The quest for free flights and upgraded travel experiences has made air miles credit cards incredibly popular in the UK. These cards offer a fantastic way to accumulate points or miles on everyday spending, which can then be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel-related perks. Understanding the nuances of these cards is key to maximizing your rewards and choosing the best option for your spending habits.
Comprehensive Air Miles Credit Card Comparison (UK - 2024)
| Card Name | Earning Rate | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card | 1.5 Avios per £1 spent (3 Avios per £1 spent on British Airways purchases) | Welcome bonus (subject to spending), annual 2-for-1 companion voucher (after £10,000 annual spend), worldwide travel accident insurance, purchase protection, access to Amex Offers. |
| Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card | 1.5 Virgin Points per £1 spent | Welcome bonus (subject to spending), annual choice of rewards (e.g., upgrade, companion voucher), travel insurance, purchase protection. |
| American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Card | 1 Membership Rewards point per £1 spent (double points on airline spend, excluding BA) | Welcome bonus (subject to spending), Membership Rewards points transferable to multiple airline partners (e.g., British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Emirates), travel insurance, purchase protection, airport lounge access (2 free visits per year), Amex Offers. |
| Barclaycard Avios Plus Credit Card | 1.5 Avios per £1 spent | Welcome bonus (subject to spending), upgrade vouchers, Avios earning on everyday spending, travel insurance, purchase protection. |
| Lloyds Bank Avios Rewards American Express & Mastercard Duo | 1 Avios per £5 spent on the Mastercard, 1 Avios per £1 spent on the Amex | Avios earning on everyday spending, access to Avios Rewards, purchase protection. This is a dual card offering, allowing you to maximize Avios earning by prioritizing Amex for bonus categories. |
| HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard | 1 point per £1 spent (1.5 points per £1 spent abroad) | Generous welcome bonus (subject to spending), worldwide travel insurance, airport lounge access (Priority Pass membership), concierge service, purchase protection, access to HSBC Premier benefits. Points are flexible and can be transferred to various airline and hotel partners. |
| NatWest Reward Credit Card | 1 Reward point per £8 spent | Reward points can be redeemed for cash, gift cards, or airline miles (through partners). Relatively low annual fee, purchase protection. |
| MBNA Rewards Credit Card | 1 point per £5 spent | Rewards points can be redeemed for cash, gift cards, or airline miles (through partners). Balance transfer options, purchase protection. |
| Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (US-Based but mentioned for context) | 2 miles per $1 spent on all purchases | Generous welcome bonus (subject to spending), airport lounge access (Priority Pass membership), Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, travel credits, purchase protection. While primarily for US residents, some UK residents with US credit history may be eligible. |
Detailed Explanations
1. British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card:
This card is a flagship product for Avios collectors. It offers a competitive earning rate on everyday spending and a significantly higher rate on British Airways purchases. The annual 2-for-1 companion voucher, awarded after meeting a spending threshold, is a valuable perk for those traveling with a partner. Remember the annual fee needs to be factored into your overall gains.
2. Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card:
Similar to the BA Amex, the Virgin Atlantic Reward+ card is tailored for frequent Virgin Atlantic flyers. The earning rate is attractive, and the annual choice of rewards provides flexibility. Consider this card if Virgin Atlantic is your preferred airline.
3. American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Card:
This card stands out due to its flexibility. Membership Rewards points can be transferred to various airline partners, including British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, giving you more options for redemption. The welcome bonus and travel perks add further value. This card is excellent for those who want to explore different airline options.
4. Barclaycard Avios Plus Credit Card:
This card offers a good balance of Avios earning and benefits. The welcome bonus and Avios earning on everyday spending make it an attractive option. Upgrade vouchers can enhance your travel experience. It's a solid choice for Avios collectors who want a straightforward earning system.
5. Lloyds Bank Avios Rewards American Express & Mastercard Duo:
The dual card setup allows you to maximize Avios earning. Use the Amex for purchases where it's accepted to earn Avios quickly. This is a good option for those who want to optimize their Avios accumulation but may not be able to use an Amex everywhere.
6. HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard:
This card offers a more general rewards program with points that can be transferred to airline and hotel partners. The travel insurance, airport lounge access, and concierge service are valuable benefits for frequent travelers. It's suitable for those seeking a premium card with a broad range of travel perks.
7. NatWest Reward Credit Card:
This card offers a simpler rewards program where points can be redeemed for cash, gift cards, or airline miles through partners. It's a good option for those who prefer more flexibility in how they redeem their rewards.
8. MBNA Rewards Credit Card:
Similar to the NatWest card, the MBNA Rewards Credit Card offers a flexible rewards program. The balance transfer options can be useful for those looking to consolidate debt while earning rewards.
9. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (US-Based but mentioned for context):
While primarily aimed at US residents, this card is worth mentioning due to its generous rewards program and travel benefits. Some UK residents with US credit history may be eligible. The high earning rate and airport lounge access make it a compelling option for frequent international travelers.
Earning Rate:
This refers to the number of miles or points you earn per pound spent on the credit card. A higher earning rate means you'll accumulate rewards faster. Pay close attention to bonus categories where you can earn even more miles, such as spending on flights or at specific retailers.
Key Benefits:
This encompasses the additional perks and features offered by the credit card, such as welcome bonuses, travel insurance, airport lounge access, purchase protection, and companion vouchers. These benefits can significantly enhance the value of the card.
Welcome Bonus:
A one-time bonus awarded to new cardholders after meeting a specific spending requirement within a certain timeframe. Welcome bonuses can be a substantial boost to your air miles balance.
Annual Fee:
The yearly cost of owning the credit card. Weigh the annual fee against the benefits you'll receive to determine if the card is worth the cost.
Avios:
The reward currency used by British Airways and its partners. Avios can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotels, and other travel-related expenses.
Virgin Points:
The reward currency used by Virgin Atlantic. Virgin Points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotels, and other travel-related expenses.
Membership Rewards Points:
The reward currency used by American Express. Membership Rewards points can be transferred to various airline and hotel partners, offering flexibility in redemption.
Travel Insurance:
Coverage for travel-related emergencies, such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
Purchase Protection:
Protection against theft or damage to purchases made with the credit card.
Airport Lounge Access:
Access to airport lounges, providing a comfortable and relaxing environment before your flight.
Companion Voucher:
A voucher that allows you to book a second flight for a reduced price or even free when you purchase a full-fare ticket.
Balance Transfer:
The ability to transfer existing debt from another credit card to the new card, often with a promotional interest rate.
APR (Annual Percentage Rate):
The interest rate charged on outstanding balances on the credit card.
Foreign Transaction Fees:
Fees charged when you use the credit card for purchases made in a foreign currency.
Credit Score:
A numerical representation of your creditworthiness. A good credit score is typically required to be approved for an air miles credit card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which air miles credit card is best for beginners?
The American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Card is a good starting point due to its flexible rewards program and transferable points. The lower annual fee (waived for the first year) makes it less risky to try out.
How do I maximize my air miles earnings?
Use your air miles credit card for all your everyday spending, take advantage of bonus categories, and pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges. Also, look out for promotions and partnerships that can boost your earnings.
Are air miles credit cards worth it if I don't travel frequently?
It depends. If you can consistently earn enough miles to offset the annual fee and other costs, it may still be worthwhile. Consider cards with flexible rewards programs that allow you to redeem points for cash or gift cards.
What credit score do I need for an air miles credit card?
A good to excellent credit score is typically required. Aim for a score of 680 or higher.
Can I transfer my existing air miles to a credit card?
No, you cannot directly transfer existing air miles to a credit card. However, you can sometimes transfer points from a credit card to an airline loyalty program.
What happens if I don't meet the spending requirements for the welcome bonus?
You will not receive the welcome bonus. Make sure you understand the spending requirements and timeframe before applying for the card.
How do I redeem my air miles?
You can redeem your air miles through the airline's website or by calling their customer service. Redemption options may include flights, upgrades, hotels, and other travel-related expenses.
Do air miles expire?
Yes, air miles typically expire after a certain period of inactivity. Check the terms and conditions of your airline loyalty program to understand the expiration policy.
Are there any hidden fees associated with air miles credit cards?
Be aware of potential fees such as annual fees, foreign transaction fees, late payment fees, and over-limit fees.
Can I use my air miles credit card abroad?
Yes, most air miles credit cards can be used abroad. However, be mindful of foreign transaction fees.
Conclusion
Choosing the best air miles credit card in the UK depends on your individual spending habits, travel preferences, and financial situation. By carefully considering the earning rates, benefits, and fees, you can find a card that helps you maximize your rewards and achieve your travel goals.