the value of your travel credits and miles. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate these aspects.

6.1 Award Travel Policies

• Award Availability: Award availability can vary depending on the route, date, and time of year. It’s often easier to find award seats during off-peak seasons.
• Award Pricing: The number of miles required for an award flight can vary depending on demand and other factors. United uses dynamic pricing, which means the price of an award ticket can fluctuate.
• Change and Cancellation Fees: United may charge fees for changing or canceling award tickets, depending on your MileagePlus status and the timing of the change or cancellation.
• Stopover Policy: United allows stopovers on some award tickets, which can be a great way to see multiple destinations on a single trip.

6.2 Baggage Policies

• Checked Baggage Fees: United charges fees for checked baggage on most flights, depending on your destination, MileagePlus status, and credit card benefits.
• Free Checked Bags with Credit Cards: Certain United co-branded credit cards offer free checked bags for the cardholder and a traveling companion.
• Carry-On Baggage Policy: United has specific size and weight restrictions for carry-on baggage. Be sure to check these restrictions before your flight to avoid any issues.

6.3 Change and Cancellation Policies

• Change Fees: United may charge fees for changing your flight, depending on the fare class and the timing of the change.
• Cancellation Fees: United may charge fees for canceling your flight, depending on the fare class and the timing of the cancellation.
• 24-Hour Rule: United allows you to change or cancel your flight without penalty within 24 hours of booking, as long as the booking was made at least seven days before departure.

6.4 Other Fees

• Seat Selection Fees: United may charge fees for selecting specific seats, especially for Economy Plus seats.
• Inflight Purchases: United charges for food, beverages, and Wi-Fi on most flights. However, certain United credit cards offer discounts on these purchases.
• Pet Fees: United charges fees for traveling with pets in the cabin or as checked baggage.

6.5 Avoiding Unnecessary Fees

• Read the Fine Print: Carefully review the terms and conditions of your ticket and any applicable fees before booking.
• Use a United Credit Card: Take advantage of the benefits offered by your United credit card, such as free checked bags and priority boarding.
• Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates: If possible, be flexible with your travel dates to find lower fares and avoid peak-season fees.
• Book Directly with United: Booking directly with United can sometimes help you avoid additional fees charged by third-party travel agencies.

6.6 How SIXT.VN Can Help

• Provide Detailed Information: SIXT.VN can provide you with detailed information about United Airlines’ policies and fees to help you make informed decisions.
• Offer Travel Insurance: SIXT.VN offers travel insurance options that can protect you against unexpected events, such as flight cancellations or medical emergencies.
• Assist with Changes and Cancellations: SIXT.VN can assist you with making changes to your travel plans or canceling your bookings if necessary.

7. Tips for Booking Award Flights with United to Vietnam

Booking award flights to Vietnam with United Airlines requires careful planning and strategy. Here are some valuable tips to help you find and book the best award flights for your trip.

7.1 Start Planning Early

• Book in Advance: Award availability tends to be limited, especially for popular routes and travel dates. Start searching for award flights as early as possible, ideally several months in advance.

7.2 Be Flexible with Your Travel Dates

• Check Different Dates: If you have flexibility with your travel dates, try searching for award flights on different days of the week or during different months. Mid-week flights and travel during the off-peak season often have better availability.

7.3 Consider Alternative Airports

• Fly into a Different Airport: If you can’t find award flights to your preferred airport, consider flying into a nearby airport and taking a connecting flight or ground transportation to your final destination.

7.4 Use United’s Award Search Tool

• Explore the United Website: Use United’s award search tool to search for award flights. Be sure to check the “Award Travel” box when searching to see only flights that are available for award booking.

7.5 Check Partner Airlines

• Explore Star Alliance Options: United is a member of the Star Alliance network, which includes many other airlines. Check for award availability on partner airlines, as they may have more options available.

7.6 Consider Connecting Flights

• Look for Connecting Flights: If you can’t find a direct flight, consider booking a connecting flight. While it may take longer to reach your destination, connecting flights can sometimes have better award availability.

7.7 Book One-Way Flights

• Mix and Match: Consider booking one-way award flights on different airlines or with different routings. This can sometimes help you find better availability and pricing.

7.8 Keep Checking for Availability

• Monitor Changes: Award availability can change frequently, so it’s worth checking back regularly to see if new flights have become available. You can also set up alerts to be notified when award availability changes on your desired flights.

7.9 Utilize United’s Excursionist Perk

• Explore Multiple Destinations: The Excursionist Perk allows you to include a free one-way flight within a multi-city itinerary. This can be a great way to see multiple destinations on a single trip.

7.10 Don’t Hesitate to Call United

• Seek Expert Advice: If you’re having trouble finding award flights online, don’t hesitate to call United’s customer service line. A representative may be able to help you find availability or offer alternative options.

7.11 How SIXT.VN Can Enhance Your Award Travel

• Seamless Travel Planning: SIXT.VN can assist you with all aspects of your trip to Vietnam, from airport transfers to hotel bookings and tours.
• Expert Advice: SIXT.VN can provide expert advice on maximizing the value of your United travel credits and miles.
• Customized Itineraries: SIXT.VN can create customized itineraries tailored to your interests and preferences.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Travel Credits and Miles

To make the most of your United travel credits and MileagePlus miles, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that can diminish their value. Let’s review these pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

8.1 Ignoring Expiration Dates

• The Mistake: Forgetting to use your travel credits or miles before they expire.
• The Solution: Keep a detailed record of all your travel credits and miles, including their expiration dates. Set reminders to use them before they expire.

8.2 Not Understanding the Terms and Conditions

• The Mistake: Failing to read and understand the terms and conditions of your travel credits and miles.
• The Solution: Carefully review the terms and conditions of your travel credits and miles before using them. Pay attention to any restrictions or limitations.

8.3 Not Planning Ahead

• The Mistake: Waiting until the last minute to book your travel, resulting in limited availability and higher prices.
• The Solution: Start planning your travel well in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

8.4 Not Being Flexible with Your Travel Dates

• The Mistake: Insisting on traveling on specific dates, even if it means paying more or using more miles.
• The Solution: Be flexible with your travel dates to find better deals and award availability.

8.5 Not Comparing Options

• The Mistake: Not comparing different flight options, hotel options, or tour options before booking.
• The Solution: Take the time to compare different options to find the best value for your travel credits and miles.

8.6 Not Taking Advantage of Credit Card Benefits

• The Mistake: Not utilizing the benefits offered by your United co-branded credit card, such as free checked bags or priority boarding.
• The Solution: Review the benefits offered by your United credit card and take advantage of them to enhance your travel experience.

8.7 Not Booking Directly with United or SIXT.VN

• The Mistake: Booking through third-party websites that may charge additional fees or have less flexible policies.
• The Solution: Book directly with United Airlines or SIXT.VN to avoid unnecessary fees and ensure you have access to the most flexible policies.

8.8 Not Considering Travel Insurance

• The Mistake: Forgoing travel insurance, which can protect you against unexpected events such as flight cancellations or medical emergencies.
• The Solution: Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment and provide peace of mind during your trip.

8.9 Not Staying Informed

• The Mistake: Not staying up-to-date on the latest travel policies and restrictions.
• The Solution: Stay informed about the latest travel policies and restrictions by checking the United Airlines website and consulting with SIXT.VN.

8.10 How SIXT.VN Helps You Avoid Mistakes

• Expert Guidance: SIXT.VN provides expert guidance on maximizing the value of your United travel credits and miles.
• Detailed Information: SIXT.VN offers detailed information about United Airlines’ policies and fees to help you make informed decisions.
• Customized Itineraries: SIXT.VN creates customized itineraries tailored to your interests and preferences, ensuring you have a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Using United Travel Credits and Miles

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify how you can effectively use United travel credits and miles:

9.1 Can I use United TravelBank cash for any flight?

United TravelBank cash can typically be used for bookings on United- or United Express-operated flights.

9.2 Do United miles expire?

Yes, United MileagePlus miles can expire if there is no activity in your account for 18 months. Activity includes earning or redeeming miles.

9.3 Can I transfer United miles to another person?

Yes, you can transfer United miles to another person, but there may be fees associated with the transfer.

9.4 Can I use United miles to book hotels?

Yes, you can use United miles to book hotels through United Hotels.

9.5 Can I use United miles to upgrade my flight?

Yes, you can use United miles to upgrade to a higher class of service on eligible flights.

9.6 What is the best way to earn United miles?

The best way to earn United miles depends on your spending habits and travel patterns. Using a United co-branded credit card for everyday purchases is a great way to accumulate miles.

9.7 Can I combine United miles with another person’s miles to book a flight?

No, you cannot directly combine United miles with another person’s miles to book a flight. However, you can transfer miles to another person’s account (for a fee) and then book the flight.

9.8 What is the Excursionist Perk?

The Excursionist Perk is a benefit offered by United that allows you to include a free one-way flight within a multi-city itinerary.

9.9 How do I find award availability on United?

You can find award availability on United by using the United Airlines website or app and searching for award flights.

9.10 Can SIXT.VN help me plan my trip to Vietnam using United miles and travel credits?

Yes, SIXT.VN can assist you with all aspects of your trip to Vietnam, including helping you maximize the value of your United miles and travel credits.

10. Conclusion: Make the Most of Your United Travel Rewards with SIXT.VN

Combining United travel credits and MileagePlus miles is a smart way to reduce the cost of your travel and unlock incredible experiences. By understanding the terms and conditions of both your credits and miles, utilizing United co-branded credit card benefits, and planning your trips strategically, you can maximize the value of your travel rewards.

SIXT.VN is your trusted partner for planning unforgettable trips to Vietnam. From airport transfers and hotel bookings to customized tours and expert travel advice, SIXT.VN is here to make your dream vacation a reality.

Ready to start planning your adventure to Vietnam? Contact SIXT.VN today to explore our range of travel services and discover how we can help you make the most of your United travel credits and miles Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358. Website: SIXT.VN

Remember, the world is waiting to be explored, and with SIXT.VN, your dream trip to Vietnam is just a click away!