Is redeeming JetBlue points for vacation packages a good idea?

Similar to other airlines, JetBlue provides travel packages that include flights, hotels, and car rentals. With JetBlue Vacations, you can secure package deals at prices lower than booking each component separately.

When you book through JetBlue Vacations, you unlock some great perks like free changes, a 48-hour best price guarantee, complimentary inflight alcoholic beverages, additional points, Group B boarding, free airport transfers at select locations, and more. You can also redeem TrueBlue points as part of this.

While it’s possible to use TrueBlue points through JetBlue Vacations, the process isn't as simple as it might appear. Today, we’ll delve into how to redeem your points for vacation packages and whether this option is worthwhile.

Using JetBlue points for vacation package redemptions

First off, you can't fully pay for a JetBlue Vacations package using TrueBlue points. However, you can apply points to reduce the cost.

To book a vacation package with points, visit the JetBlue Vacations website, enter your departure and arrival cities along with your travel dates, specify how many people are traveling, and check the box labeled "Use TrueBlue Points."

Is it a good deal?

Similar to standard TrueBlue redemptions, these rewards are dynamically priced. Therefore, the value you receive when using points through JetBlue Vacations will differ based on your destination and travel dates.

For the purposes of this guide, let's examine an eight-day trip from New York-JFK to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ). The cash price for two travelers staying seven nights at the all-inclusive Nickelodeon Hotel and Resort Punta Cana is $3,926.20. Additionally, as a "VIP Hotel," customers booking through JetBlue Vacations receive a $250 resort credit, complimentary character breakfast, and a private sliming experience.

Since this resort is located in Punta Cana, you can also include complimentary round-trip airport transfers.

Conversely, booking with points reduces the package to 28,000 TrueBlue points and $3,574.20—a $352 savings. In this scenario, your TrueBlue points are valued at 1.26 cents each, comparable to a JetBlue flight redemption. Based on TPG valuations, TrueBlue points are valued at 1.3 cents each.

When you book with points, you'll enjoy all the same benefits, including complimentary airport transfers.

If you're thinking about booking a JetBlue Vacations package, using points can be a great way to save some cash. However, regardless of whether you decide to pay with points, it's essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages of booking through JetBlue.

Advantages and disadvantages of booking with JetBlue Vacations

The primary advantages of booking through JetBlue Vacations are:

• No fees for changes or cancellations from JetBlue, plus hotels with flexible change policies.
• 48-hour best price guarantee.
• The option to book a vacation package with just a deposit.
• Opportunities to redeem TrueBlue points.
• Complimentary airport transfers in Punta Cana, Aruba, Cancun, Mexico, or Montego Bay, Jamaica.
• Free inflight alcoholic beverages.
• Earn additional TrueBlue points.
• Guaranteed overhead bin space on domestic flights.
• Group B boarding privileges.

Nonetheless, like any online travel agency, there are some potential downsides to not booking directly. The main drawbacks include missing out on hotel points or elite-qualifying credits for your stay. Additionally, if you hold elite status with a hotel chain, you may forfeit your usual elite benefits.

How to increase your JetBlue TrueBlue points balance

If you're planning to book a JetBlue vacation package using points and need to boost your TrueBlue balance, you have several options available.

The most straightforward method to earn JetBlue points is by flying. You can accelerate your earnings by pooling points with up to seven friends or family members.

For a faster route, consider one of JetBlue's three cobranded credit cards: the JetBlue Plus Card, JetBlue Card, or JetBlue Business Card. Each card allows you to earn additional TrueBlue points on JetBlue purchases and provides special perks when flying with the airline. Additionally, if you have the JetBlue Plus Card or its business equivalent, you can receive a $100 statement credit annually on any JetBlue Vacations package costing $100 or more.

The details for the JetBlue Plus Card and JetBlue Business Card have been independently sourced by Dinogo. The card information on this page has not been reviewed or endorsed by the card issuer.

Alternatively, you can transfer points from all major transferable points programs — American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, and Citi ThankYou Rewards. This makes it easy to increase your balance if you have a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or The Platinum Card® from American Express. Just be aware that transfer ratios vary by partner and can sometimes be less than favorable.

Conclusion

Although you can't directly redeem TrueBlue points for hotel stays or rental cars, you can use them to get discounts on travel packages through JetBlue Vacations. Overall, the value you receive is quite comparable to redeeming for flights, making it a viable option. Just be sure to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of booking through JetBlue Vacations versus booking each component of your trip separately.