5 Things You Need to Consider Before Signing Up for an Airline Miles Credit Card
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With credit becoming a bigger and bigger part of how we all go about our day to day lives and manage our finances, it's no surprise that the business of offering credit is getting more competitive by the day. Credit providers everywhere are realizing that in order to inspire potential customers to sign up for their credit plan and not their competitor's, they need to be able to offer more than just cut-and-dried use of a credit card. They need to be able to go above and beyond the expected to make those customers feel that they are truly valued.
From this concept springs the new generation of credit cards that we are seeing become more and more popular at every turn -- that of rewards credit cards. These credit cards do more than just offer you the simple convenience and spending flexibility you've come to expect from typical credit cards by matching your spending with free benefits and perks you have to experience to believe. Some offer cash back on your purchases in the form of a check or credit applicable to your balance. Others offer discounts and savings on everyday essentials like gasoline or groceries.
However, the most popular and sought-after type of rewards card is without a doubt the airline miles credit card. With one of these babies in your pocket, you're able to earn free airline miles at a minimum rate of one free mile per every single dollar spent. You're then able to apply these miles to your next airline ticket for big discounts. With travel costing what it does these days, you can imagine how quickly those miles can add up to a ridiculously cheap or even free ticket... especially if you use your credit to manage your everyday finances.
However, there are as many different airlines miles credit cards out there are there are types of consumers who can benefit from them. Before you decide once and for all which program is right for you and your lifestyle, there are a few things you should consider first to make sure you get the very most out of the one you pick.
From this concept springs the new generation of credit cards that we are seeing become more and more popular at every turn -- that of rewards credit cards. These credit cards do more than just offer you the simple convenience and spending flexibility you've come to expect from typical credit cards by matching your spending with free benefits and perks you have to experience to believe. Some offer cash back on your purchases in the form of a check or credit applicable to your balance. Others offer discounts and savings on everyday essentials like gasoline or groceries.
However, the most popular and sought-after type of rewards card is without a doubt the airline miles credit card. With one of these babies in your pocket, you're able to earn free airline miles at a minimum rate of one free mile per every single dollar spent. You're then able to apply these miles to your next airline ticket for big discounts. With travel costing what it does these days, you can imagine how quickly those miles can add up to a ridiculously cheap or even free ticket... especially if you use your credit to manage your everyday finances.
However, there are as many different airlines miles credit cards out there are there are types of consumers who can benefit from them. Before you decide once and for all which program is right for you and your lifestyle, there are a few things you should consider first to make sure you get the very most out of the one you pick.
Do you make it a point to fly with the same airline when you travel?
Some of us have a specific air travel provider that we prefer to stick with whenever possible. Whether we prefer the sheer variety of destinations we get with American Airlines or the impeccable service record associated with Delta, we all have our reasons to preferring one airline over another.If this sounds like you, then you should begin your search by investigating the air mileage credit card options offered directly through the airline. They're specially designed to suit the travel habits and needs of their loyal fliers and often come attached to many additional perks in addition to the opportunity to earn your free miles including access to exclusive lounges, special deals from their associated partners, and so forth.
If you're more the type of traveler who likes to fly with whatever airline offers the best rates, the most direct route, or the options that are most convenient at a given time, then a bank-sponsored air miles credit card would be a better choice. There will be far fewer restrictions on who you can fly with, when you can cash in your miles, and what alternatives are available should you decide you'd rather cash your miles in on something else.
Do you have a tendency to carry a balance?
When it comes to airline miles credit cards, there are couple of different types when it comes to the way the credit provider actually capitalizes on the frequent flyer program they offer.Many air miles credit cards charge an annual membership fee in exchange for being able to use the service. Some consumers balk at the idea of having to pay an annual fee, but they should also consider that such fees make it possible for many air miles programs to come with relatively low interest rates. This is an ideal type of program for people who have a tendency to carry a balance from month to month or who plan on using their new card to fund large purchases they want to pay for over time.
If you are more the type of credit user that pays their balance off in full at the end of each billing period, then you might want to consider looking into an airlines miles credit card that does things the other way around. Paying your balance off in full ensures that you won't be affected by higher interest rates and you'll ultimately save if you don't have to worry about paying an annual fee.
What are your shopping habits like?
Many air mileage cards offer consumers a chance to earn double or even triple miles on specific types of purchases.Sometimes this goes according to type, as a lot of programs specialize in giving travelers a chance to capitalize on travel expenses of all kinds... not just airline tickets. These can include hotel stays, car rentals, cruises, and more. Other credit providers partner up with fellow service providers and give you the same opportunity in regards to purchases made with select retailers, service providers, or websites.
Make sure you do enough shopping around to know which airline miles cards allow higher rates of accumulation on free miles on purchases you make regularly. Why stop at simply earning free miles when you can be rewarded at accelerated rates for making the same types of purchases you already love to make?
How good is your credit?
It goes without saying that the state of your credit plays a role in how eligible you are for any type of credit program, but did you know that having good, great, or spotless credit works in your favor to an even greater degree if you're thinking about applying for an airline mileage credit card.Many credit providers and airline giants offer premium card programs with all the trimmings to consumers whose great credit qualifies them as eligible. You not only wind up with the convenience and security that comes with having a terrific credit card in your wallet at all times. You also get to enjoy extra perks that come along with being a VIP including enrollment in exclusive clubs, access to VIP lounges at airports, and opportunities to take advantage of even more unique and helpful services both in the air and on the ground.
Before you decide on a specific air miles program once and for all, you might want to find out if your terrific credit record qualifies you for a superior program. It could well be worth the extra time spent doing your homework.
How much flexibility do you need when it comes to travel?
Are you the type of person who is able to be flexible when it comes to how and when you travel or are you the type of person who needs to be able to take advantage of the utmost in flexibility?If you need to be able to visit family who live out of town on a moment's notice or depend on air travel to get you around when it comes to your job, then you would do better with an airline miles credit card that comes attached to the bare minimum of restrictions and blackout dates. While these are mostly going to be of the variety that are sponsored by banks, if you're a particularly loyal customer, you may be able to find a good deal through your favorite airline as well.
Also be sure to look for an air mileage credit card that allows you to redeem some of your leftover points on seating upgrades, discounts on hotel accommodations, and other travel-related perks. Why not make your travel experience as comfortable as possible? After all, you work hard for your money, for your stellar credit, and for what you have in life. You deserve it.
Not sure where to start?
Try checking out some of the most popular and trusted credit card programs available.
Why not start where consumers in the know have already found a great fit -- with some of the most trusted, highly-rated card programs in the business. The following are some of the best air miles credit cards currently available to consumers. They would be an excellent place to begin your search for the perfect card program.- Mile by Discover: With a generous sign-up bonus, the ability to earn unlimited miles that never expire, and a variety of options as to how air miles can be redeemed, this is one of the most flexible options out there.
- WorldPoints by Mastercard: Here's a card that's really focused on service. Round-the-clock fraud protection, lots of options, and stellar customer service mean you're always covered. The additional bonus miles and lack of an annual fee sure don't hurt either.
- Escape by Discover: Here is another card that's all about flexibility -- no blackout dates or restrictions of any kind. Plus, you'll have plenty of opportunities to earn double miles and reap bonus benefits as well.
- Delta Reserve by American Express: What do you get when you provide the unparalleled service offered by American Express with Delta's access to the friendly skies? A terrific card that is your first class ticket to VIP treatment both in the air and on the ground.
- Platinum Delta SkyMiles by American Express: One of the most comprehensive, complete credit programs out there for Delta flyers, this card offers your big savings, star treatment, and maximum flexibility. With American Express's express approval option in place, you could even be earning airline miles within 60 seconds!
You might also find it helpful to compare airline credit cards at a glance to help make the decision process easier.
Got a favorite airline?
Start by checking out programs guaranteed to offer services from the service providers you trust most.
So many of us have a favorite airline we like to fly more often than the others, so it only makes sense to make sure the airlines miles credit card you choose is complimentary to your preference. Click the links below for more information and suggestions on terrific programs compatible with the following major airlines.Did this lens help you in your search for the perfect airline miles credit card?
Drop us a line and let us know!
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by shannon_hilson
Shannon Hilson is a freelance writer, editor, and artist currently located in Great Falls, Montana. She divides her time between her personal projects... (more)
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