Hi AFF's, newb here, help needed!

[roosterz]

Hi everybody, happy to have found AFF as I'm beginning my learning and points journey. Could anyone point me to where I can a find a good CC strategy to maximise my points and so I choose the best CC, for a beginner? Thus far, I'm considering the AMEX Explorer card as a keeper for it's flexibility (and considering churning 1-2 cards per annum). Planning to start traveling from mid 2026 from home base BNE. Looking to travel to BKK, Japan, South Korea, Bali initially with 1 -3 trips per year. It seems Jetstar is the main airline that travels direct to these countries from BNE so was considering focusing on QFF points (but this could well be the wrong strategy?). Any advice would be most appreciated. Cheers all!

 

[BenG]

Welcome to AFF @roosterz . There’s plenty of info here if you have a bit of a dig around. I’m also sure there are many members much more knowledgeable about these things than myself that can help.

 

[Steady]

Welcome aboard @roosterz - if you are focusing on QFF points is the Explorer the best card as a keeper?

 

[DejaBrew]

A very warm welcome aboard AFF @roosterz

Regarding an AMEX card as a keeper, make sure you read up on the various AMEX card offerings to determine the one that will offer you the best bang for buck for your personal needs.

 

[Dr Ralph]

Welcome to AFF.

I don't believe that the information you seek is just in one place. Rather, your need to seek out the credit card churning threads.

 

[Dmac59]

A warm welcome to AFF @roosterz
Maybe start by browsing the Current Credit Card Offers Forum to assist you in making the CC decision.

 

[Doctore1003]

Depending on how much you spend, you could split between earning Amex points (eg to transfer to Singapore Airlines for flights to SE Asia) and Qantas Points.

Reward seat availability on SQ tends to be better than QF/JQ.

Points costs & taxes/fees vary widely, so there are many factors to consider.

Be aware that card sign up bonuses and earn rates are likely to fall from 1 July 2026 (see The RBA is Coming for Your Points). You should plan for them to drop by 50%+ potentially.

Good luck!