Airline Rewards Credit Cards

6 High-Flying Benefits of Airline Credit Cards

Airline credit cards can be a great fit for people who travel often or have a big trip planned. These cards allow you to accrue points for purchases charged to the card. Once you've earned enough points, you can often redeem them for flights and breaks in travel expenses like lodging. These cards can also give you access to special perks while you travel.

Here are just six of the many benefits you will typically see with this type of credit card.

1. Rewards from the start

   Many consumers assume that it will take months, maybe even years, before they will accrue enough points to cash in for a flight. However, many airline rewards cards now offer introductory bonus points on their first purchase or after meeting an initial spending threshold. The amount of points range depending on the card, but some offer enough for a round-trip flight.

   An introductory offer allows you to see the benefits of your card even if it is a credit card you might not use on a regular basis. It is also great for individuals who typically don’t charge much on a credit card because the last thing you want to do is change your spending pattern just to accrue points.

2. Flexibility on flights

   Frequent flyer programs through specific airlines often have some limitations and require you to book flights through the airline. With an airline miles credit card that's not affiliated with any specific airline, you often have access to a greater range of airlines, locations, and dates. This makes it convenient to use rewards to book flights for vacations and business trips.

3. Seat upgrades

   One fantastic benefit of some airline miles credit cards is using your miles to upgrade seats. Many cardholders will purchase inexpensive tickets through a special airline promotion and then utilize rewards to upgrade their seat to business or first class, providing them with extra space and access to special perks during their flight. This is a great way to be budget conscious without skimping on comfort. Keep in mind, not all tickets are eligible to be upgraded, so pay attention to the fare code and airline eligibility requirements.

4. Access to special perks

   Some cards, such as the legendary American Express Platinum, give you access into certain airline lounges. These lounges in airports maximize comfort while you wait for your flight. They are available at many airports, so this is one benefit that you’ll be able to take advantage of almost anywhere you travel.

5. Chances to accrue additional points

   Credit card companies often provide promotional periods when they will increase the points per dollar spent for certain categories. During these promotional periods, you may earn 2, 3, 4, even 5 points for every dollar spent.

   Extra points are often offered for purchases you make at certain types of merchants, like gas stations, hotels or other travel-related venues. This is a great chance to rack up the points if you have already planned to travel during these periods. Sometimes, the merchant categories are for everyday expenses, like groceries, so you will still earn points quickly without changing your regular shopping routine.

6. Points to cut down on other travel expenses

   If you are looking at airline miles credit cards, chances are you’re focused on flying rewards. However, with some cards, you can often use your points toward car rentals, hotel rooms and other travel expenses.