Key takeaway: The best redemption choice is the one that supports the trip well, not just the one with the highest theoretical value.
Use points when they unlock meaningful savings, premium comfort you would otherwise skip, or expensive travel dates.
Pay cash when prices are already low, points value is weak, or flexibility matters more than squeezing every cent out of a redemption.
Judge bookings in context. A clean, low-stress reservation can be more valuable than a complicated points win.