The short answer: credit card points
I searched award flight availability on the ANA website, then transferred the required American Express Member Rewards points into my ANA account, booked the flights, and only paid the taxes & fees.
Want more information? Click the button below and you'll get a copy of our custom worksheet we use to track our own credit card benefits and redemptions.
Japan Travel Itinerary
"This [Solo-Traveler's Guide to Tokyo] is so helpful! I love the thoroughness and the details." - Shannon E.
A breakdown of three travel focused credit cards that offer strong rewards, flexible redemption options, and valuable travel perks.
The following links are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Best Entry-Level Travel Card
Earn up to 125,000 bonus points with Sapphire Reserve® or 75,000 bonus points with Sapphire Preferred®. Enjoy a free DoorDash DashPass membership, Earn 3x points on dining, 3x points on streaming, and 5x points on all travel booked in the Chase Travel Portal, and more! Plus, get a 10% points boost on your account anniversary date every year!
*this was my first travel credit card
Best Lounge Access Card
Earn a welcome bonus of up to 175,000 rewards points with Amex Platinum®. Earn 5x points on flights, Dine for free with $400 annual Resy credit, Stream shows with $25 monthly entertainment credit, Enjoy $300 Lululemon credit per year ($75 quarterly), $209 CLEAR+ credit, TSA PreCheck and Global Entry credit, Uber credit, Saks Fifth Avenue credit and more!
Lowest Fee Premium Travel Card
Collect a welcome bonus of 75,000 points, and earn unlimited 2x points on every purchase. Earn 10x points on hotels & rental cars, and 5x points on flights in the travel portal. Get $300 travel credit and 10,000 bonus points FREE every year on your account anniversary, and enroll with your card for free Priority Pass Lounge Access. Get TSA PreCheck and Global Entry credit and more!
*annual bonuses essentially pay the fee
Access mobile data internationally without a physical SIM card using Airalo. Stay seamlessly connected in over 200 countries and regions around the world. Ditch Pocket WiFi for an easier digital option. We do NOT travel without this!
Go from not knowing a single word, to confidently speaking another language in 30 days with Pimsleur. I've been using this for Japanese and believe me when I say, it WORKS. Start your 7-day free trial today!
Protect your connection while you travel using NordVPN. From using public WiFi safely, to enjoying your favorite streaming services in restricted countries, NordVPN makes it easier.
Backpack: Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L
Carry-On: Samsonite Freeform Carry-On Spinner
Checked Luggage: CALPAK Hue Medium Trunk