What Kind of Travel Reward Credit Card do You Own? If you own a travel reward credit card, take a look at it and see if it's a frequent flier card or a generic mileage credit card. Remember that generic mileage credit cards give you the option to purchase tickets or redeem your travel reward points from several choices of airlines. On the other hand, if your credit card uses a specific frequent flier program, you're only allowed to redeem your miles points from one particular carrier.
Racking Up Your Points
Applying for a frequent flier credit card is recommended for those who travel a lot. If you're not a frequent traveler, it may be best to apply for a different type of rewards credit card. For instance, you can earn rewards more easily with a cash back credit card or a gas station credit card.
On the other hand, the best way to collect miles points on your frequent flier account is by purchasing airline tickets from your affiliate carrier. Thus, if you really don't travel much, it may take a very long time before you qualify for a free travel. If that's the case, be sure your frequent flier card doesn't impose black out dates or you can end up losing all the points you've collected.
Another way to rack up those points is by using your credit card not only on your purchases but on paying your bills as well. Use your frequent flier card to pay your electricity bills, cable, telephone and other subscriptions. Use it whenever you refuel in gas stations as well. The important thing to remember while using your credit card in making payments is to pay off your charges in full each month.
Remember, you don't want to end up paying for high interest rates just because you delayed or missed on your credit card payment. The purpose of getting a reward credit card is to get incentives for your usage. But if you usually pay for the interest, you may be paying for more than what you get from your credit card.
One final reminder, if you're using a frequent flier miles credit card, keep in mind that the available seats for your affiliate carrier are only limited. If you're going to a tourist destination or if you're traveling during holiday seasons, you may experience difficulty placing your reservation. To avoid hassles, as you reach your qualifying miles points, coordinate with your credit card issuer in advance and make sure that you'll be able to book your flight early with your affiliate airline. By making plans and preparations in advance, you can enjoy your free travel reward without headaches or complications.
