Selling vs Redeeming Aeroplan Points: Which Is Better?
Should you sell your Aeroplan points for cash or save them for that dream flight? This guide breaks down the math, shows real examples, and helps you decide which option is right for your situation.
If you've accumulated a significant Aeroplan balance, you've probably wondered: "Should I save these for flights, or take the cash?" It's a common dilemma, and the right answer depends on your personal circumstances.
The Simple Rule:
If you can get more than 1.5 cents per point when redeeming for flights, redeeming is likely better. If your redemption options are worth less than 1 cent per point, selling is the smarter choice. The middle ground? That's where personal preference matters.
Understanding Point Value: Selling vs Redeeming
To make this decision, you need to understand what your points are actually worth in each scenario.
Selling Value
When you sell Aeroplan points to a broker, you receive a guaranteed cash payment.
$0.010 - $0.015
per point (CAD)
Example: 100,000 points = $1,000 - $1,500 cash
Redemption Value
Redemption value varies dramatically based on the flight you book.
$0.005 - $0.05+
per point (varies by booking)
Range: 0.5¢ (bad deals) to 5¢+ (premium cabins)
Real-World Examples: When Each Option Wins
Let's look at actual scenarios to see how the math works out.
Example 1: Redeeming Wins
The Flight:
Toronto → Tokyo, Business Class
Cash price: $8,500
Points required: 150,000
The Math:
Redemption value: $8,500 ÷ 150,000 = 5.67¢/point
Selling value: 150,000 × $0.0125 = $1,875
Verdict: Redeem. You're getting $8,500 worth of travel vs $1,875 cash.
Example 2: Selling Wins
The Flight:
Toronto → Montreal, Economy
Cash price: $250
Points required: 35,000
The Math:
Redemption value: $250 ÷ 35,000 = 0.71¢/point
Selling value: 35,000 × $0.0125 = $437
Verdict: Sell. Get $437 cash vs a $250 flight. Pay cash for the flight, pocket $187.
Example 3: Close Call
The Flight:
Toronto → Vancouver, Economy
Cash price: $550
Points required: 45,000
The Math:
Redemption value: $550 ÷ 45,000 = 1.22¢/point
Selling value: 45,000 × $0.0125 = $562
Verdict: Personal preference. Nearly equal value—choose based on whether you need the flight or the cash.
When Redeeming Makes More Sense
Certain situations favor keeping your points for redemption:
Premium Cabin International Flights
Business and First class redemptions regularly deliver 3-6+ cents per point value. These are where Aeroplan truly shines compared to selling.
Last-Minute or Peak Travel
When cash prices spike during holidays or last-minute bookings, points often provide better value since their cost doesn't increase as dramatically.
Concrete Travel Plans
If you have a specific trip planned and need the flight, keeping points ensures you can book it without spending cash—assuming availability.
Partner Award Sweet Spots
Booking partner airlines through Aeroplan sometimes offers exceptional value, especially for airlines like EVA Air, ANA, or Lufthansa premium cabins.
When Selling Makes More Sense
Selling is often the smarter choice in these situations:
No Travel Plans
If you're not planning to fly anytime soon, points sitting idle provide zero value. Cash in hand can be used immediately for anything.
Economy-Only Travel
Economy redemptions rarely exceed 1-1.5 cents per point value. For the same routes, selling points and buying cash tickets often works out better.
Financial Need
When you need cash now, points are an asset you can liquidate. They're better used than sitting in an account while you need money.
Devaluation Concerns
Aeroplan has devalued points multiple times. If you're worried about future devaluations eroding value, selling locks in today's rate.
Points About to Expire
If your points expire soon and you can't use them, selling ensures you get something rather than losing everything.
Quick Decision Framework
Use this checklist to decide what's right for your situation:
Calculate your redemption value
Cash price of flight ÷ points required = cents per point
Compare to selling rate
Current selling rate: approximately 1.0-1.5 cents per point
Consider the certainty factor
Selling = guaranteed cash now. Redeeming = value only if you actually take the trip.
General Guidelines:
- • >2 cents/point: Strongly favor redeeming
- • 1.5-2 cents/point: Redeeming likely better, especially for travel lovers
- • 1-1.5 cents/point: Personal preference—close call
- • <1 cent/point: Strongly favor selling
Not Sure? Get a Quote and Compare
The best way to decide is to know exactly what your points are worth in cash. Request a free quote from Mega Miles Broker, then compare that number to the flights you're considering.
- Free quotes: No obligation to sell
- Fast response: Know your cash value within 24 hours
- Competitive rates: $0.010-0.015 per Aeroplan point
- Partial sales: Sell some, keep some—your choice
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the break-even point for selling vs redeeming Aeroplan?
If you can get more than 1.5 cents per point in redemption value (the typical selling rate), redeeming is better. If your redemption would be worth less than 1 cent per point, selling is clearly better. For values in between, consider your personal preference for cash vs travel.
When does redeeming Aeroplan points give better value than selling?
Business class international flights often deliver 2-5+ cents per point value. Premium cabin bookings, last-minute flights, and peak travel dates typically beat selling. Economy domestic flights rarely justify keeping points over selling.
Can I do both - sell some points and keep some for redemption?
Yes. Many Canadians sell a portion of their balance for immediate cash while keeping enough for planned redemptions. There's no requirement to sell your entire balance.
Does Aeroplan point value change based on when I redeem?
Yes. Aeroplan uses dynamic pricing for most flights, meaning point requirements fluctuate with demand. Off-peak travel dates and less popular routes often offer better redemption value.
What if I'm not sure when I'll travel next?
If you have no concrete travel plans, selling provides certain value now versus uncertain future value. Points can also devalue over time as programs increase redemption costs, so holding points indefinitely carries risk.