What if every purchase you made actually paid you back? As digital payments become the norm, using a credit card is no longer just about convenience. While low interest rates and waived fees are attractive, they pale in comparison to the potential of a truly rewarding credit card. Think about it: you could earn valuable rewards, from cashback to travel perks, each time you swipe your card.
Still, it’s more than just getting credit card discounts, you could gain so much more when you have a credit card with a good rewards program. Here’s why:
You Make Each Purchase Count
You already spend money on necessities like groceries and gas—why not get something back for it? Instead of just handing over cash, a rewards credit card lets you accumulate points, cashback, or miles with every purchase. It’s like getting a little bonus on your everyday spending.
For instance, if your monthly grocery bill is around ₱10,000 and your card offers one point for every ₱30 you spend, you’d rack up about 333 points per month. Over a year, that’s almost 4,000 points! And you can use these accumulated points for all sorts of things, from discounts on future purchases to free stuff or even travel vouchers. Essentially, you’re getting a small return on your regular spending.
A cashback credit card is another fantastic option. If you have the Landers Cashback Everywhere credit card by Maya, for example, you can earn up to 5% on Landers purchases, 2% on dining, and 1% on all other qualified purchases. Depending on how much you spend, you can earn up to ₱200,000 in cashback rewards alone.
You Can Turn Your Travel Goals into Reality
If you have a serious case of wanderlust, rewards credit cards can be your best tool to make those dream trips much more attainable. Many cards have mileage programs where you earn miles for every peso you spend. A card offering one mile per ₱50 spent could get you 2,000 miles a year from ₱100,000 in spending. While that might not get you a round-the-world ticket right away, it’s a great start towards a free local flight or a discounted international adventure.
Some cards also offer bonus miles for travel-related expenses like flight or hotel bookings through their partners. It’s like building your travel fund with every swipe. If you’re lucky, some premium travel cards come with extra perks like free travel insurance, access to airport VIP lounges, and even concierge services. These little extras can make your travels smoother and more enjoyable.
You Unlock Exclusive Perks and Discounts
Speaking of extras, a good rewards program goes beyond points and miles. Many credit cards provide exclusive discounts and deals at popular restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment venues. Some even partner with specific brands so you get early access to events or limited-time promotions. With these cards, you’ll feel like a VIP while saving serious money, especially if you frequent those establishments or regularly buy from those brands.
Online shoppers can benefit significantly, too, as there are credit cards that offer bonus points, extra cashback, or easy installment plans for purchases made on popular online marketplaces or shopping apps. If you’re a frequent online shopper, these targeted programs effectively reward you for your digital habits, turning routine purchases into additional savings.
You Develop Better Spending Habits
A good rewards program can encourage responsible financial management. Knowing you’re earning points or cashback on everyday necessities can be a powerful motivator for mindful spending. It encourages you to consolidate your purchases, putting more of your spending through the card and thus maximizing your rewards accumulation. For example, instead of making multiple small trips to the grocery store, you might plan a larger shopping trip to earn more points at once. This can also lead to better budgeting since you track your spending more closely to ensure you get the most out of your card.
Additionally, a well-structured rewards program can incentivize paying your balance in full each month. Many programs offer bonus rewards, more points, or rebates for cardholders who consistently pay their statements on time and in full. This reinforces positive financial behavior and helps you avoid the high interest charges that can quickly negate any rewards you’ve earned.
Beyond just avoiding additional fees, you’re turning ordinary purchases into opportunities to build a solid credit history. Therefore, a credit card rewards program, when used responsibly, can be a valuable tool for building long-term financial health.
Make the Most of Your Credit Card Rewards Program
A rewards program is only beneficial if you’re spending within your means. The temptation to overspend in pursuit of more rewards is a common trap. The key is to use your credit card for purchases you would have made anyway, rather than spending extra just to chase rewards. A good rule of thumb is to treat your credit card like a debit card—only charging what you can comfortably pay off within the billing cycle. This disciplined approach ensures that your rewards program remains a gateway to exclusive perks and real savings.
If you’re on the hunt for a new credit card, now is the perfect time to start looking for a rewards program that matches your lifestyle. With the right strategy, your everyday spending can work for you, offering valuable returns that enhance your financial well-being.
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