Hi.

I'm planning my first Avios redemption and would really appreciate any advice you can give. I currently have 394,517 household avios and one Barclays Cabin Upgrade voucher that expires 01 September 2025. I have BA Bronze which expires 1 February 2025.

I am looking to redeem for three CW seats to MCO. I live halfway between ABZ and INV but I couldn't find any connecting flights from these airports via LHR to MCO so I was thinking that driving to GLA and using Holiday Extras airport parking and getting a direct flight from GLA to MCO would be best for a single direct flight from the same carrier. I should have enough for the off-peak - 375000 Avios + £ 2,625.00 option. If there are connections from ABZ, that would be even better.

I am looking at a 14 night stay to go to Universal and Disney theme parks. I am a major Harry Potter fan and plan to stay on-site at Universal Portofino Bay using the Annual Passholder discount. I am looking at booking next year (since people say you need to redeem flights a year ahead when they open) and want to go after the new park in Universal has opened in Summer 2025.

I am flexible what month I should book. I hoping to get some advice on when is best. My upgrade voucher expires on 1 September 2025 but I am happy to not use it if the timing doesn't work out. I also read that using the Barclays Cabin Upgrade voucher forces you into the most Avios - least Cash option which I don't have enough Avios for but perhaps I would if I split the booking? A cooler, quieter period would be nice but keen to avoid bad weather and be able to utilize the pools. Happy to move this question into the Destinations forum if it is more appropriate.

Any advice/tips you can give on the flights or holiday would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks