Travel is back for Australians: which credit card is suitable for your travel plans?

Travel is back on the cards for many Australians, according to the latest spending patterns from Citi Australia’s Credit Card Index. And there are a range of credit cards offering travel rewards and frequent flyer perks for those willing to compare their options.

Citi Australia data shows that for February, spending on airlines was up by almost 70%. Further, cruiseline spending was also up over 30% from January 2022.

With COVID-19 restrictions easing across the globe, it’s understandable that Australians that have been locked down for two years are looking to get overseas again, whether to reunite with family or for a holiday.

Citi Australia’s Head of Cards and Loans, Choong-Yu Lum, said: “It’s been a tough start to 2022, with unprecedented floods, escalating geopolitical tensions, and the continual impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“Despite these pressures, Citi cardholders are indicating there is demand to get life back on track and return to a pre-pandemic normal,” he said.

“It’s pleasing to see strong spend in travel and leisure categories, including airlines, cruiselines, hotels and resorts, dining, and retail, with February seeing significant spend increase in the travel category, with flights up by 69% and travel more broadly up by 34% compared to the previous month,” Mr Lum said.

Finding your frequent flyer credit card

Credit cards designed with travel in mind may help some cardholders get the best bang for their buck with generous rewards and perks.

This can include frequent flyer points on sign up and earning points through spending that may be exchanged for flights, seat upgrades and accommodation. As well as complimentary travel insurance, rental car insurance, concierge services and more.

If you’re considering booking a trip and wondering which credit cards could help you achieve your goals, it’s important to understand which card features best suit your needs:

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