What is the British Airways Frequent Flyer Programme?
The British Airways frequent flyer programme is your gateway to earning rewards and benefits every time you fly with the airline or its partners. It’s built around the Avios currency, allowing members to collect points for flights, hotels, car hire, and experiences, which can then be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other valuable rewards. Understanding this system is key to unlocking the full potential of your air travel with British Airways.
- Earn Avios and Tier Points on eligible flights.
- Redeem Avios for flights, upgrades, and more.
- Gain status with Tier Points for enhanced benefits.
- Join for free to start collecting rewards.
At its core, the programme is designed to recognise and reward customer loyalty. Whether you are a casual traveller or a seasoned globetrotter, becoming a member is straightforward and free. Once enrolled, you start accumulating Avios and Tier Points, which form the dual pillars of the programme's reward structure. Avios are the points you collect and spend, while Tier Points determine your membership level and the associated privileges. This dual system ensures that both the volume of your spending and the frequency of your travel are recognised.
The programme has evolved over time, with Avios now being the universal currency used not only by British Airways but also by Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Qatar Airways, offering a broader range of redemption opportunities across these airlines. This integration simplifies earning and spending across a vast global network. For frequent travellers, mastering the intricacies of earning, collecting, and redeeming Avios, alongside strategically accumulating Tier Points, can lead to significant savings and a more comfortable travel experience.
The Pillars: Avios and Tier Points
To truly benefit from the British Airways frequent flyer system, it's essential to grasp the distinct roles of Avios and Tier Points. Avios are the transactional currency of the loyalty programme. You earn them by flying with British Airways or its partners, using affiliated credit cards, or through various retail and lifestyle partners. These Avios can then be redeemed for a wide array of rewards, the most popular being flights. You can use Avios to book Reward Flights, where you pay for the flight entirely or partially with Avios, plus a cash amount for taxes and fees. This can significantly reduce the cash cost of your tickets, especially for short-haul or off-peak travel. Beyond flights, Avios can be used for cabin upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals, and even experiences or shopping.
Tier Points, on the other hand, are earned based on the cabin class and distance flown. They are a measure of your loyalty and travel frequency with British Airways and its oneworld® alliance partners. Unlike Avios, Tier Points are not spent; they are accumulated over a 12-month membership year. Reaching specific thresholds of Tier Points grants you a higher membership tier status: Blue, Bronze, Silver, or Gold. Each tier unlocks a progressively better set of benefits, such as priority check-in, lounge access, extra baggage allowance, and bonus Avios earning rates. Your Tier Point balance resets annually, encouraging consistent travel to maintain your status.
The interplay between Avios and Tier Points is crucial. While Avios provide tangible rewards like free flights, Tier Points enhance your travel experience with added perks and status. A Gold member, for instance, not only earns Avios but also enjoys benefits that make every journey smoother and more comfortable. Therefore, a comprehensive strategy involves maximising Avios for redemptions while also focusing on accumulating Tier Points to achieve and maintain a beneficial membership tier.
Why Join the British Airways Frequent Flyer Programme?
Joining the British Airways frequent flyer programme is a fundamental step for anyone who travels with the airline, offering immediate and long-term value. It transforms ordinary journeys into opportunities for earning rewards, making travel more accessible and enjoyable. For savvy travellers, the programme isn't just about collecting points; it's about leveraging loyalty for tangible benefits that enhance the entire travel experience, from booking to arrival.
The primary draw is, of course, the ability to earn Avios. These points are incredibly versatile. You can use them to book Reward Flights across British Airways' extensive network, covering hundreds of destinations worldwide. This means that the money you spend on flights can eventually translate into more flights, significantly reducing your future travel expenses. Beyond flights, Avios can be redeemed for cabin upgrades, allowing you to experience a higher class of service for fewer cash points. This accessibility to upgrades can make long-haul journeys or special trips feel more luxurious without a substantial additional cost.
Furthermore, the programme offers substantial benefits through its tiered membership structure, driven by Tier Points. Achieving Bronze, Silver, or Gold status brings a host of privileges designed to improve your journey. These can include priority check-in, allowing you to bypass queues at busy airports. You might also gain access to airport lounges, providing a tranquil space to relax before your flight with complimentary refreshments and Wi-Fi. Increased baggage allowances are another common perk, invaluable for those undertaking longer trips or needing to carry extra equipment. These benefits, accumulated through consistent travel, elevate the standard travel experience into something far more comfortable and convenient.
Unlocking Value Beyond Flights
The utility of the British Airways frequent flyer programme extends well beyond just booking flights. Its partnership network is extensive, meaning you can earn and redeem Avios through a variety of channels. This includes hotels, car rental companies, and even everyday spending with associated credit cards or retail partners. For example, booking a hotel stay through a British Airways partner portal could earn you a significant number of Avios, contributing towards your next flight reward. Similarly, renting a car for a holiday can add to your Avios balance, making that rental effectively cheaper in the long run.
This broad earning potential is a key reason to sign up. It means that even when you're not actively flying with British Airways, you can still be accumulating points. Utilising a co-branded British Airways credit card, for instance, allows you to earn Avios on your regular purchases, turning daily expenses into travel rewards. This passive earning can rapidly increase your Avios balance, bringing your next redemption flight within reach much sooner. The programme effectively rewards your entire lifestyle, not just your airline choices.
Additionally, the programme offers a valuable Companion Voucher for those who reach certain spending thresholds on specific British Airways American Express cards. This voucher allows you to book a reward flight for two people using Avios, but only paying the Avios cost for one person. This is a powerful benefit for couples or families travelling together, effectively halving the Avios needed for a reward booking. Such specific, high-value benefits underscore why proactive engagement with the British Airways frequent flyer programme can yield considerable financial and experiential advantages.
The true value of a frequent flyer programme lies not just in earning points, but in understanding how to best utilise them for maximum personal benefit.
Earning Avios and Tier Points
Maximising your British Airways frequent flyer benefits begins with a clear understanding of how to earn Avios and Tier Points effectively. These are the fundamental components that fuel your rewards, and strategies can differ for each. While Avios are the currency for spending, Tier Points are the measure of your status. Both are earned when travelling with British Airways and its eligible partners, but the methods and calculation differ.
To earn Avios on flights, you simply need to provide your British Airways Executive Club membership number when booking. The number of Avios earned depends on the type of ticket purchased and the distance flown. British Airways uses a distance-based model for earning Avios on its own flights and on many partner airlines. For example, a longer flight will generally earn more Avios than a shorter one, assuming the same cabin class and fare type. It is vital to ensure that the flight is eligible for Avios earning, as some promotional fares or specific partner flights may not accrue points.
Tier Points are earned differently, primarily based on the cabin class and the distance of your flight. Longer flights and higher cabin classes (like Business or First Class) yield more Tier Points. For instance, a long-haul flight in Club World (Business Class) might earn significantly more Tier Points than a short-haul flight in Euro Traveller (Economy). The oneworld® alliance network also plays a critical role, as Tier Points can be earned on flights operated by partner airlines within this alliance, such as American Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Qantas. Always check the specific earning rates for partner airlines, as they can vary.
Earning Avios Through Non-Flight Activities
The British Airways frequent flyer programme encourages earning Avios through a variety of channels beyond just flying. This diversification means your Avios balance can grow steadily, even when you're not on a plane. One of the most accessible methods is through the programme's extensive retail and lifestyle partnerships. This includes earning Avios with numerous high-street brands, online retailers, and service providers. By shopping through the dedicated British Airways Avios portal, or by linking your Executive Club account to partner offers, you can collect Avios on everyday purchases.
Car hire and hotel bookings are also prime opportunities. Partnering with major car rental companies and hotel chains worldwide allows members to earn Avios for each booking made. For example, renting a car for a holiday through Avis or Budget, or staying at a participating hotel, can add a substantial number of Avios to your account. These bookings often provide a fixed number of Avios, or a rate based on the amount spent, making them a consistent way to boost your balance.
For those who frequently use credit cards, a British Airways co-branded credit card can be an excellent tool. These cards allow you to earn Avios on every transaction, with bonus Avios often awarded for spending thresholds or introductory offers. This passive earning is particularly beneficial, as it accumulates Avios from your normal spending without requiring any additional effort. A key consideration is to select the card that best aligns with your spending habits to maximise Avios accumulation. Remember, you must provide your Executive Club number when making bookings or purchases to ensure you receive your Avios and Tier Points.
Always add your British Airways Executive Club number to bookings immediately after confirmation, and double-check it matches your membership profile, to avoid missing out on earned Avios or Tier Points.
Redeeming Your Avios: Reward Flights and Beyond
Once you have accumulated a healthy balance of Avios, the next exciting step is redeeming them. British Airways offers a multitude of redemption options, with Reward Flights being the most popular and often the most valuable. Understanding how to best utilise your Avios can lead to significant savings and enhanced travel experiences.
Booking a Reward Flight with British Airways is a straightforward process, typically handled through the British Airways website. You can search for flights using Avios just as you would for cash fares. The Avios cost of a flight is determined by the distance travelled and the cabin class. British Airways uses a zone-based pricing system for its Reward Flights, meaning flights within certain distance bands have a fixed Avios cost. For example, a flight within Europe might range from 7,500 Avios (off-peak) to 9,000 Avios (peak) in Economy. Long-haul flights can range from 13,000 Avios to well over 100,000 Avios depending on the destination and class.
Crucially, when you book a Reward Flight, you pay the remainder of the cost in cash for taxes, fees, and charges. British Airways is known for charging relatively high taxes and fees on many of its Reward Flights, particularly on long-haul routes. Therefore, it is essential to compare the total cost (Avios plus cash) against a standard cash fare to ensure you are getting good value for your Avios. A common benchmark is to aim for a redemption value of at least 1p per Avios, though this can vary depending on the route and timing.
Maximising Value: Reward Flight Tips
To get the most value from your Avios redemptions, several strategies can be employed. Firstly, be flexible with your travel dates. British Airways releases a set number of Reward Flight seats on each flight. Off-peak dates and times typically require fewer Avios and may offer better availability. Checking the British Airways Avios pricing calculator or calendar can help identify these cheaper redemption periods.
Secondly, consider using Avios for short-haul flights, especially in Europe. These often represent excellent value for money, as the Avios cost is relatively low, and the cash component (taxes and fees) is also usually manageable. For instance, using Avios for a trip to a European city can be far more cost-effective than paying cash, especially during peak travel times. Another key strategy is to look for routes where cash fares are exceptionally high. In such cases, using Avios can provide substantial savings.
The British Airways Companion Voucher, earned through specific American Express credit cards, offers one of the best ways to maximise Avios value. This voucher allows you to book a Reward Flight for two people for the Avios cost of just one person. This is particularly beneficial for couples or families travelling together, effectively halving the Avios required for a return journey. It's important to note that the cash portion for taxes and fees still applies per passenger. Understanding these nuances and employing smart booking strategies can transform your Avios balance into significant travel savings.
Beyond flights, Avios can be redeemed for cabin upgrades on British Airways flights, providing a more comfortable journey for fewer Avios than a full Reward Flight. They can also be used for hotel stays, car rentals, and unique experiences. While these redemptions might offer lower value per Avios compared to flights, they provide alternative ways to utilise your points, especially if flight redemptions are not feasible or desirable for your current needs.
Understanding British Airways Tier Status
The British Airways frequent flyer programme isn't just about accumulating points for flights; it's also about recognising and rewarding your loyalty through Tier Status. Achieved by earning Tier Points, this status grants a range of exclusive benefits designed to enhance your travel experience and make journeys smoother. Understanding these tiers and their associated perks is vital for any regular traveller with British Airways.
There are four membership tiers within the British Airways Executive Club: Blue, Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Every member starts at Blue. To progress, you must earn a specific number of Tier Points within a 12-month membership year. For example, reaching 300 Tier Points and taking two eligible flights will elevate you to Bronze status. Moving up to Silver requires 600 Tier Points and four eligible flights, while the coveted Gold status is achieved with 1,500 Tier Points and four eligible flights. Once you reach a tier, you retain it for the remainder of the current membership year and the entire following year, offering a buffer period to requalify.
The benefits associated with each tier are progressive, increasing in value as you ascend. Bronze members, for instance, receive a 25% bonus on Avios earned when flying with British Airways, and can check in one extra bag for free on British Airways flights. Silver status offers more significant advantages, including priority check-in desks, lounge access for the member and a guest when flying on a British Airways or oneworld® flight, and free seat selection at the time of booking. This offers a considerable advantage, especially on busy routes.
Perks of the Higher Tiers: Silver and Gold
The true luxury of frequent flying with British Airways is most evident at the Silver and Gold tiers. Silver members gain access to business class lounges, such as the Galleries lounges, which offer a more serene environment, complimentary drinks, snacks, and often better Wi-Fi than the general airport areas. This can be a substantial comfort during long layovers or busy travel periods. The ability to select seats for free from the moment of booking is also a major convenience, ensuring you can secure your preferred aisle or window seat.
Gold status represents the pinnacle of British Airways loyalty and comes with the most comprehensive set of benefits. Gold members receive priority boarding, access to First Class lounges (where available) or the most premium business class lounges, an increased baggage allowance (typically two extra bags), and the highest Avios earning bonus of 100% when flying British Airways. They also benefit from dedicated Gold-baggage check-in areas and priority aircraft deplaning. This tier offers a truly seamless and elevated travel experience, often making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
Furthermore, Gold members receive a Gold Companion Voucher upon reaching 2,500 Tier Points and another at 3,500 Tier Points within their membership year. These are distinct from the Amex Companion Vouchers and can be used to book a flight for a companion in the same cabin, for the same Avios cost as your own ticket, plus taxes and fees. This is an exceptional benefit for travelling with a partner or family member, providing immense value.
Keep track of your Tier Point earnings throughout your membership year; it's essential for maintaining your status or aiming for the next level.
The British Airways Companion Voucher Explained
The British Airways Companion Voucher is one of the most sought-after benefits within the British Airways frequent flyer programme, particularly for couples or families. This voucher, typically earned through spending on specific British Airways American Express credit cards, allows you to redeem a reward flight for two people while only paying the Avios cost for one. It’s a powerful tool for maximising the value of your Avios and making dream trips more attainable.
There are two main types of Companion Vouchers, depending on the credit card used and the spending threshold met: the Standard Companion Voucher and the First-Class Companion Voucher. The Standard Companion Voucher, usually earned after spending £10,000 on the British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card, allows you to book a reward flight for two in either Economy or Premium Economy for the Avios cost of just one passenger. The First-Class Companion Voucher, often associated with higher spending tiers or different cards, may permit booking in Business or First Class for two, again paying the Avios for one.
The key benefit is the substantial saving in Avios. If a return flight to New York in Club World (Business Class) costs 100,000 Avios per person, a Companion Voucher effectively reduces this to 100,000 Avios for two people, plus the cash cost for taxes and fees for both passengers. This can represent thousands of pounds in savings, making it an incredibly valuable perk for those who can utilise it strategically.
How to Use Your Companion Voucher
Using your Companion Voucher requires careful planning due to specific rules and redemption processes. First, you must have the voucher available in your British Airways Executive Club account. It is usually added automatically after you meet the spending requirement on your linked card. When booking, you cannot simply search for any reward flight; you must specifically select the option to redeem a Companion Voucher. This often means calling British Airways Executive Club or using a specific booking path online. The voucher is valid for 12 months from the date it is issued, so it’s important to book and travel within this timeframe.
The voucher typically applies to return flights booked on British Airways or Iberia. For British Airways, it can be used for flights originating from the UK or from certain other countries depending on the specific voucher terms. It's crucial to note that the voucher applies to the Avios cost only; you will still need to pay the cash amount for taxes, fees, and charges for both passengers. This cash component can sometimes be substantial, especially on long-haul flights or in premium cabins, so it’s important to factor this into your redemption calculations.
When comparing redemption options, it's wise to check if booking two individual reward flights (without the voucher) is cheaper in Avios than using the voucher and paying the higher cash total. However, in most cases, the Companion Voucher offers superior value, particularly for premium cabin redemptions. Understanding the exact terms and conditions associated with your specific voucher is paramount to unlocking its full potential and ensuring a smooth booking process.
British Airways Avios Booking: What to Expect
Booking with British Airways Avios involves understanding the platform, the availability, and the total cost. Whether you're aiming for a Reward Flight, an upgrade, or another redemption option, a clear expectation of the process is key to a successful booking.
The primary method for booking British Airways reward flights is through the British Airways website. After logging into your Executive Club account, you can navigate to the 'Book' section and select 'Book with Avios'. This will present you with a search interface similar to booking with cash. You enter your departure and arrival destinations, dates, and the number of passengers. The system will then display available flights, showing the Avios cost and the associated cash payment for taxes, fees, and carrier charges for each option.
Availability for Reward Flights is a critical factor. British Airways commits to releasing a certain number of seats on each flight for Avios redemption. This number varies by route, time of year, and cabin class. While British Airways advertises that a minimum of two Reward Seats will be available in each cabin (including First, Club World, World Traveller Plus, and World Traveller) on every flight, this is not always guaranteed in practice, and competition for these seats can be fierce, especially during peak periods or on popular routes.
Navigating Avios Availability and Pricing
One of the most common frustrations for members is finding available Reward Flights. British Airways uses a dynamic pricing model for Avios, meaning the Avios required can fluctuate. However, they also offer a zone-based pricing system for many flights, which provides a more predictable Avios cost. Short-haul flights within Europe are generally priced from 7,500 Avios return (off-peak) in Economy, while long-haul flights can start from 13,000 Avios in Economy for shorter long-haul sectors and go up significantly for further destinations or premium cabins. Always check the specific Avios pricing for your desired route and dates.
When booking, pay close attention to the total cost. The cash portion for taxes and charges can vary widely. For some short-haul European routes, the cash cost may be relatively low, making Avios redemptions excellent value. However, for long-haul flights, particularly in premium cabins, the taxes and fees can be substantial, sometimes approaching the cost of a cash ticket. It is advisable to compare the total Avios and cash cost against the price of a standard cash fare to ensure you are indeed getting good value. Aiming for at least 1 pence per Avios redeemed is a commonly cited benchmark, though this can be subjective.
Consider alternative redemption options if direct Reward Flights are scarce or too expensive in cash. Avios can be used to book flights on partner airlines within the oneworld® alliance, such as Qatar Airways, Finnair, or American Airlines. While availability might differ, these can sometimes offer better value or cover routes not served directly by British Airways. You can also use Avios for upgrades, hotel bookings, and car hire, which might be more readily available or suit your immediate needs better than flight redemptions.
Joining and Managing Your Membership
Embarking on your British Airways frequent flyer journey begins with a simple sign-up process. Managing your membership effectively ensures you maximise your earnings and benefits, making your travel more rewarding over time.
To join the British Airways Executive Club, visit the British Airways website and navigate to the Executive Club section. The sign-up process is free and straightforward, requiring basic personal details such as your name, date of birth, and contact information. During registration, you will be asked to create a password and accept the terms and conditions. Once completed, you will be issued with an Executive Club membership number. It is crucial to keep this number safe, as it will be used every time you book flights or engage with programme partners.
After joining, you will gain access to your online Executive Club account. Here, you can view your Avios balance, track your Tier Point earnings, and monitor your membership tier status. This portal is also where you manage your personal details, update contact preferences, and link any eligible credit cards or partner accounts. Regularly checking your account is recommended to stay informed about your progress and any new offers or promotions available to members.
Tips for Effective Membership Management
Effective management of your British Airways frequent flyer membership involves several key practices. Firstly, always ensure your Executive Club number is correctly entered when making any booking or purchase that allows Avios or Tier Point earning. This includes flights, hotel stays booked through partners, car rentals, and any other eligible services. If you forget to add it at the time of booking, you can usually add it later through your online account or by contacting customer service, though it is always best to add it proactively.
Secondly, familiarise yourself with the expiry policy for Avios. While Tier Points reset annually, Avios typically remain valid indefinitely as long as you have at least one Avios earning or redeeming transaction every 36 months. This means that even a small activity, like purchasing a newspaper with an affiliated partner, can keep your balance active. It is wise to check your account periodically to confirm your last activity date and ensure your Avios do not expire.
Thirdly, stay informed about programme changes and special offers. British Airways frequently runs promotions, such as bonus Avios on specific routes or partner activities, or limited-time offers for upgrades. Subscribing to email updates from the Executive Club and checking the programme's news section on the website can help you capitalise on these opportunities. Understanding the benefits associated with your current tier status and planning future travel with Tier Point requirements in mind will also help you maintain or advance your status, thereby unlocking greater rewards and conveniences.
Set up email alerts for your account to be notified of significant Avios transactions or tier status changes.
British Airways Membership Tiers: A Comparative Look
The British Airways frequent flyer programme categorises its members into distinct tiers, each offering a unique set of privileges. Understanding the differences between these tiers – Blue, Bronze, Silver, and Gold – is crucial for travellers aiming to maximise their benefits and enhance their journeys.
Every member begins at the **Blue** tier. This foundational level grants access to basic programme functions, such as earning Avios and Tier Points on eligible flights and purchases, and using Avios for redemptions. It's the starting point for all travellers, providing the framework for future reward accumulation.
Upon accumulating 300 Tier Points and taking two eligible flights within a membership year, members achieve **Bronze** status. The key benefits at this level include a 25% bonus on Avios earned when flying with British Airways. Additionally, Bronze members receive an additional 5kg of checked baggage allowance on British Airways flights, or one extra piece of checked luggage if the fare already includes checked baggage. This makes it a valuable step up for those who fly regularly, offering tangible savings and convenience.
The Privileges of Silver and Gold
Reaching **Silver** status, which requires 600 Tier Points and four eligible flights within the membership year, unlocks significantly more substantial benefits. Silver members receive a 50% bonus on Avios earned. The most impactful perks include access to priority check-in desks at airports, ensuring a swifter start to your journey. Furthermore, Silver members gain access to British Airways' business class lounges (like the Galleries lounges) when travelling on a British Airways or oneworld® flight, along with a guest. Free seat selection is available from the moment of booking for all passengers in the same booking. This tier offers a notable enhancement to the travel experience, providing comfort and efficiency.
The highest tier is **Gold**, attainable with 1,500 Tier Points and four eligible flights within the membership year. Gold members receive a 100% bonus on Avios earned when flying British Airways, effectively doubling their Avios earning potential. They enjoy the most comprehensive benefits, including access to First Class lounges (where available) or the most premium business class lounges, often with enhanced catering and amenities. Additional baggage allowance, priority boarding, and priority aircraft deplaning are standard. Gold status also grants access to a dedicated Gold-baggage check-in area at select airports. For those achieving 2,500 and 3,500 Tier Points within a year, Gold members also earn a Gold Companion Voucher, enabling them to bring a companion on a reward flight for free in terms of Avios cost.
The oneworld® alliance also aligns its status levels with British Airways tiers. Bronze members generally receive oneworld® Ruby status, Silver members oneworld® Sapphire, and Gold members oneworld® Emerald. These alliance statuses grant reciprocal benefits when flying with other oneworld® airlines, such as Qantas, Cathay Pacific, and American Airlines, extending the perks globally. This interconnected system ensures that your loyalty is recognised across a vast network of airlines.
Frequently Asked Questions About British Airways Frequent Flyer
How do I earn Avios with British Airways?
You earn Avios by flying with British Airways or its partner airlines, using co-branded credit cards, booking hotels, renting cars, and shopping with numerous retail partners. Ensure your Executive Club number is always provided at the time of booking or purchase to credit your account.
How many Tier Points do I need for Silver status?
To achieve Silver status in the British Airways Executive Club, you need to earn 600 Tier Points within your 12-month membership year, alongside taking at least four eligible flights with British Airways or its oneworld® partners.
Can I use my Avios for flights on other airlines?
Yes, you can use your Avios to book flights on British Airways' partner airlines, particularly those within the oneworld® alliance, such as Qatar Airways, American Airlines, and Cathay Pacific. Availability and pricing structures may vary by partner.
What is a British Airways Companion Voucher?
A British Airways Companion Voucher is a reward earned through spending on specific British Airways American Express cards. It allows you to book a reward flight for two people, paying the Avios cost for only one person, plus taxes and fees for both.
Do my Avios expire?
Your Avios do not expire as long as you have at least one qualifying Avios earning or redeeming transaction every 36 months. This ensures your balance remains active if you engage with the programme periodically.
How do I find Reward Flight availability?
You can check Reward Flight availability directly on the British Airways website by logging into your Executive Club account and using the 'Book with Avios' function. It is advisable to be flexible with dates and destinations to find the best options.
What are the benefits of Gold status?
Gold status offers the highest level of benefits, including a 100% Avios bonus on British Airways flights, access to First/premium lounges, priority check-in and boarding, extra baggage allowance, and the opportunity to earn Gold Companion Vouchers.