V-Flyer

I know it's early but looking to Summer 2020 August for Florida..... I know the flights are not going to be available until later in the year but the scenario is...

Myself, Mrs cheesebag and two of the teens are looking for three weeks, renting a villa usually the end of the English summer holls, I have over 240000 flying club miles now so probably 300000 by the time the flights are available. I also have two companion rewards on the account (red)

Not fussed about upper as travelling with the kids so economy delight would be fine.

My question is what would be the best way to spend points/rewards, I'm flexible as don't mind driving from Miami or Orlando. I also don't mind changing at US airports.

So... is there a more efficient way rather than just Orlando direct?

Going via ATL or JFK would cost more miles, so it's less efficient milage wise. But has the benefit of (maybe) better availability and more reward seats in Upper due to not being 747 routes.

The companion rewards can only be used on certain fare buckets, so not always easy to use. Sometimes buying the cheapest upgradeable cash fare is better than the companion reward. Best to call and price up the options and do some comparison.

If you aren't bothered about Upper, you could buy Economy Classic/Delight fares and upgrade to Premium or even Upper and get very good value for the miles, pay reasonable cash and still earn miles & TP's on the underlying Economy fares. This also gives you the option of upgrading to PE now (assuming they are available) and upgrading other legs to Upper later, if they become available and you have enough miles.

Ultimately, flexibility on dates is key for you. If you find reasonable dates that work for you, that have availability, book now. Do not wait because those seats will go.

i agree with commander, I'd be looking at buying econ and then looking to upgrade with you miles to PE. Using miles for a straight EC redemption is never that great. Escpeailly now EC fares are upgradeable (except EC light)

Great! thanks for the advice.... just did a miles only dummy for 4 premium seats for the same time this year and that's working out at 320000 miles plus £1500ish in tax,