Delta SkyMiles

The Highlights

Delta is a good point system for both domestic and international flights.

• Delta offers many cards, making initial collection relatively easy. But the Amex 1/7 Rule limits that ability over time.
• Delta is part of the Amex partner reward system and is a decent transfer value.
• We save Delta points for specific flights, perhaps direct domestic or best value international.
• We use easier-to-collect point systems such as Southwest and American ahead of Delta.

What to Know About This Point System

• Delta SkyMiles are super easy to accumulate with American Express cards, whether they're specific for earning SkyMiles or American Express cards that have completely transferable and instant 1:1 ratio Amex points.

Redeeming SkyMiles isn’t difficult, but you might find that their value isn't as high as you'd think -- especially if you do a side-by-side comparison with our personal favorite, United. Delta’s redeeming quality, however, is the fact that they fly to over 325 locations. So sometimes when you want to go somewhere that United doesn't, you’ll find Delta’s got your back.

When Delta removed its online reward charts in 2015, no one was happy. Now, the more flexible you are, the more value you can squeeze out of your Miles -- especially when Delta runs one of its regular award sales that offer some deep discounts in economy and Delta One.

But the real ace up the sleeve here is booking international Business or First Class using alliances like China Eastern or one of their non-alliance partners like Virgin Atlantic. This can be done for fewer points than if you booked directly through the Delta website -- as long as the flight is operated by Delta, Delta Connections or Virgin Atlantic. Searching around for Delta’s flash sales based on region or utilizing one of their partners can get you a pretty impressive trip.

How to Redeem

Redeem for Airfare

Booking flights with Delta or one of its partners is the best way to redeem Delta miles. Log in to your SkyMiles account, click Shop with Miles, enter your travel details, and search. If your dates are flexible, check the box to view results by week, then switch to the price calendar to see fares over a five-week window. Prices shown in green are saver fares — the lowest prices available and the ones required for partner bookings.

• Delta uses dynamic pricing, which means award rates fluctuate and traditional charts no longer apply.
• Saver-level partner awards still exist, both for Delta-operated flights and partner airlines.
• When booking a partner award, you must find saver-level space (green pricing). Some partner bookings require calling Delta.

Hotel Stays, Car Rentals, and Vacations

Delta offers a portal for booking hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages. These redemptions return about 1 cent per mile, which is far lower than what you get with airfare. We don’t recommend using SkyMiles this way unless you have a small balance you need to burn.

Visit Delta SkyMiles