Maximize Your Travel Rewards: Top Avios-Earning Credit Cards

Avios is rapidly gaining traction as a preferred loyalty currency not only in Europe but also globally. Major airlines such as British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus have long embraced Avios as their loyalty currency, and new entrants like Loganair Loyalty and Finnair Plus have recently joined the ranks. Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Vueling Club also participate in the Avios program, making it a versatile option for travelers.

One of the standout features of Avios is the ability to transfer points between various programs at a 1:1 rate, providing flexibility for users. This ease of earning, transferring, and redeeming Avios has led to a surge in interest around the best credit cards for accumulating Avios.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to which card is the best for Avios redemptions, several options cater to different spending habits and travel preferences. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top Avios-earning credit cards currently available.

Current Offers and Welcome Bonuses

Many credit cards offer lucrative welcome bonuses, especially those issued by Chase. For instance, the Aer Lingus Visa Signature and Iberia Visa Signature cards come with generous bonuses, which can be worth over $1,190 based on TPG’s September 2025 valuation of Avios at 1.4 cents each. This amount could cover a first-class flight to London, excluding fees and taxes.

However, it’s important to note that if you’ve previously held one of these cards or received a bonus in the past 24 months, you won’t be eligible for the welcome bonus again.

Choosing the Right Airline Card

If you’re a frequent flyer with Aer Lingus, British Airways, or Iberia, consider adding a cobranded airline card to your wallet. These cards often provide additional benefits such as bonus Avios on purchases made directly with the airline. However, if you prefer flexibility and don’t have a preferred airline, you might want to explore general travel cards that offer Avios as a transfer option.

Transfer Bonuses and Earning Elite Status

Credit card issuers occasionally provide transfer bonuses for airline and hotel partners, which can significantly enhance your points balance. American Express is known for its frequent transfer bonuses, making their cards a valuable choice for travelers looking to maximize their Avios.

For those aiming to earn elite status within an airline loyalty program, the right Avios credit card can help you achieve this by allowing you to accrue qualifying points. For example, the Qatar Airways Privilege Club Visa Infinite Credit Card offers a welcome bonus of up to 50,000 Avios, along with complimentary Gold status for a year, which includes perks like priority boarding and lounge access.

Lounge Access and Additional Benefits

Lounge access is another important consideration when selecting a credit card. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card provides unlimited complimentary access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide, while the Chase Sapphire Reserve grants access to Chase Sapphire Lounges and Priority Pass lounges. American Express Platinum cardholders can enjoy the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes several premium lounges.

The British Airways Visa Signature Card stands out for its additional benefits when booking flights, including discounts and statement credits for both cash fares and Avios redemptions. This can be particularly beneficial for travelers who frequently book flights with British Airways.

Maximizing Rewards in Other Spending Categories

If you find yourself spending a significant amount on dining, groceries, or other travel-related expenses, consider credit cards that offer higher rewards in these categories. The Citi Strata Elite Card, for example, has a welcome bonus of 80,000 points after a minimum spend, which can be helpful in accumulating Avios quickly.

Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Avios Card

Even if European travel isn’t in your immediate plans, Avios can still be a valuable currency to consider. With numerous credit cards offering easy earning opportunities and the flexibility to transfer points between multiple programs, there’s a wealth of options available for travelers.

While no single credit card will suit every traveler’s needs, there are excellent choices that can help you make the most of your travel experiences. Whether you’re looking for high welcome bonuses, valuable perks, or the ability to earn points across various categories, the right Avios-earning credit card can significantly enhance your travel rewards strategy.

By leveraging everyday spending, you can unlock incredible travel experiences that might otherwise be out of reach. Explore the options available to you, and start planning your next adventure!