Originally Posted by craigthemif

100% true, especially for BCN, which I obviously track quite closely.

When booking in advance, you will always receive better value paying cash than using Avios - unless you have specific event-based dates. Note that there is a LCY flight now that alternates between super cheap and relatively expensive for somewhat opaque reasons.

But for last minute trips, crossing your fingers and hoping for award space is the answer. Booking Plus fare and same-day-changing can also be a big saver...