If you’ve decided that a frequent flyer credit card is the best type of credit card for you, it’s time to think about how you can get the most out of that type of card. Here are a few tips for making the most of frequent flyer cards.

1. Only use one frequent flyer credit card.

The whole point of using a frequent flyer credit card like the ANZ Frequent Flyer Card is to earn as many frequent flyer points as possible, so you can redeem them for a free flight (or other travel reward you’re eligible for). You can’t maximise your frequent flyer point earnings if you’re spreading your spending too thin.

Rather than use several credit cards, use just your frequent flyer card if possible. At least make it your primary card and use it for your biggest charges so you can earn more points than if you spent a little on that card and a little on another.

2. Use your credit card to pay for anything eligible for points.

In addition to only using one frequent flyer card, use it as much as you possibly can. For example, if your card lets you earn frequent flyer points for certain types of bill payments in addition to purchases, then use your card to pay those bills. You can always pay the balance off right away.

That also includes using your frequent flyer card for all of your routine purchases. Even small charges like a quick trip for groceries, a dinner out, or a petrol purchase can add up to help you earn more frequent flyer points.

3. Take advantage of bonus offers.

Some frequent flyer credit cards give you a chance to earn bonus frequent flyer points on your account. For example, the Qantas American Express Premium credit card currently has an introductory offer. You’ll get up to 7500 bonus points — 5000 the first time you use your new Amex and another 2500 the first time you use it on a Qantas purchase.

Similarly, some frequent flyer cards actually give you two credit cards tied to the same account — an American Express card and either a Visa or MasterCard. The ANZ Frequent Flyer Platinum card is an example.

You’ll generally earn more frequent flyer points when you use your American Express card on the account (1.5 points for every dollar spent in this case). Then you have the other card as a sort of backup, just in case you shop somewhere American Express isn’t accepted. Even though you’ll earn fewer points with the other card (one point per two dollars spent in this example), at least you can still earn frequent flyer points when you can’t use your primary card.

Also be sure to read the terms before applying for any frequent flyer credit card to check on point expiration policies. Some don’t ever have your frequent flyer points expire as long as your account is active. Others have different rules, and to really get the most out of a frequent flyer card, points that rollover year-to-year certainly don’t hurt.