Earning KrisFlyer miles, the loyalty currency of Singapore Airlines, is a fantastic way to unlock dream travel experiences. Choosing the right credit card can significantly accelerate your mileage accumulation, turning everyday spending into luxurious flights and upgrades. This guide explores the best credit cards for earning KrisFlyer miles in 2024, helping you select the option that best suits your spending habits and travel goals.
| Credit Card | Earning Rate (SGD Spend) | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card | 1.2 miles per SGD locally, 2 miles per SGD on SIA spend | Accelerated miles on SIA group spending, complimentary hotel night each year, accelerated upgrade to KrisFlyer Elite Gold status with sufficient spending, travel insurance, priority check-in and boarding privileges, access to SATS Premier Lounge with spending. |
| American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Credit Card | 1.1 miles per SGD locally, 2 miles per SGD on SIA spend | Bonus KrisFlyer miles upon approval, accelerated miles on SIA group spending, travel insurance, access to SATS Premier Lounge with spending. |
| DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card | 1.2 miles per SGD locally, 2 miles per SGD online airfare & hotels | Lounge access (limited times per year), travel accident insurance, purchase protection, access to Visa Concierge services, competitive miles conversion rate. |
| Citi PremierMiles Card | 1.2 miles per SGD locally, 2 miles per SGD spent overseas | Lounge access (limited times per year), complimentary travel insurance, access to Citi World Privileges, flexible miles redemption options (including KrisFlyer), competitive miles conversion rate. |
| UOB KrisFlyer Credit Card | 1.2 miles per SGD locally, 3 miles per SGD on SIA spend | Accelerated miles on SIA group spending, bonus KrisFlyer miles upon approval, priority check-in and boarding privileges, travel insurance, dedicated KrisFlyer concierge service. |
| OCBC Voyage Card | 1.2 miles per SGD locally, 2.3 miles per SGD on foreign spend | Unlimited complimentary airport lounge access, complimentary limousine transfers, concierge service, travel insurance, flexible miles redemption options (including KrisFlyer), access to Voyage Exchange for exclusive travel packages. |
| HSBC Revolution Credit Card | 0.4 miles per SGD locally, 2 miles per SGD online and contactless payments | Excellent for maximizing bonus miles on online shopping and contactless payments, no annual fee, access to HSBC Home&Away privileges. Note: Miles are earned as HSBC Rewards points which can be converted to KrisFlyer miles. |
Detailed Explanations
1. American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card
This card is geared towards frequent Singapore Airlines flyers. You'll earn accelerated miles on Singapore Airlines group spending (including Scoot), receive a complimentary hotel night each year, and can even accelerate your path to KrisFlyer Elite Gold status with sufficient spending. The card offers travel insurance and priority check-in and boarding privileges for Singapore Airlines flights, enhancing the travel experience. It also provides access to SATS Premier Lounge with spending.
2. American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Credit Card
This card is a more accessible entry point into the KrisFlyer program. It offers a bonus of KrisFlyer miles upon approval, provides accelerated miles on Singapore Airlines group spending, and includes travel insurance. Like the Ascend card, it also offers access to SATS Premier Lounge with spending, making it a valuable option for those who occasionally fly with Singapore Airlines.
3. DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card
The DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card offers a solid earning rate and focuses on travel-related benefits. You'll earn accelerated miles on online airfare and hotel bookings. The card comes with lounge access (limited times per year), travel accident insurance, and purchase protection, providing peace of mind while traveling. DBS's competitive miles conversion rate makes it a popular choice for converting points to KrisFlyer miles.
4. Citi PremierMiles Card
The Citi PremierMiles Card provides a versatile way to earn miles. You'll earn accelerated miles on overseas spending. The card includes lounge access (limited times per year), complimentary travel insurance, and access to Citi World Privileges, offering discounts and perks worldwide. Its flexible miles redemption options, including KrisFlyer, make it a valuable option for diverse travel needs.
5. UOB KrisFlyer Credit Card
The UOB KrisFlyer Credit Card is designed specifically for KrisFlyer enthusiasts. It offers accelerated miles on Singapore Airlines spend and a bonus of KrisFlyer miles upon approval. The card also provides priority check-in and boarding privileges for Singapore Airlines flights, enhancing the travel experience. It includes travel insurance and a dedicated KrisFlyer concierge service for personalized travel assistance.
6. OCBC Voyage Card
The OCBC Voyage Card is a premium travel card offering a suite of luxury benefits. You'll earn accelerated miles on foreign spending. The card includes unlimited complimentary airport lounge access, complimentary limousine transfers, and a concierge service for personalized assistance. It offers travel insurance, flexible miles redemption options (including KrisFlyer), and access to Voyage Exchange for exclusive travel packages.
7. HSBC Revolution Credit Card
The HSBC Revolution Credit Card is a standout choice for maximizing bonus miles on everyday spending. It offers accelerated miles on online shopping and contactless payments, making it ideal for digital natives. The card has no annual fee, making it an accessible option for building up KrisFlyer miles over time. It also provides access to HSBC Home&Away privileges for discounts and offers. Note: Miles are earned as HSBC Rewards points which can be converted to KrisFlyer miles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best credit card for earning KrisFlyer miles?
The "best" card depends on your spending habits and travel priorities, but the UOB KrisFlyer Credit Card and American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card are generally excellent for those who frequently fly Singapore Airlines, while the HSBC Revolution Credit Card is great for online shoppers.
How do I transfer credit card points to KrisFlyer miles?
You typically transfer points through your credit card's online portal or by calling customer service; the process usually takes a few business days to complete.
Are there any annual fees associated with these credit cards?
Yes, most of the cards listed, except for the HSBC Revolution Credit Card, have annual fees; however, these fees are often offset by the benefits and miles earned.
What is a KrisFlyer mile worth?
The value of a KrisFlyer mile varies depending on how you redeem it, but it typically ranges from 1 to 5 Singapore cents when used for flights or upgrades.
How long are KrisFlyer miles valid for?
KrisFlyer miles are generally valid for three years from the date they are credited to your account.
Can I earn KrisFlyer miles on all types of spending?
Yes, you can earn miles on most types of spending, but some transactions, such as cash advances and balance transfers, may not be eligible.
Do any of these cards offer airport lounge access?
Yes, several cards, including the DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card, Citi PremierMiles Card, and OCBC Voyage Card, offer airport lounge access.
Is it worth getting a credit card just for KrisFlyer miles?
If you frequently fly with Singapore Airlines or its partners, a dedicated KrisFlyer credit card can be highly worthwhile, as it can significantly accelerate your mileage accumulation.
How do I maximize my KrisFlyer miles earning potential?
Use your KrisFlyer credit card for all eligible purchases, take advantage of bonus miles promotions, and consider signing up for KrisFlyer partnerships to earn miles on everyday activities.
What are the alternatives to earning KrisFlyer miles with credit cards?
You can also earn KrisFlyer miles by flying with Singapore Airlines and its partner airlines, staying at participating hotels, renting cars, and using other partner services.
Conclusion
Choosing the right credit card for earning KrisFlyer miles depends on your individual spending patterns and travel preferences. By carefully evaluating the earning rates, benefits, and fees associated with each card, you can select the option that will best help you unlock your dream travel experiences with Singapore Airlines. Consider your spending habits and preferred travel perks to choose the card that best aligns with your needs.