Starwood points vs. cash

Questions and Answers

Have a travel related question? Post it here, and I’ll do my best to answer it as quickly as possible.

While anyone can comment on regular blog post, registration is required in order to post a question in this space. Creating your account is free, and you'll be able to see when your question is answered, as well as like comments from other users. And of course, you'll earn status points for offering helpful answers!

This space is intended to be more of a community as well, so please jump in and share tips!

by travel4b Gold January 6, 2016, 11:40 am

Starwood points vs. cash

travel4b Gold
January 6, 2016, 11:40 am

Apologies in advance as my question is really Points 101, but I can’t seem to get my brain around the answer. I have an upcoming one night stay at at the ITC in Agra, India. I’m presently booked on an award for 4000 points. However, rooms are available for only $128. Which is better? I’m Starwood Gold and have an AmEx SPG card if it makes a difference.
Cal New Member
January 6, 2016, 11:57 am

It depends on how much you value your points at and what you want to use your points for. The general consensus amongst travel bloggers is that SPG points are worth 2.2 cents. If you go by that valuation you are spending 88$ which is cheaper than the price you have been quoted.
Gaurav Community Ambassador
January 6, 2016, 12:05 pm

[USER=178]@travel4b[/USER] even if you factor in your starpoints earnings (5x based on gold and spg card) your “rebate” still comes out to $14.08 based on the 2.2cpm valuation which still makes the point redemption cheaper. Personally though, the rate is close enough that I’d pay it it and save the points for air transfers.
travel4b Gold
January 6, 2016, 1:11 pm

[USER=79]@Gaurav[/USER],

That’s what I’m thinking. The $128 rate is inclusive of breakfast, which I’m not sure is included with an award. Plus I feel like I’m more likely to get a complimentary upgrade on a paid stay vs. an award stay. Unfortunately, this hotel does not have an option for paid upgrades (with cash or points) on award reservations.
Gaurav Community Ambassador
January 6, 2016, 1:22 pm

Oh with bf, it would be a no-brainer for me to pay.

Questions and Answers

American Air miles

Booking Domestic Connecting (Positioning) Flights Close in to Departure

cards

JFK –> LCA emirates

Miles and More problem

SIN-TYO with UA miles?

Struggle With Turkish Airlines Schedule Change

Partner airline PlusPoint Upgrade Site Down?

PIT to BER UA F/J redemption?

Expiring Plus Points

Ask a Question

Answers (5)

Starwood points vs. cash