3 Reasons to Buy Flights and Travel With Credit Cards

I grew up thinking credit cards were the financial equivalent of walking a highwire over Niagara Falls...in the rain…without a safety net. Indeed, if you rack up a balance, the interest payments can be costly. In a worst-case scenario, the debt can get out of control and trap you in a state of continual borrowing. 

But just as there are ways to see Niagara Falls without attempting to cross them on a tightrope, you can use credit cards without spiraling into debt. In fact, if you're booking a trip to the Falls, using a travel credit card has its benefits. Points or miles can lower the cost of your trip, while perks such as insurance and checked bags can help you reach your destination more smoothly.

The trick is to pay off your balance every month and only use your card for purchases you can afford. Here are three advantages to using your credit card when you travel.

1. You can earn points or miles so you can travel even more

The best travel credit cards pay excellent rewards when you're booking travel. It isn't unusual to find cards that pay 3x or 5x points or miles for travel bookings. If your card pays 3x points on travel, that means you'll earn 3 points for every $1 you spend in that category. Click here to learn more about travel credit cards and find one that matches your budget and needs.

Look for travel credit cards with a lot of flexibility in how you use points or miles. You'll have more options when you want to book your next trip. Depending on the card, you'll be able to book through the card's portal and/or transfer your rewards directly to an airline or hotel chain. 

Some credit cards also have welcome offers for new customers who spend a certain amount in a set amount of time. In some cases, that bonus can be hefty enough to cover your flights or a few nights in a hotel. If you're considering opening a new account, it's worth checking out potential credit card sign-up bonuses.

2. Travel credit cards can make every trip easier

From long lines to hidden airline charges and overpriced coffee, today's crowded airports can suck a lot of the fun out of travel. The perks that come with certain travel credit cards can ease the way a little, particularly if you travel frequently. 

For example, some cards give you airport lounge access and free checked bags. Others give statement credits for TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry, which let you skip some of the lines at the airport. Think about what perks you'll use most when comparing cards.

3. You're protected if things go wrong

Sadly, things don't always run smoothly when you're on a trip. Your flight may be delayed, causing you to miss that all-important connection. Your luggage might get lost or sent to some far-flung corner of the world. You might need medical treatment. 

The good news is that many travel credit cards have built-in insurance, as long as you use the card to book the flight. It's worth reading the fine print or talking to your card issuer to find out exactly what's covered. 

Some card insurance policies will pay out if you have to cancel your trip or have to cut it short for some reason. You may also have rental car insurance, so you don't need to take it from the rental company. Lost or delayed baggage insurance will cover the cost of any necessities or replacements. And medical coverage could be a lifeline if you have an accident or need to see a doctor while you're abroad.

Calculate if your card is worth the fee

There are some great reasons to use a travel credit card, but there is one caveat. While there are fee-free options, some cards with super-charged travel perks charge an annual fee. That can be anywhere from $95 to $695. 

Look at what value you'll get from the card and try to be realistic about which features you'll use. For example, you may find that the statement credits alone will more than pay for the fee. Or that the value of certain perks -- like free checked bags -- plus the extra rewards make the fee worth paying.

For many of us, there are great reasons to buy flights and hotels with the right credit card. Not only can the points or miles reduce your travel costs, but the perks and extra insurance can also reduce travel hassle.