Some really neat money-saving uses for Avios that expire TONIGHT!

Several weeks ago, I wrote on what I thought was a really neat use for Avios – using them for cultural experiences, entertainment, etc. at your destination. Now, to be forward, this really only makes sense when taking advantage of the 40% transfer bonus from Amex Membership Rewards to British Airways Avios, since you’re receiving 40% of the miles required free. Without this transfer bonus, the “neat use” I’m going to talk about really doesn’t make sense. The transfer bonus expires today, so there’s only a few more hours left to use this. Also, your best use of Avios will always be for airline tickets, especially in premium cabins or shortfall sub-650 mile trips. That said, we always need something to do when we get off the plane…so….

This morning over breakfast, I sat at my computer thinking about some upcoming trips and what I wanted to do on each. Here’s what I ended up booking on the BA website (keep in mind that I transferred in less Avios than the amount stated, because the 40% bonus would add in additional miles to the required amount):

Dublin

• Dublin Liffey River Cruise for 1,600 Avios; This is a 1.5 hour river cruise showing the basic sites of Dublin along the water.

Sydney

• Sydney Opera House Tour for 3,300 Avios; This tour normally retails around $40 USD, so I considered this a nice savings with the bonus.
• Sydney Harbor Highlights Cruise for 2,650; A 1.45 hour cruise along Sydney Harbour and other water accessible sites that retailed at approximately $30.

Milan

• Milano Card Sightseeing Pass for 1,650 Avios; Along with attraction discounts and “skip the line” privileges, this card also provides a 48 hours transit visit and 2 taxi rides valued up to 15 Euros.

I would have purchased each of these attractions and tickets separately at each destination and would have paid cash. Instead, I opted to take advantage of the 40% Avios bonus and purchase them now for free, that way it saves extra expenses along the way.

Before the day is out, I’ll probably transfer in some additional Avios that way I can have enough for some more attractions as my trips get closer and I find things to do.