When it comes to saving on travel, two strategies dominate: cashback apps and credit card points. Both can help reduce out-of-pocket costs and unlock meaningful rewards, but they work in fundamentally different ways. Understanding how to use each—and when to combine them—can make the difference between a standard trip and one packed with perks.

Here’s a closer look at how cashback apps compare to credit card points for travelers looking to get more from every booking.

How cashback apps work for travel

Cashback apps give you a percentage of your spending back when you book travel or make purchases through their platforms. Popular options include Rakuten, Ibotta, and TopCashback. These services earn affiliate commissions from travel sites like Expedia, Priceline, and Hotels.com, and share a portion of that with you as cash.

Another option is Fluz, which operates differently. Instead of redirecting you to a merchant, Fluz lets you buy digital gift cards for the exact amount you need. You then use those gift cards to pay at supported merchants while earning instant cashback. For example, you can earn cashback with a Hotels.com gift card or get a discount on Uber rides, even while stacking other savings.

How credit card points compare

Credit card points are typically earned based on your spending and can be redeemed for travel, cash back, or merchandise. Some cards offer 1.5x–5x points per dollar in certain categories, and often include transfer partners for airlines and hotels.

When transferred strategically, points can offer huge value—especially for business class flights or high-end hotel stays. But redemption can be more complicated, and availability isn’t always guaranteed.

Pros and cons of cashback apps

Pros:

• Simple, no blackout dates or restrictions

• Can be combined with other savings (credit cards, promo codes)

• Fluz offers instant cashback with digital gift cards

• Works for hotels, rideshares, and even travel essentials

Cons:

• Savings usually lower than premium points redemptions

• Limited to participating merchants

• Cashback might take weeks to process (except for Fluz, which is instant)

Pros and cons of credit card points

Pros:

• High redemption value when transferred to airline or hotel partners

• Travel protections and perks included with many cards

• Great for international or luxury travel bookings

Cons:

• Complex redemption rules

• Points can devalue or expire

• Not always ideal for budget travel or everyday spending

When to use both together

The smartest travelers know how to layer both strategies. For example:

• Use a travel rewards credit card to buy a Hotels.com gift card through Fluz, so you earn both credit card points and gift card cashback.

• Stack cashback from Rakuten or Ibotta on top of a purchase you’re already earning points for.

• Redeem credit card points for flights and use Fluz gift cards for hotels or rideshares to reduce total spend.

Final thoughts

Cashback apps and credit card points don’t have to compete—they can work together to boost your travel budget. If you value flexibility and simplicity, cashback apps like Fluz are ideal. If you’re aiming for aspirational travel or premium redemptions, points may offer more value. Either way, combining both gives you the freedom to travel smarter and save more every step of the journey.