If your family is looking for a rewards credit card, one of the first options you’ll probably look into is an airline credit card. Travel credit cards in general are very big, and the most common subcategories in travel credit cards are airlines and hotels. How can your family utilize an airline credit card most effectively? Here are four things you can do to make sure you’re choosing the best airline credit card if you’re a new applicant.
1. Check for Sign-On Bonuses
Sign-on bonuses are one of the biggest reasons that people look to get a new credit card. Typically, sign-on bonuses for rewards credit cards are awarded in points or miles. Getting the best sign-on bonus will usually require that you spend a certain amount of money within the first few months of having your credit card, so make sure you’re able to meet that requirement.
2. Weigh Annual Fees and Their Benefits
Annual fees are more common with premium airline credit cards. While you might automatically shy away from cards that come with an annual fee, the truth is that annual fees can be a good way to get more from your credit card. You just need to weigh the amount of the fee, the amount you’ll use the credit card, and the value of the benefits you’ll receive from paying that fee.
3. Redeem Rewards When at Their Peak
Reward valuation will typically ebb and flow throughout the year. Most frequently, you’ll earn a set number of points or miles when you use your card, but the value of those points and miles may vary depending on how expensive flights are at the time. If you’re looking to redeem your rewards at the best possible time, you’ll want to make sure that you’re waiting to redeem them until you get an especially good deal.
4. Compare Different Credit Cards for the Same Airline
Most airlines have multiple credit cards, not just one. That means even if you’re loyal to a specific airline, you may be able to choose between a number of different credit cards, all of which can have different benefits, sign-on bonuses, and annual fees. For example, if you want a United Airlines credit card, you’ll want to look at United credit card offers before you choose the card that you sign up for. That way, you’ll be sure to get the best credit card for your family’s needs.
Conclusion
An airline credit card can be a great choice if your family really enjoys traveling on a regular basis. However, airline credit cards are also varied, which means that you’ll need to think about what card you’re choosing. The good news is that with so many different options, your family can choose a great credit card and use it to your advantage. Make sure you take a look at all the credit card offers currently available so you can make an informed decision for your entire family.