So I am always curious to hear how folks value points in different reward systems. I think many of the card reviewers greatly overvalue points based on booking ridiculously overpriced international first class tickets at a fraction of the cost, but still 2x-3x or more what you would pay for an economy ticket. Here is how I would value the point systems I have had cards for:

  • Amex MR: 1.2 ¢/pt
    • I generally will transfer points to domestic or international economy flights or to hotels when I can get at least 1 ¢/pt. The CS platinum sets a good minimum redemption rate.
  • Chase UR: 1.6 ¢/pt
    • Assuming CSR. May get better rates for Hyatt and occasionally economy flights, but portal bonus/PYB set the minimum
  • Marriott Bonvoy: 0.67 ¢/pt
    • Based on what I typically see scrolling through the site.
  • Hilton Honors: 0.5 ¢/pt
    • Based on what I typically see scrolling through the site.
  • Hyatt: 1.67 ¢/pt
    • Can be higher but the options are more limited.
  • Delta Miles: 1.2 ¢/pt
    • Based on what I typically see scrolling through the site. Sometimes there are good deals on partner flights internationally.

That all said I mainly use the Amex trifecta because I can earn MR at a fast enough rate to make up for the lower valuation and I can use the credits effectively.

How do you value points?