| | Finding your next card | | by Kyle Olsen, Points & Miles Reporter | |  | Hi everyone,
Last night was the annual TPG Awards, where we announced winners in 22 voting-eligible categories, such as Best U.S. Airline Loyalty Program (which had a winner change from last year!), Best New Cruise Ship and Best Travel Rewards Credit Card. Be sure to check out our full story on the winners, including some Spotlight Moments.
Speaking of the best credit cards, we get it: With so many options, selecting your next credit card can be overwhelming. If you want to revisit your card strategy, you can start by checking your current credit score at AnnualCreditReport.com. This will help you get an idea of which credit card you may be able to qualify for.
Next, evaluate your spending habits to identify categories where you spend the most. Look for cards that offer higher rewards in these areas to maximize your earnings.
Research the different card types available, such as cobranded airline and hotel cards, bank rewards cards, cash-back cards and no-annual-fee cards. Each type has its own benefits and redemption options, so choose one that aligns with your preferences. Also, don't forget to consider what you already have in your wallet.
For example, if you already have The Platinum Card® from American Express (which earns 5 points per dollar for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year), you might consider adding the American Express® Gold Card (which earns 4 points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and 4 points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $25,000 per calendar year and then 1 point per dollar after that).
With the Chase Freedom Flex, you have the opportunity to earn 5% cash back on a total of $1,500 worth of purchases in rotating bonus categories every quarter upon activation. By combining the Chase Freedom Flex with the Chase Sapphire Reserve, you can combine the points on both cards in your Ultimate Rewards account. This allows you to convert the 5% cash back from the Freedom Flex into an earning rate of 5 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent. According to TPG's valuations, this translates to a return of 10.25%.
Additional perks of the Chase Sapphire Reserve include a $300 annual travel credit and access to Chase lounges and Priority Pass lounges. Both are helpful if you travel frequently.
By considering all these factors, you can make an informed decision and find a credit card that suits your needs and goals.
Kyle
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