The Value of Using Airline Miles

With the holiday travel season approaching, utilizing airline miles and points can be a savvy way to sidestep the potentially hefty costs of air travel. Research conducted by NerdWallet shows that certain award currencies offer superior value, especially during peak travel times.

Top Airline Miles Valuations

According to the analysis, Frontier Airlines miles provide the best value, worth approximately 1.8 cents each. American Airlines miles follow closely with a value of about 1.6 cents per mile. Meanwhile, both JetBlue and Southwest Airlines points are valued at 1.4 cents apiece. On the lower end, Spirit Airlines points rank at 1 cent each, while Hawaiian Airlines miles are valued at 1.1 cents, and Delta and United Airlines miles hold a value of 1.2 cents.

Calculating the Value of Airline Miles

The value of an airline mile is determined by analyzing the cash price of flights after subtracting the taxes and fees—typically around $5.60 for one-way domestic tickets. By dividing the adjusted cash price by the number of miles needed, travelers can calculate their miles’ value in cents. This important metric allows frequent fliers to evaluate whether they are optimizing their hard-earned rewards. For added convenience, tools such as Points Path, a free browser extension, offer real-time comparisons between cash prices and mileage requirements, making it easier for consumers to decide when to redeem their points.