: During sales where airlines offer 80% to 150% bonuses or steep discounts. When to Avoid Buying

: Factor in that even with "free" miles, you must still pay taxes and carrier-imposed fuel surcharges, which can sometimes exceed the ticket's cash value. Step-by-Step Buying Process

: Never buy miles without a specific, immediate trip in mind, as programs frequently undergo "devaluations" where the "price" in miles for a flight increases without warning.

: When the cost to buy miles is significantly lower than the cash price of a ticket, common for international Business or First Class.

Buying frequent flyer miles is generally as a way to save money because airlines typically sell them for more than their redemption value . However, it can be a strategic move in specific scenarios, such as "topping off" an account for an immediate high-value booking. When to Buy Miles