(BPT) - The world is slowly but surely returning to normal after two long years of a global pandemic, and it's clear that people are prioritizing travel like never before. As any avid traveler will tell you, the only thing better than planning a trip is finding new ways to save money while doing it!
The best way? Many would argue a premium co-branded credit card.
What is a co-branded credit card?
According to Bankrate, a co-branded card is a credit card that’s “issued by a retailer and bears the name of both the retailer and the credit card company.” In the case of an airline, these cards offer rewards in the form of points or discounts that consumers can use to earn “frequent-flyer miles to redeem when traveling.” Basically, these cards take the money collected from interchange transactions with merchants and distribute them to customers as rewards.
If you’re looking to save on your next trip, keep reading for our top 5 rewards credit card hacks that help you save big on airline travel.
#1: Save on Airport Costs
It’s no secret that the prices for luggage and in-flight purchases can add up quickly. Luckily, several co-branded credit cards offer options such as free checked bags and deals once you board the plane.
A premium branded card has several benefits that help you save on travel costs, such as free checked bags for you and up to four others on the same reservation. Additionally, if you meet the annual spending requirement, you can receive a considerable discount on flights from your preferred airline.
#2: Save on Transportation Costs
Another way to save a few bucks? Earning points for transportation. Save on transport with rewards cards that offer bonus categories for travel beyond flying.
Often, a premium credit card allows you to earn 2x the rewards points for car rentals, local transit and commuting.
#3: Save on Hotel Costs
After a long day of travel, it’s crucial that you enjoy where you are staying. You can use your rewards points offered by various co-branded credit cards for a list of hotels and resorts. Whether traveling solo or with your entire family, there are plenty of options to meet every group’s preference!
Minimize your hotel costs with a premium credit card, which often offers over 5x reward points on hotel reservations — and 2x on all non-travel purchases. Going premium is the premier way to book a hotel room.
#4: Save on Travel Time
Nothing is more stressful than trying to make it to your gate on time with a full security line, but several rewards cards have perks that allow you to leave the tense airport rush in the past.
For example, premium cards give users priority check-in, screening and boarding privileges.
#5: Save on Dining
Who doesn’t love to save money on a good meal while you travel?
If you’re looking for the most incredible dining deals, many premium cards offer special cash back on select dining purchases, giving you more money to splurge on fancy wine or a decadent dessert.
In Conclusion
These are just a few of the many perks that co-branded credit cards offer you when you travel. Now is likely the best time to sign up, as issuers offer exciting sign-up offers for new customers. Also, with pending legislation from Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) threatening to end most reward programs, your chances to benefit from these programs are best used now while they last. Go get yours today before you plan your next trip!
This sponsored article is presented by Brandpoint.