Points Devaluation: How to Protect Your Balance

Points don’t hold their value forever. Airlines and hotels regularly devalue their programs—the same flight that cost 25,000 miles last year might cost 35,000 today.

Here’s how to protect yourself.

Devaluation Examples

Program	Change	Impact
Delta SkyMiles	Removed award chart	Same flight now costs 40% more
Marriott	Category inflation	Hotels moved to higher categories
United	Dynamic pricing	Peak dates cost significantly more
Hilton	Point requirements up	Fewer “good deal” properties

Signs of Coming Devaluation

• Program announces “enhancements” or “improvements”
• Award chart removal rumors
• Reduced partner availability
• New premium/flexible award tiers

Last updated: January 2026 Affiliate disclosure: ShortcutBest may earn a commission when you apply through our links.