There are more and more reward programmes based on points. You can get enough miles to fly to Paris just by using your credit card, or you can get points that can be used like cash just by shopping at your favourite stores. But with so many choices, how do you know which one will give you the most for your money?
Follow these tips to make sure you choose the best programme for your needs.
- Know how you live. Choose a rewards programme that fits with your goals and way of life. Try air mile travel reward programmes like www.milesource.com if you travel a lot.
In the same way, if you like doing things outside, you could look for a credit card like the Cabela's Club Visa, which you can find at www.cabelas.com. In the store and online, you can earn points that can be used to buy all kinds of hunting, fishing, and camping gear.
- Get what you deserve. Choose a reward programme where your hard-earned points don't have an end date. If it does, make sure you know when the points expire and use them before they do.
- Look for rewards that are flexible. Don't choose reward programmes that only let you use your points at certain stores. Look for options that give you more freedom, such as FreeStyle Rewards, which you can find online at www.freestylerewards.com. It lets you get points when you shop online at more than 175 stores that take part. You can turn your points into a debit card that you can use anywhere that accepts MasterCard, online or off.
- Click 'n' save. Choose reward programmes for online shopping that give you access to the stores you visit most often. You'll find everything you need, save money while you shop, and earn points as you go.
- Split the money. How would you like to give point donations to family, friends, or charities? Choose a reward programme that gives you the chance to do this.
- Compare. Compare point-based reward programmes the same way you would compare the prices of different items: think about what's important to you and figure out which ones will meet your needs.
