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Airfare deals are typically only available on limited dates. We recommend you use Google Flights to find dates to fly, then book through an online travel agency such as Orbitz or Expedia, which allows you to cancel flights without penalty by 11pm Eastern Time within one day of booking. However, if you’re using The Platinum Card® from American Express, you’ll need to book directly with the airline or through the Amex Travel portal to get 5x MR points. Remember: Fares may disappear quickly, so book right away and take advantage of Orbitz or Expedia’s courtesy cancellation if you’re unable to get the time away from work or family.
If you're looking to explore the wonders of China but just can't handle the long flight in economy, there's now a middle ground. Both American Airlines and Delta have true premium economy cabins on most (AA) and some (DL) of its long-haul fleet. And now you can experience it for yourself for cheap with these great deals.
Unless you book a flight to a third country, you can’t take advantage of China’s “visa-free transit” policy. So, make sure you get the right visa before traveling or you won’t even be able to get on the plane. TPG recommends using a third-party service like Allied Passport & Visa, and if you mention The Points Guy on your order form, you’ll get a $5 discount.
To book, head to Google Flights and plug in your desired departure city. After finding dates that work best for you, book with directly or with an OTA such as Expedia or Priceline.
Looking for a pick-me-up to beat jet lag? Maybe stop by the world’s largest Starbucks in Shanghai. If you want to check out one of China’s most well-known attractions, The Forbidden City, check out Get Your Guide for tickets and more activity recommendations while you’re in Beijing.
Airlines: Delta, American
Routes: LAX/MCO/RDU/ORD/DFW to PVG/PEK
Cost: $796+ round-trip in premium economy
Travel Dates: October to early December 2018 and January — May 2019
Pay With: The Platinum Card® from American Express (5x on airfare booked directly with the airline), Citi Premier® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express® Gold Card, Citi Prestige (5x on airfare plus excellent trip delay insurance) or Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2x on travel)
Booking Link: Expedia or directly with the airline
Here are a few examples of what you can book:
Los Angeles (LAX) to Shanghai (PVG) for $796 round-trip nonstop on Delta A350 Premium Select:
Orlando (MCO) to Beijing (PEK) for $862 round-trip 1-stop on Delta A350 Premium Select:
Los Angeles (LAX) to Beijing (PEK) for $884 round-trip nonstop in American Airlines 787-9 Premium Economy:
Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Beijing (PEK) for $1,003 round-trip 1-stop in American Airlines 787-9 Premium Economy:
Orlando (MCO) to Beijing (PEK) for $1,003 round-trip 1-stop in American Airlines 787-9 Premium Economy:
Chicago (ORD) to Beijing (PEK) for $1,003 round-trip 1-stop in American Airlines 787-9 Premium Economy:
Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) to Beijing (PEK) for $1,033 round-trip 1-stop in American Airlines 787-9 Premium Economy:
Raleigh/Durham (RDU) to Beijing (PEK) for $1,082 round-trip 1-stop on Delta A350 Premium Select:
Maximize Your Purchase
Don’t forget to use a credit card that earns additional points on airfare purchases, such as The Platinum Card® from American Express (5x on flights booked directly with airlines or American Express Travel), Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express® Gold Card, Citi Premier, Citi Prestige (5x on airfare) or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2x on all travel purchases). Check out this post for more on maximizing airfare purchases.
