Why this is useful
Points only feel free. Working out what each point is worth on a specific booking tells you whether a redemption is good value or whether paying cash and saving the points is smarter.
How it is calculated
Value per point (cents) = (cash price − taxes and fees paid) ÷ points required × 100.
Worked example
Example only: a 600 flight costing 40,000 points plus 80 in fees saves 520, so each point is worth about 1.3 cents on that booking.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting the taxes and carrier charges you still pay on a reward booking.
- Comparing against a cash fare you would never actually have bought.
- Ignoring the points you would have earned on a paid ticket.
Questions
What is a 'good' value per point?
There is no universal number; it depends on the programme. Compare several redemptions in your own programme and use the higher-value ones.
Does this work for hotel points?
Yes. Enter the cash room rate, the points required and any fees still charged.