Comparing Credit Card Offers Helps You Find Bargains
July 15, 2011
When you compare credit cards, chances are good that you look for a good deal — low rates and a low annual fee for example. But did you know that comparing credit cards can help you save in other ways? The bargains don’t have to stop at the credit card offer itself.
Let’s take a look at how some credit cards help you save money on other products and services, possibly making them the best deal even if their rates and fees aren’t quite the lowest out of the credit cards you’re comparing.
4 Ways Credit Comparisons Help You Find Bargains
Here are a few different types of bargains or deals you can get through some credit cards, which might help you save even more money.
- Partner Deals — Occasionally you’ll come across a credit card that is tied to one or more company — like a retailer or airline. These deals might give you an increased amount of cash back when you shop with a partner, discounts with partners (like the Citibank World Privileges programme featured with some of their cards), or free access to otherwise-expensive perks (like airline lounge access).
- Fuel Savings — You can also find bargains with fuel rewards cards like the Citibank BP credit card. Petrol is a regular expense that can add up over time. With this credit card you can save 5% on your fuel purchases when you make them through BP. You’ll also save 5% on other BP purchases you make.
- Product Replacements and Repairs — When comparing credit cards, look carefully at all of the perks included in the offer even if you don’t think you’ll use them. Some cards offer perks like purchase cover and extended warranties when you purchase things using the card. This can save you a lot of money in replacement and repairs if items are stolen or damaged shortly after your purchase. The Bankwest Lite Gold credit card is one option offering both of these money-saving perks.
- Insurance — Don’t forget to look into other insurance you might be able to get for free through a new credit card. For example, if you’re a frequent traveller you can save money with free overseas travel insurance because you won’t have to purchase your own policy. You would simply book the trip using your credit card to get the insurance at no added cost. The travel insurance offered by the Qantas American Express Premium credit card covers you both overseas and while travelling in Australia. Not all cards offering insurance include domestic coverage.
As you can see, credit cards can do a lot to help you save money even beyond low interest and low fees. Make sure you’re getting the full picture the next time you do a credit card comparison to ensure you really get the best deal around.
Below are 3 of our most popular and recommended credit card offers:
Purchase Rate (p.a.) |
Cash Rate (p.a.) |
Balance Transfer |
Interest Free Days |
Annual Fee |
||
Citibank Clear Platinum |
11.99% | 21.74% | 2.9% for 12 months | up to 55 days | $49 | More Info |
ANZ Platinum Credit Card |
0% for 6 months | 21.49% | 0% for 6 months | up to 44 days | $0 first year | More Info |
Westpac Low Rate Credit Card |
0% for 6 months | 21.49% | 0% for 6 months | up to 55 days | $45 | More Info |
