Using frequent flyer miles

[WDWNY]

When do you decide to use miles? Is there a ratio like mile to dollar to see if you're getting a better deal using miles or paying cash? Considering booking a one way ticket on delta for 12500 miles cash is $141.

 

[happymommy]

I almost always save miles for long flights, like to Hawaii (we go every other year and have never paid for a ticket). I find that works best for me.

I'd suggest getting on flyertalk to gain some knowledge. Never have I used miles for such a cheap flight, though.

For example, I got us first class from DC to Honolulu next June for 40,000 miles each one way (all 4 of us, although DD and I are going over two weeks earlier since we're staying twice as long as the boys are). They would be roughly $1300 each.

 

[supersnoop]

When do you decide to use miles? Is there a ratio like mile to dollar to see if you're getting a better deal using miles or paying cash? Considering booking a one way ticket on delta for 12500 miles cash is $141.

Basic rule of thumb: miles are worth $0.02 each. Southwest is different.

Using miles for first-class international flights tends to yield $0.10 of value. That's what I save my miles for. You're example is about $0.01. No way I'd do that deal.

 

[WDWNY]

Basic rule of thumb: miles are worth $0.02 each. Southwest is different.

Using miles for first-class international flights tends to yield $0.10 of value. That's what I save my miles for. You're example is about $0.01. No way I'd do that deal.

Thanks! I'll keep that in mind when I look to use my miles.

 

[DebbieB]

I save my Delta miles for flights to California from Pittsburgh. Not 12,500 either, typically 20,000-25,000 each way. My main reason is Delta is more comfortable than SW. I have enough from my frequent travel days for my flight next year for D23.

 

[Perdita&Pongo]

I just looked this up recently for my trip. Look here: http://onemileatatime.boardingarea.com/value-miles-points/

 

[WDWNY]

I just looked this up recently for my trip. Look here: http://onemileatatime.boardingarea.com/value-miles-points/

This is extremely helpful thank you for sharing!