WealthGuide
18 January 2025•Credit Cards

A Guide to Credit Card Reward Programmes in Ireland

Credit card reward programmes are a great way to make the most of your spending, offering benefits such as cashback, travel perks, and exclusive discounts. In Ireland, several banks and financial institutions provide credit cards tailored to different lifestyles and spending habits. Here’s an overview of how these programmes work and what options are available.

By WealthGuide

A Guide to Credit Card Reward Programmes in Ireland

Credit card reward programmes are a great way to make the most of your spending, offering benefits such as cashback, travel perks, and exclusive discounts. In Ireland, several banks and financial institutions provide credit cards tailored to different lifestyles and spending habits. Here’s an overview of how these programmes work and what options are available.

Types of Credit Card Rewards

  1. Cashback Rewards:

    • Cashback cards return a percentage of your spending directly to your account. For example, the AIB Platinum Card offers up to €225 per year in cashback, while the Avant Money Reward+ Card provides up to €150 cashback when you meet specific spending thresholds.
    • Cashback is typically credited monthly or annually and often excludes certain categories like travel or utility bills.

  2. Travel Rewards:

    • If you’re a frequent traveler, the Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card is an excellent choice. It allows you to earn Avios points on purchases, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or car rentals through Aer Lingus’ AerClub program. Additional perks include priority boarding, lounge access, and travel insurance for a monthly fee of €6.50.
    • New customers can also benefit from promotional offers like 5,000 bonus Avios after meeting initial spending requirements.

  3. Exclusive Discounts and Experiences:

    • Cards like the Avant Money Reward+ offer access to over 300 discounts and exclusive experiences through their Avantages Loyalty Programme. This includes deals from top brands and opportunities for unique family experiences.

How to Choose the Right Rewards Card

When selecting a rewards credit card in Ireland, consider the following factors:

  • Spending Habits: If you spend heavily on shopping or entertainment, a cashback card might be ideal. For example, the Avant Money Reward+ card offers 1.25% cashback on these categories up to €144 per year.
  • Travel Frequency: For those who travel often, cards like the Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card provide substantial value with travel-related perks.
  • Annual Fees: Most rewards cards charge fees such as government stamp duty (€30 annually) or additional monthly charges (e.g., €6.50 for the Aer Credit Card). Ensure that the rewards outweigh these costs.
  • Redemption Flexibility: Check how rewards can be redeemed—whether as cashback credited automatically or points transferred to loyalty programmes.

Maximizing Your Rewards

To make the most of your credit card rewards:

  • Always pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges that could negate your rewards.
  • Use your card strategically for eligible purchases while staying within your budget.
  • Monitor reward caps (e.g., cashback limits) and take advantage of introductory offers.

Are Rewards Cards Worth It?

Rewards credit cards can be highly beneficial if used responsibly. However, they are best suited for individuals who pay their balances in full every month and align their spending with the card’s reward structure. If not managed carefully, interest charges can quickly outweigh any benefits.

Conclusion

Credit card reward programmes in Ireland offer diverse benefits tailored to different lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for cashback on everyday purchases or travel perks for your next holiday, there’s likely a card that fits your needs. Compare options like the AIB Platinum Card, Avant Money Reward+, and Bank of Ireland Aer Credit Card to find one that complements your spending habits while delivering maximum value.