Not Everyone Should Do This
Here's something other points websites won't tell you: this hobby isn't for everyone.
We want to be upfront about that. Points and miles can be incredibly rewarding, but they require certain circumstances to make sense. Let's look at both sides honestly.
This Is Probably Right for You If...
Interest charges will quickly erase any rewards value. This is non-negotiable.
Groceries, gas, dining, bills—$2,000-3,000/month in natural spending is a reasonable baseline.
Points are only valuable if you'll actually use them. Dream trips make great goals.
You don't need to become an expert, but some learning is required.
Award travel often requires booking months in advance.
This Might Not Be Right for You If...
Even a 20% APR on a small balance will cost more than any rewards you earn.
Focus on becoming debt-free first. Points will wait.
You likely won't be approved for the best cards anyway.
If having a new card makes you spend more, the math doesn't work.
A 2% cashback card might genuinely be better for your lifestyle.
If you carried a $3,000 balance at 22% APR for one year, you'd pay about $660 in interest. To earn that much back in rewards, you'd need to spend over $60,000 on a 1% card. Credit card debt is the enemy of this hobby.
The Time Investment
Be realistic about how much effort you want to put in:
- Minimal approach: Get one good card, use it for everything, occasionally transfer for a trip. Maybe 1-2 hours per booking.
- Moderate approach: Two or three cards, optimize bonus categories, plan redemptions strategically. A few hours per month.
- Enthusiast approach: Multiple cards, chase bonuses, find sweet spots, stay current on deals. Can become a hobby itself.
All approaches can work—the "right" one depends on your personality and available time.
The Simplicity Alternative
If this all sounds like too much, there's no shame in a simple 2% cashback card. You'll earn slightly less value overall, but with zero complexity. That's a valid choice.
The worst outcome is getting a travel card, feeling overwhelmed, and letting points expire or redeeming them poorly. If simplicity genuinely fits your life better, embrace it.
Ready to Continue?
If you've read this lesson and still feel excited about the possibilities, great! You're in the right place. In the next lesson, we'll address one of the biggest concerns people have: credit scores.