In Singapore, the credit card market is highly competitive, with over 8 million cards issued to 1.6 million cardholders. Many of these cards focus on earning air miles, making it easier for users to offset travel costs. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or an occasional vacationer, the right card can help you maximize rewards.
When choosing a credit card, consider factors like earn rates, bonus categories, and redemption flexibility. Some cards offer higher miles per dollar on specific purchases like dining, travel, or online shopping. Additionally, platforms like CardUp allow you to earn rewards on non-card expenses such as rent or taxes.
Despite current travel restrictions, air miles remain a valuable asset. They can be saved for future trips or used for upgrades and other perks. This guide will help you compare top options based on your spending habits and preferences.
Key Takeaways
- Singapore’s credit card market offers numerous options for earning air miles.
- Key factors include earn rates, bonus categories, and redemption flexibility.
- Miles can offset travel costs, even during restrictions.
- CardUp helps earn rewards on non-card expenses like rent and taxes.
- Compare cards based on your spending habits for maximum benefits.
Why Choose a Miles Card in Singapore?
With an average of five credit cards per person, Singaporeans have plenty of options for earning travel rewards. One standout choice is a miles credit card, which offers unique benefits for frequent travelers. Unlike cashback, air miles often provide higher value, especially for big-ticket redemptions like flights or upgrades.
For example, one mile can be worth between 1.2¢ to 5.6¢, depending on how you use it. This makes air miles a better option for those who travel often. Plus, platforms like CardUp allow you to earn miles on expenses like rent, insurance, and taxes, adding even more value to your spending.
Another advantage is the extended validity of miles due to the pandemic. Many programs have pushed expiration dates to 2025, giving you more time to plan your trips. Some cards, like the DBS Altitude, even offer perpetual validity, while others, such as UOB, have a 2-year expiry.
Here’s a quick comparison of key features:
| Feature | DBS Altitude | UOB PRVI Miles |
|---|---|---|
| Mile Validity | Perpetual | 2 Years |
| Earn Rate | 1.2 mpd (local), 2 mpd (foreign) | 1.4 mpd (local), 2.4 mpd (foreign) |
| Annual Fee | Waived for first year | Waived for first year |
Choosing the right card depends on your spending habits and travel goals. Whether you’re looking for flexibility or higher earn rates, there’s a miles credit card that fits your needs.
How Miles Cards Work
Understanding how air miles credit cards function can help you maximize your rewards efficiently. These cards typically offer a base earn rate of 1-2 miles per dollar (mpd) on general purchases. However, some cards provide higher rates in specific categories like dining, travel, or online shopping.
For example, airline-specific cards can offer 3-10 mpd on partner spend, making them ideal for frequent flyers. Bonus categories can significantly boost your earnings, with some cards offering up to 5 mpd on overseas transactions.
Conversion processes vary between programs. For instance, Citi ThankYou Points and DBS Rewards have different transfer mechanisms. Expiry timelines also differ—UOB miles expire in 24 months, while Citi miles have no expiry.
Miles can be transferred to airline programs like KrisFlyer or Asia Miles, or used in fixed-value systems. For example, spending S$5,000 monthly can earn you 6,000-24,000 annual miles, enough for 1-4 economy flights. Learn more about maximizing your rewards.
Types of Miles Cards
Travel enthusiasts in Singapore have a variety of options to earn rewards tailored to their needs. Two main categories stand out: general travel cards and airline-specific cards. Each type offers unique benefits, making it essential to choose one that aligns with your travel habits.
General Travel Cards
These cards are versatile and work with multiple airlines and travel partners. They are ideal for those who prefer flexibility in their rewards. For example, the American Express Platinum Card offers points that can be transferred to various airline programs.
General travel cards often come with perks like travel insurance, lounge access, and bonus points on everyday spending. They are a great choice for travelers who don’t stick to one airline alliance.
Airline-Specific Cards
If you frequently fly with a particular airline, an airline-specific card might be more beneficial. The KrisFlyer Ascend Card, for instance, offers 3 miles per dollar on Singapore Airlines spend and hotel stays. This card is perfect for loyal customers of Singapore Airlines.
Additional perks include priority boarding, extra baggage allowance, and mile acceleration on partner airlines like Scoot and SilkAir. However, these cards are often restricted to one alliance, limiting their flexibility.
| Feature | General Travel Cards | Airline-Specific Cards |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | High | Low |
| Earn Rate | 1-2 mpd | 3+ mpd on partner spend |
| Loyalty Perks | Travel insurance, lounge access | Priority boarding, extra baggage |
For example, spending S$50,000 on the KrisFlyer Ascend Card can earn you 150,000 krisflyer miles, enough for a roundtrip business class ticket to Tokyo. Choose the type that best suits your travel style and goals.
Top Miles Cards in Singapore
Singapore offers a range of credit options designed to maximize travel rewards. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, these cards can help you earn more with every dollar spent. Below, we’ve highlighted three standout options to consider.
Citi PremierMiles Card
The Citi PremierMiles Card is a favorite among travelers. It offers a competitive earn rate of 1.2 miles per dollar on local spending and 2 miles per dollar on overseas transactions. Bonus categories include dining and transit, making it ideal for everyday use.
For high-net-worth users, the AMEX version provides extra loyalty miles. Additionally, the card comes with perks like travel insurance and airport lounge access, enhancing your travel experience.
DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card
The DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card is known for its flexibility. It offers 1.2 miles per dollar on local spending and 2 miles per dollar on foreign transactions. One standout feature is the perpetual validity of miles, ensuring you never lose your rewards.
This card is perfect for those who value long-term savings. It also includes benefits like travel insurance and exclusive discounts on hotel bookings.
UOB PRVI Miles Card
The UOB PRVI Miles Card is a top choice for overseas spenders. It offers an impressive 2.4 miles per dollar on foreign transactions and up to 10 miles per dollar on UOB Travel bookings. For those spending S$50,000 annually, you can earn 20,000 bonus miles.
This card is ideal for high-net-worth users who frequently use platforms like CardUp. Bonus categories include dining and transit, making it versatile for everyday expenses.
| Feature | Citi PremierMiles | DBS Altitude | UOB PRVI Miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Earn Rate | 1.2 mpd | 1.2 mpd | 1.4 mpd |
| Overseas Earn Rate | 2 mpd | 2 mpd | 2.4 mpd |
| Bonus Categories | Dining, Transit | Travel, Dining | Dining, Transit |
| Annual Fee | Waived first year | Waived first year | Waived first year |
Each of these cards offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits. Whether you prioritize flexibility, high earn rates, or bonus categories, there’s an option that fits your needs.
Best Miles Card Singapore for Online Shoppers
For those who frequently shop online, selecting the right credit card can significantly boost your rewards. Cards like the Citi Rewards, DBS Woman’s World, and UOB Preferred Platinum offer up to 4 miles per dollar on online purchases, making them ideal for digital spenders.
Mobile wallet integration is another advantage. Using Apple Pay or Google Pay with these cards ensures seamless transactions while earning rewards. For example, the UOB Preferred Platinum offers 4 miles per dollar on contactless payments, adding flexibility to your spending habits.
It’s important to note the monthly caps. The Citi Rewards caps rewards at S$1,000 per month, while the UOB Preferred Platinum allows up to S$2,000. If you spend S$800 monthly online, you could earn 3,200 miles, enough for short-haul flights or upgrades.
Specialized options like the DBS yuu Card take rewards further, offering 10 miles per dollar at yuu merchants. This makes it a standout choice for those who frequently shop at partnered stores.
Here’s a quick comparison of key features:
| Feature | Citi Rewards | DBS Woman’s World | UOB Preferred Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earn Rate | 4 mpd | 4 mpd | 4 mpd (contactless) |
| Monthly Cap | S$1,000 | No cap | S$2,000 |
| Special Features | Mobile wallet integration | No annual fee | Contactless rewards |
Whether you’re a casual shopper or a frequent online buyer, these cards offer tailored benefits to maximize your rewards. Choose one that aligns with your spending habits and start earning more today.
Best Miles Card Singapore for Frequent Travelers
Frequent travelers in Singapore often seek credit options that offer exclusive travel perks. From unlimited airport lounge access to comprehensive travel insurance, these benefits can make your journeys smoother and more rewarding.
For example, the Citi Prestige provides unlimited lounge visits, while the UOB PRVI offers four complimentary visits annually. Maybank Visa Infinite goes a step further, including limo transfers to and from the airport. These features cater to travelers who value convenience and luxury.
Foreign transaction fees are another key consideration. Some cards charge up to 3.25%, while others, like the HSBC TravelOne, offer zero fees. This can save you significant amounts on overseas spending.
Travel perks vary widely. The DBS Altitude includes flight delay coverage, while the HSBC TravelOne offers extensive insurance. Multi-currency wallet integration with platforms like YouTrip or Revolut adds flexibility for international transactions.
| Feature | Citi Prestige | UOB PRVI | Maybank Visa Infinite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lounge Access | Unlimited | 4 visits/year | Complimentary |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 0% | 2.5% | 3.25% |
| Travel Perks | Insurance, concierge | Insurance, discounts | Limo transfers |
Choosing the right option depends on your travel habits. Whether you prioritize lounge access, low fees, or additional perks, there’s a card tailored to your needs.
Best Miles Card Singapore for Dining and Entertainment
Dining and entertainment enthusiasts in Singapore can maximize their rewards with the right credit cards. Options like UOB Lady’s Solitaire, OCBC 90°N, and Maybank Horizon offer tailored benefits for foodies and frequent diners.
These cards provide category-specific bonuses, such as higher earn rates on GrabFood or in-restaurant dining. For example, UOB Lady’s Solitaire offers up to 6 miles per dollar spent on dining, making it a top choice for food lovers.
Weekend vs. weekday dining multipliers also play a role. Some cards offer higher rewards on weekends, while others focus on weekday spending. This flexibility allows you to earn more based on your dining habits.
Hidden gems like the Amex KrisFlyer Ascend provide 2 miles per dollar on Deliveroo orders. This is perfect for those who prefer dining at home while still earning rewards.
| Feature | UOB Lady’s Solitaire | OCBC 90°N | Maybank Horizon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Earn Rate | 6 mpd | 4 mpd | 2.8 mpd |
| Category | Dining | Dining, Entertainment | Dining, Travel |
| Special Offers | Weekend Multipliers | Weekday Bonuses | Global Dining Perks |
Choosing the right option depends on your dining preferences. Whether you dine out frequently or order in, these cards ensure you earn bonus miles with every dollar spent.
Best Miles Card Singapore for Foreign Currency Spending
For those who frequently spend in foreign currencies, selecting the right credit option can make a significant difference. Cards like the UOB Visa Signature, StanChart Journey, and Maybank Horizon offer tailored benefits for international transactions.
One key feature to watch out for is dynamic currency conversion. Some merchants may offer to charge you in your home currency, but this often comes with higher fees. Always opt to pay in the local currency to avoid unnecessary charges.
Regional bonuses can also boost your rewards. For example, the UOB PRVI offers 3 miles per dollar when spending in MYR or THB. This makes it a great choice for frequent travelers to Malaysia or Thailand.
Fee comparisons are another important factor. While HSBC charges 2.8% on foreign transactions, Citi’s fee is slightly higher at 3.25%. Choosing a card with lower fees can save you money in the long run.
Here’s a quick overview of top options:
| Card | Earn Rate | Foreign Transaction Fee |
|---|---|---|
| UOB Visa Signature | 4 mpd | 2.5% |
| StanChart Journey | 3 mpd | 2.8% |
| Maybank Horizon | 2.8 mpd | 3.25% |
Whether you’re a frequent traveler or an occasional spender abroad, these cards offer unique benefits to maximize your rewards. Choose one that aligns with your spending habits and start earning more today.
Best Miles Card Singapore for Lounge Access
Travelers who value comfort and convenience often prioritize lounge access when choosing a credit option. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, lounges provide a quiet space to relax before your flight.
The Citi Prestige stands out with unlimited lounge visits, making it ideal for those who travel often. On the other hand, the UOB Reserve offers six complimentary visits annually, while the DBS Altitude provides two. Each option caters to different travel needs.
Guest access policies vary between cards. Some allow free entry for companions, while others charge a fee. It’s worth checking these details to ensure your travel companions can join you in the lounge.
Lounge networks also differ. Cards like the visa signature card often partner with Priority Pass, which has a vast global network. Others may use Plaza Premium, known for its high-quality lounges in key airports.
Renewal requirements are another factor to consider. For example, maintaining unlimited access with the citi premiermiles requires an annual spend of S$30,000. This ensures you continue to enjoy the benefits without interruption.
Here’s a quick comparison of key features:
| Card | Lounge Visits | Guest Policy | Renewal Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citi Prestige | Unlimited | Free for guests | S$30K annual spend |
| UOB Reserve | 6 visits/year | Fee for guests | S$25K annual spend |
| DBS Altitude | 2 visits/year | Free for guests | S$20K annual spend |
Choosing the right option depends on your travel frequency and preferences. Whether you need unlimited access or a few complimentary visits, there’s a card tailored to your needs.
Best Miles Card Singapore for Sign-Up Bonuses
Earning rewards through sign-up bonuses is a smart way to maximize your travel benefits. Many credit options in Singapore offer attractive bonus miles for new users. These bonuses can significantly boost your rewards, especially if you’re planning a trip with singapore airlines or other partners.
To qualify for these bonuses, you’ll need to meet minimum spend requirements. These typically range from S$500 to S$4,000 within the first few months. For example, the Citi PremierMiles offers 30,000 bonus miles after spending S$4,000 in the first three months.
Stacking strategies can further enhance your rewards. Using platforms like CardUp allows you to earn bonus miles on non-card expenses such as rent or insurance. This can help you meet spending thresholds faster.
It’s important to note the expiry timelines for these bonuses. Most offers are valid for 6-12 months, so plan your spending accordingly. The KrisFlyer Ascend card, for instance, provides 5,000 bonus miles that expire after one year.
| Card | Bonus Miles | Minimum Spend | Expiry |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSBC TravelOne | S$769 gifts | S$500 | 6 months |
| Citi PremierMiles | 30,000 miles | S$4,000 | 12 months |
| KrisFlyer Ascend | 5,000 miles | S$1,000 | 12 months |
Choosing the right option depends on your spending habits and travel goals. Whether you’re looking for immediate rewards or long-term benefits, these sign-up bonuses can help you get started on the right foot.
Best Miles Card Singapore for No Annual Fee
Finding a credit option with no annual fee can save you money while still earning rewards. Many credit cards in Singapore offer fee waivers or reduced costs, making them attractive for budget-conscious users.
For example, the DBS Altitude waives its annual fee if you spend S$25,000 annually. Similarly, the Citi PremierMiles offers a first-year waiver, giving you a chance to test its benefits without extra costs.
Some cards provide lifetime fee waivers. The OCBC 90°N and Maybank Horizon are great examples. These options eliminate the hassle of annual renewals, making them ideal for long-term users.
Negotiation tactics can also help. Many issuers are willing to waive fees if you demonstrate consistent spending or loyalty. It’s worth reaching out to customer service to explore this option.
Hidden costs like GST on fees can add up. Always review the fine print to understand the total expenses associated with your miles card.
| Card | Fee Waiver | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| DBS Altitude | Yes | S$25K annual spend |
| Citi PremierMiles | First year | No condition |
| OCBC 90°N | Lifetime | None |
| Maybank Horizon | Lifetime | None |
Choosing the right option depends on your spending habits and financial goals. Whether you prefer temporary waivers or lifetime benefits, there’s a card tailored to your needs.
Best Miles Card Singapore for KrisFlyer Miles
For travelers loyal to Singapore Airlines, earning krisflyer miles can unlock exclusive benefits. Several credit options are designed to help you maximize these rewards. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, the right choice can make a significant difference.
The KrisFlyer UOB card offers 3 miles per dollar on Singapore Airlines spend, making it a top pick for loyal customers. The Amex KrisFlyer Ascend provides 2 miles per dollar on partner airlines and hotel stays. For flexibility, the Citi PremierMiles allows a 1:1 transfer to KrisFlyer, ensuring you can use your rewards efficiently.
Conversion fees range from 1.5% to 2.5%, so it’s worth comparing options to minimize costs. PPS Club members enjoy additional perks, such as priority boarding and extra baggage allowance. Scoot redemptions also offer great value, with competitive rates for budget-conscious travelers.
Here’s a quick comparison of key features:
| Card | Earn Rate | Conversion Fee |
|---|---|---|
| KrisFlyer UOB | 3 mpd | 2.5% |
| Amex KrisFlyer Ascend | 2 mpd | 1.5% |
| Citi PremierMiles | 1:1 transfer | 2% |
Choosing the right option depends on your spending habits and travel goals. Whether you prioritize high earn rates or flexible transfers, there’s a card tailored to your needs.
Best Miles Card Singapore for Flexible Redemptions
Flexible redemptions are a key feature for those who value versatility in their rewards. Whether you’re transferring points to frequent flyer programmes or converting them into cashback, the right credit card can make all the difference.
The Citi PremierMiles stands out with 12 transfer partners, including popular airlines and hotel chains. This makes it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their options. The HSBC TravelOne offers 10 partners, while the DBS Altitude provides four, catering to different preferences.
Hotel transfers are another valuable feature. For example, transferring points to Marriott often yields a higher ratio compared to Hilton. This can significantly boost your rewards when booking stays.
Partial redemption options are also worth considering. Some cards allow you to use a portion of your points for smaller rewards, like upgrades or lounge access. This flexibility ensures you can make the most of your miles credit.
Cashback conversion rates vary, with 1 mile typically equating to 0.5-1¢. While this may seem low, it’s a useful option for those who prefer immediate rewards over travel perks.
Here’s a quick comparison of key features:
| Card | Transfer Partners | Hotel Transfer Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Citi PremierMiles | 12 | Marriott: 1:1.2 |
| HSBC TravelOne | 10 | Hilton: 1:1 |
| DBS Altitude | 4 | Marriott: 1:1.1 |
Choosing the right option depends on your travel habits and redemption preferences. Whether you prioritize airline transfers, hotel stays, or cashback, there’s a card tailored to your needs.
How to Maximize Your Miles Earnings
Maximizing your rewards requires strategic planning and smart spending habits. By leveraging tools and techniques, you can boost your earn rate and make every dollar count.
One effective strategy is using platforms like CardUp. This allows you to earn rewards on non-card expenses such as rent or insurance. It’s a great way to meet spending thresholds faster and unlock bonus miles.
Another tip is to focus on category bonuses. Many credit cards offer higher rewards for specific purchases like dining, travel, or online shopping. Timing big spends with quarterly bonuses can significantly increase your earnings.
For example, combining Amaze with Citi Rewards can yield up to 8 miles per dollar on eligible transactions. This is perfect for those who frequently shop online or use mobile wallets.
Lastly, keep track of expiry dates. Creating an audit trail ensures you don’t lose your hard-earned rewards. Use apps or spreadsheets to monitor your balances and plan redemptions accordingly.
- Use CardUp for non-card expenses.
- Focus on category bonuses for higher rewards.
- Combine tools like Amaze with Citi Rewards for maximum earnings.
- Track expiry dates to avoid losing miles.
By following these strategies, you can make the most of your credit card and enjoy more travel perks. Start planning today and watch your rewards grow!
Conclusion
Choosing the right travel rewards option can significantly enhance your journey. Whether you prioritize dining, online shopping, or frequent travel, there’s a credit card tailored to your needs. Recap top picks by category to ensure you’re maximizing your rewards effectively.
While sign-up bonuses are tempting, focus on long-term strategies. Consistent spending and category bonuses often yield greater benefits over time. Tools like CardUp can help you earn rewards on non-card expenses, adding value to your everyday transactions.
Finally, audit your spending quarterly. This ensures you’re on track to meet thresholds and avoid losing hard-earned rewards. With the right approach, your miles credit cards can unlock endless travel possibilities.