Aeroplan elite members can now convert points to Marriott Bonvoy at a 1:1 ratio — but is it really worth it?

Air Canada Aeroplan has introduced a new redemption option — but it’s exclusively for elite status members.

Aeroplan members with elite status can now transfer their Aeroplan points to Marriott Bonvoy at a 1:1 rate. A minimum of 500 points must be transferred, with a daily cap of 100,000 points and a weekly maximum of 250,000 points.

Aeroplan members can earn up to 2 Aeroplan points for every dollar spent on select Marriott stays; they can also transfer Marriott points to their Aeroplan account at a 3:1 ratio, with an additional bonus of 5,000 Aeroplan points for every 60,000 Bonvoy points transferred. This new transfer option provides Aeroplan elite members with greater flexibility.

However, just because you can transfer your points, does it mean you should? Let’s explore the reasons you might or might not want to utilize this new transfer feature.

Is it wise to transfer your Aeroplan points to Marriott Bonvoy?

Even though the transfer rate is 1:1, meaning you won't lose any points during the transfer, you'll lose some value when moving Aeroplan points to Marriott. As of September 2024, TPG values Aeroplan points at 1.5 cents each, while Marriott Bonvoy points are valued at just 0.85 cents each.

In theory, you could gain significantly more value by retaining your Aeroplan points and redeeming them for Air Canada and partner flights instead of transferring them to Marriott for hotel stays. Being part of Star Alliance, Aeroplan often allows for excellent redemption options, such as booking business-class flights to Europe for as little as 60,000 Aeroplan points. Conversely, a night at certain Marriott hotels can exceed 60,000 Bonvoy points due to Marriott's dynamic pricing.

If you have Aeroplan points you don’t plan to use soon or if you're just a few points short for a Marriott redemption, this transfer option is worthwhile. Keep in mind that with potential program devaluations, saving your rewards as a long-term investment is not advisable.

Moreover, elite Aeroplan members who also accumulate Capital One miles, like those from the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, can transfer their Capital One miles to Aeroplan and subsequently move those points to Marriott.

Marriott is already a direct transfer partner with American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt Rewards, and Chase Ultimate Rewards.

In summary

While transferring your points from Aeroplan to Marriott Bonvoy might not be the most effective way to maximize value, there are scenarios where it could be beneficial. You can only take advantage of this new option if you're an Aeroplan elite member, but your status may be closer than you realize. For instance, the Aeroplan® Credit Card provides complimentary Aeroplan 25K elite status for the rest of this calendar year and the entire next year.