Summer is the perfect time for unforgettable experiences, whether it’s catching your favorite band live, visiting theme parks, or exploring local events. However, the costs of these activities can add up quickly. But suppose you hold a rewards credit card or one of the best credit cards for entertainment. In that case, there are several ways to save, whether through cash-back offers, exclusive discounts, or other clever utilization strategies.
Here are some of the best credit card tips to help make your summer outings more affordable.
Unlock exclusive access with credit card partnerships
Many credit card programs offer perks that go beyond everyday spending, allowing you to redeem rewards for event tickets, airline miles, or even hotel stays. These partnerships can unlock a world of exclusive experiences, often providing free or discounted entry.
American Express cardholders, for instance, can leverage Amex Experiences for early ticket access, presale perks, and reserved seating at highly sought-after events like Coachella.
Similarly, card_name and card_name cardholders gain entry to the Chase Experiences® platform. This grants preferred seating and VIP access to a diverse range of events, from sports games and music festivals to unique culinary experiences.
Finally, Capital One frequently collaborates with venues and events to provide cardholders with early ticket access or special lounge privileges at music festivals and sporting events. In the past, Capital One cardholders have enjoyed presale access to iHeartRadio events and exclusive perks at festivals like BottleRock.
Redeem points to cover summer event costs
If you’ve been stockpiling credit card rewards points, summer is a great time to redeem them.
Here’s how to get the most out of your points for summer activities:
- Check your rewards portal: Most major credit card issuers have dedicated online portals where you can redeem points directly for tickets to concerts, festivals, or theme parks.
- Book travel with points: If your event involves travel, consider using your points for flights, hotel rooms, or car rentals. This not only saves you cash, but can free up your budget for other activities.
- Redeem for gift cards: Some rewards programs offer gift cards for popular ticketing platforms or travel services, giving you another way to cover your costs.
Be strategic about your redemption and remember these tips for maximizing credit card rewards and benefits effectively. Points often have varying values depending on how you use them. For example, booking travel through your card issuer’s portal could get you more value than redeeming for cash back.
➤ SEE MORE:Why you should use your credit card’s travel portal
Tips to avoid common summer credit card pitfalls
While credit cards can be a great tool for earning rewards or covering travel costs, they can also lead to unnecessary debt if not used wisely. One of the biggest pitfalls to watch out for is overspending just to earn rewards. While that concert ticket or resort stay might help you reach a spending threshold for a bonus, it’s important to ask yourself whether it fits into your budget. Credit card rewards are only valuable if you’re not going into debt to earn them.
Another major issue to be aware of is carrying a balance. High interest rates on many rewards cards can quickly erase the value of any perks you earn. If you don’t plan to pay off your balance in full each month, any cash back or points earned may not be worth the added cost of interest charges.
This is especially important during the summer when larger, one-time purchases like travel or event tickets can rack up fast. If you know you’ll need to spread out payments, consider using a card with a 0% introductory APR instead.
Foreign transaction fees are another common trap for summer travelers heading overseas. Many cards charge an additional 2% to 3% fee on purchases made abroad, which can add up quickly. Before you leave the country, double-check that your card waives foreign transaction fees.
Popular travel cards like the card_name and card_name do not charge this fee, making them some of the best credit cards for entertainment and travel abroad.
➤ SEE MORE:Best no foreign transaction fee credit cards
Best credit cards for summer events
Whether you’re looking for credit cards for entertainment, a credit card for concert tickets, or the best credit card for movie tickets, certain credit cards can be especially helpful for summer fun. Here are some of the best options to consider.
How can I maximize my credit card perks?
Maximizing your credit card perks during the summer starts with knowing what your card offers and using those benefits strategically. Start by logging into your credit card account online or through the app and reviewing any limited-time offers or seasonal promotions. Many credit cards have special discount portals where you can activate cash-back deals for popular retailers, restaurants, and travel services. These offers change regularly, so check in often and add them to your account before making a purchase.
Another smart strategy is to pair your credit card rewards with loyalty programs. For example, if you’re booking a hotel or flight, use your travel rewards card and enter your frequent flyer or hotel loyalty number at checkout. This lets you “double dip” by earning both credit card points and loyalty program rewards for the same purchase.
You can also sometimes redeem your card’s points through its travel portal for added value.
Finally, don’t forget about rotating bonus categories or special spending boosts. Some cards, like the card_name and the card_name, offer 5% cash back when you enroll in select categories that change each quarter, such as gas stations, streaming services, or restaurants, which can be perfect for summer spending. Just be sure to activate these categories ahead of time so you can take advantage of the bonus earnings.
➤ SEE MORE:How to maximize quarterly credit card bonus categories
In addition to earning perks, your credit card can also protect your purchases and travel plans. Many cards come with built-in purchase protection benefits, such as ticket insurance for canceled events, fraud protection for unauthorized charges, and extended warranties on eligible purchases like electronics or travel gear, as well as things like car rental insurance and trip cancellation insurance.
➤ SEE MORE:Guide to credit card travel insurance
The bottom line
A well-chosen credit card can do more than just help you pay for your summer adventures. It can actually make them more affordable. From concert presales and theme park discounts to rewards that help offset your travel expenses, taking full advantage of your card’s perks can lead to serious savings.
Just remember to spend wisely, know your card’s features, and follow these credit card tips to make the most of your rewards for summer activities and more.
