I don't have the numbers readily available, but buying points can be a losing proposition. When AGR 2.0 came about, it was stated that the exchange rate was 34.5 points per dollar, somewhat less on the Acela. In the meantime, I've noticed that when using points, it doesn't always work out at 34.5. If memory serves, I think I 'paid' at 37.5 or some similar, more costly rate for a trip this past June. I suspect that the 'exchange rate' fluctuates with the percent of train filled, or lowest bucket, whatever. Maybe it's they use a lower exchange rate for sleeper accomodations. I do know from experience that paying in points does not use senior discount, or, at least, the 34.5 rate. But then, getting a 5% rebate for using points doesn't hurt, either.It was supposed to be coming, but no sign of it.
In the meantime, you can buy points to make up the balance.
When the old system went out in Feb 2015 (or was it 2014?), there was time for me to 'rack up' a bunch of TQPs by a series of fairly short round trips on the NEC. I made a lot of headway to reaching Select status once all the AGR 1.0 points were posted!Remember the OLD system a few years back - made a killing working that one. Alas...the Accounts figured that out! LOL LOL
And those points per dollar are only good for UNDISCOUNTED (i.e. Adult) fares. No Senior, AAA, NARP discountsI don't have the numbers readily available, but buying points can be a losing proposition. When AGR 2.0 came about, it was stated that the exchange rate was 34.5 points per dollar, somewhat less on the Acela. In the meantime, I've noticed that when using points, it doesn't always work out at 34.5. If memory serves, I think I 'paid' at 37.5 or some similar, more costly rate for a trip this past June. I suspect that the 'exchange rate' fluctuates with the percent of train filled, or lowest bucket, whatever. Maybe it's they use a lower exchange rate for sleeper accomodations. I do know from experience that paying in points does not use senior discount, or, at least, the 34.5 rate. But then, getting a 5% rebate for using points doesn't hurt, either.It was supposed to be coming, but no sign of it.
In the meantime, you can buy points to make up the balance.
I usually do the same, though I usually pay for my trips and use all my points each year for vacation. On occasion, I'll use points to pay one way, and cash the other, generally based on point 'exchange' values per dollar and make payment decision based on those results.With the new system, I've been trying to maximize my "return on points" by figuring out the $/point on each trip, comparing cash price (with NARP discount) to points price. So far the best points rate I've gotten was for business class tickets on the Lake Shore Limited.
Enter your email address to join: