Frequent Flyer credit cards offer an easy ways to collect Qantas Points without flying. The Qantas Points you earn can be redeemed for a wide array of goods, services, and experiences through the Qantas Frequent Flyer program. High value redemptions include flights, upgrades to Business Class and First Class with Qantas and oneworld airlines, and luxury hotel stays. The most prestigious Qantas Points cards also earn Status Credits that enhance your Qantas Frequent Flyer membership status, and comes with complimentary access to Qantas Club airport lounges.
Suppose you are looking for the highest Qantas Points-earning credit card. In that case, you can take one of two approaches: You may opt for a credit card that is directly linked with Qantas Frequent Flyer or get a card that earns points in a separate rewards program with Qantas Frequent Flyer as a transfer option.
Cards that allow point transfers to Qantas Frequent Flyer generally offer greater flexibility in terms of how points can be used since they generally have multiple airline transfer partners across several alliances. Given the high demand for Classic Reward seats, this option is worth considering, especially if you're not a Qantas loyalist.
David Boyd, co-founder of Credit Card Compare, explains, "We've earned millions of Qantas Points over the years thanks to Qantas credit cards and used them to fly in premium classes and for hotel stays. If you are diligent about paying off the balance, they can open up travel experiences that would otherwise simply be unaffordable."
Types of Qantas credit cards
- Qantas Frequent Flyer credit cards: Earn Qantas Points per dollar spent. Many also come with additional perks such as complimentary travel insurance and airport lounge access.
- Qantas Status Credits credit cards: The most elite level Qantas credit cards come with higher annual fees, but offer the ability to earn Status Credits without flying. They also tend to have higher Qantas Points earn rates. Complimentary travel vouchers, complimentary travel insurance, and airport lounge passes are also common features of this classification of card.
- Qantas Lounge credit cards: Besides earning Qantas Points, these cards come with access passes for Qantas Lounges.
- Qantas Points credit cards with no annual fee: Although quite rare, they do exist. For those of us who are more budget-conscious, it's a trade-off worth considering to earn Qantas Points without paying an annual fee.
What to consider when choosing a Qantas Points credit card
- Qantas Points earn rate: Check how many Qantas Points you can earn per dollar spent on the card. Consider bonus points offers, points caps, and any conditions associated with earning rewards.
- Annual fees: Compare the annual fees of different Qantas credit cards and assess whether the benefits and rewards justify the cost. The annual fee for higher-end cards can be considerable. Be certain that you are likely to make full use out of it before you commit to these.
- Introductory offers: Look out for any introductory bonus points offers, waived annual fees for the first year, or other promotional deals that can boost your initial points balance.
- Travel benefits: Consider travel-related perks such as airport lounge access, complimentary travel insurance, flight vouchers, and concierge services offered by the credit card.
- Interest rates and fees: Compare the interest rates, late payment fees, foreign transaction fees, and other charges associated with the credit card to understand the overall cost of using it.
- Additional features: Explore additional features like complimentary purchase protection, extended warranty insurance, and access to exclusive events that may come with certain Qantas credit cards.
How to apply for a Qantas Points-earning credit card
- Eligibility criteria: Understand the eligibility requirements set by the card issuer, including minimum income thresholds, credit history checks, and residency status.
- Application process: Learn how to apply for a Qantas credit card online, in-branch, or through a third-party comparison website. Gather the necessary documents and information required for the application.
- Approval and activation: After submitting your application, wait for approval from the card issuer. Once approved, activate your new Qantas credit card following the provided instructions and you are ready to go!
