Alaska Airlines is a well-known airline company that operates mainly in the western part of the United States and Alaska. They offer credit cards to their customers, providing several benefits and rewards for frequent flyers. This article will provide a comprehensive review of the Alaska Airlines credit card and highlight its key features, benefits, and drawbacks.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Alaska Airlines credit card, you must be a resident of the United States and have a good credit score. You must also be 18 years of age or older to apply. Additionally, you must have a valid email address and be able to provide the necessary information to complete the application process.
Key Features
Sign-Up Bonus
The Alaska Airlines credit card offers a sign-up bonus of 40,000 miles after you spend $2,000 on purchases within the first 90 days of account opening. This bonus is a great way to earn miles, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.
Earn Miles on Everyday Purchases
One of the main benefits of the Alaska Airlines credit card is the ability to earn miles on everyday purchases. This means that you can earn miles even when you are not flying with Alaska Airlines simply by using your credit card for everyday purchases.
Companion Fare
One of the most valuable benefits of the Alaska Airlines credit card is the Companion Fare. This benefit allows you to bring a companion on a flight for just $121 ($99 plus taxes and fees) when you purchase an economy-class ticket. This can save you hundreds of dollars on flights and is a great way to travel with a friend or family member.
Free Checked Bags
This benefit can save you up to $120 per round trip, making it a great way to save money on travel expenses.
Priority Boarding
With the Alaska Airlines credit card, you will receive priority boarding, which means you will be among the first to board the plane. This can be a great benefit, as it allows you to get settled on the plane and access overhead bin space before other passengers.
No Foreign Transaction Fees
The no foreign transaction fees, making it a great option for travellers who use their credit cards while travelling abroad. This can save you hundreds of dollars in fees, making it a great option for frequent travellers.
Drawbacks
Annual Fee
This fee can be a drawback for some people, as it can offset some of the benefits and rewards the card provides.
Limited Redemption Options
Another drawback of the Alaska Airlines credit card is that the miles earned can only be redeemed for Alaska Airlines flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses. This means that you are limited in how you can use your miles, which can be a drawback for some people.
Additional Benefits
In addition to the key features and benefits discussed above, the Alaska Airlines credit card also offers several additional benefits, including:
- Travel Accident Insurance: Coverage for accidental death or dismemberment while travelling on a common carrier
- Extended Warranty: An additional year is added to the manufacturer’s warranty for eligible items purchased with your card
- Concierge Services: Access to a team of experts who can assist with a variety of services, such as dining reservations and event tickets
- Roadside Assistance: 24/7 support for towing, jump-starting a dead battery, changing a flat tire, and more
These additional benefits add value to the card and can provide peace of mind for cardholders, whether travelling or just using their card for everyday purchases.
Conclusion
If you frequently fly with Alaska Airlines and want to maximize your travel expenses, the Alaska Airlines credit card may be a good option. Its benefits and rewards can help you save money on flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses. However, you are not a frequent traveller or do not frequently fly with Alaska Airlines. In that case, better credit card options may offer more flexibility and redemption options.
It is important to carefully consider your spending habits and travel goals before applying for any credit card. Make sure to read the terms and conditions of the Alaska Airlines credit card and compare it to other credit cards to determine which card is the best fit for your needs. Overall, the Alaska Airlines credit card can be a great option for frequent flyers, but it is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks before deciding. With its sign-up bonus, the ability to earn miles on everyday purchases, and valuable benefits like the Companion Fare and free checked bags, it can provide a great way to save money on your travel expenses.
