1. Know your credit needs and habits. Before applying for any credit card, consider your spending and payment tendencies. When you know how you will use your credit card, you can identify which features fit best with your lifestyle. Choosing carefully can help you to save money and have a better overall credit experience.

2. Consider which features are most important to you. It's important to identify which credit card features and terms are essential, and which would simply be nice to have. Otherwise, it can be easy to sign up for a card that winds up costing you more in fees than it provides in other features.

3. Don't lose track of what's important. Once you have a list of which features are essential to you, you can narrow down the options you are considering to those that really fit. Then you can use your less essential preferences to decide between those offers. This way, you can still look for fun extras without sacrificing what's really important.

4. Read the fine print. Make sure that you read the terms of the credit card agreement carefully before applying. Fees, interest rates, credit limits, grace periods and rewards terms can all have an effect on you and how you use the card. Knowing all the details now can help you to get the most out of your card and avoid unpleasant surprises later.

5. Don't be afraid to ask questions. HSBC Bank has a well trained customer service department. If there is anything you don't understand or are unsure of, don't be afraid to contact them. You may also find it helpful to research common credit card terms on the Internet or consult with a financial advisor.