Most of the time, purchasing JetBlue points is not advisable, since the purchase price per point tends to exceed the redemption value. That said, there are specific cases where purchasing points is beneficial, like when you need to top off your points for a particular flight or during periods of high bonus promotions. The key is understanding the right timing when the calculations are beneficial to you.
Understanding the Value of JetBlue Points
Let’s look at how much JetBlue points are generally worth so we can answer the question of buying JetBlue points. To JetBlue TrueBlue points have a value of around 1.3 to 1.5 cents per point when redeemed for flights. Assuming 10,000 points, the equivalent value in airfare is between $130 and $150.
Now here’s the problem: buying points directly from JetBlue usually costs more than 3 cents per point. Imagine paying $30 for something only worth $15—that’s not a sale; that’s a comedy sketch in bad budgeting. Unless you find a targeted redemption or a hefty bonus sale, the math just doesn’t add up.
When Buying Points Might Be Worth It
There are a few exceptions where buying JetBlue points can make financial sense. One is topping off for a flight—if you’re only a couple thousand points short of booking, purchasing a small amount may be worth it, much like picking up the last few ingredients you need for a recipe rather than restocking the whole pantry. Another is during promotional bonuses, when JetBlue offers 50%, 75%, or even 100% extra points.
These deals bring the cost per point closer to its real redemption value, making the purchase more worthwhile. Finally, in cases of targeted redemptions, if the math shows that buying points (especially during a bonus sale) is cheaper than paying the cash fare, it can be a smart move—for example, spending on a few extra points to book a $350 ticket that requires 20,000 points.
When It’s Usually a Bad Deal
Most of the time, buying JetBlue points is simply not the smartest move. Here’s why:
- Speculative Purchases: Buying points without a specific plan is like buying gym equipment “just in case.” It looks great in your living room, but it never actually gets used.
- High Cost Per Point: Even with modest bonuses, the cost of purchased points often outweighs their value. Paying 3 cents for something worth 1.5 cents is hardly a winning strategy.
- Daily Travel Requirements: With special exception to everyday flights, it is frequently less expensive to shell out for a ticket outright as well as accumulate points more organically via flights, credit cards, and JetBlue’s dining and retail programs.
How to Decide If It’s Worth It
Determining whether purchasing JetBlue points is a good deal depends on performing some calculations. Begin by setting a redemption target, which is the specific flight you intend to redeem. As a next step, analyse the cash fare and the points fare for the flight. After that, assess the cost of buying points, including any associated fees or taxes, to get a clear idea.
In the end, decide whether to purchase: If the purchase of points ends up cutting your expenses, you should proceed; if it doesn’t, you should not buy. To illustrate, if a flight costs $350 or 20,000 points, and you have 18,000, purchasing 2,000 points via a promotion could be worthwhile, especially if the alternative is to pay the full fare.
Alternatives to Buying Points
Instead of paying extra for points, you can:
- Earn them by flying JetBlue or partner airlines.
- Use a JetBlue credit card to rack up points through travel and everyday purchases.
- Shop and dine through JetBlue portals, which often come with bonus points.
- Pool points with family or friends to combine balances without spending a dime.
These strategies keep your wallet intact while still growing your TrueBlue balance.
Is Buying JetBlue Points Worth It?
In most cases, the answer is no. The cost of buying JetBlue points almost always outweighs their redemption value, making it a poor investment if you’re buying without a plan. The exceptions? Topping off your account for a flight you need or buying during a major promotion that drops the effective cost per point.
Consider this: buying points acts as a tactic, not a strategy, for the long haul. Make a purchase only when it is cost-effective. Otherwise, do well to earn points the natural way or pay in cash to book.
Turning JetBlue Points into Cash
If you’ve been wondering if buying JetBlue points is worth it, another option may make even more sense: sell JetBlue points for cash. At CashForMyMiles.com, we make the process simple, secure, and fast. Since 2004, we’ve helped thousands of clients—including individuals and businesses—turn unused miles and points into instant payouts. Instead of overspending to buy more, convert the points you already have into money you can use today.
