Maximizing Your Airfare Savings: Top Airline Credit Cards
Airfare prices may have decreased from their peak, but they still account for a significant portion of travel expenses. Fortunately, there are ways to score a good deal. Signing up for price alerts, comparing prices between airlines, and booking in advance can help reduce costs. Another strategy is to use the right credit card to book your flight, ensuring you get the best return on your big airfare purchases.
Top Airline Credit Card Picks
Here are our top airline credit card picks, along with what you need to know about choosing a travel credit card to save on future flights:
- Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex: A solid airline card for travel savings, offering in-flight savings, discounts on flights, and bonus rewards on airline spending.
- Capital One Venture Card: A simple card option for beginners, with a flat 2x rewards rate and easy redemption process.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: An all-around great travel rewards credit card with perks for every type of traveler, including a 25% boost on redemptions for travel.
- The Platinum Card from Amex: Ideal for frequent fliers, offering 5x on airfare, a $200 flight credit, and airport lounge access.
- Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card: Great for companions, with a round-trip coach fare for a companion for just $99 plus taxes and fees.
- Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card: Good for Delta loyalists, offering a mix of rewards on travel and everyday purchases, plus benefits while flying.
- Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard: Ideal for American Airlines fans, with a $125 American Airlines flight discount and first checked bag free.
- United Quest Card: Great for United Airlines regulars, offering an automatic $125 in statement credits for United purchases and 5,000 miles back when using miles to book award flights.
- Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card: Perfect for Southwest enthusiasts, with 6,000 bonus points each year, Early Bird check-ins, and Companion Pass-qualifying points.
Before You Apply
Before opening a new airline card, consider the following:
- How often do you travel?
- What’s your budget?
- How’s your credit?
- What travel benefits do you want?
Is an Airline Credit Card Worth It?
Weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using credit cards for miles. Consider the benefits, such as free checked baggage, priority boarding, and inflight discounts, as well as the potential for elite status. However, be aware of the limitations, including limited flexibility, award availability, and potential devaluation.
Choosing the Right Card
The best card for airline miles is one that fits your spending habits and travel style. Compare different options before applying, and make sure to account for how they fit your lifestyle.
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