Barclaycard Avios: Enhanced 35k Avios Plus Card Offer

The article highlights the Barclaycard Avios credit cards as highly attractive options in the UK, particularly with a limited-time enhanced sign-up bonus. Until January 15, 2026, the Barclaycard Avios Plus Mastercard offers a substantial 35,000 Avios bonus for new customers spending £6,000 in six months, a significant increase from its usual 25,000 Avios. The free Barclaycard Avios Mastercard provides a 5,000 Avios bonus after spending £1,000 in three months. Both cards are lauded for their strong Avios earning rates and the unique British Airways cabin upgrade voucher.

The premium Avios Plus card, costing £20 per month (reduced to £15 for Barclays Premier Avios Rewards customers), earns 1.5 Avios per £1 spent. Cardholders can earn a valuable BA cabin upgrade voucher by spending £10,000 annually, or opt for 7,000 bonus Avios instead. This card also grants discounted Dragonpass lounge access, with Barclays Premier customers receiving four free passes yearly, plus a 12-month Apple TV subscription under specific conditions. The free Avios Mastercard, with no annual fee, earns 1 Avios per £1 spent and requires a higher £20,000 annual spend for its upgrade voucher or 7,000 Avios alternative. Both vouchers are valid for 24 months, offering greater flexibility than some competitor products.

Key considerations include eligibility and fees. New Barclaycard customers qualify for the bonuses, but existing Barclaycard holders must typically cancel their current card and wait six months for the full bonus, or accept a smaller loyalty offer. Supplementary cardholders can apply for their own primary card and receive a bonus. While attractive, both cards charge a 2.99% foreign exchange fee, making them less ideal for international spending. The Avios Plus card has a variable representative APR of 80.1% (including fee), and both cards have a 29.9% variable APR on purchases. Users can only hold one Barclaycard Avios credit card at a time, but partners can each apply for their own to double household benefits.

The article emphasizes the cards' appeal, particularly for those looking to maximize Avios earnings and secure BA cabin upgrades. The upgrade vouchers are a significant benefit, allowing for upgrades on Avios bookings, and their 24-month validity stands out. Despite the fee and FX charges, the overall package, especially the enhanced sign-up bonus on the Plus card, positions these as top-tier Avios earning options in the UK market.

(Source: https://www.headforpoints.com/2025/12/12/questions-about-barclaycard-avios-credit-cards-answered/)