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Using your Qantas frequent flyer, Velocity or Flybuys points to get you a free flight in Australia might sound like an elusive dream, but there are ways that point chasers can build their rewards to make this possible. Here is what you need to know when it comes to building enough points to get you a free flight to your next destination.
How many points will you need?
This will be determined by the frequent flyer program that you are using, where are you flying to, and their partnered airlines. For example, the points required to cover 601-1,200 miles for a flight flying from Adelaide to Sydney that is booked using an economy class seat you will need 12,000 points. Premium economy will require that you have 18,000 and Business class will need 24,000 points.
You will require fewer points to cover a seat on a JetStar flight. For example, if you are still travelling the same distance from Adelaide to Sydney you will need 9,600 points for economy and 19,200 points for business. Checking to see what your points can get you with your frequent flyer program flights can help you better prepare.
Which airline is your frequent flyer program linked with?
Before you jump on the opportunity of cashing in your points for a free flight there are a few things you need to know. For example, knowing which airline your Frequent Flyer program is linked up with in terms of domestic flights can help you maximise your points. The Quantas Frequent Flyer program offers domestic flights with QuantasLink and partner airlines like Jetstar.
Know the restrictions of using your points to catch a free flight
Checking the restrictions that come with using your points to get a free flight can prevent disappointments. A few restrictions that come with booking a flight with your points is that there could be a limited amount of reward seats that are available. This could be affected by the flight, destination, and season in which you choose to book. If you decide to call into the Frequent flyer call centre, you can be charged a fee of 3,500 Qantas points or $359, but this can be cut out if you book online. Taking into consideration the required booking time that is needed to book your flight. You will need at least 2 hours before scheduled departure for a domestic flight if you are going to use your points for Classic Flight rewards.
What are your options if you do not have enough points?
If you find yourself in a situation where you have points that need a boost to score you a free flight you can consider the option of paying for the remaining amount. The amount that you will need for booking a seat could vary between flights, but you will be given various options during the process to choose a payment method that is suitable for you.
Keep in mind you will need a minimum of 5,000 points to make a booking. There is also the option of purchasing frequent flyer points, but these come at 500 points for $20 and can only be bought once every 12 months.
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