Collecting credit card travel rewards – is it really worthwhile?

By: Jason Maxwell


Are you thinking of signing up for a new credit card? There are many packages to suit most pockets out there, but one of the best reward schemes remains the option to get collecting credit card travel rewards as you spend. Simply by shopping at outlets that are part of the scheme you will be rewarded in Air Miles, provided you choose the right credit card package. This means that by just doing your weekly shop, you and your family could build up the Miles enough to go on the holiday you've always dreamed of.

A simple overview of all of the cards that offer this fantastic reward scheme on one of the many comparison sites available can give you the grounding you need to get flying high sooner! Typing 'credit card comparison sites' into any search engine will bring up a wealth of choices, so you can get a heads up on what each card in this product range offers. Designed around the consumer's needs, these sites compare cards across all of the card issuers and allow you to look at cards that offer other loyalty bonuses in addition to the Air Miles scheme.

Comparison sites are an invaluable tool when searching for the right credit card, but it's also wise to get a copy of your credit rating file before making any applications, so you can assess which product is best suited to your needs. Credit rejections are noted on your file alongside acceptances and so it's best to avoid applying for the wrong package wherever possible to keep your rating healthy. Visit any credit check site to receive a detailed copy of your credit file. Most sites offer this as a free service so shop around and make sure you're not paying for information you are entitled to.

Make sure that, before any application is submitted, your current credit rating will stand up to another credit card. A few of the Air Miles cards on the market are currently at a higher APR than other credit cards, so think about your repayment methods as well as where you'd like to go on holiday. Visit any of the credit check sites online - these can be found quite easily through any search engine - and take advantage of the chance to get a copy of your credit file for free. Having this information can be helpful when making any credit package application; when you consider that no matter if you're looking for a mortgage or for a standard credit card, this history is what the credit checker looks at, it's nice to be able to know in advance what they will see on your file.

The best way to find out your credit rating before applying for a card that gets you collecting credit card travel rewards is to visit any of the credit check sites online. These sites can help you to access your credit file so you can make an informed decision about which card to apply for. This information is helpful to any credit card application as it will ultimately determine whether you are accepted or not. Rejections of credit applications will be noted by the company you have applied to as well as on your credit file, so it's best to be aware which cards are within your reach before you apply.

Once you have your card you can start collecting credit card travel rewards straight away. A visit to the Air Miles website gives tips on how to get the most out of your card and where to shop or sign up with in order to get the most Miles for your money. Depending on how many Miles you accrue, you can travel to any destination within the stated seven zones and even earn more miles while you are away. There are deals for Air Miles customers on items such as hire cars and eating at certain restaurants will also earn you extra Miles. So even while you are sunning yourself by the pool, you and your family can be planning where you'd like to go next!


Jason Maxwell, a freelance writer for Money-Now.co.uk, has published a number of personal finance articles and has her finger on the pulse of credit card travel rewards. If you're looking for further impartial advice about credit cards visit the OFT.