Guide to Using Avios Points
- Apr 8
- 4 min read
If you’re a frequent traveller or just someone looking to make the most out of everyday spending, Avios points are a fantastic way to unlock travel perks and save money. Although Avios points are primarily associated with the British Airways Executive Club, you don’t have to fly with British Airways to earn or use them! In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about collecting and spending Avios points effectively.
What are Avios Points?
Avios points are a type of travel reward currency that you can collect and spend within the British Airways Executive Club, as well as through other affiliated airline and retail partners. These points can be accumulated from flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and even daily purchases like fuel or groceries.
How to Earn Avios Points
Flights
Flying with British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Qatar Airways, and other OneWorld partners is the most straightforward way to earn Avios. You can collect points on both short-haul and long-haul flights. The number of points you earn will vary depending on your flight class, fare type, and distance travelled.
Tip: Always add your Executive Club membership number when booking flights to ensure points are credited.
Hotel Stays
You can earn Avios points when staying at partner hotels such as Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and IHG One Rewards.
How: Link your Executive Club account to your hotel loyalty program to start earning.
Everyday Spending
Many credit cards offer generous Avios points for everyday purchases. Choosing a card that provides 1 point per dollar spent, such as the British Airways Visa Signature card, can quickly add up.
Tip: Make sure to link your card to your BA Executive Club account.
Shopping and Dining
Avios collaborates with numerous retailers and restaurants, allowing you to earn points while you shop or dine out. For instance, purchasing from stores like Sainsburys or participating in dining programs can net you bonus points. Be sure to check the Avios website.
Visit the Avios Store
Tip: Start by converting your nectar card into Avios points as example
Car Hire
Renting a car through partners like Avis or Budget can also earn you points.
Tip: Book through the British Airways website for bonus points.
Petrol
Did you know you can even earn Avios points while filling up your tank? BP’s BPme Rewards can be converted into Avios.
Link your BPme Rewards to Avios https://www.bpmerewards.co.uk/
How to Spend Avios Points
You’ve collected your points—now it’s time to enjoy the rewards! Here’s how you can redeem them:
Flights
Avios points are best used for booking flights. Depending on your destination and dates, redeeming for flights can offer excellent value. A flight that costs £500 may only require 25,000 Avios points plus taxes. Be flexible with your dates, as this can reduce the points needed.
Car Hire
Use your points to book a rental car for your next trip.
Redeem Avios on car hire
Upgrades
Using Avios points for seat upgrades can significantly enhance your flight experience. For example, if you have a coach ticket, consider using points to upgrade to business class. This can be especially valuable during long-haul flights, where the comfort level is much higher.
Hotels and Experiences
Beyond flights, Avios points can be redeemed for hotel stays, car rentals, and unique activities. If you're planning a trip to Paris, for example, you can use your points for a hotel stay at select partner hotels, making your journey even more affordable.
Tips for Maximising Your Avios Points
Tip 1: Book in Advance
Plan your trips well in advance. Booking early allows you to secure better redemption rates for flights and increases your chances of finding available seats during busy times. For instance, booking a summer vacation three months ahead can save you thousands of Avios points.
Tip 2: Combine Points
If you belong to multiple airlines that use Avios, consider transferring points to consolidate your rewards. Check the specific airline’s website for rules about transferring points, as each program has different guidelines. You can pool Avios with family members through a Household Account.
Tip 3: Take Advantage of Promotions
Keep an eye out for special promotions that may help you earn bonus points or lower your redemption costs. For instance, British Airways regularly offers double Avios on selected routes. Signing up for airline newsletters can keep you informed about these promotional opportunities.
Tip 4: Use Avios for Short Flights
Short-haul flights often require fewer Avios points, allowing you to experience more destinations for less. For example, you might pay as little as 4,500 points for a flight from London to Amsterdam, making it easy to explore new cities without spending much.
Tip 5: Earn Points Daily
Use your BA credit card for groceries, fuel, and other everyday purchases.
Managing Your Avios Account
Monitor Your Balance
Regularly checking your Avios balance keeps you informed about how many points you have and what you can do with them. Most loyalty programs have user-friendly apps or online portals for easy tracking.
Avoid Expiration
Be mindful that Avios points can expire if your account remains inactive for 36 months. To keep your account alive, earn or redeem points at least once every three years. If you're at risk of expiration, consider a small purchase with an Avios partner to refresh your balance.
Final Thoughts
Building your Avios points is all about consistency. Make sure to link your Executive Club number to all relevant bookings and transactions to watch your points grow. The more you plan and strategize your earning, the more rewarding your travel experience will be!
Start collecting today and make your travel count!
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