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When shopping for a rewards credit card, most people focus on the cash back or points offered. But some cards carry added, and often overlooked, benefits that can be quite valuable. 

Understanding different card perks can help you decide which will be most beneficial for you. Maybe you travel a lot and would enjoy airport lounge access. Or maybe you’re a frequent shopper and want purchase protection on your items.  

Here are 6 hidden credit card perks that have the potential to save you money and even improve your life. 

Many cash-back reward cards offer flat rate cash back on all purchases. But some cards offer higher cash-back rewards for specific or rotating categories, helping you earn even more. 

For example, the Bank of America® Customed Cash Reward Credit Card offers 3% cash back in a specific category of your choosing, including gas, online shopping, dining, travel, drugstore, and home improvement (up to a $2,500 spending limit each quarter). 

You can swap your highest-earning category monthly, maximizing your cash back throughout the year as your spending habits change. For example, you could select the gas category if you’re road-tripping in the summer and then change it to online shopping in the winter as you tackle your holiday list. 

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ has rotating cash-back categories that change automatically each quarter, incentivizing you to match your spending to the bonus category.

If you want to earn more cash back, look for cards that offer bonus rewards in the categories where you spend the most. This perk can help you save on everyday expenses and even put extra cash toward building an emergency fund. 

If you’re a frequent traveler, a card that provides extra value in airports and hotels can make a big difference. 

Some cards offer access to airport lounges, priority boarding, free checked bags and even complimentary hotel upgrades. These benefits can help you travel more comfortably while saving on expenses that would otherwise add up quickly.

For example, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers unlimited access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass lounges. Don’t worry about leaving your travel companions behind: You can bring up to two guests.

Or maybe you care more about the destination than the journey. 

The Platinum Card® from American Express includes bonus hotel perks like room upgrades and early check-in. You’ll also get complimentary travel credits for hotel purchases in the American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts program. These benefits can make your stay more comfortable and affordable. 

No one wants to deal with flight delays or cancellations while traveling. But luckily, many credit cards with travel insurance perks can provide coverage for such events. 

For example, the United Club℠ Infinite Card comes with trip cancellation and interruption insurance that can help you recoup your costs when the unexpected happens. Some cards also offer baggage protection, reimbursing you if you lose your luggage. The best part? This perk comes at no extra cost to you. 

Chances are your card already offers some sort of travel insurance, but the amount of protection you get varies by card. Ensure you understand what’s covered and the maximum limits before picking a card with this benefit. 

Purchasing expensive electronics or appliances can be anxiety-inducing if something goes wrong after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.

However, some credit cards automatically extend the warranty on eligible purchases. This perk can save you money on repair costs, providing added protection on your big-ticket items. For example, the American Express Gold® Card offers an additional year of extended warranty if that original warranty is five years or less. 

Each card has limits on how much they’ll cover per purchase, but if you need to replace a major item that’s covered by warranty, this perk can be very valuable. 

If you’ve ever broken a phone in the past few years, you probably know how expensive it is to repair or replace them. 

Fortunately, certain credit cards provide phone protection plans. By using your credit card to pay your phone bill, your card may then cover you if your phone is lost or stolen. This perk can save you hundreds of dollars on costly repairs or replacements.

For example, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ will cover up to $800 per claim and $1,000 annually if your phone is damaged or stolen. There’s a $50 deductible on all claims. 

Free shipping can save you money on every online purchase. This perk is especially valuable if you frequently shop online. 

Many cards offer this perk through Shoprunner, a membership service that offers free two-day shipping and free returns. This includes American Express cards, World and World Elite Mastercards, and many store credit cards. 

If you find yourself adding extra items to your cart to reach the free shipping threshold or want faster shipping, you might get serious use out of this perk. 

When picking a rewards credit card, don’t get distracted by flashy perks, especially ones you won’t use. Many cards with exciting rewards and perks also come with an annual fee. It’s important to understand the tradeoff between the annual fee and the perks you get, says R.J. Weiss, a certified financial planner and founder of The Ways to Wealth. 

For example, some credit cards offer discounts on subscription services. While these perks can be helpful, Weiss explains, they may tempt you to spend more to earn the credit. 

“To evaluate these bonuses is to ask yourself, ‘What would I pay today in cash for this perk?’” Weiss says. 

Choose perks that genuinely enhance your benefits without drastically changing your spending habits. 

To find the best credit card, focus on the essential factors before considering the perks. Evaluate the interest rates, core rewards like cash back, and fees for each card. 

Once you’ve identified your top choices, assess if any card offers added perks that align with your needs. That way, you’re choosing a card that matches your spending habits and your lifestyle.

*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company

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