The Best Credit Card Points for Avios
Many banks, one currency
Avios stand out because so many banks feed them and so many programs share them. American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One transfer to Avios at 1 to 1, and Rove Miles transfer in as well. Because the ratios are all 1 to 1, no single bank is better for getting Avios, you simply use whichever flexible currency you hold. See our British Airways Avios guide.
Where the real choice is
Since Avios are shared across British Airways, Iberia, Qatar, Finnair, and Aer Lingus, the meaningful decision is which program to book through, because each prices and surcharges differently. Booking the same partner flight through Iberia or Aer Lingus instead of British Airways can dodge heavy fuel surcharges, a bigger lever than which bank you transferred from. See Aer Lingus guide.
Best uses and opportunity cost
Avios shine on short-haul distance-based awards and on Qsuite and other partner premium cabins. Transfer when you have such an award in mind, and compare the Avios price across the family programs first. Watch for periodic Avios transfer bonuses to stretch the points further. See how to use a transfer bonus.
Stop guessing at point values. Look up the real award price and live availability for a specific trip before you transfer.
Search award flights on seats.aero →Frequently asked questions
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