TweedleB

[TweedleB]

Hi All
I would like some advice on when to use points. I have aprox 550k with QFF. I was trying to hold off until 2018 for a special trip ( anniversary & birthday ) involving the A380 J or possibly F to wherever we can. The longer the flight the better as this will be a one off once in a lifetime event. I am a bit worried by some of the things I read regarding points being looked at by eg. the ATO and airlines changing and cutting the value of points and how and when you can use them. I would not like to lose them as we have been saving for a few years for this event but I am considering bringing everything forward just to be able to use them and not lose them. Am I worrying about nothing or should I consider using the points as soon as I can? Any suggestions or advice will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Regards to All.
TweedleB

 

[RooFlyer]

Hi TweedleB

I'm not aware of any issue with the ATO. Frequent Flyer points and use by individuals and people in businesses have been around for a long time and I don't think the situation wrt ATO will change.

Devaluations by airlines is another story. It is a risk in all programs. You won't 'lose them' but it might decrease your range. Qantas did do a restructure of its program last year, which you'd think insulated it bit from further changes for a year or so, and the airline is now profitable, reducing the pressure on the 'loyalty' area to tighten up.

Try this: Reduce your points balance by 20% (but adding the points you are likely to earn in the next 18 months) to see if you can still achieve what you want to do . If you are compromised, keep your antenna tuned to sites such as this and Australian Business Traveller for forewarnings of a change in the AFF program. Nothing wrong with having an early anniversary and birthday!!

Otherwise, hang tight. Remember you book QFF tickets 353 (I think) days before the flight, so you would be booking next year anyway, decreasing the time span for a devaluation.

 

[TweedleB]

Thanks very much RooFlyer I will take that all on board and start planning.