Frequent Flyer Credit Cards

Compare frequent flyer credit cards to earn points on spending, redeemable for flights and upgrades with your favourite airline program. Compare offers and apply online.

Nilooka Dissanayake avatar
Written by   |  
Vidhu Bajaj avatar
Edited by   |  
David Boyd avatar
Verified by
Updated 12 Dec 2024   |   Rates updated regularly

Comparing of 31 frequent flyer credit cards

Featured
Citi Rewards 100,000 Bonus Citi Reward Points Offer

On Citi's website

Rewards program

Citi Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1 Citi Rewards Point

Sign up bonus

100,000 Citi Rewards Points

Annual fee

$99.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Receive 100,000 bonus Citi reward Points after spending $5,000 on eligible purchases within the initial 3 months from approval. Terms and Conditions apply.
  • The initial year presents a discounted annual fee of $99 ($199 p.a. thereafter).
  • Comes with complimentary mobile phone insurance. See Terms and Conditions here.

This product is provided by National Australia Bank Limited, using certain trademarks under license from Citigroup Inc.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Earn 100,000 bonus points when you meet the criteria.
  • Discounted annual fee.
  • You can shop and use your points to receive a credit back.
  • 10% off Limited Time Lux Exclusive hotel offers (up to $250 per booking) booked by 1 March 2025.
Cons
  • No ongoing introductory balance transfer or purchase offer.
Citi Rewards Card Balance Transfer and Purchase Offer

On Citi's website

Rewards program

Citi Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1 Citi Rewards Point

Sign up bonus

N/A

Annual fee

$199.00 p.a. ongoing

Details

  • 0% p.a. for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Balance transfer reverts to cash advance rate.
  • Complimentary mobile phone insurance when you pay your monthly mobile plan bill with your Citi Rewards Credit Card . See Terms and Conditions here.
  • Earn up to 1 Citi reward point for every $1 spent.

This product is provided by National Australia Bank Limited, using certain trademarks under license from Citigroup Inc.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • 0% p.a. on balance transfers and purchases for the first 15 months.
  • $10 monthly cashback with BINGE.
  • Receive Purchase Protection Insurance and Extended Warranty Insurance for eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1 Citi reward point for $1 spent.
  • 10% off Limited Time Lux Exclusive hotel offers (up to $250 per booking) booked by 1 March 2025.
Cons
  • There is a 2% BT fee.
  • Balance transfer changes to a 22.99% p.a. cash advance rate after 15 months.
  • Fee for an additional card is $90.
Apply by 25 March 2025

Rewards program

Membership Rewards

Points per $1 spent

2.25 Membership Rewards Points

Sign up bonus

250,000 Membership Rewards Points

Annual fee

$875.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Get 250,000 bonus Membership Rewards points by applying before 25 March 2025, getting approved, and spending $12,000 on your card within the initial 3 months. Exclusive to New American Express Card Members.
  • Reduced first-year annual fee of $875 (regularly $1,750 per year).
  • Earn up to 2.25 pts per $1 spent.
  • Enjoy exclusive Platinum travel, experience, and dining privileges.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • The offer of 250,000 bonus Membership Rewards points when you meet the criteria.
  • Earn up to 2.25 pts per $1 spent and 1 point per $1 spent at the ATO.
  • Access to more than 1,400 lounges globally, including The Centurion® Lounge.
  • Gold status match at Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and Premium status at Radisson Hotel Group.
  • Get the Amex Experiences App to access information on Platinum benefits, travel offers, events and recommended merchants.
  • Add up to 99 employee cards at no extra cost.
Cons
  • The annual fee of $1,750 p.a. after the initial year.
  • Since this is a charge card, the balance must be cleared every statement.
  • No balance transfer facility.
HSBC Platinum Qantas Credit Card

On HSBC's website

Rewards program

Qantas Frequent Flyer

Points per $1 spent

1.50 Qantas Points

Sign up bonus

N/A

Annual fee

$0.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn 1.5 Qantas Points per $1 on eligible purchases in your first 12 months, then 1 Qantas Point per $1 spent after that.
  • 0% p.a. balance transfer offer for 12 months, with a 2% transfer fee.
  • Save $299 in the first year with no annual fee, then $299 p.a. after that.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Includes complimentary travel insurance with Rental Vehicle Excess Insurance in Australia and Transit Accident Insurance.
  • Plus Extended Warranty and Purchase Protection insurance.
  • Save $99.50 with the Qantas Frequent Flyer program complimentary membership.
  • Get a free Frequent Values™ membership, which gives you access to 4,500 promos at select stores, restaurants, hotels, and family attractions.
  • Enrol family members as additional cardholders at no extra cost.
  • Up to 55 interest-free days.
  • This card is compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
  • Take control of your card with the HSBC Australia app.
Cons
  • The balance transfer rate reverts to the cash advance rate of 21.99% p.a. after the introductory period.
  • There is a 2% BT fee.
  • After the first year, the annual fee increases to $299 p.a.
  • Qantas Points are capped at 120,000 per year.
  • Does not include complimentary lounge access.
  • A 3% foreign transaction fee applies to purchases made overseas.

Rewards program

Qantas Frequent Flyer

Points per $1 spent

1 Qantas Point

Sign up bonus

50,000 Qantas Points

Annual fee

$349.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn up to 80,000 bonus Qantas Points. Get 50,000 bonus Qantas Points when you spend $3,000 or more on eligible purchases within 3 months from card approval. Plus, an extra 30,000 bonus points if you haven't earned Qantas Points with a credit card in the past 12 months. Terms and Conditions apply.
  • Get 0% interest on balance transfers for 12 months with a 2% fee, reverting to the cash advance rate afterward.
  • The annual fee is reduced to $349 for the first year, then increases to $399 p.a. thereafter.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Earn up to 80,000 bonus Qantas Points when you meet the criteria.
  • Earn 1.5 points per $1 on international transactions and 1 point on domestic spending.
  • An additional 1 point per whole $1 on selected Qantas products and services.
  • Comes with complimentary travel insurance (cover for Covid-19 included).
  • Get 2 complimentary lounge access every year.
  • Save up to 20% off each year on select Qantas and QantasLink flights within Australia when you book through Qantas Premier Concierge.
  • Compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
  • Safeguard your identity with Mastercard ID Theft Protection™.
Cons
  • The annual fee increases to $399 p.a. after the initial year.
  • Additional card fee costs $50 p.a.
  • There is a 2% balance transfer fee.
Apply by 30 April 2025
St.George Amplify Signature Credit Card (Amplify)

On St.George's website

Rewards program

Amplify Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1.50 Amplify Rewards points

Sign up bonus

150,000 Amplify Rewards points

Annual fee

$199.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn 150,000 Bonus Amplify Rewards Points (equivalent to up to $675 in eGift cards) by spending $12,000 on eligible purchases in your first year. Terms and Conditions apply.
  • Earn 1.5 points for every $1 spent on eligible domestic and overseas purchases.
  • Redeem your points for gift cards, travel, transferring to partner airline programs, and other rewards.
  • Get 2 free Priority Pass lounge visits each year.
  • Use the Concierge Service to book experiences online, including exclusive tickets, last-minute reservations, and more.
  • Comes with complimentary insurance, including Interstate Flight Inconvenience, Rental Vehicle Excess, international travel coverage, extended warranty, purchase protection, and overseas transit accident insurance.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Earn 150,000 Bonus Amplify Points when you meet the criteria.
  • No limit on the points you can earn, which is great for high spenders.
  • The discounted annual fee for the first year.
  • Access Visa’s Luxury Hotel Collection, offering perks like room upgrades and late checkouts.
  • Add 1 additional cardholder at no extra cost.
  • Offers fraud monitoring, secure online shopping, and a Fraud Money Back Guarantee.
  • Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Cons
  • After the first year, the annual fee reverts to $295 p.a., so factor this into long-term costs.
  • There is no introductory balance transfer offer, so it’s better suited for everyday spending than consolidating debt.
  • A 3% fee applies to foreign transactions made with your card.
Apply by 30 April 2025
Westpac Altitude Black Credit Card (Altitude)

On Westpac's website

Rewards program

Altitude Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1.25 Altitude Rewards points

Sign up bonus

100,000 Altitude Rewards points

Annual fee

$200.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn up to 150,000 bonus Altitude Points (equivalent to up to $700 in eGift cards). Receive 100,000 Altitude bonus points by spending $6,000 on eligible purchases within 120 days of card approval. Additionally, get 50,000 points after your first eligible purchase in year 2. Exclusions apply.
  • Earn 6 Altitude points per $1 on Qantas, Jetstar, Singapore Airlines, and Emirates flights bought in Australia, subject to eligibility criteria.
  • Redeem your points for gift cards, travel, transferring to partner airline programs, and other rewards.
  • Get 2 free Priority Pass lounge visits each year.
  • Use the Concierge Service to book experiences online, including exclusive tickets, last-minute reservations, and more.
  • Comes with complimentary insurance, including Interstate Flight Inconvenience, Rental Vehicle Excess, international travel coverage, extended warranty, purchase protection, and overseas transit accident insurance.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Earn up to 150,000 bonus Altitude Points when you meet the criteria.
  • The discounted annual fee for the first year.
  • Earn 2 points per $1 spent at Spotify Premium, David Jones, Myer, THE ICONIC, Airbnb, Uber and Uber Eats
  • Earn 1.25 points per $1 spent on other eligible purchases.
  • No limit on the points you can earn, which is great for high spenders.
  • Add 1 additional cardholder at no extra cost.
  • Offers fraud monitoring, secure online shopping, and a Fraud Money Back Guarantee.
  • Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Cons
  • The high annual fee of $295 p.a. after the initial year.
  • There is no introductory balance transfer offer, so it’s better suited for everyday spending than consolidating debt.
  • A 3% fee applies to foreign transactions made with your card.
Apply by 30 April 2025
St.George Amplify Platinum Credit Card (Amplify)

On St.George's website

Rewards program

Amplify Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1 Amplify Rewards point

Sign up bonus

100,000 Amplify Rewards points

Annual fee

$49.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn 100,000 Bonus Amplify Points when you spend at least $3,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days from new card approval. Terms and Conditions apply.
  • Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on eligible domestic and overseas purchases.
  • You can use your points for gift cards, travel, transferring to partner airline programs, and other rewards.
  • Comes with complimentary insurance, including Interstate Flight Inconvenience, Rental Vehicle Excess, international travel coverage, extended warranty, purchase protection, and overseas transit accident insurance.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Earn 100,000 Bonus Amplify Points when you meet the criteria.
  • No limit on the points you can earn, which is great for high-spenders.
  • The discounted annual fee for the first year.
  • Get access to Visa’s Luxury Hotel Collection, offering perks like room upgrades and late checkouts.
  • Add 1 additional cardholder at no extra cost.
  • Offers fraud monitoring, secure online shopping, and a Fraud Money Back Guarantee.
  • Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Cons
  • There is no introductory balance transfer offer, so it’s better suited for everyday spending than consolidating debt.
  • A 3% fee applies to foreign transactions made with your card.
Apply by 30 April 2025

Rewards program

Amplify Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1 Amplify Rewards point

Sign up bonus

100,000 Amplify Rewards points

Annual fee

$49.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn 100,000 Bonus Amplify Points when you spend at least $3,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days from new card approval. Terms and Conditions apply.
  • Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on eligible domestic and overseas purchases.
  • You can use your points for gift cards, travel, transferring to partner airline programs, and other rewards.
  • Comes with complimentary insurance, including Interstate Flight Inconvenience, Rental Vehicle Excess, international travel coverage, extended warranty, purchase protection, and overseas transit accident insurance.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Earn 100,000 Bonus Amplify Points when you meet the criteria.
  • No limit on the points you can earn, which is great for high-spenders.
  • The discounted annual fee for the first year.
  • Get access to Visa’s Luxury Hotel Collection, offering perks like room upgrades and late checkouts.
  • Add 1 additional cardholder at no extra cost.
  • Offers fraud monitoring, secure online shopping, and a Fraud Money Back Guarantee.
  • Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Cons
  • There is no introductory balance transfer offer, so it’s better suited for everyday spending than consolidating debt.
  • A 3% fee applies to foreign transactions made with your card.
Apply by 30 April 2025

Rewards program

Amplify Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1 Amplify Rewards point

Sign up bonus

100,000 Amplify Rewards points

Annual fee

$49.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn 100,000 Bonus Amplify Points when you spend at least $3,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days from new card approval. Terms and Conditions apply.
  • Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on eligible domestic and overseas purchases.
  • You can use your points for gift cards, travel, transferring to partner airline programs, and other rewards.
  • Comes with complimentary insurance, including Interstate Flight Inconvenience, Rental Vehicle Excess, international travel coverage, extended warranty, purchase protection, and overseas transit accident insurance.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Earn 100,000 Bonus Amplify Points when you meet the criteria.
  • No limit on the points you can earn, which is great for high-spenders.
  • The discounted annual fee for the first year.
  • Get access to Visa’s Luxury Hotel Collection, offering perks like room upgrades and late checkouts.
  • Add 1 additional cardholder at no extra cost.
  • Offers fraud monitoring, secure online shopping, and a Fraud Money Back Guarantee.
  • Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Cons
  • There is no introductory balance transfer offer, so it’s better suited for everyday spending than consolidating debt.
  • A 3% fee applies to foreign transactions made with your card.
NAB Rewards Business Signature Credit Card

On NAB's website

Rewards program

NAB Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1.25 NAB Rewards Points

Sign up bonus

100,000 NAB Rewards Points

Annual fee

$175.00 p.a. ongoing

Details

  • Receive 100,000 NAB Rewards Points upon spending $4,000 on everyday purchases within 60 days.
  • Triple the earning rate on overseas spending or purchases made at overseas stores and suppliers from Australia.
  • Double the earn rate on purchases made at partner departments and hardware stores.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Receive a generous 100,000 bonus NAB Rewards Points when you spend $4,000 on everyday business purchases within 60 days of opening your account.
  • Earn 1.25 NAB Rewards Points per $1 spent on eligible everyday business purchases, with no cap.
  • ATO payments earn NAB Rewards Points at the same rate as everyday purchases.
  • NAB Rewards Points can be transferred to several other airline rewards programs, making it easier to find an awards seat.
  • Up to 44 interest-free days on purchases, giving you more flexibility and breathing room with your business expenses.
  • Complimentary NAB Commercial Cards Unauthorised Transaction Insurance and NAB Commercial Cards Transit Accident Insurance.
  • Works with major digital wallets, including Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Cons
  • Additional cardholders don't come cheap.
  • Lacks complimentary international travel insurance.
  • No complimentary airline lounge passes.
ANZ Rewards Platinum Credit Card

On ANZ's website

Rewards program

ANZ Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1.50 ANZ Reward Points

Sign up bonus

100,000 ANZ Reward Points and more

Annual fee

$149.00 p.a. ongoing

Details

  • Earn 100,000 bonus Reward Points and $50 cashback upon spending $2,000 on eligible purchases within the initial 3 months after approval.
  • Access a variety of complimentary insurances for both travel and purchases.
  • Accumulate ANZ Rewards Points on your everyday purchases.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • 100,000 bonus Reward Points and a $50 cashback when you meet the criteria.
  • Earn 1.5 points per $1 spent up to $2,000 per statement period.
  • No cap on the total number of points you can earn.
  • Comes with complimentary insurance covers, including international travel insurance and purchase protection insurance.
  • ANZ Rewards points can be transferred to several airline partners, giving you booking flexibility.
  • Up to 55 days interest-free on purchases.
Cons
  • There is a $65 annual fee per additional cardholder.
  • The earn rate drops to 0.5 points per $1 after $2,000 per statement period.
  • No balance transfer offer.
  • No lounge access.
ANZ Rewards Black Credit Card

On ANZ's website

Rewards program

ANZ Rewards

Points per $1 spent

2 ANZ Rewards Points

Sign up bonus

180,000 ANZ Rewards Points and more

Annual fee

$375.00 p.a. ongoing

Details

  • Get 180,000 bonus Reward Points and $150 cash back upon spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases within the initial 3 months of approval.
  • Accrue 2 Reward Points for every $1 spent on qualifying purchases, up to $5,000 per statement period.
  • Enjoy complimentary international travel insurance.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Receive 180,000 bonus ANZ Rewards points and earn a $150 cash back when you meet the criteria.
  • Earn 2 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases up to $5,000 per statement period.
  • There is no cap on the number of points you can earn.
  • Free international travel insurance and purchase protection insurance.
Cons
  • The $375 p.a. annual fee.
  • Doesn't come with lounge access.
  • No balance transfer offer.
Apply by 30 April 2025
Westpac Altitude Platinum Credit Card (Qantas)

On Westpac's website

Rewards program

Qantas Frequent Flyer

Points per $1 spent

0.50 Qantas Points

Sign up bonus

60,000 Qantas Points

Annual fee

$119.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn up to 80,000 bonus Qantas Points. Get 60,000 Qantas Points when you spend at least $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days from new card approval, and an additional 20,000 points after your first eligible purchase in the second year. Terms and Conditions apply.
  • Earn 0.5 points for every $1 spent on eligible domestic and overseas purchases.
  • Points are automatically transferred to your Qantas Frequent Flyer account, ready to use for flights, upgrades, shopping, and more.
  • Comes with complimentary insurance, including Interstate Flight Inconvenience, Rental Vehicle Excess, international travel coverage, extended warranty, purchase protection, and overseas transit accident insurance.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • Earn up to 80,000 bonus Qantas Points when you meet the criteria.
  • The discounted annual fee for the first year.
  • Add 1 additional cardholder at no extra cost.
  • Split purchases over $100 into 4 payments over 6 weeks with PartPay, making it easier to manage larger expenses.
  • Offers fraud monitoring, secure online shopping, and a Fraud Money Back Guarantee.
  • Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
Cons
  • Earnings are capped at $100,000 annually, but bonus Qantas Points are excluded from this limit.
  • The earning rate of 0.5 points is lower than that of others.
  • A $75 annual fee applies for the Qantas Rewards Program, worth it if you regularly earn points.
BankSA Amplify Business Credit Card (Amplify Rewards)

BankSA Amplify Business Credit Card (Amplify Rewards)

Rewards program

Amplify Rewards

Points per $1 spent

1 Amplify Point

Sign up bonus

N/A

Annual fee

$0.00 for 1st year

Details

  • Earn points without limits, no matter how much you spend.
  • Earn double Amplify points on eligible overseas transactions.
  • Includes Transit Accident Insurance and Unauthorised Transaction Insurance, ideal for business trips and transactions.

Pros & cons

Pros
  • The $0 annual card fee for the first year saves you money while enjoying the card's benefits.
  • Earn 1 Amplify point per $1 on domestic transactions and 0.5 Amplify points on government payments.
  • Share your account benefits with 3 additional cardholders at no extra cost.
  • Simplify tax reporting by exporting expenses directly into MYOB and BAS or through an Excel file.
  • Convert your points for appliances, gift cards, charitable donations, entertainment, and more.
  • Turn your points into travel opportunities by booking a domestic or international flight.
  • Use your points with leading frequent flyer programs such as Virgin Australia's Velocity program or Singapore Airlines' KrisFlyer program for added flexibility.
Cons
  • The cash advance rate is 20.24% p.a.
  • Foreign transactions incur a 3% fee but earn 2x points on eligible overseas spending, letting you maximize rewards.

What is a frequent flyer credit card?

Frequent flyer credit cards offer reward points or miles for every dollar spent on eligible purchases. These frequent flyer reward points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel-related expenses. Frequent flyer credit cards are popular among avid travellers and those looking to make the most of their everyday spending by earning valuable rewards that can offset travel costs.

Gary Leff from View From the Wing

Gary Leff, an airline industry expert and the founder of View From the Wing, shared his insights with Credit Card Compare for booking Australia to USA award travel.

Qantas releases a lot more space to its own members than it does to partners, and they do reliably release business class award seats often around 3 months prior to travel. Since I have family in Australia, I regularly set alerts for business class award space to open on specific flights and dates with Expert Flyer and invariably space on at least one or two potential flights does open up – even flights like Sydney – Auckland – New York JFK.

How do frequent flyer cards work?

Frequent flyer credit cards are like any other rewards-based credit cards, allowing you to earn points on your eligible everyday spending. However, these cards are often linked to airline programs such as Qantas and Velocity, enabling you to transfer your rewards points to your frequent flyer account for free tickets, upgrades, and other travel-related perks or discounts.

Some frequent flyer credit cards may also offer additional benefits like complimentary travel insurance and lounge access. However, they often come with higher annual fees and interest rates. You may find some frequent flyer credit cards offering bonus points on joining, which can be enough for a free flight. But make sure to check the attached conditions, such as any minimum spending requirements for redemption, to ensure you can benefit from the points.

In general, a frequent flyer card could make your travels cheaper and perhaps even make you feel like a VIP, depending on your card. But nothing comes for free in the world of credit, and it’s important to check the associated fees, charges, and conditions to make sure you pick the right card for your budget and lifestyle.

Major frequent flyer programs in Australia

  • Qantas Frequent Flyer. Linked to Australia's flag carrier airline, Qantas. Earn Qantas Points through flights, credit card spending, and various partners. Redeem points for flights, upgrades, hotels, and other rewards.
  • Virgin Australia Velocity. Associated with Virgin Australia airline. Earn Velocity Points through flights, credit card spending, and partners. Redeem points for flights, upgrades, hotels, and experiences.
  • Amex Membership Rewards. AmEx has the largest range of credit and charge cards in Australia, with all cards earning loyalty points.
  • Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer. Frequent flyer program of Singapore Airlines, which operates extensively in Australia. Earn KrisFlyer miles through flights, credit card spending, and partners. Redeem miles for flights, upgrades, and other rewards.
  • Cathay Pacific Asia Miles. Frequent flyer program of Cathay Pacific, which serves several Australian cities. Earn Asia Miles through flights, credit card spending, and partners. Redeem miles for flights, upgrades, hotels, and experiences.
  • Emirates Skywards. Loyalty program of Emirates, which has a significant presence in Australia. Earn Skywards Miles through flights, credit card spending, and partners. Redeem miles for flights, upgrades, hotels, and other rewards.
  • Etihad Guest. Frequent flyer program of Etihad Airways, which serves several Australian cities. Earn Etihad Guest Miles through flights, credit card spending, and partners. Redeem miles for flights, upgrades, hotels, and experiences.
  • Air New Zealand Airpoints. Loyalty program of Air New Zealand, which has a strong presence in the Australia-New Zealand market. Earn Airpoints Dollars through flights, credit card spending, and partners. Redeem Airpoints Dollars for flights, upgrades, and other rewards.

What can you redeem your frequent flyer points for?

Frequent flyer points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, typically focused on travel. One of the most popular options is redeeming points for free flights, either domestically or internationally, depending on the number of points you have accumulated. You can also use points to upgrade your seat to a higher class, making your travel experience more comfortable.

In addition to flights, many airline programs allow you to use your frequent flyer points for booking hotel stays, car rentals, and travel packages. Many airline programs also have partnerships with retail stores and online shopping portals, allowing you to use your points for purchasing a wide range of products, from electronics to fashion items. However, using your frequent flyer points for flights or upgrades often provides the maximum benefit, though this can depend on your card and the specific conditions around redemption.

It's important to check the terms and conditions of your frequent flyer program to understand the best ways to maximise your points and ensure you're getting the most value from them.

Expert opinion on using the best frequent flyer credit card

David Boyd of Credit Card Compare

David Boyd, the co-founder of CreditCardCompare.com.au, has years of experience earning frequent flyer points with credit cards and redeeming them, mostly for flights:

I fondly remember the first time I used points from my American Express frequent flyer credit card. It allowed me to upgrade my flight to first class — a luxury I wouldn't have experienced otherwise.

Benefits of frequent flyer credit cards

Frequent flyer credit cards offer a range of benefits that make them appealing to consumers. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Earn points: Cardholders can earn points or miles for every dollar spent on eligible purchases, which can be redeemed for flights and other travel-related expenses.
  • Sign up bonuses: Many frequent flyer credit cards offer generous sign-up bonuses, providing a significant number of bonus points when you first open the card and meet the minimum spending requirement.
  • Travel perks: Cardholders often enjoy travel perks such as airport lounge access, free travel insurance, and priority boarding.
  • Foreign transaction fee waiver: Some frequent flyer credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel.
  • Additional rewards: In addition to travel rewards, some cards offer additional perks such as cashback, statement credits, Priority Pass, or discounts on partner merchants.

Most frequent flyer credit cards are designed to benefit those who travel regularly. However, the number and level of benefits associated with each card can vary. It's important to remember that the additional perks on these credit cards often come with high fees and other conditions. Make sure you review all the terms and understand the actual value of the reward points to get the maximum benefit.

Andrew Boyd of Credit Card Compare

Andrew Boyd, the co-founder of CreditCardCompare.com.au, has earned and redeemed hundreds of thousands of frequent flyer points:

One of the biggest benefits of earning frequent flyer points is the sense of freedom, but you also need to either plan ahead or be prepared to be flexible when it comes to booking a seat.

How to choose the best frequent flyer credit card

With many frequent flyer credit cards available in the market, selecting the right one can be a daunting task. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best frequent flyer credit card for your needs:

Interest rate and fees

When looking for any kind of credit card, comparing interest rates and fees is a good start. Examine the interest rates offered and ensure they are competitive with other credit cards on the market.

Even if you find a low-rate card, be sure to check the various fees charged by the provider. Frequent flyer cards often come with high fees and may only be worth it if your spending pattern allows you to accumulate enough points and your lifestyle lets you redeem them for various benefits.

Consider the annual fee associated with the card and evaluate whether the benefits and rewards justify the cost. There are a small number of frequent flyer credit cards with no annual fee, but they typically have a substantially lower earn rate per dollar spent.

Bonus points

Evaluate the sign up bonus and the minimum spending requirement to determine if it is attainable based on your regular spending habits.

Reward points

Besides the bonus points you get when you sign up for a card, it’s also worth checking how many points you’ll earn per dollar spent. Some cards may offer a high earn rate for reward points, but do they provide enough value to you? To determine that, you need to consider where and how you can use the points. You should also check whether there’s a cap on earning points per year and if the points have an expiry date.

Additionally, assess the range of redemption options available and their relevance to your travel and lifestyle preferences. Evaluate if the points can be used for flights, upgrades, hotels, or car hire, and whether there are any blackout dates or restrictions on when you can redeem your points. Finally, consider the ease of redeeming points and whether the process is straightforward or involves complex steps and additional costs.

Airline affiliation

Choose a card that aligns with your preferred airline or one that offers flexibility in transferring points to multiple airline partners. When selecting a frequent flyer credit card, consider your travel patterns, as these cards are typically designed to provide more value to frequent travellers.

If you’re unlikely to use perks like free travel insurance, hotel discounts, travel vouchers, seat upgrades, and discounted flights often, you may want to consider whether a different type of credit card better suits your needs.

Assessing eligibility and income requirements

Besides comparing interest rates, fees, and rewards, it's crucial to check the minimum income requirements and other eligibility criteria associated with a card. Some frequent flyer credit cards have a minimum annual income requirement, while others require you to spend a certain amount before unlocking various benefits or rewards. As frequent flyer and other reward-based credit cards are often premium cards, you’ll also need a good credit score to qualify, in addition to meeting other conditions.

It's important to carefully review the eligibility criteria of a card before applying to reduce the chances of your application being rejected. Reading the product disclosure statement (PDS) and the fine print regarding the reward points and fees can help you determine if the card is the right fit for you.

How to apply for a frequent flyer credit card?

It’s generally possible to apply for a credit card online, at a bank branch, or over the phone. However, it’s advisable to research various cards to find one that suits your requirements before applying. Also, check the eligibility criteria of the card and ensure you meet them to increase the likelihood of your application getting approved.

1. Research and compare credit cards

Start by researching different frequent flyer credit cards. Compare their rewards programs, annual fees, interest rates, and additional perks. Make sure the card aligns with your travel habits and financial needs.

2. Check eligibility requirements

Review the eligibility criteria for each card, including minimum annual income and credit score requirements.

3. Gather necessary documentation

Prepare the necessary documentation for your application. This typically includes:

4. Complete and submit the application

Once you’ve chosen a card, complete the application form, which can usually be done online through the card issuer’s website. Provide personal information, financial details, and information about your employment and income. Double-check all the information for accuracy before submitting.

5. Wait for approval

After submission, wait for the card issuer to review your application. The issuer will verify your information and carry out a credit check to ascertain your creditworthiness.

Note that a credit check by a provider is recorded on your credit report. It’s advisable to compare credit cards carefully and apply for the one that suits you best, rather than making multiple applications at once. Too many hard inquiries in a short period can give the impression of financial hard Too many hard inquiries in a short period can give the impression of financial hardship. This might lead providers to think you’re seeking more credit than you may be able to repay.

6. Activate your card

If your application is approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail. Follow the instructions provided to activate your card before you can start using it. Remember to use your card judiciously and try to repay your credit card bill on time and in full each month to avoid falling into a debt trap.

Is it worth getting a frequent flyer credit card?

Depending on your lifestyle and the card you choose, a frequent flyer credit card may be a good choice for you, especially if you travel often. However, these cards often come with higher fees, so it’s essential to ensure the benefits align with your needs and travel habits.

To get good value from a frequent flyer credit card, you need to find the best credit card for your specific situation and fully utilise the perks offered. Consider your spending and travel habits.

If you use your card regularly and spend enough to accumulate points, and if you travel frequently, enjoying perks like seat upgrades and free flights, a frequent flyer card can be very beneficial. However, if you only need a credit card for emergencies, a frequent flyer card may not be the right choice, as you might not accumulate enough points to make the higher fees worthwhile.

Estimate how much you’re likely to spend in a year. This will help you determine how many points you can earn and whether the rewards justify the card’s fees. It’s also worth checking if the points can be used for rewards that you find valuable, such as flights, upgrades, hotel stays, or other travel-related perks. Additionally, consider any associated fees or conditions that might affect your ability to use the points.

As frequent flyer credit cards often come with higher annual fees and possibly other costs, it could help to weigh these against the potential benefits. This can help you determine whether the card offers good value for your situation.

Help choosing a frequent flyer credit card

Learn the basics of how frequent flyer credit cards can enhance your travel experience.

  • FAQs

  • Pros & cons

  • Alternatives

  • Why trust us

How do frequent flyer credit cards work?

Frequent flyer credit cards work by rewarding cardholders with points or miles for their spending. The accumulated points can then be redeemed for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotel stays, and car rentals.

Are there any fees associated with frequent flyer credit cards?

Most frequent flyer credit cards come with an annual fee, which varies depending on the card issuer and the benefits offered. Additionally, if you carry a balance on your card, you’ll be charged interest, and frequent flyer cards (like many rewards-based cards) often have higher interest rates compared to standard credit cards.

When using your card abroad, you may incur foreign transaction fees. Withdrawing cash using your credit card typically incurs a cash advance fee. Most providers also charge a late payment fees if you don’t pay your credit card bill on time.

Some cards also charge fees for redeeming your points for flights or other rewards. It’s important to read the terms and conditions of the card to understand all the potential fees before applying.

How can I maximise the benefits of a frequent flyer credit card?

To make the most of your frequent flyer credit card, consider using it for all your everyday spending to accumulate points quickly. Take advantage of sign-up bonuses and promotions, and strategically redeem your points for maximum value.

Can I use my frequent flyer credit card points for anything other than travel?

While frequent flyer credit card points primarily focus the card offers on travel rewards, some cards offer alternative redemption options such as merchandise, gift cards, or cashback. Check with your card issuer for specific redemption options available.

What should I consider before applying for a frequent flyer credit card?

Before applying for a frequent flyer credit card, consider factors such as the annual fee, interest rates, reward structure, redemption options, and additional benefits offered by the card. Ensure the card aligns with your spending habits and travel preferences to maximise value.

Pros

Bonus points

New applicants can earn a significant number of points — ranging from a few thousand to over a hundred thousand — upon meeting specific spending requirements. These points can be a substantial boost, potentially redeemable for international flights or premium cabin upgrades.

Earn points on every dollar spent

Frequent flyer credit cards reward everyday spending with points, typically offering between 0.5 to 1.25 points per dollar spent. Partnered spending, especially with airlines, can yield even higher point rates.

Exclusive travel benefits

Beyond earning points, these cards are packed with travel-centric perks. Complimentary travel insurance, airport lounge access, and flight credits are common benefits. Some also offer status credits that can fast-track users to higher tiers within their respective linked frequent flyer programs.

Earn points without flying

This may seem rather self-evident, but if you do not fly frequently, a credit card is one of the easiest ways to accumulate points.

Additional perks

Alongside the primary benefits, it's not unusual for these cards to come with additional features such as extended insurance and concierge services.

Cons

Spending thresholds for bonus point

The criteria to unlock bonus points can be multifaceted, requiring cardholders to reach spending thresholds within initial months and possibly retain the card for over a year to benefit fully from the offer.

Higher ongoing cost

The allure of points comes at a cost. Frequent flyer credit cards generally have a higher annual fee and interest rates on purchases. This can significantly increase the cost of holding the card, especially for those who carry a balance.

Spending incentives can lead to debt

The promise of earning points can entice cardholders to spend beyond their means. For individuals who struggle with budgeting, this could result in accumulating debt, particularly if the card balance isn't paid off in full each month.

Airline points devaluation

If an airline devalues their points — which Qantas likes to do — then you may earn the same number of points per dollar, but you'll need more of them.

Earning tiers and caps

Many frequent flyer credit cards limit the potential to earn points beyond a certain threshold, which can affect the overall efficiency of point accumulation.

Cashback credit cards

Rather than earning points, a cashback credit card earns cash. However, there are very few Australian cashback credit cards with an earn rate as a percentage of the amount spent. Instead, they typically give a fixed amount back after hitting spending threshold.

Rewards credit cards

Unlike frequent flyer credit cards, rewards credit cards typically earn points into a bank's own reward program. These points can be redeemed for goods and services with the rewards program's loyalty store, which is generally regarded as the worst way possible to use points in terms of their dollar value. Most programs have a panel of airline or hotel transfer partners, which means you have more flexibility in terms of using your points to book a flight. Booking a flight in an upper class is generally regarded as the best way to maximise the value of your points.

Methodology

We considered the following attributes and associated metadata when choosing which cards to include in our frequent flyer credit card comparison table and their rank order.

  • Annual fee initial year: The first year's annual card fee amount. Lower is better.
  • Annual fee ongoing: How much is charged each subsequent year to renew the card. Lower is better.
  • Bonus points offer: Whether there is a bonus points offer available and how many bonus points can be earned. A higher number of bonus points is considered better.
  • Business or individual: If the card is designed for businesses or individuals. This is important for eligibility and tailoring to specific needs.
  • Complimentary insurance: Whether complimentary insurance is included and what types are offered (e.g., travel, purchase protection). More comprehensive coverage is considered better.
  • Currency conversion fee: How much the surcharge is when transacting while overseas or with an overseas online store. Lower is better.
  • Interest rate on purchases: The standard interest rate on purchases. Lower ongoing rates are considered better.
  • Interest-free period: The number of interest-free days from statement. Longer is better.
  • Lounge access: If complimentary lounge access is available. Lounge access is considered a valuable perk for frequent flyers.
  • Minimum credit limit: The lowest credit limit offered, if publicised by the bank.
  • Minimum income required: Minimum gross annual individual/household income to qualify. Lower thresholds increase eligibility.
  • Other perks: Any additional benefits, such as complimentary access to other reward programs or hotel upgrades. More perks are considered better.
  • Points cap: Whether the reward points earned are capped or uncapped per statement period. Uncapped points are considered more beneficial.
  • Points per dollar: The number of points earned per dollar spent on eligible purchases. A higher earn rate is considered better.
  • Rewards program: The rewards program the credit card is linked to. Popular, flexible programs with good redemption rates are considered better.
  • Transferred points value: The estimated value of the points when transferred to the linked rewards program. Higher point values are considered better.
  • Travel credits: If travel credits are offered and their value. Travel credits can offset the annual fee and provide added value for frequent travelers.

Our rankings may not reflect what matters most to you. Be sure to compare key rates, fees, and features against your own travel preferences and financial priorities before deciding.

Sources

  1. Australian consumer loyalty survey — McKinsey & Company
  2. Emirates Skywards — Emirates
  3. KrisFlyer — Singapore Airlines
  4. Qantas Frequent Flyer — Qantas
  5. Qantas Points value calculator — Credit Card Compare
  6. Velocity Frequent Flyer
  7. Velocity Points value calculator — Credit Card Compare

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