Airline Credit Cards vs. General Travel Credit Cards: Which is Better?
By Elliot Grey
When it comes to travel, choosing the right credit card can make a significant difference in your experience and savings. But should you opt for an airline-specific credit card or a general travel credit card? Let’s break it down to help you make an informed decision.
Airline Credit Cards: Best for Loyalty
If you frequently fly with a particular airline, an airline credit card may be your best bet. These cards are designed to maximize rewards for loyal customers and often include perks specific to the airline.
Pros
- Higher Rewards on Airline Purchases: Earn 2x or more points per dollar spent on tickets, in-flight purchases, and upgrades.
- Travel Perks: Enjoy priority boarding, free checked bags, and discounts on in-flight services.
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Airline cards often offer substantial miles as a welcome bonus, sometimes enough for a free flight.
Cons
- Limited Flexibility: Rewards are typically redeemable only with the issuing airline and its partners.
- Annual Fees: Many airline cards come with fees ranging from $95 to $450+.
- Fewer Rewards on Non-Airline Spending: Purchases outside travel categories may earn fewer points.
General Travel Credit Cards: Best for Flexibility
General travel cards are ideal for travelers who value flexibility and don’t want to commit to a single airline or travel program.
Pros
- Versatile Rewards: Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, car rentals, and more—often with no blackout dates.
- Broad Earning Potential: Earn points on a variety of purchases, from dining to everyday spending.
- Transfer Options: Some cards allow you to transfer points to multiple airline or hotel loyalty programs.
Cons
- Fewer Airline-Specific Perks: You may miss out on benefits like free checked bags or priority boarding.
- Redemption Values May Vary: Not all redemption options offer equal value, so maximizing rewards may require effort.
- Annual Fees: Many top-tier general travel cards also come with fees.
How to Choose
Your choice depends on your travel habits and preferences. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do You Prefer a Specific Airline?
- If you primarily fly with one carrier, an airline card can provide targeted rewards and perks.
- Example: Delta SkyMiles® Platinum AmEx is great for Delta flyers.
- Do You Value Flexibility?
- If you travel across multiple airlines or need flexible redemption options, a general travel card is a better fit.
- Example: Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Capital One Venture® Rewards.
- What Perks Matter Most?
- Need free checked bags or priority boarding? Go with an airline card.
- Want to cover hotels and rental cars too? A general travel card is more versatile.
- How Much Do You Spend?
- High spenders can offset annual fees with the right card. Airline cards reward frequent flyers, while general cards benefit all-around spenders.
The Verdict
- Choose an Airline Card if: You’re loyal to a specific airline, fly frequently with them, and value their perks.
- Choose a General Travel Card if: You prefer flexibility, fly with multiple carriers, or want a broader range of rewards.
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some, the right solution might even be both—an airline card for frequent flyers and a general travel card for versatility. Evaluate your habits, compare benefits, and choose the card that aligns with your travel goals.
Pro Tip: Use tools like PerfectCard to find the best travel card tailored to your preferences. PerfectCard's AI-driven recommendations make the decision process easier by analyzing your spending habits and travel patterns.
Choose wisely, and let your credit card take you places—literally!
