A couple of questions from a newbie

[calgarychris]

Hi all,

Be gentle - I've been reading lots (and lots and lots) but still have lots to learn! After years of having a basic ANZ platinum card which gave me nothing, and getting a little peeved that I was getting little value from my Breakfree package at ANZ, I queried one of the branch staff who told me I was able to get any cc for free…So I looked around and eventually settled on the black card(s). I decided to apply separately under the 80K QFF bonus and got the cards today although I'm still waiting on the welcome pack, activation and pins. I don't generally put much on cc as I prefer to pay cash, but I'll change that in order to hit the $7,500 requirement. I did have a couple of questions for the gurus on here - I've searched but some of this is opinion:

1. Assuming I get the bonus points is this card a decent one to keep and use long term in terms of earn rate? I will likely add a card of two here and there but I can't see myself churning quite as much as the most diligent among you
2. If I'm struggling to hit $7,500 in spend, does buying the Woolworths or Coles gift cards count towards spend?
3. I can get Woolies cards at 5% off with free shipping through RACV, is there anything similar for Coles (which is closer and more convenient!)
4. Is there any long term implications to churning cards? My Veda score was >850 and I'd rather not damage it too much
5. Are getting cabin upgrades a decent use of QFF vs. getting economy fares vs. anything else? I know that RTW fares seem to have the most fans but I can't see myself getting enough time off work to do that

Ultimately I'm looking to potentially have myself and the missus get some free flights or travel in style. I am tempted by lounge access but don't really travel enough to make that worthwhile - a couple of business trips plus a couple of international trips a year...

Thanks very much for any tips and advice!

 

[JessicaTam]

Hi all,

Be gentle - I've been reading lots (and lots and lots) but still have lots to learn! After years of having a basic ANZ platinum card which gave me nothing, and getting a little peeved that I was getting little value from my Breakfree package at ANZ, I queried one of the branch staff who told me I was able to get any cc for free…So I looked around and eventually settled on the black card(s). I decided to apply separately under the 80K QFF bonus and got the cards today although I'm still waiting on the welcome pack, activation and pins. I don't generally put much on cc as I prefer to pay cash, but I'll change that in order to hit the $7,500 requirement. I did have a couple of questions for the gurus on here - I've searched but some of this is opinion:

1. Assuming I get the bonus points is this card a decent one to keep and use long term in terms of earn rate? I will likely add a card of two here and there but I can't see myself churning quite as much as the most diligent among you
2. If I'm struggling to hit $7,500 in spend, does buying the Woolworths or Coles gift cards count towards spend?
3. I can get Woolies cards at 5% off with free shipping through RACV, is there anything similar for Coles (which is closer and more convenient!)
4. Is there any long term implications to churning cards? My Veda score was >850 and I'd rather not damage it too much
5. Are getting cabin upgrades a decent use of QFF vs. getting economy fares vs. anything else? I know that RTW fares seem to have the most fans but I can't see myself getting enough time off work to do that

Ultimately I'm looking to potentially have myself and the missus get some free flights or travel in style. I am tempted by lounge access but don't really travel enough to make that worthwhile - a couple of business trips plus a couple of international trips a year...

Thanks very much for any tips and advice!

Whilst I can't answer questions about the ANZ card, upgrades are a better use of points than economy (Y) seats. Although upgrades are a lottery, and if you don't fly much it is unlikely that you would be high on the status/upgrade list.

A better option may be to buy J (business class ) seats with your points when they become available.

Oh, welcome to AFF!

 

[OATEK]

Using CC earn and bonus offers can very quickly get you into enough points to enjoy some premium flight. We use the points mostly for Domestic J travel, that gets you at the pointy end, and includes lounge access.

There are issues with CC churn, depending on more factors than just CC applications. We limit to looking at a new card once each year, but you should have a good read of the various threads about CC promos etc, and this one seems to apply direct to your question: http://www.australianfrequentflyer....stions/how-many-credit-cards-apply-73102.html

 

[marki]

Also some CC especially the paid ones offer Wantas Club yearly membership ( free) along with priority one access to world wide lounges. Oh and By the way welcome to AFF

 

[calgarychris]

Thanks for the welcome and the tips! Activated the cards, here we go!

Which cards offer Qantas Club? I've only seen one with vouchers or discounts...

Thanks again!