Are you a frequent traveler or planning your next trip? If so, you’ll want to know how much your Delta SkyMiles are worth. Delta Air Lines, one of the largest airlines in the United States, offers its loyal customers the opportunity to earn and redeem SkyMiles for various rewards. In this article, we’ll explore the value of Delta SkyMiles, how to calculate their worth, and tips on earning more miles.
The Value of a Delta SkyMiles Point
Delta SkyMiles are primarily redeemed for booking flights with Delta and its partner airlines. The value of a SkyMile fluctuates based on the cash price of the ticket. On average, one Delta SkyMile is worth approximately 1.16 cents. However, redemption values can vary, ranging from as low as 0.8 cents per point to as high as 1.6 cents per point. Factors such as sales promotions and international travel can increase the value of your SkyMiles.
How to Calculate Delta SkyMiles Value
To determine the value you’re getting from your Delta SkyMiles, you’ll need the cash price of the ticket, the amount of taxes and fees, and the number of SkyMiles required for the award ticket. The formula is as follows:
SkyMiles value = (Cash price – Award taxes) / (SkyMiles cost) x 100
For example, if you’re looking at a flight from Boston to San Diego on October 20th in the Main Cabin, with a cash price of $277, award taxes of $6, and a SkyMiles cost of 24,000, your SkyMiles value would be 1.13 cents per mile.
How to Earn Delta Air Lines SkyMiles
There are several ways to earn Delta SkyMiles. You can accumulate miles by flying with Delta and its partners, making purchases from SkyMiles partner companies, participating in the SkyMiles dining program, and even switching your home energy provider. Here are some ways to earn:
Flying
Earn SkyMiles by flying with Delta and its partners. The number of miles earned on Delta-operated and Delta-marketed flights is based on the base fare and carrier-imposed surcharges. If you fly on a ticket purchased through a Delta partner, you’ll earn miles based on the distance flown and the airfare booked.
Partner Programs
Delta has partnerships with various companies like Starbucks and Lyft. By linking your Starbucks app to your Delta SkyMiles account, you can earn one mile per $1 spent at most Starbucks locations. Similarly, Lyft riders can earn one mile per dollar spent on rides in the U.S. Other opportunities include earning miles with rental car reservations, dining at participating restaurants, shopping through the SkyMiles shopping portal, and even selecting certain energy providers in specific states.
Credit Cards
Delta offers several co-branded credit cards in partnership with American Express. These cards allow you to earn SkyMiles on every purchase, with increased earnings on Delta Air Lines purchases and select categories. Each card also provides unique benefits, such as welcome bonuses, discounts on award redemptions, and free checked bags on Delta flights.
Credit Cards to Earn Delta SkyMiles
If you’re looking to earn Delta SkyMiles through credit card spending, consider Delta’s co-branded cards. They offer various benefits tailored to different needs and spending patterns. Here are the details on some of Delta’s credit cards:
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Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express Card: Entry-level card with a $0 annual fee, earning two miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases and restaurants worldwide.
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Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card: Benefits include earning two miles per dollar spent on Delta, restaurants, and supermarkets, as well as a $100 Delta flight credit after spending $10,000 in a calendar year. Annual fee applies.
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Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card: Ideal for frequent flyers, offers three miles per dollar on Delta purchases, a companion ticket for select flights, and opportunities to earn additional Medallion Qualifying Miles. Annual fee applies.
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Delta Reserve Credit Card from American Express: Premium card with access to Delta SkyClub lounges, earning three miles per dollar on Delta flights and services. It also offers additional Medallion Qualifying Miles and comes with lounge access benefits. Annual fee applies.
Remember that all SkyMiles credit cards offer a 20% statement credit for in-flight purchases and 1X mile for every eligible dollar on other purchases. Additionally, you can transfer Membership Rewards points from select American Express cards to Delta SkyMiles.
What Can You Get for Your Delta SkyMiles?
Delta SkyMiles are best redeemed for flights on Delta and its partner airlines. You can easily book award tickets on Delta’s website by selecting the “Shop with Miles” option during your search or choosing “Miles” under “Show Price In” at the top of the webpage. SkyMiles can also be used to book flights for others, including those not traveling with you. While there are other redemption options like Delta SkyClub membership, Delta gift cards, vacation packages, and SkyMiles experiences, keep in mind that the value of your SkyMiles may be lower for these options.
Delta SkyMiles vs. the Competition
When compared to other major U.S. airlines’ reward programs, Delta SkyMiles have an average value of just over one cent per mile. However, the value of SkyMiles tends to be more stable than other airlines’ points, and they can be used to purchase any open seat. Although enhanced value opportunities for partner airline travel are limited, Delta SkyMiles offer flexibility, allowing you to cancel your flight and get the miles redeposited without fees.
Pros and Cons of Delta SkyMiles
Delta SkyMiles have their advantages and disadvantages. On average, you can expect around 1.16 cents of value when booking a ticket with SkyMiles. However, this value can vary, and there may be opportunities for enhanced value, especially for international itineraries. One significant advantage is the ability to redeposit miles if your plans change, without incurring fees. SkyMiles are also useful and usable, particularly if you frequently travel with Delta or live near a Delta hub.
For more information on Delta’s co-branded credit cards, please see the rates and fees listed here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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How much are 10,000 Delta miles worth? At a valuation of 1.16 cents per SkyMile, 10,000 Delta SkyMiles are worth around $116.
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How much are 50,000 Delta miles worth? At a valuation of 1.16 cents per SkyMile, 50,000 Delta SkyMiles are worth around $580.
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How much are 100,000 Delta miles worth? At a valuation of 1.16 cents per SkyMile, 100,000 Delta SkyMiles are worth around $1,160.
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Should you use Delta SkyMiles or pay cash? In most cases, booking with SkyMiles is recommended, as you can potentially get increased value and earn MQMs towards elite status with Delta.
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Should you use your Delta SkyMiles for upgrades? Delta offers opportunities to upgrade with miles, but consider the cash price of the upgrade and compare it to the 1.16 cents per SkyMile valuation.
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How many Delta miles does it take to get a free flight? The number of miles needed varies based on the ticket’s cash price. Occasionally, Delta offers sales on SkyMiles tickets, with one-way fares as low as 5,000 SkyMiles.
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What airlines can I use Delta miles on? You can use your SkyMiles to book travel on Delta and its partner airlines, such as KLM, Air France, and Korean Air. Note that partner availability may be limited.
Make the most of your Delta SkyMiles by understanding their value, earning opportunities, and redemption options. Happy travels!
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