Tips and Tricks for British Airways Frequent Flyers to Save More

Traveling with British Airways has its perks, but when you're a British Airways frequent flyer, those benefits can multiply—if you know how to use the system to your advantage. From maximizing Avios to unlocking hidden discounts and taking full advantage of elite status, there are many ways to stretch your miles and make every journey more rewarding.

Whether you're a seasoned Executive Club member or just getting started, these practical tips and tricks will help you save more and travel smarter as a British Airways frequent flyer.

1. Always Collect Avios (Even on Partner Flights)

As a member of the Executive Club, your first step to saving is always earning Avios on every flight you take—not just with British Airways, but with any Oneworld Alliance partner like American Airlines, Qatar Airways, or Japan Airlines.

Make sure your Executive Club number is added to every booking. You can also retroactively claim missing Avios within six months of your flight, so don’t let any trip go uncredited.

Tip: When comparing flight options, check which fares offer better Avios and Tier Points—even if they cost slightly more. The long-term benefits may outweigh the initial savings.

2. Use Avios for Short-Haul Flights

One of the best redemption values in the British Airways frequent flyer program is using Avios for short-haul flights within Europe or other regions. These flights can be booked for as little as 4,000 to 9,000 Avios, plus minimal taxes and fees.

This is especially useful for weekend getaways or business hops where cash prices may be high due to demand.

Trick: Fly during off-peak periods and book early to unlock the lowest redemption rates.

3. Combine Cash and Avios to Reduce Costs

British Airways allows you to “Part Pay with Avios”—meaning you can use Avios to reduce the cost of your flight rather than paying entirely with points. This flexibility helps you stretch your Avios further and can be a great value if you don’t have enough points for a full redemption.

Example: You could save £50–£100 off a flight by using just 3,000–7,000 Avios, depending on the route and fare class.

4. Book Reward Flights Early

Reward seat availability is limited, especially in premium cabins or on popular routes. British Airways releases award seats 355 days in advance, and being proactive gives you the best shot at snagging them.

Tip: Use the “Reward Flight Finder” tool on the BA website to monitor availability, or set alerts through third-party tools for your desired routes.

5. Take Advantage of the Companion Voucher

If you hold a British Airways credit card (such as the British Airways American Express in the UK or the Chase Avios card in the U.S.), you can earn a Companion Voucher after meeting a spending threshold.

This voucher lets you bring a travel companion on the same reward flight for just the cost of taxes and fees, effectively doubling the value of your Avios.

Important: Companion Vouchers are valid for a limited time and have restrictions (e.g., must fly BA-operated flights), so plan strategically.

6. Use Household Accounts to Pool Avios

Families or groups living at the same address can benefit from setting up a Household Account. This allows up to seven people—including children—to pool their Avios into one balance.

By combining Avios, you can reach reward thresholds faster and make redemptions easier for group travel.

Trick: Even if some family members don’t travel often, shopping through BA partners can still contribute Avios to the household account.

7. Shop Through the Avios eStore

Did you know you can earn Avios for online shopping? The British Airways Avios eStore features hundreds of popular retailers—from Apple and ASOS to Marks & Spencer and Currys.

By clicking through the eStore before making purchases, you can earn bonus Avios per £1 spent, sometimes with multipliers during special promotions.

Pro Tip: Install the Avios eStore browser extension to receive reminders when you visit participating sites.

8. Redeem Avios for Upgrades

One often-overlooked way to save as a British Airways frequent flyer is by upgrading with Avios. If you’ve booked a paid ticket (excluding basic economy), you can use Avios to upgrade to the next cabin—turning a long-haul economy trip into premium economy or business class.

Tip: Upgrades offer particularly good value on long-haul flights, especially if you originally booked a discounted fare in a higher class.

9. Monitor and Maximize Tier Points

Tier Points help you move up the Executive Club ladder—from Blue to Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Each tier unlocks new benefits like free seat selection, priority boarding, and lounge access.

Tracking your Tier Points and planning flights that help you retain or achieve status can save you hundreds in added perks each year.

Strategy: Plan at least one Tier Point run per year using strategic routes that offer high Tier Points for a lower fare.

Final Thoughts

Being a British Airways frequent flyer is about more than just collecting Avios—it's about using every tool and perk to get the best value from your loyalty. From smarter redemptions and credit card rewards to family pooling and strategic upgrades, the Executive Club offers countless ways to save money and enhance your travel experience.