9 Best Frequent Flyer Credit Cards

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated October 3, 2025

Finding the right frequent flyer credit card can make every trip more rewarding by turning everyday spending into travel perks. Choosing the right program for points, miles, and travel benefits depends on your travel habits and loyalty preferences. This list of the nine best frequent flyer credit cards highlights top choices that deliver strong rewards, practical benefits, and flexible redemption options.

  • Qantas Premier Platinum Mastercard

    The Qantas Premier Platinum Mastercard is designed for frequent flyers who want to earn Qantas Points on everyday spending. It connects directly to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program, making it simple to collect and use rewards.

    This card also includes travel perks that appeal to those who fly often. It balances rewards earning with practical benefits like lounge access and insurance coverage.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1.5 frequent flyer points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on international purchases, which is higher than the average 1:1 points earning ratio
    • 1 point per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on domestic purchases, up to AUD 10,000 (approx. US $6,500) per statement period
    • 0.5 points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on domestic purchases after the AUD 10,000 (approx. US $6,500) cap is reached

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders may receive up to 90,000 Qantas Points: 50,000 points after spending AUD 5,000 (approx. US $3,250) within the first three months, and an additional 40,000 points if cardholders have not earned points with any credit or charge card over the previous year.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: AUD 399 (approx. US $260) per year, reduced to AUD 349 (approx. US $227) for the first year
    • Interest rate on purchases: 20.99% p.a.
    • Other benefits: Two Qantas Club lounge invitations per year, complimentary travel insurance
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%
    • Other relevant details: Access to Qantas Money app for tracking points and spending

    Key Benefits:

    • Earn Qantas Points on everyday purchases
    • Lounge invitations included each year
    • Complimentary international travel insurance
    • Bonus points for new members
    • Accepted worldwide as a Mastercard

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotels, and shopping through the Qantas Frequent Flyer program.

    Credit Requirements:

    Australian residents, financially stable, with the ability to meet repayments, and a positive credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has a high annual fee and foreign transaction fee, which may not suit all users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple earning categories and direct Qantas Points, making it easy for new cardholders to understand and use.

  • American Express Explorer Credit Card

    The American Express Explorer Credit Card is designed for travelers who want flexible rewards. Instead of locking users into one airline, it allows point transfers to multiple airline partners. This flexibility makes it appealing to people who fly with different carriers. It also provides travel-related perks that add value beyond everyday spending.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2 Membership Rewards points per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on purchases excluding government bodies in Australia
    • 1 Membership Rewards point per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on purchases at government bodies in Australia
    • Boost your points balance by adding up to 4 additional cards for family or friends at no extra charge

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 100,000 Bonus Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 (approx. US $2,600) in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: AUD $395 (approx. US $257)
    • Interest Rate on Purchases: 23.99% p.a.
    • Interest-Free Period: Up to 55 days
    • Other benefits: Travel insurance, purchase protection, lounge access offers
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Credit card
    • Foreign transaction fees: 3%

    Key Benefits:

    • Flexible points transfer to airline partners
    • Strong earning rates on travel and dining
    • Access to selected airport lounges
    • Travel insurance coverage
    • Purchase protection on eligible items

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, gift cards, or transferred to airline partners for more value.

    Credit Requirements:

    Australian resident (18+), stable income, established credit history, no defaults.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Acceptance may be limited in some regions, and the annual fee can be higher than basic travel cards.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple earning structure and flexible redemption, making it easier for new travelers to start collecting and using points.

  • American Express Velocity Platinum Card

    The American Express Velocity Platinum Card is a premium frequent flyer credit card designed for travelers who want to maximize points with Virgin Australia’s Velocity program. It offers strong earning potential on eligible purchases and provides travel perks that appeal to frequent flyers.

    This card is positioned as a higher-tier option compared to entry-level Velocity cards. It caters to those who want more than just basic points earning, with added benefits that support both everyday spending and travel.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2.25 Velocity Points per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on eligible purchases with Virgin Australia
    • 1.25 Velocity Points per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on everyday purchases
    • 0.5 Velocity Points per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on government transactions

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus Velocity Points after spending AUD $3,000 (approx. US $1,950) in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: AUD $440 (approx. US $286)
    • Interest Rate on Purchases: 23.99% p.a.
    • Other benefits: Complimentary domestic flight credit, lounge passes
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Extras: Access to Amex Offers and insurance coverage

    Key Benefits:

    • Complimentary Virgin Australia lounge passes
    • Bonus Velocity Points on sign-up
    • Complimentary domestic flight credit each year
    • Strong earn rate on Virgin Australia purchases

    Redemption Options:

    Velocity Points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or partner airline rewards.

    Credit Requirements:

    Australian residents (18+, citizen/permanent resident or long-term visa), suitable income and financial stability, and an established credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The high annual fee and limited acceptance of American Express may reduce its value for some users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides straightforward Velocity Points earning and travel perks that are easy to use without complex reward structures.

  • American Express Qantas Business Rewards Card

    The American Express Qantas Business Rewards Card is designed for businesses that want to earn Qantas Points on everyday spending. It links directly to the Qantas Business Rewards program, making it useful for companies that book frequent travel.

    It allows businesses to manage multiple employee cards under one account. This makes it easier to track expenses while still earning rewards for the company.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2 Qantas Points per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on Qantas products and services
    • 1.25 Qantas Points per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on everyday business purchases
    • 0.5 Qantas Points per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on utilities, insurance, and government transactions
    • After earning 500,000 Qantas Points in a calendar year, the everyday business earn rate changes from 1.25 to 0.75 Qantas Points per AUD $1 (approx. US $0.65) spent

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 150,000 bonus Qantas Points and receive AUD $250 (approx. US $163) in their Qantas Travel Fund after spending AUD $6,000 (approx. US $3,900) in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual Fee: AUD $450 (approx. US $293)
    • Interest Rate on Purchases: Up to 51 days interest-free when you pay your balance in full. If using Flexible Payment Option, 23.99% p.a. applies.
    • Other benefits: Travel insurance, Qantas Business Rewards membership
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Business credit card
    • Employee cards: Up to 99 at no extra cost

    Key Benefits:

    • Large welcome bonus offer
    • No extra fee for employee cards
    • Direct link to Qantas Business Rewards
    • Travel perks and insurance included
    • Helps consolidate business expenses

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other Qantas travel rewards through the Qantas Business Rewards program.

    Credit Requirements:

    Australian resident and business owner, ABN & GST registered, revenue ≥ AUD $75,000 (approx. US $48,750), no defaults in credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card carries a relatively high annual fee.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers straightforward rewards earning and redemption, making it easy for new business owners to understand and use.

  • Virgin Money High Flyer Card

    The Virgin Money High Flyer Card is designed for frequent travelers who want to earn Velocity Points on everyday spending. It connects directly with the Virgin Australia Velocity Frequent Flyer program, making it useful for those who fly often with the airline.

    This card focuses on travel perks and rewards rather than general spending features. It suits cardholders who value airline benefits and want to maximize their points-earning potential.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2 extra Velocity Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent directly with Virgin Australia
    • 1 Velocity Point per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on eligible transactions up to AUD 8,000 (approx. US $5,200) each statement period
    • 0.5 Velocity Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent thereafter

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders may receive up to 100,000 bonus Velocity Points, with 40,000 points for every month AUD 3,500 (approx. US $2,275) or more is spent in the first two months of membership. Plus 20,000 points if the cardholder keeps the card open for more than a year.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: AUD 329 (approx. US $213)
    • Interest Rate on Purchases: 20.74% p.a.
    • Other benefits: Virgin Australia lounge passes, travel insurance
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Travel rewards credit card
    • Additional perks: Bonus points on direct Virgin Australia bookings

    Key Benefits:

    • Earn Velocity Points on everyday spending
    • Access to Virgin Australia lounges
    • Complimentary travel insurance
    • Bonus points on Virgin Australia flights
    • Direct link with Velocity Frequent Flyer program

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for Virgin Australia flights, partner airline travel, seat upgrades, and gift cards.

    Credit Requirements:

    Australian residents, financially stable, with the ability to meet repayments, and a positive credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    High annual fees and few earning categories may not be ideal for casual travelers.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides a straightforward way to earn and use Velocity Points without needing to track multiple rewards programs.

  • ANZ Frequent Flyer Black Credit Card

    The ANZ Frequent Flyer Black Credit Card is designed for travelers who want to earn Qantas Points on everyday spending. It provides access to premium travel perks along with a higher points-earning potential compared to entry-level cards.

    This card is targeted at frequent flyers who value flexibility in earning and redeeming rewards. It also includes extra features that support both travel and lifestyle needs.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1 Qantas Point per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on eligible purchases up to and including AUD 7,500 (approx. US $4,875) per statement period
    • 0.5 Qantas Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent on eligible purchases above AUD 7,500 (approx. US $4,875) per statement period

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders may receive up to 130,000 bonus Qantas Points: 90,000 points in the first year and AUD 200 (approx. US $130) back after spending AUD 5,000 (approx. US $3,250) in the first three months of account opening. Plus an additional 40,000 bonus Qantas Points for keeping the card for more than a year.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: AUD 425 (approx. US $276)
    • Interest Rate on Purchases: 20.99% p.a.
    • Other benefits: Complimentary travel insurance, airport lounge passes, concierge service
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Credit card
    • Additional perks: Access to exclusive Qantas offers and partner promotions

    Key Benefits:

    • Earn Qantas Points on daily spending
    • Complimentary travel insurance coverage
    • Airport lounge invitations included
    • Concierge service for travel and lifestyle bookings
    • Bonus points for Qantas purchases

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and shopping through the Qantas Frequent Flyer program.

    Credit Requirements:

    Australian residents who are financially stable, with the ability to meet repayments, and a positive credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has a high annual fee, which may reduce its value for some users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a straightforward way to earn Qantas Points on everyday purchases while providing travel perks that are easy to use.

  • St. George Amplify Rewards Signature

    The St. George Amplify Rewards Signature is a travel-focused credit card designed for people who want to earn points on everyday spending. It offers a flexible rewards program that can be used toward flights, shopping, and other redemptions.

    This card is part of the Amplify Rewards program, which gives cardholders a straightforward way to build points quickly. It is suitable for frequent flyers who value flexibility in how they use their rewards.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3 Amplify Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) on international spend
    • 2 Amplify Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) on everyday spend
    • 1 Amplify Point per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 120,000 Rewards Points in the first year after spending AUD 12,000 (approx. US $7,800) or more, and an extra 40,000 points after the first eligible purchase in year 2.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: AUD 295 (approx. US $192)
    • Interest Rate on Purchases:
    • Other benefits: Travel insurance, purchase protection
    • Network: Visa
    • Type: Rewards credit card
    • Extra perks: Access to Amplify Rewards program partners

    Key Benefits:

    • Earn flexible rewards points
    • Access to partner airline programs
    • Complimentary travel insurance
    • Purchase security and extended warranty
    • Worldwide Visa acceptance

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for flights, merchandise, gift cards, or transferred to airline partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants must be Australian residents with steady income, a solid repayment capacity, and a clean credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    A variable annual fee may reduce the value for some users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides a simple earning structure and flexible redemption options, making it easy for first-time rewards cardholders to understand and use.

  • Westpac Altitude Rewards Black Credit Card

    The Westpac Altitude Rewards Black Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who want flexible rewards. It offers a strong points program that can be used across multiple airlines and travel partners.

    This card is positioned as a premium option with a focus on travel benefits. It provides access to a large welcome bonus and ongoing ways to earn points on everyday spending.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3 Altitude Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) on international spend
    • 2 Altitude Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) on everyday spend
    • 1 Altitude Point per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn up to 160,000 bonus Altitude Rewards points: 120,000 points in the first year after spending AUD 6,000 (approx. US $3,900) or more within the first four months of membership. Plus an additional 40,000 points after the first eligible purchase in year 2.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: AUD 295 (approx. US $192); discounted to AUD 200 (approx. US $130) in the first year
    • Interest Rate on Purchases: 20.99% p.a.
    • Other benefits: Lounge passes, travel insurance, concierge access
    • Network: Mastercard
    • Type: Rewards credit card

    Key Benefits:

    • Large introductory bonus points
    • Flexible rewards program with transfer options
    • Premium travel perks and insurance
    • Access to concierge services
    • Ability to link with Velocity Frequent Flyer

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, merchandise, or transferred to partner airline programs.

    Credit Requirements:

    Australian residents who are financially stable, with the ability to meet repayments, and a positive credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The high annual fee and extra charges for certain reward program transfers may not suit all users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Beginners can benefit from the large welcome bonus and straightforward earning system, making it easier to build rewards quickly.

  • American Express Velocity Escape Card

    The American Express Velocity Escape Card is a simple, entry-level travel credit card linked to the Virgin Australia Velocity Frequent Flyer program. It is designed for travelers who want to earn points without paying a high annual fee.

    This card focuses on straightforward rewards, making it easier for cardholders to build up Velocity Points on everyday purchases. It suits those who want to join a frequent flyer program without dealing with complex features.

    Earning Structure:

    • 1.75 Velocity Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent at the Virgin Australia online store (flights, wine, etc.)
    • 0.75 Velocity Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent at non-government bodies
    • 0.50 Velocity Points per AUD 1 (approx. US $0.65) spent at government bodies

    Welcome Bonus:

    This card does not offer a welcome bonus, which differentiates it from many premium travel cards.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: None
    • Interest Rate on Purchases: 21.99%
    • Other benefits: Access to Amex Offers and pre-sale tickets
    • Network: American Express
    • Type: Credit card
    • Other relevant details: Linked directly to Velocity Frequent Flyer program

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee to maintain the card
    • Earn Velocity Points on eligible purchases
    • Access to Amex Offers for shopping and dining deals
    • Pre-sale access to selected events

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and partner rewards through the Velocity Frequent Flyer program.

    Credit Requirements:

    Australian residents, minimum income of AUD 40,000 (approx. US $26,000), positive credit history.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Acceptance of American Express may be limited at some smaller merchants.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers an easy way to earn airline points with no annual fee, making it a low-risk starting point for frequent flyer rewards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a frequent-flyer credit card?

A frequent-flyer credit card is a rewards card that earns airline miles or points for everyday purchases. These points can be redeemed for flights, seat upgrades, or other travel-related benefits. Many also include perks like lounge access, travel insurance, and bonus miles for sign-up.

How do I choose the best airline credit card for my travel needs?

Start by reviewing your monthly spending and the categories where you use your card most, such as groceries, fuel, or overseas purchases, so you can pick a card that rewards your natural habits.

Evaluate the card’s points-earning limits and tiered rates against your budget, and see if it aligns with your existing airline points. Finally, match the card to your travel goals and preferred routes to maximize points without increasing your overall spending.

What is the best way to use frequent-flyer points?

You’ll generally get the most value by redeeming points for premium travel, such as business or first-class seats on long-haul flights. These bookings can provide better value per point than using points for economy tickets, hotels, or gift cards.

Upgrades can work too, but they depend on airline availability and often favor travelers with elite status, making guaranteed award seats a smarter choice.

How can I quickly build up frequent-flyer points?

Look for cards with great welcome bonuses and high rewards for travel or everyday spending, such as dining and groceries. Pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest that negates rewards. Pairing your card with an airline loyalty program and using it for all major expenses accelerates point accumulation.

How can I keep my frequent-flyer points from expiring?

Most airline programs require some form of account activity to keep points active. Using your frequent-flyer credit card, booking a small award ticket, or transferring points from a partner program can extend your points’ expiration. Regularly checking your account and scheduling small transactions helps protect your balance.