5 Things You Should Use Your Credit Card to Buy

a traveling women looking at departure times.

When it comes to making purchases, you have a variety of payment options — cash, debit, digital wallets, or credit cards. While each has its place, there are certain transactions where using a credit card is not just convenient but also financially smart. Here are five things you should always consider paying for with your credit card.

1. Travel Expenses: Why Should You Use a Credit Card?

From booking flights to reserving hotel rooms, travel-related purchases are among the best reasons to use a credit card. Many credit cards offer:

  • Built-in travel protection. Trip cancellation insurance, rental car coverage, and lost luggage reimbursement can save you money if something goes wrong.
  • Fraud protection. If your card is compromised while traveling, you can dispute unauthorized charges, something that’s not always possible with a debit card.
  • Rewards and perks. Travel-focused credit cards often offer airline miles, hotel points, or cashback on travel-related spending.

Why not cash or debit? Using cash while traveling can be risky, and debit cards may not offer the same fraud protection or perks.

2. Online Purchases: Are You Fully Protected?

Shopping online comes with risks, including fraud and data breaches. Credit cards provide an added layer of security:

  • Zero liability protection. Most credit cards protect you from unauthorized charges, making online shopping safer.
  • Dispute resolution. If you receive a defective or incorrect product, you can dispute the charge with your card issuer.
  • Purchase protection. Some credit cards offer extended warranties or coverage for stolen or damaged items.

Why not use a debit card? Debit cards pull funds directly from your bank account, and disputes can take longer to resolve, leaving you without money while your claim is being processed.

3. Recurring Bills and Subscriptions: Why is a Credit Card the Best Option?

Many people use their debit card for monthly subscriptions, but a credit card can offer better financial protection:

  • Avoid overdraft fees. If your checking account balance runs low, a recurring charge on your debit card could trigger an overdraft fee.
  • Earn rewards. If you have a cashback or rewards credit card, you can earn points on regular payments like streaming services, utilities, or gym memberships.
  • Easier dispute process. If you need to cancel a subscription or dispute a charge, a credit card gives you more leverage with the merchant.

Why not use cash or a debit card? Cash isn’t an option for automated payments. Using a debit card could put your checking account at risk in case of fraud or could cause your account to overdraft.

4. Big-Ticket Items: Can You Get Extra Benefits?

If you're making a significant purchase such as electronics, furniture, or appliances — using a credit card may be the best choice because of:

  • Extended warranties. Many credit cards offer free extended warranty protection beyond the manufacturer’s warranty.
  • Purchase protection. If an item is stolen or damaged shortly after purchase, some credit cards will reimburse you.
  • 0% intro APR offers. Some credit cards offer promotional 0% interest financing, giving you time to pay off large purchases without extra cost.

Why not use a debit card? You won’t get extended warranty benefits or purchase protection.

5. Emergency Expenses: Should You Rely on a Credit Card?

Unexpected costs like medical bills, car repairs, or home emergencies can disrupt your budget. A credit card can help by:

  • Providing instant funds. If you don’t have enough cash on hand, a credit card allows you to cover costs immediately.
  • Offering flexibility. You can pay off the balance over time, giving you more financial breathing room.

Why not use cash or a loan? Cash isn’t always readily available and sometimes loans take a few days to fund. Plus, emergency loans may have higher interest rates than a credit card.

Maximize Your Benefits with a TwinStar Visa® Credit Card

A credit card should be more than just a payment method — it should work for you. A TwinStar Visa® Credit Card offers:

  • Competitive rates
  • Rewards on purchases
  • Fraud protection and security features
  • Travel and purchase protections

Apply for a TwinStar Visa® Credit Card today and take advantage of smart spending benefits! Learn more here.