If you’re looking to earn more Avios in the UK, choosing the right credit card can make a huge difference.
Whether you’re collecting points for your first reward flight or working towards Business Class travel, the right card can help you build Avios significantly faster.
In this guide, I’ll walk through what I believe are the best UK Avios credit cards in 2026, who they’re best suited for and how I would think about building a card strategy.
1. American Express Gold
Why I Like It
If I was starting from scratch today, this is probably the card I’d begin with.
Gold earns flexible Membership Rewards points which can later be transferred into Avios.
That flexibility is incredibly valuable for beginners.
Best For
- Beginners
- Flexible points earning
- Building your first Avios balance
2. British Airways American Express Premium Plus
Why I Like It
For serious Avios collectors, this remains one of the strongest cards available.
The Companion Voucher can be incredibly valuable when used correctly, especially for premium cabin redemptions.
Best For
- Frequent travellers
- Companion Voucher users
- Premium cabin travel
3. American Express Platinum
Why I Like It
I don’t keep Platinum primarily for the points.
I keep it for the travel benefits.
Airport lounges, hotel status and travel perks can significantly improve the travel experience.
Best For
- Frequent travellers
- Lounge users
- Travel perks and benefits
4. Barclaycard Avios Plus
Why I Like It
One of the strongest non-Amex options available.
It’s particularly useful when American Express isn’t accepted.
Best For
- Non-Amex spending
- Everyday spending
- Building Avios consistently
5. Barclays Premier + Avios Rewards
Why I Like It
I view this as a passive Avios engine.
The Avios arrive regularly without requiring me to think about it.
Best For
- Consistent Avios earning
- Barclays Premier customers
- Long-term collectors
My Personal Ranking
S Tier
- Amex Gold
- BA Premium Plus
- Amex Platinum
A Tier
- Barclaycard Avios Plus
- Virgin Atlantic Reward+
B Tier
- Barclaycard Avios
- Barclays Avios Rewards
- Marriott Bonvoy American Express
My Final Thoughts
Most people spend too much time trying to find the perfect credit card.
In reality, the best card is the one that supports your travel goals.
For most beginners I’d start with flexibility.
For serious Avios collectors I’d focus on Companion Vouchers and long-term earning systems.
The key isn’t collecting every card.
The key is making sure every card has a purpose.
New To Avios?
Download my free Avios Starter Checklist or explore the Points To Planes Playbook for my complete Avios strategy.