Demand for air travel has soared, but trying to find seats using points is impossible. Here’s the best way to make use of your points

The cost of flying has soared as we all rush to get back into the air. The experts call it “revenge travel”, but we all make up for two years of restrictions.

But now airfares to popular international destinations have soared to more than double pre-pandemic levels. And if you’re trying to use your points to pay for flights, you’re probably finding it hard to book any seats.

So with all this unprecedented demand, what’s the best way to get the most from your points and get you back in the air?

If you’re organised, flexible and determined, you’ll do well. Steve Hui, from iFlyFlat has some ideas.

The frequent flyer expert noted a common misconception around redemption rates right now, amid claims rates have quadrupled in some cases.

“The number of points for flights is still the same, it’s just that you can’t find seats right now,” says Steve Hui, from iFlyFlat.

What the airlines say

It’s worth noting how far in advance airlines release their rewards flights.

A Virgin Australia Group spokesperson said: “Velocity members can be savvy by taking advantage of discounted fares during sales and booking ahead with reward seats available more than 300 days in advance.”

The two main Australian frequent flyer schemes, Velocity and Qantas Frequent Flyer, have recently reported record points redemption rates.

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce has acknowledged airfare price hikes.

“Fuel prices have spiked and our fuel bill next year will be $1.8 billion more than it was before COVID,” said Joyce.

“At the same time, there’s still unbelievably low airfares out there. Jetstar had a $29 airfare sale yesterday [June 15], so you still can get very low air fares, but air fares will have to go up with the oil prices.”