Are Qantas Frequent Flyer points still worth it? An expert weighs in

For years, Qantas Frequent Flyer points have been a prized asset for Australian travellers, offering rewards ranging from flight upgrades to hotel stays. But with shifting airline policies and fluctuating redemption values, are these points still worth the effort?

According to Bill Ryan Natividad, Head of Operations at the credit card comparison website CreditCardCompare.com.au, Qantas points can still deliver good value. However, the key to unlocking their value lies in understanding how to maximise them.

“Many travellers assume their points are always worth a fixed amount, but that’s not the case. The value of Qantas Frequent Flyer points depends on how and when you use them,” says Natividad. “Our research shows that the average redemption value sits at around 1.3 cents per point. However, there are significant variations, especially when it comes to international business class redemptions.”

What the Data Shows
A recent analysis of over 30,000 Qantas flight searches, compiled by PointsPath.com, found that the value of Frequent Flyer points can differ greatly depending on the booking class and destination.

For domestic flights within Australia, the median value of points sits at approximately 1.19 cents per point, with first-class redemptions yielding slightly higher returns. International economy redemptions, however, tend to offer lower value, with a median of just 0.89 cents per point. On the other hand, premium and business class tickets can provide significantly better returns, with business class redemptions averaging 2.45 cents per point and first-class bookings fetching up to 3.22 cents per point.

“The key takeaway is that premium cabin redemptions, particularly international business and first-class flights, tend to offer the best value for points,” Natividad explains. “Economy redemptions, especially on shorter routes, can sometimes be less cost-effective when compared to paying cash.”

How to Maximise Your Qantas Points
To get the best value out of Qantas Frequent Flyer points, experts suggest the following strategies:

• Book premium cabin seats: Business and first-class redemptions typically yield the highest value per point.
• Look for partner airline redemptions: Qantas partners with airlines such as Emirates, British Airways, and American Airlines, which can offer more attractive redemption rates.
• Plan ahead: Reward seats in higher classes often sell out quickly, so booking months in advance can improve availability.
• Avoid using points for economy short-haul flights: Paying cash for cheaper flights often provides better value than redeeming points.

So, Are They Still Worth It?
While some critics argue that Qantas Frequent Flyer points have lost value over time due to rising redemption costs and limited availability of reward seats, Natividad maintains that they remain a powerful tool for savvy travellers.

“The program still holds strong potential for those who plan their redemptions strategically. It’s all about knowing when and how to use your points wisely,” he says.

Ultimately, while Qantas Frequent Flyer points may not be as straightforward as they once were, those who take the time to understand their best uses can still enjoy substantial travel perks and savings.

Photo by Joseph Bobadilla on Unsplash

The article Are Qantas Frequent Flyer points still worth it? An expert weighs in first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.