Luxury Travel Isn’t Getting Cheaper Anytime Soon — Here’s Why You Should Stick with Avios
If you’ve noticed how expensive luxury travel has become recently, you’re not alone. The demand for premium travel experiences is higher than ever and prices are rising as a result. Whether it’s due to inflation, increased fuel costs, or a shortage of workers, the price of high-end travel is constantly climbing. At the same time, many travellers are willing to pay a high price for those exclusive experiences, which makes it challenging to find deals in the luxury market.
So, how can you enjoy affordable luxury travel without spending a fortune? In this blog, we explore how maximising Avios can unlock those spacious seats without emptying your wallet.
Why Is Luxury Travel So Expensive?
While travel prices have risen, so has the demand for premium features like shorter wait times, roomier seats, better services, and high-end accommodation. According to the luxury travel company Virtuoso, luxury hotel rates hit their highest levels ever this year, with average daily rates soaring 70% above those in 2019. July 2024 saw the highest rate, with an 85% increase compared to July 2019, as reported by CNBC Travel. This has widened the gap between luxury and budget travel options. As a result, the premium travel experience feels overpriced and out of range for those on tighter budgets.
But that doesn’t mean all hope is lost. While prices for premium flights and accommodations may be rising, using Avios points for flights can make a difference in keeping luxury travel within reach.
How Can Avios Help You Save on Luxury Travel?
You can enjoy First Class and Business Class travel at a fraction of the regular price with British Airways Avios. Rather than paying out of pocket for these expensive tickets, the British Airways Executive Club lets you use points you’ve collected to score significant discounts. This means you get the same premium experience — larger seats, gourmet meals, and priority boarding — without the high price tag.
Even better, British Airways is expanding its flight network, so Avios collectors now have more destinations. Whether you’re looking to book a European getaway or a long-haul flight to the U.S., there are more opportunities to use Avios points and enjoy affordable luxury travel.
How to Make the Best Use of Your Avios Points
Collection Tips
Everyday Purchases — the trick is to accumulate Avios points by earning them through everyday activities and purchases and then spend them wisely to get the most bang for your buck.
One of the easiest ways to do this is to use a British Airways American Express card, which offers points for every pound you spend. New cardholders can earn thousands of bonus points by meeting a spending threshold within the first few months. For example, the British Airways Premium Plus offers up to 60,000 Avios as a welcome bonus after meeting its initial spending requirements (current promotion).
Double Dip — Having got your credit card, earn more Avios through partner deals with hotels and car rentals and by shopping on the Avios eStore, which has over 2000 retailers. There are a number of categories, for all your shopping needs, including Toys and Games, Food and Drink, Clothes and Fashion, and Utilities. This way you get the points offered by your card AND the points offered by the retailer.
Transfers — You can also transfer points from other loyalty programmes such as Nectar and American Express Membership Rewards.
Promotions & special deals — keep an eye out for promotions, and special deals where flights cost fewer points.
Other ways you can accumulate Avios faster:
- Purchase tickets on British Airways.
- Book flights with the 13 airlines in the oneworld alliance
- Organise vacations through British Airways Holidays.
- Exchange Heathrow Rewards points for Avios.
- Buy tickets for the Heathrow Express.
- Reserve airport parking through ParkVia.
- Use Uber for rides within the UK.
- Book accommodations with a British Airways hotel partner.
- Purchase fuel at BP and convert BPme Rewards points.
- Rent vehicles from Avis or Budget.
- Switch to Barclays Premier Banking.
Redemption tips
- always aim for higher-value redemptions when redeeming your Avios. British Airways Business Class or First Class tickets provide much better value per point than Economy tickets.
- booking flights using British Airways’ Reward Flight Saver promotions, where you can book tickets for fewer points, is another smart move.
- using companion vouchers earned through BA credit cards allows you to book two flights for the points cost of one, doubling the value of your Avios.
Other Avios related credit cards
- Barclaycard Avios Mastercard.
- American Express Gold credit card (free for the first year).
- The Platinum Card from American Express.
- British Airways Accelerating Business credit card (for small and medium enterprises).
- The Capital on Tap credit card (for Limited Companies).
With some planning, you can get more value from your British Airways Avios.
Conclusion
BA continues to improve its Business Class experience. From fully flat beds to private lounges, flying British Airways Business Class with Avios means all the perks of luxury travel at a fraction of the cost. Follow our blog to stay informed about new routes and promotions so you can use your Avios to enjoy affordable luxury travel on a budget.
