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🎙️ Your 5-minute voice memo 👇

Bilt's September Rent Day transfer bonus could get you to London for just 3,000 Bilt points. On Sept. 1, Bilt Rewards is offering up to a 100% transfer bonus to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and Virgin Red, with the size of the bonus depending on your Bilt status. Virgin Atlantic awards from the East Coast to London can be as low as 6,000 points one-way in economy, so a full 100% bonus could cut the points cost in half.

United is also offering a shortcut to airline elite status, with a special challenge for members in New York and Chicago. Members can get matched elite status for 120 days, then lock it in through next year by completing just two qualifying flights.

And Google is making it easier to see award pricing for programs including Alaska, American, and Hilton through AI Mode. It's helpful when it works, but the results can be hit or miss.

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🚗 Double dip your everyday spending

You don't need a Bilt credit card to earn Bilt Points. Join Bilt Rewards for free and earn points on purchases you're already making while still earning rewards from your credit card.

Take Lyft, for example. Link your Bilt and Lyft accounts to earn 2X Bilt Points on eligible rides. You can also earn bonus points at participating restaurants, Walgreens, and fitness studios through Bilt Neighborhood Benefits.

✈️ Essential intel

Beginner’s guide

New to the points game? We break down how to earn miles and book flights and hotels for less so you can travel better without a trust fund. It’s the no-BS starter guide you’ll wish you had sooner.

What are transferable points?

If you’re confused by “transferable points” in this episode, check out our guide to how transferable credit card points work, and why flexibility is the holy grail of travel.

💡 Runway tip

Can't get a Global Entry interview? If you're conditionally approved, you don't need one. Look for Enrollment on Arrival next time you clear U.S. customs, and you can finish the whole process right there.

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Departure Digest is built by travel and loyalty experts with over a decade of firsthand experience decoding points, miles, airlines, hotels, and credit cards. With hundreds of thousands of miles flown and millions of points redeemed, we focus on practical advice that helps you travel smarter, avoid costly mistakes, and get more from every trip.

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