Last time we talked about the pros and cons of using rewards points. We generally frowned on the need for rewards points, pointing out that often people overspend just to collect precious rewards points. But after reading through this article by Danielle Brown we might just start thinking about changing our tune, at least regarding last-minute trips.
Danielle makes some great points in favor of the aforementioned precious rewards points. For example, often if you need a last-minute flight somewhere airlines will “open up more rewards seats in the weeks and days leading up to departure”. Rewards seats are premium or specially selected seats that can only be scooped up when being purchased with those precious rewards points.
Danielle gives the examples of a last-minute bachelor party. Prices for last-minute flights are incredibly expensive and if you can use your points on seats that are only opened up because they airline knows they won’t sell them, then why wouldn’t you. There is also the argument in this article that you should be using your individual credit card points as well in these situations.
Regardless of what you do it’s important to remember to balance your spending in order to GET rewards points vs spending those points on something great. Rewards points are only as valuable as the deals you get from them, so if you spend $1,000’s in order to get $20 worth of points, perhaps sticking to services like Pruvo might be more up your aisle.
For more info on how to spend points properly click here.
