Is an Airline Credit Card Right for You?
Posted on January 27, 2011 by Shannon Hilson
There’s an old adage among people who regularly invest in the stock market. Depending on who you talk to, it will sound slightly different but it goes something like this: “Never trust airlines and ______” the last word depends on the particular investor. Many investors say autos. Others say the movies but almost all of them mention airlines.
What does this have to do with airline miles credit cards? You’ll find out but first, let’s take a look at what an airline mileage credit card is. With the large and diverse offerings of credit cards, one can find a card with just about every perk imaginable, but the airline reward credit card was the first rewards-style cards on the market.
These cards give you rewards points for your purchases in the form of discounts on airline tickets. Some card issuers will give you frequent flyer miles for the airline of your choice while others, will give you a gift certificate (or card) or even offer to book your flight for you.
Sometimes your airline credit card gives you access to the airline lounge that you see inside of the airport. Often these lounges have comfortable and quiet seating, internet access, and several other amenities that will make your travel experience more enjoyable. Additionally, you will qualify for discounted rates at participating hotels, car rental companies, and restaurants.
Just like most other credit cards, the better your credit rating, the better your card interest rate will be. So remember that each time you pay your electric bill on time, it may earn you a lower interest rate on your next credit card. If you do your homework, you are sure to find a credit card that will give you bonus points just for activating the card. With very little research, you can find 5,000 or more bonus points being offered for new card holders.
Do you want rewards for airline miles or dollars? Some cards will offer you rewards for the mileage you travel. Similar to air miles or other airline rewards, if you travel long distances, this will often be the best option for you. The other option is to be rewarded for each dollar you charge to your credit card. This is similar to how most reward cards work.
When you pick a rewards card, it’s important to do your research and think about which card is right for you. If you don’t do a lot of traveling, a more general rewards card from one of the major credit card companies may be more beneficial to you.
Never invest in airlines, right? Here’s why it might be important to you. Some experts advise never applying for a rewards card that is tied solely to frequent flyer miles with one airline. This is because most of the airlines always seem to be only a few days away from going bankrupt. Additionally, changes or total elimination of the frequent flyer programs could leave you without any rewards in your account.
Instead, look at the rewards cards that come from the well known credit card companies – the ones who have a large selection of travel rewards. By doing this, you’re almost sure to keep those rewards points available to you.
Make travel affordable with these air miles credit cards. Or if you prefer to just get cash back on credit card purchases, these cash back reward credit cards are a great option too.