UMVA has learned that several top travel editors and experts have shared their favorite rewards redemptions of 2026, showcasing incredible value and inspiring others to make the most of their points and miles.
One editor, Olivia, recently redeemed 7,500 American Airlines AAdvantage miles plus $11 in taxes and fees for a one-way flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to Portland International Airport, a route that would have cost $364 if paid in cash. This redemption yielded a remarkable 4.7 cents per mile in value.
Matt, a contributing editor, scored a KLM Premium Comfort flight from Austin to Madrid via Amsterdam for 40,000 Air France-KLM Flying Blue miles plus $265 in taxes and fees. The itinerary included perks like a bulkhead seat and access to the American Express Centurion Lounge.
Zoe, an engineering manager, booked a two-night stay at Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa in Pacific City, Oregon, for 98,000 Ultimate Rewards points plus $250. The cash price for this stay was $2,213, giving her roughly 2 cents per point in value.
Lyndsey, a managing editor, made an impulse booking to Key West for 12,500 Atmos Rewards points plus $18 in taxes and fees for a one-way American Airlines flight. The cash price for the flight was $331, resulting in a valuation of 2.5 cents per point.
Priyan, a senior analyst, used 92,000 World of Hyatt points for a four-night stay at the Dreams Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic. The cash value of the stay was roughly $1,800, giving him approximately 2 cents per point in value.
Katie, a lead writer, redeemed 145,000 Atmos Rewards points plus $214 for two one-way tickets from Melbourne to Vancouver via Sydney in Qantas business class. The comparable cash price was $17,406, yielding an impressive redemption rate of over 10 cents per point.
Christine, a senior editor, redeemed 564,000 IHG points for a four-night stay at Six Senses Con Dao in Vietnam. As an IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card cardholder, she was able to use the card's fourth-night-free perk, making the redemption even more valuable.
Giselle, a managing editor, redeemed 25,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points (transferred to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club) plus $618 in taxes and fees for two adults and one lap infant to fly Air France Economy Comfort from Paris to Miami. The cash price for the same itinerary was $3,823, giving her a redemption value of 12.8 cents per Chase point.
These remarkable redemptions demonstrate the incredible value that can be achieved by strategically using points and miles. By learning from these examples, travelers can make the most of their rewards and take their trips from planning to reality.
