Which Loyalty Programs Have the Best Experience Auctions?

Most people think of miles and points as flight or hotel currency. Fair enough — that's what they're designed for. But a handful of programs also run auction platforms where you can bid on experiences: concert packages, VIP sporting events, cooking classes, resort getaways.

The catch? They're not all equally good. Here's where I'd actually spend time browsing.

United MileagePlus Exclusives

United consistently has the deepest catalog. Their platform (powered by Vonality) lists everything from Super Bowl packages to backstage Broadway access to golf outings with PGA pros. It's also one of the more active bidding communities, which means prices can run up — but there's always a lot to look at.

If you're only going to check one program's auctions, this is probably the one.

Delta SkyMiles Experiences

Delta runs on the iSynApp platform and takes more of a curated approach. Fewer listings than United, but the quality tends to be solid. Their sweet spot is music and dining — VIP festival packages and exclusive restaurant events show up regularly.

The smaller catalog actually works in your favor sometimes. Less competition means more reasonable winning bids.

Hilton Honors Experiences

Hilton leans into what they know: hospitality. Expect resort packages, spa retreats, and culinary experiences at their properties. It's less "once-in-a-lifetime event" and more "really nice trip you wouldn't have booked otherwise."

If you're sitting on a pile of Hilton points and aren't excited about another standard night redemption, their auction page is worth a look.

Don't sleep on Buy It Now listings

Not everything goes through an auction. Several programs offer fixed-price "Buy It Now" experiences where you pay a set number of points and you're in. No bidding war, no waiting for a close date.

These tend to move fast, especially the ones priced reasonably. Checking BidMiles regularly (or just browsing the "Buy Now" filter) is the best way to catch them.

The bottom line

The best program for auctions is whichever one you already have points in. But if you're actively collecting across multiple programs and want to get the most interesting experiences, United's volume and Delta's curation are hard to beat. Hilton is a solid third if you're hotel-points-heavy.

Start by browsing categories you care about on BidMiles — you might find something you didn't know existed.