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One of the ways you can use credit cards to your advantage is to choose rewards cards that offer travel bonuses. You can do even better if you get a credit card associated with one of the airlines. Most of these cards are through major issuers, so you can use them for everyday purchases, while building up miles at a specific airline. If there is an airline that you prefer, you can use an airline credit card to boost your frequent flier miles, and enjoy other perks.

However, you do need to think twice before getting an airline credit card. Airline credit cards often come with high interest rates, so they are not for those who carry a balance. If you carry a balance, it won’t take long for the interest charges to effectively negate the benefits of your airline rewards. Also, keep an eye out for annual fees and other costs. These cards are usually best for the frequent traveler.

Capital One® Venture(SM) Rewards Credit Card

Money Magazine couldn’t get it wrong right? They named their Best Rewards Card ^[3] if you are looking to earn reward miles. That’s a pretty good endorsement from one of the best names in the business.

Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card from Chase

Unfortunately this offer is no longer available.

If you’re a fan of Southwest and of getting rewards, the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Plus card card might be for you. You can redeem your points for international travel, as well as car rentals, hotels and store gift cards. Also includes getaway options and you get a 3,000 point anniversary bonus. You get two points for every dollar spent on Southwest travel purchases, and one point per dollar on everything else. Annual fee is $59.

• Limited Time! Earn Two Free Flights after your first purchase.
• Get 6,000 Points every year on your Card member Anniversary – that’s equal to $100 toward a Wanna Get Away® Fare
• Now you can redeem for International Travel, Hotels, Gift Cards and more.
• Earn unlimited Free Flights – 2 Points per $1 Spent on Southwest Purchases and 1 Point per $1 Spent on everything else
• Your Bags Fly Free! No Blackout Dates, Points Don’t Expire, and Unlimited Reward Seats!
• No Change fees – if you need to change your flight, you won’t be charged a fee.
• September 11th Security Fee Applies

Delta SkyMiles Gold from American Express

With the Delta SkyMiles Gold from American Express ^[4], you can get 20,000 miles as a bonus for your first purchase, and then another 5,000 when add two additional cardmembers to your account. That’s enough for a free flight. This card also allows you to check your first bag for free when you fly Delta. You earn Delta SkyMiles when you make purchases with your card, and a $99 complimentary economy certificate for a companion each year when you renew. Annual fee is waived for the first year, but kicks in at $95 later.

If you don’t mind paying $150, you can get a Platinum card, with Miles Boosts, and a few other perks. There is also the Reserve card, which is for the serious traveler. But you have travel a lot, and want to wait in the Delta Sky Club, as well as feel the personal concierge assistance is worth $450 a year.

What’s your favorite airline reward card?