How to Upgrade with Avios Points?

Collecting Avios points feels great, but using them well? That’s the real win. If you’re sitting on a balance of points and wondering how to make your next flight better, upgrading could be your answer. Many travelers use their Avios stash to jump from Economy to Business or from Business to First. You can make the most of your points. It is when you want that extra legroom, better meals, and lounge access on your next British Airways flight. WingsTravo breaks it all down for you.

What is the Best way to use my Avios Points?

There’s no single right answer, but upgrading flights ranks high on the list. Using Avios to upgrade gives you more value per point compared to short-haul redemptions or duty-free shopping.

Some popular ways travelers spend their points:

• Flight upgrades: Go from Economy to Premium Economy, or Premium Economy to Business.
• Full reward flights: Book flights entirely with Avios, though taxes and fees still apply.
• Part payment: Use points to discount your cash fare.
• Hotel stays or car rentals: Not always the best value, but still an option.

If comfort matters, choosing to upgrade with Avios is one of the smartest uses of your balance.

How do you Upgrade a British Airways cash Flight with Avios?

If you’ve already booked a flight with cash, here’s how to apply your points for an upgrade:

• Go to the British Airways website

Log in to your Executive Club account.

• Select “Manage My Booking”

Enter your booking reference and last name to access your trip details.

• Check if your flight is eligible for an upgrade

Not all fare classes qualify. Generally, cheaper Economy tickets (like “Economy Basic”) aren’t upgradeable.

• Choose the upgrade option

If eligible, the system will show you how many Avios you need to move up to the next cabin.

• Confirm and pay

The Avios cost will be deducted from your balance. Taxes and fees may apply, especially when upgrading to Business or First Class.

Booking early helps. Availability for Avios to upgrade often disappears closer to the departure date.

How much Avios to Upgrade to Business Class in British Airways?

The exact number depends on several factors:

• Your original booking class
• Flight distance
• Be if it’s off-peak or peak travel dates

For example:

A Premium Economy (World Traveller Plus) ticket on a long-haul route may require around 20,000 to 30,000 Avios for an upgrade to Business (Club World). This is for routes like London to New York.

Shorter European routes will require far fewer points. Sometimes under 10,000 Avios.

Remember to see and review the British Airways website for the specific flight. That you desire to upgrade. The site shows you the exact Avios to upgrade needed before you confirm.

How many Avios to Fly Business Class?

If you want to book Business Class directly with Avios (instead of upgrading), the number jumps significantly.

For long-haul flights:

London to New York Business Class one-way can cost between 50,000 to 60,000 Avios. This plus taxes & surcharges.

For off-peak dates: It might drop slightly, but you will still need a sizable balance.

For the short-haul flights within Europe:

Business Class awards start as low as 15,000 Avios one-way, depending on distance.

Using Avios for full Business Class bookings is great when you have a large balance & can book early. But for most flyers, selecting upgrade with Avios from a lower fare class offers better value.

Final Words

Those healthy pile of Avios gathering dust will do you no good. Choose to upgrade with Avios! It can turn an ordinary trip into a much more comfortable one. Right from extra bag allowance to the flat-bed seating! The benefits make the Avios points feel well spent.

Just remember to check upgrade availability early. Compare points needed versus full reward flight costs & keep an eye on peak versus off-peak travel calendars. For flight reservation tips, flight comparisons or help using your Avios effectively, WingsTravo is here to guide you every step of the way.