Miles Redemption Guide
Get maximum value from your airline miles. Learn about award flights, upgrades, redemption strategies, and how to find the best deals.
Understanding Miles Redemption
Redeeming miles effectively requires understanding the different options available and their relative values. Award flights typically offer the best value, while merchandise and gift cards usually provide poor value.
The key to successful redemption is flexibility, advance planning, and knowing when to book to maximize your miles' value.
Miles Redemption Options
Award Flights
Use miles to book free or discounted flights
Upgrades
Upgrade to premium cabins using miles
Hotels
Redeem miles for hotel stays
Shopping
Use miles for merchandise and gift cards
Award Flight Mileage Requirements
| Airline | Domestic Flights | International Flights | Saver Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | 12,500-25,000 | 25,000-70,000 | Yes |
| Delta Air Lines | 12,500-25,000 | 25,000-70,000 | Yes |
| United Airlines | 12,500-25,000 | 25,000-70,000 | Yes |
| Southwest Airlines | 7,000-15,000 | N/A | Yes |
| JetBlue Airways | 7,000-15,000 | 15,000-40,000 | Yes |
| Alaska Airlines | 12,500-25,000 | 25,000-70,000 | Yes |
Redemption Tips for Maximum Value
Book Early
Award seats are limited - book as far in advance as possible
Be Flexible
Flexible dates and routes increase your chances of finding awards
Check Multiple Dates
Award availability changes daily - check different dates
Use Stopovers
Some programs allow free stopovers on international awards
Pro Tips for Miles Redemption
Book Round-Trip Awards
Round-trip awards often cost less than two one-way tickets.
Use Partner Airlines
Partner airlines may have better award availability and lower costs.
Check Multiple Programs
Compare award costs across different airline programs.
Avoid Peak Travel
Peak travel dates have limited award availability and higher costs.
Don't Wait Too Long
Award seats can disappear quickly - book when you find availability.
Watch for Devaluations
Airlines can increase award costs - redeem miles before devaluations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I book award flights?
Book award flights as far in advance as possible, ideally 11 months ahead when award calendars open. Last-minute awards are rare and expensive.
Can I change or cancel award flights?
Most airlines allow changes and cancellations for award flights, often with fees. Some elite members get free changes.
What's the best value for redeeming miles?
Award flights typically offer the best value, especially for international business and first class. Avoid redeeming for merchandise or gift cards.
Do award flights earn miles?
Award flights typically don't earn miles, but some airlines offer partial mileage earning on award tickets.