There are so many credit card offers out there today - be sure to get the right type of credit card to maximize your travel rewards.

It seems like every major airline has teamed up with a credit card provider and sometimes multiple providers.  There are many factors to consider before choosing a rewards credit card.  Your selection will probably depend on which mileage program you're a member. Here are some things to consider when shopping for a new travel credit card.

Credit Card Details - Get the fine print on these items:

• Annual Percentage Rate for the Intro period
• The grace period to pay in full without interest charges
• Type of rewards : miles or points
• If point rewards : can point be used for any airline, hotel, or rental agency?
• Do the points or miles expire?
• Annual Fees? Free for first year?
• Easy and Low Fee Balance Transfers
• When redeeming points or miles - blackout dates, limited services, or restrictions?

Most travel credit cards come with some kind of travel insurance, lost or stolen baggage protection, and/or discounts on rental car services. Make sure you find a card that gives you something in return for your business.  When looking at reward cards that give you miles with an airline if you don't have a miles account with that airline already - be sure to get a card with the program that has a partnership with one of your preferred hotel companies as well.  Then when you stay at the hotel you can earn more miles - sometimes double or triple. 

Tip:  If you are coming up on the annual renewal for a travel credit card.  Try calling up the rebate credit card company and tell them that you'll cancel because you can't afford the annual fee at this time.  They might call your bluff and start with the "thank you for your business" spill.  Or they might cut the fee in half or waive it altogether.  It never hurts to try to save a few dollars.

Related Article: Frequent Flyer Miles >>