A couple years ago I created the “Award Maximizer” to help you search for the cost of an award ticket across several different loyalty program. The database now includes 14 of the most popular airlines so you can be sure you’re getting the lowest price on a given ticket. I’ve also been adding additional guides to help you actually find the award space and book your ticket.
But even if you’ve found the cheapest award, what do you do if you don’t have enough miles? That problem nagged me for a while. I’ve now got a second tool, the “Points Transfer Calculator.” (I know, I know… I’m horrible with names. Blame the scientist in me.) I’d created similar tables in the past but that still required doing the math. This calculator is supposed to do the math and the comparison for you.
How does it work?
You can filter the table by either the program you’re transferring FROM (e.g., Ultimate Rewards) or by the program you’re transferring TO (e.g., United MileagePlus). It will apply whichever filter you enter last, and don’t worry about being precise. The search function will find whatever bit of text you’re looking for. Some programs exist on both sides of the table (e.g., Marriott Rewards is an option to transfer either FROM or TO).
The best part is the calculator. Type in the number of points you have, and it will tell you how many points you’ll get on the other end of the transfer. I’ve attempted to force adjustments for minimum transfer amounts, specific increments, and bonus points for large transfers. However, these are more complicated. The tool is ultimately a work in process; you’ll notice the extra column for “notes” that remain to be filled in.
Hopefully, with the Award Maximizer and the Points Transfer Calculator together, you’ll find it even easier to book your next award!
