Frequent Miler - Alaska / Hawaiian card strategy - which card should you get now? | Coffee Break Ep38 | 12-24-24
The discussion revolves around the upcoming merger of Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines' loyalty programs in 2025, which will make Hawaiian Airlines credit cards unavailable to new applicants. The video explores whether consumers should apply for these cards now, considering the potential benefits and limitations. Currently, Bank of America offers Alaska Airlines credit cards with significant welcome bonuses, while Barclays offers Hawaiian Airlines cards with competitive bonuses as well. The Hawaiian cards allow for the transfer of miles between accounts, which could be advantageous for families looking to consolidate miles. However, the Hawaiian cards will soon be discontinued, and the Alaska cards will remain available, suggesting no immediate rush to apply for them. The video also highlights the importance of considering personal credit strategies, such as the impact on Chase's 5/24 rule, when deciding which cards to apply for.
Key Points:
- Consider applying for Hawaiian Airlines cards now as they will be discontinued in 2025, offering a unique opportunity to consolidate miles.
- Alaska Airlines cards will remain available, so there is no immediate rush to apply for them unless you need them now.
- Hawaiian cards allow for free transfer of miles between accounts, beneficial for families consolidating miles.
- Be mindful of the impact on Chase's 5/24 rule when applying for new credit cards.
- Sign up for the Alaska premium card interest list to receive bonus miles when it launches.
Details:
1. 🛫 Alaska & Hawaiian Credit Card Strategy
- Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines are merging their programs in 2025, which will likely result in Hawaiian Airlines cards being unavailable to new applicants.
- A new premium Alaska card is expected to launch in the summer of 2025, raising questions about the timing of acquiring current Alaska cards.
- The merger and new card launch create strategic considerations for consumers on whether to apply for Hawaiian cards now or wait for the new Alaska card.
- Consumers should consider the potential benefits of current Hawaiian cards, such as existing rewards and benefits, against the anticipated features of the new Alaska card.
- The merger may affect current cardholders, potentially altering rewards structures and benefits, which should be factored into decision-making.
2. 💳 Current Credit Card Options & Offers
- Alaska and Hawaii airlines are merging programs, allowing Hawaiian Miles to be transferred 1:1 to Alaska accounts, which could enhance flexibility for frequent flyers.
- The Bank of America Alaska Airlines consumer Visa Signature card offers up to 75,000 points after $3,000 in purchases, making it a competitive option for travelers seeking high rewards.
- The Bank of America Alaska Airlines business card provides 50,000 miles after $3,000 in purchases, appealing to business owners looking to maximize travel benefits.
- Barclays issues Hawaiian cards, which are expected to be discontinued by summer 2025, potentially affecting current cardholders who rely on these cards for travel rewards.
- The Barclays Hawaiian Airlines consumer card offers a welcome bonus of 70,000 miles after the first purchase, presenting a strong incentive for new applicants before the card's discontinuation.