Which credit card for travel?

If you’re a bit of a jetsetter, the credit card world is your oyster. In many ways, rewards credit cards are set up for travellers, because not only can you earn points while travelling, but you can put your points towards even more trips. It’s a win-win.

Plus, many of the included benefits and money-saving opportunities that come with rewards cards are especially useful for people who travel a lot. So, here’s what you should consider when choosing a credit card for travel.

What are your travel and spending habits?

Before choosing a credit card for travel, it's important to get an understanding of your travel habits. Think about how often you travel, whether you travel domestically or internationally, and if you're loyal to a particular airline.

It's also important to look at your monthly spend, because if you spend heavily on travel-related expenses, a card that offers higher rewards points in these categories might be suitable.

Each credit card will come with its own eligibility criteria, which typically include factors such as income requirements and minimum spend, so be sure to check these out when you're applying for a credit card to find the right card for you.

A sign-up bonus to get your points off the ground

Many rewards cards offer a substantial volume of bonus points when you take up a new credit card. You might want to check out the conditions though, as you may only get your points after spending a minimum amount on your card within a set time.

On top of bonus points, some cards also offer you a discount on your first annual card fee, which could save you hundreds of dollars.

Using rewards points 

Rewards credit cards can give you points when you pay with your credit card and let you redeem those points for gift cards, merchandise or cashback, or transfer them to your chosen frequent flyer program.

Westpac’s credit card rewards program is called Altitude. There are two types of Westpac Altitude rewards credit cards – Altitude Platinum and Altitude Black.

Westpac Altitude Rewards Black and Platinum cards allow you to earn membership rewards points on any eligible purchases and accelerated earn on flights, shop, stream, ride and stay on the selected participating merchants.

Altitude Qantas and Altitude Velocity credit cards allow cardholders to earn either Qantas points or Velocity points directly to those frequent flyer rewards programs, to be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or other travel benefits.

It’s important to note that these cards attract an additional annual fee for the frequent flyer rewards program itself. Also, don’t forget to look out for any bonus frequent flyer points or introductory offers when you take up a new rewards credit card. 

> Compare Westpac rewards credit cards

Benefits and rewards of a travel credit card

The rewards program is a key feature of any travel credit card, so look for a card that offers generous rewards on the purchases you often make.

Additional benefits could also enhance your travel experience. These might include complimentary travel insurance, purchase protection, lounge access at airports, or concierge services.

A range of travel benefits and rewards await Westpac rewards credit cardholders. Westpac rewards credit cards may include:

• International travel insurance
• Interstate flight inconvenience insurance
• Overseas transit accident insurance
• Purchase protection insurance
• Extended warranty insurance
• Rental vehicle excess insurance

Westpac Altitude Rewards Black Mastercard credit cards also come with exclusive airport lounge access and a complimentary concierge service, available 24/7 online or via phone. Your concierge can help with making travel arrangements, planning holiday activities, organising dining and entertainment, and even sorting out gifts and shopping.

> Explore Altitude benefits and rewards

Understanding foreign transaction fees

For any eager traveller, it's crucial to understand the foreign transaction fee that comes with using your credit card overseas. This fee is a percentage of the Australian dollar value of any foreign transaction, whether you’re making online purchases at an overseas merchant, or making overseas purchases in a foreign country.

Some credit cards waive this fee, making them suitable for international travel.

Overseas ATM withdrawals and cash advance fee

When it comes to making overseas cash withdrawals, you'll pay no ATM withdrawal fees when you take out cash from your credit card account at over 50,000 Global Alliance ATMs. However, other fees and charges may apply including a foreign transaction fee when using a debit or credit card.

It is also important to note that taking out cash from your credit card account is known as a cash advance, and a cash advance fee with a higher interest rate will apply, as well as no interest-free period on these withdrawals. Understanding this will help you be aware of the fees that could add up while you are away.

> Explore Westpac’s Global ATM Alliance

To sum up

Whether you’re travelling overseas or exploring some of the wonders in our own Australian backyard, there’s a range of credit card options on offer to help you get the most out of your trip.

It's important to consider your own travel habits, financial circumstances, and the features of each card to find the best fit.

With generous rewards points, and extras such as insurance and concierge services on offer, you can choose a card that suits your next adventure, although it is always worth noting that some terms and fees may apply.