British Airways Companion Vouchers are a valuable benefit offered to eligible British Airways Executive Club members who hold certain co-branded credit cards. The Companion Voucher allows the cardholder to bring a companion with them on a British Airways reward flight while only paying the Avios points for one passenger.
Here are some key points to understand about British Airways Companion Vouchers:
Eligibility:
To be eligible for a Companion Voucher, you typically need to meet specific spending requirements within a defined period. The requirements may vary depending on the credit card you hold. For example, with the British Airways American Express Credit Card, you need to spend a specific amount within a year to earn the voucher.
Redemption Options:
Once earned, the Companion Voucher can be used when booking a British Airways reward flight. The cardholder will redeem Avios points for their own ticket and then apply the voucher to the second ticket, which is for the companion. The companion ticket is essentially "buy one, get one free," allowing the cardholder to bring a companion along on the same flight without using additional Avios points.
Flight Availability:
Companion Voucher redemptions are subject to availability on British Airways-operated flights. While there are no blackout dates specifically for Companion Vouchers, availability may be limited, especially during peak travel periods or on popular routes. It's advisable to plan and book well in advance to secure the desired flights.
Voucher Validity:
The Companion Voucher typically has a validity period of two years from the date it is earned. It's important to note the expiration date and ensure that you use the voucher before it expires. Once booked, the travel dates for the companion ticket can extend beyond the expiry of the voucher as long as the original booking is made before the voucher expires.
Taxes, Fees, and Charges:
When redeeming a Companion Voucher, you'll still need to pay the applicable taxes, fees, and charges for both tickets. These fees can vary depending on the route, class of service, and other factors.
Additional Considerations:
Companion Vouchers are generally valid only on flights operated by British Airways and are not applicable to partner airlines. The vouchers cannot be used for other travel-related expenses such as upgrades or additional services.
It's important to review the terms and conditions specific to your co-branded credit card and the Companion Voucher program to understand the requirements, limitations, and any additional benefits associated with the voucher.
British Airways Companion Vouchers can be a valuable tool for maximizing the value of your Avios points and enjoying a discounted or even free companion ticket on British Airways reward flights.
Trips using Avios start from around 12,000 Avios points. Typically 1 point is earned per £1 spent, however some retailers offer additional points as special offers or for spending money with specific retailers. Check the BA portal once you have earned your Companion Voucher to see where you can fly! The companion voucher can be used individually too, offering up to 50% off a flight for one cardholder. Avios can also be redeemed against the cost of BA and partner airline flights, as well as in conjunction to being used with a Companion Voucher.