Hello FlyerTalkers,

I'm sure this question has been asked countless times, but while searching for the answer to my question I haven't really come up with anything solid.

My question: Is there an easy method of determining when to use Points/Miles or book with Cash?

I came across lots of helpful blogs and posts but nothing really automated. I'm searching for a plug numbers in and answer gets generated.

Last night, I went ahead a took a stab at it on my own. I made a spreadsheet here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets...gid=2083879775

It's very basic. I used this formula: CPM = ( [Ticket Value]-[Cost of Fees] ) / ([Miles Used + Miles Earned])

Then I took the point valuations from TPG and tested to see if the value of points were higher than the valuation. If so, it's best to use points in lieu of cash.

I know there are lots of factors to consider (ie, companion pass, pay with points & cash, etc). In no way is my spreadsheet finalized, but I would like to engage the community for their suggestions and help so I can work to improve what I have started. My goal is to make it really streamlined and to include hotels and car rentals.