The Best 7 Credit Cards For Bloggers And Why We Use Them
As a blogger, you’re your own boss, which means managing finances falls squarely on your shoulders. Whether you’re dealing with expenses like web hosting, software subscriptions, and marketing tools or planning your next travel adventure for content creation, having the right credit card can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the best one for your needs?
In this post, we’ll dive into the top seven credit cards that are particularly well-suited to the unique financial demands of bloggers. From rewards programs to travel perks and expense management, these cards offer a blend of benefits that can help you save money and manage your blogging business more effectively.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Why Bloggers Love It: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a hit among travel bloggers for its exceptional rewards program and travel benefits. You’ll earn 2X points on travel and dining and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
Perks: In addition to the rewards program, this card offers a generous sign-up bonus, no foreign transaction fees, and one-to-one point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs – ideal for that next press trip or conference abroad.
2. American Express® Gold Card
Why Bloggers Love It: If dining out or ordering in is part of your blogging lifestyle or content (think: food bloggers), the American Express® Gold Card might be your go-to. Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X).
Perks: Besides food-related rewards, this card offers a $120 dining credit at select restaurants and services, which can help cover some of your on-the-job dining expenses.
3. Ink Business Preferred℠ Credit Card
Why Bloggers Love It: This card is a solid choice for bloggers who incur significant business expenses. The Ink Business Preferred℠ Credit Card rewards you with 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel, shipping purchases, internet, cable, phone services, and advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year.
Perks: A hefty sign-up bonus, employee cards at no additional cost, and built-in travel insurance make this card more than just a payment tool—it’s a business asset.
4. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Why Bloggers Love It: Touted for its luxury travel perks, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 per year), as well as prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com.
Perks: Access to over 1,200 airport lounges across 130 countries, $200 in Uber savings annually, and a suite of premium travel insurances make this card an international blogger’s dream.
5. The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express
Why Bloggers Love It: For everyday business expenses, The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express is hard to beat. Earn 2X points on everyday business purchases up to $50,000 per year, then 1X points thereafter.
Perks: This card comes with no annual fee and the ability to spend above your credit limit, a welcoming feature for growing a blogging business.
6. Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business
Why Bloggers Love It: Frequent flyers will appreciate the Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business card for its simple rewards structure and flexibility. Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, with no blackouts or seat restrictions, and no minimum to redeem.
Perks: The card includes a credit for Global Entry or TSA Pre✓® and free employee cards, which can streamline expense tracking and reduce out-of-pocket costs on the road.
7. Discover it® Business Card
Why Bloggers Love It: The Discover it® Business Card is a great no-fuss credit card with straightforward benefits. With unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases and a match of all cash back earned at the end of your first year, it’s a simple yet effective tool for managing your blogging expenses.
Perks: No annual fee, free access to your FICO score, and robust security and fraud monitoring make this a secure choice for bloggers.
Why We Use Them: An In-Depth Look
Now let’s delve into the reasons these credit cards stand out from the pack for bloggers.
Rewards That Match Your Spending
Bloggers spend in a variety of categories, from travel to dining to advertising. The selected credit cards offer rewards that align with these expenses, ensuring that every dollar you spend works harder for your business.
Signup Bonuses and Introductory Offers
Many of these cards offer impressive sign-up bonuses and introductory offers, such as 0% APR periods or bonus points after meeting initial spending thresholds. These offers help bloggers leverage their regular spending into additional benefits.
Travel Benefits
With networking and content creation opportunities spread across the globe, travel perks are invaluable. The best credit cards for bloggers offer benefits like lounge access, travel insurances, and no foreign transaction fees that significantly improve the travel experience.
Expense Management Tools
Cards that cater to business owners, like the Ink Business Preferred℠ or the Blue Business® Plus, come with expense management tools that help you keep track of spending and streamline tax preparation—a boon for bloggers juggling multiple financial commitments.
Customer Service and Protections
Top-notch customer service, fraud protection, and security features are essential. Bloggers need the assurance that they won’t face disruptions, especially when they are traveling or meeting tight content deadlines.
How to Choose the Right Card for Your Blogging Needs
When selecting a credit card, take stock of your most frequent expenses and assess which card fits best with your spending patterns. Also, consider the perks and the cost of the card—such as annual fees—to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and business model. Remember to read the fine print regarding reward categories, redemption options, and limit restrictions.
Bottom Line
Credit cards can be a strategic tool for managing and growing your blog. The smart use of credit can lead to substantial savings and benefits that not only support your business expenses but also amplify your personal and professional rewards.
What’s most important is choosing a card that aligns closely with your blog’s niche and your personal spending habits. Whether that’s a card with strong travel rewards, one with exceptional dining perks, or a straightforward cashback card for all-around spending, there’s an option on this list that’s likely to fit your blogging lifestyle.
And remember, while credit cards can offer great rewards and convenience, responsible use is key. Always aim to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges and maintain a healthy credit score. With the right card in your pocket and smart financial management, you can maximize the benefits to help propel your blog to new heights.
