Airline Credit Cards
Are They Worth it??

Airline rewards cards are just one of the many rewards programs that credit card companies are offering currently. Many people think that having an airline rewards card is a great way to build up free air travel. However, for some, the hassles of using bonus points may outweigh the potential benefits.

Before you sign up for the next great airline miles card offer that arrives in your mailbox, take time to educate yourself on rewards programs. Most airline rewards programs offer a bonus point per dollar spent, or a fraction of a bonus point. Not all purchases are available for bonus points, but card companies usually have a list of vendors that they reward points for. These bonus points can be redeemed for miles on a flight, or can be used to upgrade a flight from coach to first class.

Unless you fly frequently for business, or plan on making several large purchases on your airline credit card, it may take years to build up enough bonus points on your card. In addition, some card companies put time restraints on the bonus points. Your points may expire before you’ve had the chance to use them.

Rewards points can also be used on travel-related expenses, like car rentals or hotel stays. But again, you need to consider whether you’ll actually be likely to use these rewards. If you are making a purchase on the airline credit card just to build reward points that you may not use, you are wasting money in interest. For some people, the travel related rewards are not worth the hassle.

Many people find that a cash back rewards program with a similar APR and terms is much more beneficial than an airline credit card. Before you sign on the dotted line, consider your circumstances and choose the airline rewards card program that is best for you.