How to be a rewards credit card power user

By Gabriella Margerison · · 3 min read
Fact Checked
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Credit card rewards programs can be a goldmine if you know how to navigate them right. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a cashback connoisseur, there’s a way to make your credit card work harder for you. Let’s dive into how you can become a power user of credit card rewards programs and get the most bang for your buck!

Choose the right card for your lifestyle

First things first, pick a credit card that aligns with your spending habits and lifestyle. Are you a travel enthusiast? Look for a card that offers travel rewards and perks such as flights or complimentary travel insurance . Prefer cashback or points for everyday purchases? There are credit cards for shopping rewards too. 

Check out the winners of the Mozo Expert Choice Awards for Credit Cards 2024 to find top-rated options that could suit your needs. These awards highlight the best in class, whether you’re after low fees, premium perks, or the top  rewards program.

Understand how rewards are earned

Each  card has different ways of earning rewards. Some offer higher points for specific categories like groceries, dining, or fuel. Make sure you understand how to maximise your points. For example, if your credit card offers double points on dining, use it every time you eat out.

Take advantage of sign-up bonuses

Many credit cards offer generous sign-up bonuses, but they often come with spending requirements. Plan your big purchases around these bonuses to meet the threshold and score those extra points or miles. Just remember, don’t spend more than you can afford to pay off in full each month.

Redeem wisely

Points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, but not all redemptions offer the same value. Mozo’s winning travel credit cards can help cut down holiday costs with benefits like complimentary travel insurance and zero foreign exchange fees according to Mozo Expert, Peter Marshall.  But if travel isn’t in your plans, look for a card that offers good value on cashback, gift cards, or products.

Pay attention to fees

Some of the best rewards cards come with annual fees. Make sure the rewards you earn outweigh the cost of the fee. If you’re not maximising the rewards, it might be worth considering a  no annual fee card instead. The Mozo Expert Choice Awards feature several no annual fee cards that still offer competitive rewards.

Stay on top of your spending

It’s easy to get carried away chasing rewards, but always make sure you can pay off your balance in full each month. Carrying a balance can quickly cancel out the benefits of any rewards you earn due to high interest charges. Keep your spending in check and enjoy those rewards guilt-free.

Keep your card active

Some rewards programs require regular activity to keep your points from expiring. Make small purchases occasionally to keep your account active and your points safe. Setting up a small recurring bill to be paid with your rewards credit card is an easy way to ensure you don’t lose your hard-earned points.

Stay informed

Rewards programs can change their terms on occasion, so stay informed about any updates or new opportunities to earn and redeem points. Sign up for provider emails and stay in the loop with MoneyZone for the latest updates on the best credit card deals.

By following these tips, you have the potential to become a master of your credit card rewards program and make your spending work harder for you. 

Don’t forget to check out the Mozo Expert Choice Awards for Rewards Credit Cards 2024 to find the top cards that can help you maximise your rewards.

Compare credit cards below

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Last updated 30 October 2024 Important disclosures
  • NAB Low Rate Card - Balance Transfer Offer

    Spend with confidence with a low 13.49% p.a. variable purchase rate and 0% p.a. interest on balance transfers for the first 28 months (T&Cs apply). 2% balance transfer fee applies. There’s also up to 55 interest free days on purchases to help you manage your budget better when you make minimum repayments. Minimum credit limit $1,000. No annual fee for the first year (usually $59).

    Purchase rate
    13.49% p.a.
    Balance transfer rate
    0% p.a. for 28 months and then 21.74% p.a. (2.00% balance transfer fee)
    Annual fee
    $59 $0 in the first year
    Rewards program
    -
    Compare
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    Details
  • Citi Rewards - Balance Transfer and Purchases offer

    Enjoy 0% p.a. for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers. Balance transfer reverts to cash advance rate. Earn up to 1 Citi reward Point per $1 on eligible transactions. Access up to 3 months complimentary International Travel Insurance and up to 14 days Domestic Travel Insurance with a Citi Rewards Credit Card when meeting eligibility criteria. Apply for a credit limit from $2,000 up to $100,000. Balance transfer fee applies. This product is provided by National Australia Bank Limited, using certain trademarks temporarily under licence from Citigroup Inc.

    Purchase rate
    0% p.a. for 15 months then 21.49% p.a.
    Balance transfer rate
    0% p.a. for 15 months and then 22.24% p.a. (2.00% balance transfer fee)
    Annual fee
    $199
    Rewards program
    Citi Rewards Program
    Compare
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    Details
  • Apply By 14 Jan 2025
    American Express Qantas Ultimate Card

    Receive 50,000 bonus Qantas Points when you apply online by 14 January 2025, are approved, and spend $3,000 on eligible purchases on your new Qantas American Express Ultimate Card within the first 3 months of your approval date. T&Cs apply. Available for new American Express Card Members only.

    Purchase rate
    23.99% p.a.
    Balance transfer rate
    No current offer
    Annual fee
    $450
    Rewards program
    Qantas Frequent Flyer
    Compare
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    Details
  • Kogan Money Black Card

    Get 0% p.a. on purchases and balance transfers for 9 months with a 1% balance transfer fee. Reverts to cash advance rate. $0 annual fee to pay. Earn 2 rewards points per dollar on your eligible purchases at Kogan.com & 1 rewards point per dollar on your everyday purchases, almost anywhere (T&Cs apply). FREE Kogan First membership valued at $129/year. Add up to 4 additional cardholders at no cost.

    Purchase rate
    0% p.a. for 9 months then 21.99% p.a.
    Balance transfer rate
    0% p.a. for 9 months and then 22.74% p.a. (1.00% balance transfer fee)
    Annual fee
    $0
    Rewards program
    Kogan Rewards Points
    Compare
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    Details
  • American Express Explorer® Credit Card

    Receive 50,000 Bonus Membership Rewards Points when you apply online, are approved, and spend $4,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 3 months. T&Cs apply. New Card Members only.*

    Purchase rate
    23.99% p.a.
    Balance transfer rate
    No current offer
    Annual fee
    $395
    Rewards program
    Membership Rewards
    Compare
    Go to site
    Details

^See information about the Mozo Experts Choice Credit Card Awards

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