Are Marriott Bonvoy Airline Mileage Transfers Worth It?

Marriott Bonvoy, one of the largest hotel loyalty programs in the world, offers its members the ability to transfer their points to over 40 airline loyalty programs. This feature can be a game-changer for travelers who want to redeem their points for flights instead of hotel stays. But the question remains: are Marriott Bonvoy airline mileage transfers worth it?

How Marriott Bonvoy Airline Mileage Transfers Work

Marriott Bonvoy members can transfer their points to airline miles at a ratio of 3:1, with a minimum transfer of 3,000 points. This means that for every 3,000 Marriott Bonvoy points you transfer, you’ll receive 1,000 airline miles. There are no transfer fees, and the process typically takes 1-2 days to complete.

Pros of Marriott Bonvoy Airline Mileage Transfers

1. Increased redemption options: By transferring your Marriott Bonvoy points to airline miles, you can redeem them for flights on over 40 airlines, including popular carriers like United, American Airlines, and Delta.
2. More flexible redemption rates: Airline mileage redemption rates can be more flexible than hotel redemption rates, especially for last-minute bookings or during peak travel seasons.
3. Better value for certain redemptions: In some cases, transferring your Marriott Bonvoy points to airline miles can provide better value than redeeming them for hotel stays. For example, a round-trip economy flight from the US to Europe might require fewer airline miles than a single night at a high-end Marriott hotel.

Cons of Marriott Bonvoy Airline Mileage Transfers

1. Limited transfer ratio: The 3:1 transfer ratio can be limiting, especially for members who have accumulated a large number of points. This means that you’ll need to transfer a significant number of points to receive a meaningful amount of airline miles.
2. Airline mileage devaluation: Airline mileage programs are constantly changing, and devaluations can occur at any time. This means that the value of your transferred miles can decrease suddenly, making them less valuable than you anticipated.
3. Limited airline partnerships: While Marriott Bonvoy has partnerships with over 40 airlines, some popular carriers like Southwest Airlines and JetBlue are not part of the program.

When Marriott Bonvoy Airline Mileage Transfers Make Sense

1. You have a specific flight redemption in mind: If you have a specific flight in mind and the airline miles required for redemption are within reach, transferring your Marriott Bonvoy points can be a great way to book your flight.
2. You’re short on airline miles: If you’re close to redeeming a flight but are short on airline miles, transferring your Marriott Bonvoy points can help you reach the required amount.
3. You want to diversify your loyalty program portfolio: By transferring your Marriott Bonvoy points to airline miles, you can diversify your loyalty program portfolio and increase your redemption options.

Conclusion

Marriott Bonvoy airline mileage transfers can be a valuable tool for travelers who want to redeem their points for flights. While the 3:1 transfer ratio may not be the most generous, the ability to transfer points to over 40 airline loyalty programs can provide increased redemption options and flexibility. However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and consider your individual travel needs before transferring your points. By doing so, you can make the most of your Marriott Bonvoy points and enjoy more rewarding travel experiences.