Is the British Airways American Express Premium Plus Credit Card Right for You?

In the realm of UK loyalty credit cards, the British Airways American Express Premium Plus credit card holds a prominent position. This article delves into the key aspects of this credit card, examining its features and benefits to help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Key Details

• Annual Fee: £250
• Representative APR: 113.1% variable (including the annual fee)
• APR on Purchases: 31.0% variable

Before we proceed, it’s essential to note that reward credit cards like this one often come with high interest rates. They are most suitable for individuals who pay off their full balance each month. If you tend to carry a balance, a non-rewards credit card with a lower interest rate may be a better fit for your financial needs.

Sign-Up Bonus

One of the standout features of the British Airways American Express Premium Plus card is its generous sign-up bonus. When you spend £3,000 within three months, you receive 25,000 Avios points. Additionally, if you are referred by an existing cardholder, you can enjoy an even higher bonus of 26,000 Avios points.

To be eligible for the sign-up bonus, you must not have held a British Airways or British Airways Premium Plus American Express card in the previous 24 months. Even if you don’t qualify for the bonus, you can still apply and benefit from other card perks, including the coveted 2-4-1 companion voucher.

Companion Voucher

One of the most valuable perks of this card is the companion voucher, which you receive when you spend £10,000 in a card year. This voucher allows you to book two Avios redemption flights for the miles of one and is valid for two years. You can use this voucher on British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus flights. For solo travelers, it offers a 50% discount on the Avios required for a flight for one person.

Annual Fee and Refund

The British Airways American Express Premium Plus card has an annual fee of £250. However, if you decide to cancel the card, you can receive a pro-rata refund of your annual fee, at least until 29th February 2024. This flexibility allows you to try out the card without a long-term commitment.

Earning Avios Points

For every £1 spent on the card, you earn 1.5 Avios points. This rate doubles to 3 Avios points per £1 when you book flights or holidays directly with British Airways.

Foreign Exchange Fee

While the card offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider its 3% foreign exchange fee. If you frequently travel abroad, you may want to use a separate credit card with no foreign exchange fees for international transactions.

Other Amex Cards

There are other American Express cards that offer Avios points as well, such as the American Express Preferred Rewards Gold and The Platinum Card. These cards may be worth considering depending on your spending habits and travel preferences.

Conclusion

The British Airways American Express Premium Plus credit card stands out for its impressive sign-up bonus, companion voucher, and Avios points earning potential. It’s a compelling choice, particularly for frequent travelers and those looking to maximize their rewards. However, the annual fee and foreign exchange fee should be taken into account when deciding if this card aligns with your financial goals and travel plans.