How Much Are United Miles Worth
United MileagePlus miles are a valuable currency for frequent flyers, especially if you know how to use them wisely. But what are they actually worth? On average, United miles are worth about 1.2 cents each, but the value depends on how you redeem them. This guide will help you understand the value of United miles, when to use them, and how to make the most out of your miles.
How to Determine the Value of a United Mile
The value of United miles is tied to the price of cash fares because United uses a dynamic pricing model instead of a fixed award chart. This means the number of miles needed for a ticket changes based on demand, time of year, and route popularity. For most main cabin fares, you can expect your miles to be worth about 1.2 cents each. However, with smart planning, you can often get more value out of your miles.
To calculate the value of your miles, divide the cash price of the ticket by the miles needed. For example:
- A $300 flight that costs 25,000 miles has a value of 1.2 cents per mile.
United flights vary in the number of miles needed but can be as low as 6,800 one way!
The Value of United Miles When Booking United Flights
United flights are a solid option for redeeming your miles. If your travel dates are flexible, you can use features like the “Flexible Dates” option or the featured awards page to spot low-mileage deals. United even offers discounts to MileagePlus members with cobranded Chase credit cards like the Chase United Club Infinite card.
Another benefit is that award flights on United-operated routes earn Premier Qualifying Points (PQP). For every 100 miles redeemed, you earn 1 PQP, which helps you maintain or earn elite status.
Use United's featured awards page to quickly and easily spot good flight deals to use your United miles on.
The Value of United Miles When Booking Partner Flights
United miles shine when used for partner airline flights. For instance:
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Economy tickets on Lufthansa cost 44,000 miles one-way while business class tickets cost 88,000 miles one-way.
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Economy tickets on ANA cost 60,500 miles one-way while business class tickets cost 110,000 miles one-way.
Use United miles to book great deals like Swiss Air business class for 88,000 United miles one-way!
The Best Use of Your United Miles
Here are some of the best ways to get maximum value from your United miles:
- Premium cabin redemptions on United or partner airlines.
- Multi-city itineraries using the Excursionist Perk.
- Short-haul flights for domestic flights.
Another great use of United miles is booking short haul domestic flights for as little as 6,000 miles one way.
The Worst Use of Your United Miles
Not all redemptions are created equal. Avoid these low-value uses:
- Peak travel periods for popular destinations, such as holidays or summer travel to Hawaii.
- Non-travel redemptions, like magazines, gift cards, or rental cars, which often yield less than 1 cent per mile in value.
Prices during peak travel season can require double the amount of United miles.
How Do United Miles Compare With Other Airlines?
United miles rank competitively among airline loyalty programs based on Nerdwallet's estimations:
- United: 1.2 cents per mile
- American Airlines: 1.6 cents per mile
- Delta: 1.2 cents per mile
- Alaska Airlines: 1.3 cents per mile
While United isn’t at the top, its extensive partner network and flexibility make MileagePlus a strong choice.
Are United Miles Transferable?
Yes, you can transfer United miles to another person for a fee. However, you can’t transfer United miles to other programs, but you can use them to book flights on partner airlines like Lufthansa, SWISS, and ANA through United’s booking platform.
When Is the Best Time to Use United Miles?
The same principles for booking award flights apply when using United miles. You'll find the best availability when you:
- Book 360 days before departure
- Book 14 days before departure
- Avoid peak holiday travel seasons
For the best deals, book early or keep an eye on award space closer to your travel dates.
How Many United Airlines Miles for a Free Ticket?
The number of miles you need depends on the route and demand. Here are some examples:
- ~7,000 miles: Short-haul domestic flights like San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX).
- ~25,000 miles: Roundtrip medium-length domestic flights.
- ~35,000+ miles: Roundtrip flights to Hawaii or Latin America.
- 44,000 miles: Economy one-way tickets to Europe on partner airlines.
Are United Miles Worth It?
Yes, United miles are worth it, especially for frequent travelers who can maximize their value with strategic redemptions. Being able to book an extensive selection of partner flights while allowing free cancellations on award tickets makes United miles a great choice for both domestic and international travel.
FAQs About United Miles
How many miles do I need for a free flight?
You need at least 6,000 miles for a short-haul flight on United or on partner airlines. Domestic roundtrips start at around 12,000 miles.
Do United miles expire?
No, United miles do not expire.
What Is 25,000 United Miles Worth?
25,000 United miles are worth about $275 when redeemed for travel. This is typically enough for a roundtrip domestic flight or a partner airline ticket for regional travel.
Final Thoughts
United MileagePlus miles can be a great asset for frequent travelers. By understanding their value and planning your redemptions wisely, you can unlock fantastic travel experiences and save money. Happy flying!