: If you're looking for alternatives to buying, consider transferring points from partners like American Express or Chase, which often provide a better return on your spending. On my mind: Buying points without a plan - Frequent Miler
: When cash prices spike due to holidays or major events, point redemptions often remain steady. Buying points during these peak times can shield you from "surge pricing". The Golden Rule: Only Buy During Sales buy hotel points
: Has offered sales as low as 0.5 cents per point. : If you're looking for alternatives to buying,
: If you are just a few thousand points short of a "free" night, buying the difference is often cheaper than paying the full cash rate for that night. The Golden Rule: Only Buy During Sales :
Purchasing points is generally an unfavorable decision unless you fall into one of these specific scenarios:
: Points are not a long-term investment. Programs can devalue their points (increase the price of rooms) at any time, so only buy what you intend to use soon.
: Programs like Hilton Honors offer a 5th night free on award stays for elite members. Buying points to cover a 5-night stay can sometimes cost less than paying cash for just 3 or 4 nights.