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Common Beginner Travel Credit Card Mistakes to Avoid
Credit cards can be incredibly useful financial tools if you know how to use them wisely. From building your credit score to earning rewards for travel expenses, the potential benefits are substantial. However, for beginners, it’s easy to fall into common credit card mistakes that could have a long-term negative impact on your financial health.
In this article, we’ll outline some of the most critical errors to avoid to help you manage your credit responsibly and make the most out of your credit cards.
1. Ignoring the Fine Print
One of the most common credit card mistakes is failing to read the fine print. Many beginners sign up for a new credit card because of attractive welcome offers or sign-up bonuses without fully understanding the terms. Every credit card company includes details about fees, interest rates, and conditions that could significantly affect how much you end up paying if you’re not careful. They also generally include language around “gaming,” which directly targets credit card churners. Many issuers reserve the right to revoke your sign-up bonus, as well as any points earned, if you cancel the card in the first 12 months.