If you're a regular traveller or have been reading our website (points go to you), you've likely heard of Avios, the rewards currency that can help you save on flights, upgrades, hotels and more and that we like to bang on about here at Points Well Made. If you haven't read our detailed articles about What are Avios, and How to Earn Avios Online, go check those posts out too!

Right, back to this article! Did you know that there are many lesser-known ways to collect Avios without even boarding a plane? At Avios.com, the possibilities go well beyond travel!

From everyday spending to clever comparisons, here are 10 surprisingly easy and often overlooked ways to earn Avios and get closer to your next reward.

10 Surprising Ways To Earn Avios

1. Use Comparison Sites to Pocket Extra Points

Comparison websites aren’t just great for finding the best deal - they can also boost your Avios balance. Platforms like MoneySuperMarket and Compare the Market are often listed on Avios.com. For example, when you switch your broadband, credit card, or energy provider through selected comparison links from the Avios website, you can earn thousands of points in one go. The key is to check if the comparison site is listed through the Avios eStore, and always click through from the website to ensure your purchase is tracked.

2. Switch Your Bills and Utilities Provider

One of the easiest ways to collect a large number of Avios points is by switching your household utilities. Think broadband, gas, electricity, and mobile contracts. Avios works with partners like USwitch, British Gas, Sky and Three, offering thousands of points for new customer sign-ups. These deals change frequently but are usually found via the websites Utilities and Telecomms section. Not only could you reduce your bills, but you’ll be rewarded for making the switch.

3. Choose Insurance That Rewards You

Home, car, and travel insurance might feel like a chore to sort out, but when you do it through the Avios store, it becomes much more rewarding. Brands such as Aviva or AXA sometimes offer generous Avios points when you take out a new policy. These deals can yield thousands of Avios depending on the product. Be sure to start your quote from Avios.com and look out for special promotions throughout the year.

4. Earn While You Hire a Car

Need a rental car for a weekend getaway or a business trip? Booking through Avis or Budget via Avios.com can earn you a lot pf Avios per rental. Even better, if you join Avis Preferred and link your British Airways Executive Club number, you may receive 1,000 bonus points and other perks like priority service. Always book through the Avios site to make sure you’re eligible for the points and promotions. We cannot stress that part enough!

5. Turn Your Commute into a Reward

If you regularly travel by train, you might be sitting on a goldmine of potential Avios. Booking train tickets via the Avios store with Trainline or TrainPal can help you earn on journeys you were already planning. Additionally, if you combine public transport with occasional car hire, you can double up on Avios from multiple segments of your journey.

6. Pre-book Your Airport Parking

Here’s a tip few travellers know: pre-booking airport parking can earn you a stash of Avios. You can earn hundreds of Avios simply by booking your parking space in advance via the Avios website. Whether you prefer meet-and-greet services or long-stay parking, you’ll find plenty of options, and the rewards can be surprisingly generous for such a simple transaction.

7. Book Hotels Through Avios Partners

Accommodation is one of the biggest travel expenses - and one of the biggest opportunities to earn Avios. Book your stays through the Avios Hotels platform or partners like Booking.com, Marriott Bonvoy, or IHG Rewards via the eStore, and you can rack up Avios on every pound spent. Some offers include up to 15 Avios per £1 spent, which can really add up on a multi-night booking. Always double-check the earning rate and make sure your loyalty accounts are linked. Here's an article we wrote on this very subject!

8. Turn Food Shopping into Flight Savings

Your weekly grocery run can be more rewarding than you think. When shopping with Sainsbury’s and swiping your Nectar card, those points can be converted into Avios via your linked accounts. 400 Nectar points = 250 Avios. Additionally, the eStore frequently features food delivery and grocery retailers like HelloFresh, offering hundreds or even thousands of Avios for trying a meal subscription. It’s an effortless way to earn more from your existing shopping habits. Read more about transferring them here!

9. Earn Avios While Updating Your Wardrobe

Fashionistas, take note: you can collect Avios while refreshing your look. Brands like ASOS, H&M and John Lewis are often featured on the Avios eStore. Shopping through the eStore can earn you anything from 1 to 10 Avios per £1 spent. Be sure to click through from Avios.com to ensure your rewards are tracked.

10. Don’t Forget Everyday Retail via the Avios eStore

Beyond fashion and food, the Avios eStore includes hundreds of retailers in every category imaginable - electronics, homeware, beauty and books. Each time you make a purchase through the eStore, you’re earning Avios on money you’d probably be spending anyway. Think of it like cashback in travel currency. Set a habit of starting your online shopping from Avios.com and you’ll be surprised how quickly your balance grows.

Final Thoughts

Earning Avios doesn’t have to mean booking flights or spending big. By being strategic with your everyday spending and knowing where to look, you can collect thousands of Avios a year without even leaving your home.

From switching providers and comparison shopping to buying groceries or upgrading your wardrobe, the opportunities are everywhere. Visit Avios.com, link your accounts, and start earning on the things you already do. Your next flight, upgrade, or hotel stay could be just a few clicks away.

Helena

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