When it comes to maximizing the benefits of your spending, Ireland’s Best Rewards Credit Cards offers a variety of incentives that can significantly enhance your financial experience. Whether you’re looking to earn cashback, accumulate Avios points for travel, or gain access to exclusive offers and experiences, the right rewards credit card can turn everyday purchases into valuable perks. These cards not only provide immediate savings but also offer long-term benefits tailored to different spending habits and lifestyles.
In Ireland, the range of rewards credit cards available caters to diverse preferences, from frequent travelers and luxury seekers to those who prefer straightforward cashback on their everyday spending. Each card comes with its own set of features and advantages, making it crucial to choose one that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle. For instance, some cards offer impressive cashback rates on initial spending, while others focus on travel rewards, such as free flights, lounge access, and priority boarding.
Additionally, many of these cards come with introductory offers like 0% interest on balance transfers and purchases, allowing you to manage your finances more efficiently. The key to maximizing these rewards lies in understanding the specific benefits each card offers and how they fit into your spending patterns. By selecting the right rewards credit card, you can enjoy a range of benefits that not only save you money but also provide unique experiences and opportunities.
In this guide, we will explore some of the best rewards credit cards in Ireland, highlighting their key features, pros and cons, and who they are best suited for. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a cashback enthusiast, or someone looking for exclusive perks, there’s a card out there that can help you make the most of your spending.
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Ireland’s Best Rewards Credit Cards
By using a rewards credit card in Ireland, you can earn cashback, Avios points, and access exclusive offers and experiences. This guide explores the top rewards credit cards available in Ireland, highlighting their benefits and features to help you choose the best one for your needs.
Avant Money Reward+ Card
Avant Money Reward+ Card
- Balance Transfers: –
- Purchases: 22.9% Typical APR
- Rewards:
- €150 cashback
- Up to 25% interest refund
- Avantages® loyalty program
Why We Recommend This Card:
The Avant Money Reward+ Card offers substantial rewards that can help you save money. As a welcome offer, you can enjoy a generous €150 cashback when you spend €500 within the first three months of opening your account. This cashback will be credited to your account within six months, provided you meet the spending requirements.
Additionally, you can receive up to 25% of your interest on purchases refunded each month, as long as you make at least the minimum repayment each month. This feature can significantly reduce your interest payments, making this card an excellent choice for those looking to save on interest.
Pros:
- Highest interest refund rate in Ireland
- Generous €150 cashback if you spend €500 within three months of account opening
- Access to over 300 offers with the Avantages loyalty program
- Option to add up to three additional account holders
Cons:
- Interest refund is capped at €24 per month and only applies to purchases
- €150 cashback requires a minimum monthly spend of €500 in the first three months
Bottom Line:
The Avant Money Reward+ Card offers exceptional cashback rewards and the highest interest refund rates available, making it ideal for those who want to save on large purchases and everyday spending.
Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card
Aer Credit Card – Purchases
- Balance Transfers: 0% for 6 months
- Purchases: 22.7% Typical APR
- Rewards:
- Instalment plan
- Travel Rewards for €6.50 per month
Why We Recommend This Card:
For those passionate about travel, the Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card is an excellent choice. For a small monthly fee, you can enjoy travel rewards worth over €461 per year. These rewards include fast-track and priority boarding passes, lounge passes, return flights to Europe (excluding taxes and charges), worldwide multi-trip travel insurance for the family, and the ability to boost your Avios points with every purchase.
Redeeming your rewards is simple. Join the Aer Lingus loyalty club, AerClub, and link your account to your credit card profile.
Pros:
- Travel perks worth nearly triple the annual card charge
- Earn Avios as you spend, which can be used as you wish
- 0% on purchases for six months or balance transfers for seven months
- Low-rate instalment option for large purchases
Cons:
- €6.50 monthly charge
- Free European flights require a €5,000+ spend each reward year
- Highest APR
Bottom Line:
This card is perfect for travel enthusiasts who frequently use their card for purchases and trips, making the most of the travel rewards on offer.
AIB Platinum Visa Card
Platinum Visa Card
- Balance Transfers: 3.83% for 12 months
- Purchases: 3.83% for 12 months, 17.0% Typical APR
- Rewards:
- 0.5% cashback
Why We Recommend This Card:
The AIB Platinum Visa Card is ideal for those who enjoy luxury experiences. You can earn 0.5% cashback (capped at €225) if you spend more than €5,000 over 12 months. Additionally, this card offers perks related to the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection.
While it does not offer a 0% interest period for balance transfers or purchases, it provides a low rate for both over 12 months and has the lowest APR among the rewards cards. To qualify, you need to have a salary of €40,000 or more.
Pros:
- Cashback rewards up to €225
- Access to the Visa Luxury Hotel Collection
- Low-interest rates for purchases and balance transfers
Cons:
- Requires a minimum spend of €5,000 for cashback rewards
- No 0% interest period for purchases or balance transfers
- High salary requirement to qualify
Bottom Line:
The AIB Platinum Visa Card is perfect for those who enjoy luxury perks and can meet the spending and salary requirements to maximize the rewards.
Why Choose a Rewards Credit Card?
Rewards credit cards offer incentives for spending, allowing you to earn cashback, travel rewards, and exclusive offers. The more you spend, the greater the benefits you receive. Some rewards cards also feature 0% interest periods on balance transfers and purchases, helping you manage your finances effectively.
Types of Rewards:
- Cashback and Interest Refund: Earn a percentage of your spending back as cash or receive a refund on interest.
- Air Miles (Avios): Collect points to use on travel, such as flights and accommodation.
- Exclusive Offers and Experiences: Access discounts, unique experiences, and special offers.
- Introductory Offers: Enjoy benefits like free stamp duty or access to learning resources.
How Do Rewards Cards Differ from Other Credit Cards?
Rewards credit cards offer additional benefits that regular credit cards do not. This can sometimes mean a slightly higher APR.
- Purchase Cards: Often offer longer 0% interest periods for large purchases.
- Balance Transfer Cards: Allow you to transfer balances from other cards with long 0% interest periods for repayment.
Rewards cards can still be used for standard credit card functions, such as money transfers, purchases, cash withdrawals, and balance transfers. They often include features like instalment plans for large purchases, up to 56 days of zero interest, and the ability to add extra cardholders for free.
Choosing the Right Rewards Card
Selecting the right rewards card depends on your spending habits, lifestyle, and financial situation. Consider these factors:
- Spending Amount: Some cards require a minimum spend to earn rewards.
- Repayment Ability: If you can pay off the balance in full each month, a cashback option might be best. If not, look for an interest refund or low APR card.
- Travel Frequency: Frequent travelers should prioritize cards that offer Avios or other travel rewards.
- Balance Transfers and Large Purchases: Choose cards with the longest 0% interest periods.
- Interest in New Experiences: Some cards offer unique experiences and retail discounts.
- Qualifying Criteria: Ensure you meet any salary or other requirements.
- Monthly Fees: Check if the card has a fee and if the benefits outweigh the costs.
How Cashback Works
Cashback cards give you back a percentage of what you spend. The more you spend and the higher the cashback rate, the more you earn. Approved transactions vary by provider, so check what qualifies.
FAQs About Ireland’s Best Rewards Credit Cards
1. What is a rewards credit card?
- A rewards credit card offers incentives like cashback, travel points, or exclusive offers for using the card. The more you spend, the more rewards you can earn.
2. How do I earn cashback with a rewards credit card?
- Cashback works by giving you back a percentage of your spending. For example, if you spend €500 and the cashback rate is 1%, you’ll get €5 back.
3. What are Avios points and how can I use them?
- Avios points are travel rewards that can be used for flights, accommodation, and other travel-related expenses. You earn points by spending on your card and can redeem them through loyalty programs like AerClub.
4. Are there any fees associated with rewards credit cards?
- Some rewards credit cards have monthly fees. It’s essential to evaluate whether the rewards and benefits outweigh the costs.
5. Can I transfer my existing credit card balance to a rewards credit card?
- Yes, many rewards credit cards offer balance transfer options, often with 0% interest for an introductory period.
6. What is the typical APR for rewards credit cards?
- The APR varies by card. For example, the Avant Money Reward+ Card has a typical APR of 22.9%, while the AIB Platinum Visa Card has a lower APR of 17.0%.
- How does the interest refund feature work?
- The interest refund feature gives you back a portion of the interest you paid on purchases, provided you meet specific repayment conditions, such as making the minimum payment each month.
7. What are the eligibility criteria for rewards credit cards?
- Eligibility criteria can include factors like a minimum income level, credit score, and spending requirements. For instance, the AIB Platinum Visa Card requires a salary of €40,000 or more.
8. Do rewards credit cards offer 0% interest periods?
- Yes, some rewards credit cards offer 0% interest periods on purchases or balance transfers. For example, the Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card offers 0% on purchases for six months.
9. Can I add additional cardholders to my rewards credit card?
- Yes, many rewards credit cards allow you to add extra account holders. The Avant Money Reward+ Card, for example, lets you add up to three additional cardholders.
Conclusion
Choosing the best rewards credit card in Ireland depends on your spending habits, lifestyle, and financial goals. Whether you’re seeking cashback, travel perks, or exclusive experiences, there’s a card that can meet your needs. By understanding the different features, benefits, and potential costs, you can select a rewards credit card that maximizes your benefits and enhances your financial wellbeing. Carefully evaluate your spending patterns and repayment abilities to ensure you choose the most suitable card, and enjoy the various rewards that come with your everyday purchases.
