How to Convert IHG to Avios Points

How to Convert IHG to Avios Points

Learn the process and considerations for converting IHG One Rewards points to Avios.

Did you know you can convert your IHG One Reward points into Avios points, for use with British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and other airlines within the IAG and Oneworld networks?

IHG One Reward is IHG's loyalty scheme. IHG owns such hotel brands as Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, InterContinental and Hotel Indigo. So you could convert your hotel stays into reward flights, upgrades and more.

What’s the conversion rate?

10,000 IHG One Reward points convert to 2,000 Avios points.

Converting points doesn’t usually involve a cash fee, but the “cost” is in the exchange rate; you’re swapping a larger number of hotel points for a smaller number of Avios. Also, if you call Customer Care from outside the UK, your phone provider may charge international call rates.

How does IHG compare with other hotel schemes?

Many hotel loyalty programmes let you convert points into airline miles, but the value you get can vary a lot. Some schemes offer a better conversion rate than others, and some run occasional promotions that can improve the deal.

If your main goal is collecting Avios, it can be worth checking whether you’ll earn more by choosing a hotel scheme with stronger airline conversion options — or by earning Avios directly through flights, a BA Executive Club partner, or a rewards credit card.

What are the steps?

Converting IHG One Rewards points into Avios is straightforward, but the quickest route depends on where you’re based.

1. Check your points balance - You’ll need at least 10,000 IHG One Rewards points to convert.

2. Contact IHG One Rewards Customer Care - In the UK call +44 (0) 2033 499 033. If you’re outside the UK, use the relevant Customer Care number for your country (you can find these on the IHG website).

3. Ask to convert points to AviosHave your IHG One Rewards details ready. You may also be asked for your British Airways Executive Club membership number so the Avios can be credited to the right account.

4. Check timescales - Transfer times can vary, so it’s worth asking Customer Care when you should expect the Avios to arrive.

You can also change your preferences so you automatically collect Avios points – rather than IHG One Rewards points – whenever you stay at an eligible hotel. To do so, just join IHG One Rewards and select British Airways Executive Club when you’re asked for your preferred earning preference. Then following your next stay at an IHG hotel, your Avios will arrive in your British Airways Executive Club account within six weeks.

Are there minimum transfers?

You’ll need at least 10,000 IHG One Reward points in order to convert them into Avios.

When can converting be worthwhile?

Converting IHG points to Avios can be useful if you’re topping up your Avios balance for a reward flight, an upgrade, or to reduce the cost of a booking. It may be especially worthwhile if you’re close to the Avios you need for a specific redemption.

Some loyalty programmes run limited-time promotions that offer better conversion value, so it’s worth checking for any current offers before you transfer.

Eligibility and important things to know

1. Where you stayed doesn’t usually matter - In most cases, IHG points are earned and held in your IHG One Rewards account, and conversion rules are based on the account — not whether the stay was in the UK or abroad.

2. Transfers typically go to one account - Avios usually need to be sent to a single named airline loyalty account (such as British Airways Executive Club). If you want the Avios in someone else’s account, check with IHG Customer Care first.

3. Sharing points with family - If you’re planning to use points across family members, check whether you can move or combine IHG points (or whether the Avios programme allows household accounts) before converting, as rules vary.

4. Double-check details before you convert - Points transfers are often irreversible, so make sure you’re happy with the conversion rate and that your membership details are correct.