Example : A round-trip First Class flight to Tokyo might cost $20,057 in cash, but the miles required for the same seat might only cost $3,208 to purchase.

: Buying miles can be significantly cheaper than paying the full cash price for international Business or First Class tickets.

Buying airline miles is generally because the purchase price usually exceeds the miles' redemption value . However, it can be a savvy move in specific, high-value scenarios if you follow a "buy and fly" strategy. When It Makes Sense to Buy

: It is almost never worth buying miles for coach/economy seats, as the cash fare is typically lower than the cost of the miles needed.

: Never buy miles without a specific trip in mind. Airlines frequently devalue their miles (increase the number required for a flight) without notice.

To determine if a purchase is worth it, calculate the : 4 Times It Makes Sense to Buy Airline Miles - NerdWallet