Credit cards for frequent flyer programs are a favourite among regular travellers. Even though they are to help cardholders with travel, these cards have certain disadvantages despite their many travel-related benefits. You would usually have to compare credit card offers to choose the one that is best. However, if you arenot already a cardholder, read on to decide whether a frequent flyer credit card is best for you.
Pros of Frequent Flyer Credit Cards
- Earn Miles for Every Purchase: With frequent flyer cards, you can earn miles or points for every dollar you spend. These miles are further redeemable for complimentary flights, upgrades, or other travel-related benefits. Thus, having these cards makes it easier to achieve your travel objectives and requirements.
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Numerous credit cards for frequent flyers come with sizable sign-up bonuses, which can give you a big mileage boost straight away. A certain amount must be spent within the first few days or months of opening the account to qualify for these bonuses.
- Travel Perks: Frequent flyer cards may also include additional travel benefits like free checked baggage, priority boarding, and access to airport lounges. Always compare frequent flyer credit cards before getting one to experience these benefits. They are likely to improve your travel experience while letting you save money.
- Exclusive Partner Benefits: Usually, frequent flyer credit cards provide you with exclusive offers and discounts through partnerships with particular airlines or hotel chains. This can enhance your travel experience even further if you fly with those airlines or stay in the partnered hotels.
Cons of Frequent Flyer Credit Cards
- High Annual Fees: One of the most significant drawbacks of frequent flyer credit cards is the high annual fee. The fee can range from $95 to $550 or more considering the perks and services that are included. This fee may offset the value of the rewards, particularly if you do not travel regularly.
- Limited Redemption Options: Frequent flyer miles are generally associated with particular airlines, which may restrict your options for how you can redeem them. Compare credit card offers to get a card that is flexible, or it could also be more difficult to get the flights you want to book. Specifically, if there are blackout dates or seat restrictions.
- High Interest Rates: Frequent flyer cards may have comparatively higher interest rates than regular credit cards. If you have a balance, interest charges can outweigh the benefits of earning miles. This can be an issue while using flight-based credit cards.
- Complex Reward Structures: It can be challenging to comprehend a frequent flyer card's reward system. Depending on when and how you redeem your miles, their value can change, and you might have to work around a lot of guidelines.
Compare Credit Cards lets you compare credit card offers so that your benefits outweigh the drawbacks and you have good trips. We suggest getting frequent flyer cards only if you travel regularly and want to maximise their rewards. However, to avoid high annual fees, limited redemption options, and high interest rates, you should always compare frequent flyer credit cards. We help you do just that,as per your travel habits and financial situation.
