Why You Can't Afford Not to Apply for an Airline Miles Credit Card

Of course free airline miles are nothing to sneeze at, but you should know that they're not the only big reward you get when you make the decision to fill out a frequent flyer credit card application. Your new card is really about making sure you have an all-around fulfilling travel experience, terrific customer service, and a level of convenience you can't beat with a stick.

• More Travel-Related Savings: With an airline miles credit card in your pocket, you'll also receive incredible deals when it comes to hotel accommodations, car rentals, and even cruises. Depending on the specifics of the program you choose, you might be able to cash in all or some of your airline miles on free services, making your next vacation even easier on your wallet.



• More Peace of Mind: Many air miles credit cards go the extra mile to set your mind at ease while you're traveling by offering you traveler's insurance. You never know when an emergency might come up, so it's always best to be prepared.... especially when you're far from home. Having the right air miles credit provider on your side can make all the difference in the world in that situation.



• More Convenience: Many airline miles cards allow you to borrow against your credit at hundreds of thousands of ATMs around the world. Want to do a little impromptu shopping at the flea market in Ensenada... or grab a quick order of fish and chips at the corner pub in London? Draw out some cash using your card and you're all set!



• More Service: You may think you know what terrific customer service is, but you've only reached the tip of the iceberg if you're not a airline mileage credit card holder. Air miles credit providers are known the world over for their impeccable customer service and attention to detail. Many offer perks like round-the-clock fraud protection, so that you can rest easy knowing your balance is in good hands. Some even go above and beyond with options like 24-hour concierge services that can be a huge help when it come to enhancing your vacation time by scoring tickets to a hot event or making reservations.

If you're not using one of these incredible cards to manage your expenses, then you're missing out on all of this. Don't you think it's about time your credit company gave you a little something extra?

So now that you know how a air miles credit card can revolutionize the way you use your credit, it's time to learn a little bit about the options available to you. Choosing an air miles credit card is just like making any other important decision -- best done after plenty of homework and exploration of all the choices.

Do I want to go with a bank-sponsored or airline-sponsored airline miles credit card?

Airline miles credit cards come in two basic forms. The first is a card sponsored by the airline itself. This is a good option for you if you are the type of traveler that likes to stick with one airline when you travel, as it will give you big rewards for staying loyal to that airline and its partners. The second type is sponsored by a bank. This is the way to go if you prefer to leave your options wide open -- flying on American one trip and Delta the next, for instance -- as it will have fewer restrictions attached to how you can redeem your miles when you're ready to travel.

What card best suits my spending habits?

Before choosing frequent flyer credit cards, you should always take a good long look at how you use your credit, as you'll want a card that doesn't require you to change your habits beyond what you're comfortable with. Some cards offer you the opportunity to earn double points on certain types of purchases -- gas or groceries, for instance -- and are terrific options for people who typically use their credit for those expenses. Others offer you lower interest rates in exchange for the payment of a small annual fee -- a great option for people who tend to carry a balance from month to month. There are as many options out there as there are lifestyles, so make sure you take the time to find the one that fits you best.

Which card offers the rewards I want most?

It's also a good idea to go into your search for the perfect card knowing which types of benefits you would most like to receive. Is the traveler's insurance option one of the big selling points for you when it comes to airline miles credit cards? Make sure the program you're considering offers this as a reward. Want a lot of flexibility when it comes to how and when you travel? Go for a card that allow you a wealth of options as to how you make your travel reservations. Do you eat out a lot when you travel and want to make sure your card will help you save at restaurants? Go for a program that offers great deals on restaurant-related purchases. You get the picture. Make sure the option you're looking at is going to give you everything you need.

The following are some of the best, most trusted air miles credit cards currently available to consumers. They would be an excellent place to start 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.

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.

• Air Tran Airways



• Alaska Airlines



• America West Airlines



• American Airlines



• American Eagle



• Asiana Airlines



• Delta Airlines



• ExpressJet Airlines



• Hawaiian Airlines



• JetBlue Airways



• Mexicana Airlines



• Northwest Airlines



• Skywest Airlines



• Southwest Airlines



• TransWorld Airlines