Hello all
First time posting here...
I'm just starting to research "manipulating" credit cards for points/rewards. Have a few questions... First of all, I've done this to some extent but not as thought out and strategic as most of you all
We opened a Disney CC a few years ago for that bonus. DH and I each have business US Bank cards that let us earn 3x points in certain categories (we utilize that a good bit). Opened an SPG amex for the bonus points last spring, we got 5 nights at dolphin out of that and have earned more. The primary cards we use (US Bank CC), I redeem for those points for US Bank Rewards Card. $250 rewards card for 30k points. Our points add up faster because of 3x categories. We try to run a lot thru the cards. I would say we get a $250 card every 3-6 months just depending on use.
I'm thinking there is probably a better card to be using, or I need to keep swapping just to earn the bonus points. However, the more I research the more confused I get.
Need a little guidance...and I think the main hangup is this: we don't fly, so we don't need points for airfare and the best cards/rewards/bonuses seem to be for travel.
Additionally, we normally rent DVC at DW, do a condo or house at beach or mountains...so even hotel stays aren't that beneficial. I mean we could make it work, but when we go to the mountains as a family we would prefer a cabin over a hotel room.
As far as flying....here's where we're at. We are an 8hr drive from DW. We have flown once, found if we have a flight with a layover (even just a quickie) we can drive in almost the same time. Wouldn't mind if we could get a direct flight. We would fly out of CLT (Charlotte). Southwest looked like a good card for points but they don't do direct flights from CLT to MCO. American Airlines does direct flights but I've seen not so good things about trying to redeerm their rewards for flights. We don't need to fly anywhere else (one day I want to get to Hawaii, but that's long-term, DH wants kids to be older).
Maybe there is a way to use airline points for other rewards but still for a good value? Or wWhat is a good card/cards for earning points on business and everyday purchases that provide a good redemption value (for gift cards or cash back)?
I actually just signed up for the chase freedom for myself. I'm curious about the Chase Rewards and what sort of things you can redeem for? I was thinking of also applying for the sapphire preferred or business ink, I was reading on points guy that you can move points back and forth and they work together well??
Anyway, sorry this post is so long! A little overwhelmed and need to be pointed in the right direction
TIA