There are a lot of available credit card offers out there on any given day. And those credit card offers change periodically too. Knowing that, how can you find the best one before filling out any credit card applications? You start by comparing credit card offers, looking at them side-by-side (with credit card comparison sites like CreditCardOffers.com.au).

Unfortunately there is no one-size-fits-all process for finding the best credit card deals. It comes down to your personal preferences — rewards or no rewards, low fees or more perks, etc. But there are some general tips that can help you spot a good credit card deal when you see it. No matter what kind of offer you’re looking for, one of these tips is bound to apply.

1. Look for low annual fees.

Obviously a no annual fee credit card is attractive in general. But the trick to finding a good credit card deal isn’t just about finding one with a low annual fee — after all, that could be useless if accompanied by a very high interest rate that would cost you more money overall. Look for a low annual fee among otherwise comparable credit cards though, and you’ll find a better money-saving deal. Even if it’s not your top concern, it’s one worth considering.

2. Make sure the “good” offers go beyond introductory offers.

There is nothing wrong with taking advantage of credit card introductory offers. But a truly good deal won’t revolve entirely around those temporary terms — in most cases. For example, if you want a low interest card because you like to finance purchases, don’t go with a credit card offering a very low interest rate for six months only to have that rate skyrocket afterwards. Choose a long-term low rate card (even if that low rate is higher than the other card’s short-term offer). The Bankwest Lite credit card is one example.

One possible exception to this rule would be balance transfer cards. That’s because most balance transfer offers are actually temporary. In that case, you go in expecting to pay off the balance transfer in a few months anyway, so it might not be a big deal. If you’ll need more time though, keep an eye out for lifetime balance transfer rates like those offered on the Suncorp Platinum credit card.

3. Focus on deals where all the basics are clearly disclosed up front.

Believe it or not, some credit card companies make it very difficult to find out some basic information about a credit card before you apply. For example, some don’t advertise their interest rates clearly. While this is rare, remain sceptical if you come across one of these offers. You shouldn’t have to dig into the fine print just to find out what your annual fees or interest rates would be before filling out an application. And if they’re “hiding” that information in the fine print, chances are good it’s not that great of a deal anyway.

Always know what you want up front from a new credit card. That’s the only way to find the best deal for you. But don’t forget about these basic tips that can help you separate the good from the not-so-good credit card offers, no matter how rosy a glow their advertisements might cast.