Flying Orlando using points and 241 voucher

[jennyN]

Hi,
I’m really confused for the cheapest way to do this as the taxes seem very high. Perhaps some of you could help?
We are a family of 4, looking to fly LHR- Orlando in August (2024- just being organised!) we have enough points for premium economy and 2, 241 vouchers.
Is it cheaper to buy economy and then use the vouchers to upgrade? Or use points and then upgrade? Or just use points for the premium seats?
The taxes and charges are over £2400 for all 4 of us, this seems so much, seeing as we are using points as well. Do children pay less tax?
Thanks in advance, I am very confused by it all!

[_Scott_]

Hi JennyN,

I realise you have posted this question a few days ago and may have already booked. Hopefully this may help others. I have done exactly what you are planning to do yesterday, but MAN-MCO. I paid £2028 in taxes and “carrier imposed charges” plus about 86k points (all seats currently discounted 33%), used 2 x 241 vouchers (thanks HfP for all of the info!).

While I didn’t run the numbers on the value of Virgin Points spent, the dates I wanted in August in the School holidays are currently 9k in PE and about 4.5k in economy for cash. SeatSpy.com is your friend here. 4 abreast seating, being able to secure seats together within the price of the tickets and £30 per ticket (I think) if I need to make a change also came in to my calculations – plus it’s a nice treat for the family, this will be our first long haul flight.

If you’re still unsure just call them up and someone should be able to work out both options. I’ve never done this before but called at 9pm, took about 5 minutes to get through and talked to a very nice chap who went through everything. Good luck.

[BLT]

Taxes are the same for premium and upper class, but virgins own fees vary between classes. You may find it significantly cheaper to fly economy out and premium back using points.

[alastairtravel]

If you upgrade using points you still have to pay the extra difference in taxes.

Taxes are higher relatively on the outbound due to APD at different class levels, so travelling out in a lower class and returning in a higher will be proportionally lower than vice versa or the same.

As highlighted above the call centre staff are generally really helpful and sort out the best option for you how to apply vouchers etc