Barclaycard Avios Plus: For Frequent Flyers Only
With a 25,000 Avios sign-up bonus and a low monthly fee, the Barclaycard Avios Plus tempts British Airways loyalists. But watch out for the steep APR if you don't pay in full.
The Quick Version
The Barclaycard Avios Plus is a tempting offer for frequent British Airways flyers who can take advantage of its rewards. You earn 1.5 Avios per £1 spent, and the 25,000 Avios sign-up bonus sweetens the deal. But beware of the high 35.9% APR if you tend to carry a balance. The £20 monthly fee could be worthwhile if you're a regular traveler.
Barclaycard Avios Plus: Great for travelers, but watch that APR.
Barclaycard Avios Plus
What's Inside
The card offers 1.5 Avios per £1 spent on eligible purchases, a substantial 25,000 Avios bonus after you spend £3,000 in the first three months, and a cabin upgrade voucher if you spend £10,000 annually. Plus, discounted airport lounge access is a nice perk, all for a £20 monthly fee. It's a Visa, so it's widely accepted, but you'll need a good to excellent credit score to qualify.
What's Actually Good
- ✅ Earn 1.5 Avios per £1 spent, one of the best rates available.
- ✅ 25,000 Avios sign-up bonus is substantial for frequent travelers.
- ✅ Discounted airport lounge access is a nice perk for those who travel often.
- ✅ Low monthly fee of £20 compared to other premium travel cards.
The Catch
- ❌ The high variable APR of 35.9% is a dealbreaker if you carry a balance.
- ❌ The £10,000 spend threshold for cabin upgrades makes it impractical for occasional users.
- ❌ Limited to British Airways and Avios partners, which might not suit everyone.
- ❌ Requires a good to excellent credit score, excluding those building credit.
Who It's For
If you're a regular British Airways flyer who pays off your balance each month, this card is a great fit. The rewards can quickly add up, making the £20 monthly fee worthwhile. But if your travel is infrequent or if you tend to carry a balance, you're better off looking elsewhere.
The Bottom Line
The Barclaycard Avios Plus shines for British Airways loyalists who travel often and pay in full each month. Just beware of that high APR. If you're more of a high street shopper, you might want to check out the M&S Rewards Plus: Worth It for Loyal Shoppers? instead.
