By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: Avios are unusually easy to reach because British Airways, Iberia, Qatar, Finnair, and Aer Lingus share the currency, and American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One all transfer in at 1 to 1, plus Rove. Since the ratios match, the real strategy is choosing which Avios program to book through to avoid surcharges.
Many banks, one currency
Avios stand out because so many banks feed them and so many programs share them. American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One transfer to Avios at 1 to 1, and Rove Miles transfer in as well. Because the ratios are all 1 to 1, no single bank is better for getting Avios, you simply use whichever flexible currency you hold. See our British Airways Avios guide.
Where the real choice is
Since Avios are shared across British Airways, Iberia, Qatar, Finnair, and Aer Lingus, the meaningful decision is which program to book through, because each prices and surcharges differently. Booking the same partner flight through Iberia or Aer Lingus instead of British Airways can dodge heavy fuel surcharges, a bigger lever than which bank you transferred from. See Aer Lingus guide.
Best uses and opportunity cost
Avios shine on short-haul distance-based awards and on Qsuite and other partner premium cabins. Transfer when you have such an award in mind, and compare the Avios price across the family programs first. Watch for periodic Avios transfer bonuses to stretch the points further. See how to use a transfer bonus.
Frequently asked questions
Which credit cards transfer to Avios?
American Express, Chase, Citi, and Capital One all transfer to Avios at 1 to 1, and Rove Miles transfer in too. Since the ratios match, use whichever flexible currency you already hold.
Which Avios program should I book through?
Whichever prices your award lowest with the least surcharge. Iberia or Aer Lingus often avoid the heavy fuel surcharges British Airways charges on the same partner flights, so compare across the shared family.
What are Avios best for?
Short-haul distance-based flights and partner premium cabins like Qatar Qsuite. Transfer when you have a specific award in mind and have compared the price across the Avios programs.
Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. Every card is ranked by what it actually returns, with all points valued at a flat 1 cent and offers verified against issuer sources. About the author.
