Buying miles at full price is something that is hardly ever going to work out well for the customer. Half price however, can make all the difference. British Airways has just launched an aggressive sale on it’s “Avios” frequent flyer points- and it’s absolutely worth a look.
The Deals
This sale makes more sense for UK flyers than US flyers, given that the price is not consistent between the two. In other words, the relative price in British Pounds is far better than the price in US Dollars. The best deals seem to be 15,000 Avios points for £175, 75,000 points for £815 or 150,000 for £1615. For comparison sake- the 75,000 points in the US would cost $1400. No go. You can buy miles here after logging in.
British Airways’ Concorde Room at Terminal 5, London Heathrow on 07 November 2017
(Picture by Nick Morrish/British Airways)
Ways To Work It
Our favorite way to use Avios points can be found here. Not only will you earn more points, you’ll fly in comfort for less in taxes and miles. Using Avios on short haul flights in Europe, Australia, Asia or the US on British Airways and their partners can also be phenomenal value. And of course, things like Cathay Pacific First Class aren’t too shabby either. Plus, topping off a few miles for a flight you hope to book is often a necessity- and saving is nice.
Good Deal?
This is an entirely personal decision. There is no doubt at all that you can extract far more value from these points than you paid for them. BUT- you need a plan. We are large proponents of the ‘earn and burn’ strategy, where you should never be left holding too many airline miles. Figure out what works for you, your travel needs and your personal finance and make a smart, logic based decision.
It has been reported that BA intend to introduce “dynamic pricing” for Avios reward flights. This would be consistent with the the Cruz model of cost cutting. Therefore it is safe to say that any current calculation on Avios value is going to be overstated. I’m sure an off peak fare to Cairo will be cheaper but the majority of redemptions are going to require more points.
With this uncertainty it seems to me imprudent a purchase unless redemption is planned in the immediate future.
I have used this deal myself in the past, and also agree that it is pretty good value, however, gettinga bonus of 50% (buy 100k, get 150k), is a 50% bonus, and not the same as 50% off…
And how long until they’re devalued by 60%+? Don’t trust BA with my employers monies so definitely won’t be using my own
15,000 Avios points for £175?
I just checked via BA.com and 15,000 (+ 7,500 bonus) comes up as £255.
rather walk than fly BA