Maximise Avios in South Africa with the Credit Card That Gives 1 Point per R10, Double at BP and Pick ‘n Pay
Turn every R10 spent into Avios with the Avios credit card, earning 1 point per R10 and double points at BP and Pick ‘n Pay to cut flight costs across South Africa
Why the Avios Credit Card is smart for South Africans
The Avios Credit Card is built with local travel habits in mind: every R10 you spend earns Avios points, and that steady accumulation helps cut real costs on domestic and regional flights. For frequent flyers in South Africa, the card turns everyday spend into tangible travel savings without the complicated hoops of other rewards programmes.
Because the card doubles points at BP and Pick ‘n Pay, your fuel and grocery runs become powerful ways to boost Avios balances. Points remain valid as long as you earn or redeem at least one point every three years, giving practical flexibility for people who travel seasonally or save for bigger redemptions.
How earning works: 1 point per R10, double at BP and Pick ‘n Pay
Every R10 of card spend earns 1 Avios point; fuel and grocery purchases at BP and Pick ‘n Pay earn double points, so you get 2 points per R10 in those categories. That clear conversion rate makes it simple to forecast how many Rands translate into flights or upgrades when planning trips across South Africa or to nearby destinations.
Look out for seasonal promotions and partner offers that top up your points further. Using the Avios Credit Card for regular bills, online shopping and dining in South African merchants stacks points fast, especially when you focus spending where double points apply.
Costs, fees and practical features
Being aware of fees is key to getting net value. The card carries an initiation fee (around R166.45), a monthly facility fee (R25.22) and an account fee (R45.39). Interest on overdue balances sits at about 20.75% for Budget and Straight facilities, so to keep rewards profitable you should clear balances within the interest-free window where possible.
Withdrawals cost more: over-the-counter and ATM withdrawals incur fees, and international transactions attract a 2.75% currency conversion fee on the Rand equivalent. On the plus side, the Avios Credit Card includes travel insurance, Mastercard purchase protection, SMS notifications and lost-card protection — useful when you travel within South Africa or overseas.
Apply, use and redeem Avios for local travel
Eligibility is straightforward: SA ID, over 18 and a minimum income (typically around R8,000 per month) plus proof of residence. Applications are quick online or via the Avios contact channels. Once approved, plan your spend to maximise double-point categories and regular purchases to keep your account active and points from expiring.
Redeeming Avios for flights delivers the most value, especially when you combine points with cash during checkout or book during Avios promotion windows. Use Avios for domestic flights, seat upgrades, airport lounge access and partner hotels to stretch the value of every R10 you spend. With a disciplined fees strategy and targeted spending, the Avios Credit Card becomes a practical way for South Africans to lower travel costs and enjoy premium benefits.