<div id="readability-page-1">Airfare climbs sharply: U.S. domestic round-trip flights now average $570, about $100 more than last year, driving interest in travel credit cards to offset costs. Rewards lose value: Amex, Hyatt, and others have devalued points by cutting transfer ratios or raising redemption costs, making trips more expensive in points. Consumer strategy shift: Experts advise redeeming points sooner, diversifying programs, and considering cash-back cards to avoid ongoing devaluation risks.</div>

<p>U.S. domestic round-trip airfare has risen to an average of $570, prompting increased interest in travel credit cards. However, companies like Amex and Hyatt have devalued points, raising redemption costs. Experts recommend consumers redeem points sooner, diversify their programs, and consider cash-back cards to mitigate devaluation risks.</p>

Rising airfare and point cuts reshape travel rewards value