Amex Points Strategy (UK): How to Earn, Maximise and Spend Membership Rewards
Amex points can be incredibly valuable — but only if you use them wisely. With the right strategy, you can travel further, get meaningful cashback, or fund memorable experiences — all without spending a penny more than you already do. This guide breaks down exactly how Amex points work in the UK, how much they’re worth, and how to build a simple yet powerful points strategy that pays off.
How Amex Points Work
When you use an American Express rewards card, you earn Membership Rewards points (or Avios if you have a British Airways card). These points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, gift cards, or statement credit — but travel redemptions usually deliver the best value.
On average:
Membership Rewards are worth roughly 0.45p–1p per point depending on how you redeem them.
Avios typically work out around 0.8p–1.2p per point, especially for long-haul flights or upgrades.
That means 20,000 Membership Rewards points could be worth anywhere from £100 to £200, depending on where and how you spend them.
Earning Points Efficiently
The key is to earn points on spending you’re already doing.
1. Start with a strong welcome bonus
For most people, the best entry point is the Amex Gold Credit Card, which offers a generous welcome bonus if you hit the minimum spend (usually around £3,000–£4,000 within three months). The first year’s annual fee is often waived, making it an excellent starter card. Check the Amex UK website for the latest offers.
2. Use the card for everyday spending
Groceries, fuel, online shopping — if Amex is accepted, use it. Just make sure you pay the full balance every month to avoid interest charges.
3. Stack with Amex Offers and referrals
Regular in-app promotions offer cashback or bonus points at partner retailers. You can also refer friends to Amex for thousands of bonus points per referral.
Spending Points for Maximum Value
Not all redemptions are created equal. To get the best bang for your points:
Transfer to airline partners like Avios, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club or Singapore KrisFlyer — these usually give the best value per point.
Watch for transfer bonuses (for example, Amex occasionally gives 20–40% extra when you convert to Avios).
Avoid statement credits and shopping redemptions unless you’re clearing points you’ll never use — they tend to give poor value (often under 0.5p per point).
Example:
A business-class redemption from London to New York might cost 80,000 Avios + £600 in fees. If the cash price is £2,000, that’s 1.75p per Avios — far higher than the base value.
Cost vs Benefit: Which Card Makes Sense for You?
Amex Gold (Credit or Charge)
Best for: Beginners or moderate spenders (£5k–£10k a year).
Pros: Strong welcome bonus, free first year, double points on travel.
Cons: Annual fee (£195 from year two). Cancel or downgrade after the first year if you’re not getting enough value.
Strategy: Start here, collect the bonus, then move on to another card after a year.
Amex Platinum
Best for: Frequent travellers who’ll use airport lounges, hotel status, and insurance perks.
Pros: Premium benefits, high earning potential.
Cons: £650 annual fee means you need to use the perks to make it worthwhile.
Rule of thumb: Spend £20k+ a year and travel often to justify it.
British Airways Amex (Standard or Premium Plus)
Best for: Those who fly BA regularly.
Pros: Earn Avios directly and unlock the coveted 2-for-1 Companion Voucher.
Cons: Rewards are limited to BA and oneworld partners.
Tip: Use the free BA Amex if you’re a casual flyer; upgrade to Premium Plus (£300/year) if you can easily spend £10k+ to trigger the voucher.
Amex Cashback Cards
Best for: Those who prefer simplicity over travel rewards.
Pros: Earn straightforward cash on spending.
Cons: Lower potential upside than travel points, especially if you’re strategic with redemptions.
The Smart Churn Strategy
If you’re comfortable managing cards responsibly, you can rotate Amex cards every 12–18 months to capture multiple welcome bonuses.
A simple rotation could be:
Apply for the Amex Gold, hit the welcome spend, and enjoy free year-one benefits.
Transfer your Membership Rewards to Avios or another partner.
Cancel before the year-two fee kicks in.
Wait a year, then reapply for a new card and bonus.
This approach — sometimes called “card cycling” — is widely used by points enthusiasts and can significantly accelerate your rewards if done responsibly.
Next Steps
Amex points are powerful, flexible, and — when used smartly — genuinely rewarding. Start with one strong bonus offer, use your card for regular spending, and aim to redeem points for high-value flights rather than low-value cashback.
To see the latest welcome offers and rewards options, visit the Amex UK website.
