If you want to get more out of your credit card, consider a card with a rewards program attached. This way you will be earn points on your purchases, instead of only incurring nasty interest charges.

Be aware that cards with reward programs often cost more in fees and interest, so only choose a rewards card if you can pay off your balance in full each month. Also consider if the benefits you earn on your annual spending will outweigh the cost of the rewards program membership.

Frequent flyer rewards. If you are a loyal airline traveller, you could reap the benefits of a frequent flyer rewards card. Each time you pay for something using your credit card, you can receive Frequent Flyer reward points. They can be redeemed towards Qantas, Virgin, or other airline flights anywhere in the world. This type of rewards program can be great for frequent travellers, as well as for businesses with staff who travel frequently for work. Most programs have a main partner, such as Qantas Frequent Flyer or Virgin Velocity. However, some cards allow you to convert your points to a range of global frequent flyer programs based on what you need for your next dream holiday.
Cashback. Cashback reward programs allow you to redeem your credit card points for cash, usually in the form of money credited back to your account. These rewards function similarly to a delayed discount on your spending. The cashback offer may be a dollar value, or a percentage of your purchases. These are often capped at a set amount.
Travel. For each dollar you spend on a rewards program, you're allocated points that can be redeemed for travel perks, such as hotel stays, airport lounge passes and flights. These credit cards may also come with no overseas transaction fees on purchases.
Merchandise. For each dollar you spend, you earn points to go shopping for a wide range of items, such as appliances, sports gear, entertainment and more. Your choices are limited by what is offered in your provider’s catalogue.
Gift cards. Rewards points may also be redeemed for gift cards for a range of outlets, such as Myer or David Jones. Gift cards can offer a happy medium between cash back and merchandise. While not quite as versatile as cash, you might have more to choose from than the merchandise offered in rewards stores.

Here is a list of potential perks your credit card may offer you. Check the terms and conditions to see what is offered before you apply for any credit card.

Perk	About
Airport Lounge	Access to airport lounges, such as Business Class Lounges etc.
Concierge	Accessible by phone or online, a concierge service can organise travel arrangements, dining, entertainment and much more for you.
Discounted Annual Fee	Pay a lower annual fee for a set period of time.
Free Supplementary Cards	Additional cards available for no extra charge.
Partner Discounts	You may be eligible for discounts from partnered brands, such as fashion, dining, movies and more.
Special Events	Cardholders may gain exclusive access to special events, as well as access to lounges.
VIP Seating	Eligibility for VIP seating or packages for special events.
Reward Points	Dollars spent typically earn you rewards points that can be exchanged in rewards programs for things like home goods, electronics and giftcards.

Here is a list of potential protections your credit card may offer you. Check the terms and conditions to see what is offered before you apply for any credit card.

Protection	About
Fraud Protection	Protects you from losing money in the event of fraudulent transactions on your credit card.
Free Domestic Travel Insurance	Entitles you to a level of insurance over when travelling domestically in Australia. Can include anything from luggage cover to cancellation fees and personal liability cover.
Free International Travel Insurance	Entitles you to a level of insurance over when travelling internationally. Can include anything from luggage cover to cancellation fees and personal liability cover.
Extended Warranty	An additional insurance that extends the manufacturer or retailer’s warranty on your purchases.
Purchase Protection Insurance	Protects you against loss, theft or accidental damage
Rental Car Excess Insurance	Covers rental car excess costs in the event of accidents or other issues.
Transit Accident Insurance	Covers yourself or your family in the event of an accident or death while in transit (buses, trains, planes etc.), or while boarding or alighting.
Guaranteed Pricing Scheme	If you find a cheaper price for something you’ve already purchased using your credit card, Guaranteed Pricing Scheme works by paying the difference.

RateCity Credit Card Guide