Are you an avid traveler seeking exclusive perks and rewards? Look no further than the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card, your gateway to a world of travel benefits and rewards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key features, pros and cons, qualification requirements, and whether this card is truly worth it for your travel needs.
Key features of the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card
- Limited Time Online Offer: Earn an impressive 70,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ after spending $3,000 or more within the first 90 days of opening your account.
- Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™: Enjoy a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after spending $6,000 or more in purchases within the prior anniversary year.
- Free Checked Bag + Priority Boarding: Cardholders receive a complimentary checked bag when purchasing airfare with their card, plus priority boarding to streamline your travel experience.
- Unlimited Mile Earning Potential: Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2 miles for every $1 spent on select categories like gas and streaming services, and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.
- Flexibility with No Blackout Dates: Enjoy the freedom to book Alaska Airlines flights with no blackout dates, whether using miles or a companion fare.
- 20% Back on Inflight Purchases: Receive 20% back on Alaska Airlines inflight purchases when using your card.
- $100 Off Alaska Lounge+ Membership: Get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership purchased with your Alaska card.
- 10% Rewards Bonus: Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
Interest rates & fees summary
- Annual Fee: $95
- Standard APR: Variable, ranging from 20.24% to 28.24%
- Balance Transfer Fee: 3% of each transaction
Requisites for qualification
To qualify for the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card, applicants typically need a good to excellent credit score. Additionally, meeting the minimum income requirements and having a stable financial history may improve your chances of approval.
Benefits of the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card
Pros:
- Generous Welcome Bonus: The 70,000 bonus miles offered as a sign-up incentive can significantly boost your mileage balance, especially if you’re planning a big trip.
- Companion Fare Benefit: The annual Companion Fare is a standout feature, allowing you to bring a travel companion along for a nominal fee, making it perfect for couples or friends who frequently travel together.
- Free Checked Bag and Priority Boarding: Enjoying perks like free checked bags and priority boarding can enhance your travel experience and save you money on additional fees.
- Unlimited Mile Earning Potential: With no cap on miles earned and bonus categories for everyday purchases, you can quickly accumulate miles to redeem for flights or upgrades.
- Flexible Redemption Options: The ability to book flights with no blackout dates and use companion fares adds flexibility to your travel plans, allowing you to maximize the value of your miles.
Cons:
- Annual Fee: While the benefits outweigh the cost for many travelers, the $95 annual fee may deter those who don’t fly frequently or utilize the card’s features.
- Limited Airline Partner: While Alaska Airlines has a robust network of partners, those who frequently travel with other airlines may find limited utility in the card’s benefits.
- High APR: The variable APR can be steep, especially for those who carry a balance from month to month, potentially offsetting the value of rewards earned.
- Companion Fare Restrictions: The Companion Fare is subject to availability and certain restrictions, including blackout dates and limited seat availability, which may impact your ability to use this benefit.
How to apply
Applying for the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card is a straightforward process. Simply visit the Bank of America website, locate the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card page, and follow the instructions to complete your application. Be sure to have your personal and financial information ready, including your income and employment details.
Is the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card worth it?
In conclusion, the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card offers a wealth of benefits for frequent travelers, including a generous welcome bonus, companion fare benefit, and unlimited mile earning potential. However, the card may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those who don’t fly frequently or prefer a lower annual fee option.
Ultimately, the decision to apply for the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card depends on your travel habits, spending patterns, and willingness to maximize the card’s benefits.
