“Should You Apply for an In-Flight Credit Card? Key Considerations”

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Consumer Credit and Finance Education

At O1ne Mortgage, we prioritize consumer credit and finance education. This post may contain links and references to one or more of our partners, but we provide an objective view to help you make the best decisions. For more information, see our Editorial Policy.

How Do In-Flight Credit Card Offers Work?

If you’ve been on a flight recently, you may have noticed a flight attendant promoting an airline-branded credit card. These in-flight offers might include perks such as a higher welcome bonus or waived annual fees. Airlines benefit from these offers through increased brand loyalty and higher revenue from ticket sales.

Is Applying for In-Flight Credit Cards a Good Idea?

Whether an in-flight credit card offer is a good idea depends on your personal situation. If you frequently fly with the airline offering the card and the perks align with your travel habits, it might be worth considering. However, if you already have several travel rewards cards, the additional miles might not be as beneficial.

When Should You Accept or Reject an In-Flight Credit Card Offer?

It’s important to carefully consider whether to accept an in-flight credit card offer. If you’ve already researched the card and the in-flight offer is better than what you can get online, it might make sense to apply. However, if you’re unfamiliar with the card, take the time to research and compare it to other options before making a decision.

Things to Consider When Weighing an In-Flight Credit Card Offer

Before applying for an in-flight credit card, ask yourself the following questions:

• How do the card’s perks compare with those from cards you already have?
• Will you qualify for the offer based on your credit score?
• Do you really need another credit card?
• Can you afford to take on more debt?
• Are you a regular customer of the airline?
• What is the annual percentage rate (APR)?
• Does the card charge an annual fee or other fees?

Other Ways to Save on Travel Costs

If you’re looking to save on travel costs, consider these alternatives:

• Applying for another travel rewards card that offers better perks.
• Setting aside travel funds in a high-yield savings account.
• Signing up for newsletters that promote travel deals.
• Booking flights in advance rather than at the last minute.
• Using rideshare services or public transit instead of renting a car.
• Driving to your destination if it’s a shorter trip.
• Traveling during lower-cost seasons.

The Bottom Line

In-flight credit card offers might seem appealing, but it’s important to carefully evaluate them before applying. You may be better off comparing credit card interest rates and other factors once you’ve landed. If you plan to get a new credit card, be sure to check your free credit report before submitting an application.

For any mortgage service needs, call O1ne Mortgage at 213-732-3074. We’re here to help you make the best financial decisions.

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