When to Buy Airline Miles? A Guide

Airline loyalty programs give the traveler ways of gaining rewards, such as spending on the credit card or staying in hotels, and even car rentals through their partner network. Occasionally, though, the accrual of points is not quick enough, and purchasing miles might be a realistic alternative. Understanding when to make that purchase is key, especially if you plan to buy Avios Points for future trips.

Is It Worth Buying Airline Miles?

The worth of purchasing airline miles is all about the way you utilize them. When you’re about to reserve an international business-class seat, it can be reasonable to cash in your account. In these cases, choosing to buy Air Canada Points or similar, depending on your needs, may be worth the investment if it helps secure a flight that would otherwise cost thousands in cash.

But conversely, when the fixed charges to buy miles exceed your returns in conversion, then the transaction would not favor you.

When Should You Buy Miles?

The most obvious example is when the reward seat offer is on, and your balance isn’t quite sufficient. For example, when you need a few thousand dollars more to lock a booking, then it will make sense to pay a little more. Similarly, opting to buy Aeroplan Points can be useful when planning premium redemption where cash fares are high.

The other clever thing to do is to monitor promotional sales. The airlines tend to reward you with bonus miles mixed with your purchase, effectively lowering the cost per mile. Buying on these promotions, particularly given that you already have a planned trip in mind, can provide proper value.

Conclusion

Purchasing airline miles must never be a casual affair. Whether you choose to buy Avios Points, Air Canada Points, or Aeroplan Points, the goal is to unlock redemptions worth more than the purchase cost. By timing your purchase well and focusing on high-value routes, buying miles can be an effective ingredient for smarter travel planning.