BEST FREQUENT FLYER CARDS

GOLD WINNER AMERICAN EXPRESS A generous travel credit gets the year off to a flying start

American Express is clearly a dominant force in cards that offer frequent flyer rewards – so much so that this year’s results are the same as those for 2018.

Amex’s Platinum Edge lets you start each year with a $200 travel credit. You’ll be enrolled in the membership rewards Ascent program with access to nine airline partner programs, including Virgin’s Velocity, Emirates’ Skywards and Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer. You need an income of at least $50,000pa to be eligible.

The American Express Explorer Card rewards you with 50,000 bonus points when you apply (and are approved) online and spend $3000 on your new card within the first three months. Receive a $400 travel credit every year and enjoy two complimentary entries annually to the American Express lounges at Sydney and Melbourne international airports. The minimum annual income is $65,000.