Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card - Everything You Need to Know
Introduction
Traveling to Hawaii is a dream for many, but what if you could make that trip even more rewarding? The Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card offers a way to earn miles and enjoy exclusive perks while making your Hawaiian getaway more affordable. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just planning your first island escape, this card could be your ticket to paradise.
Types of Hawaiian Airlines Credit Cards
Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard®
This is the personal credit card option, ideal for individuals or families planning vacations to Hawaii. It comes packed with rewards, travel benefits, and a solid welcome bonus to get you started.
Hawaiian Airlines® Business Mastercard®
For business owners and frequent travelers, the business version offers similar perks with additional benefits tailored to entrepreneurs, such as higher spending limits and specialized rewards for business-related purchases.
Key Features and Benefits
Welcome Bonus
New cardholders can often enjoy a generous welcome bonus after meeting a minimum spending requirement within the first few months. This bonus can significantly reduce the cost of your first flight to Hawaii.
Earn HawaiianMiles®
Every dollar you spend earns you HawaiianMiles®, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and more. You’ll earn miles faster on Hawaiian Airlines purchases and select categories.
Companion Discount Offer
One of the standout perks is the annual companion discount. This allows you to bring a friend or family member along for a discounted rate, making your trips even more affordable.
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Travelers can use their card abroad without worrying about extra charges, thanks to the no foreign transaction fees feature.
Detailed Breakdown of Rewards
Earning Miles on Purchases
You earn 3x miles on Hawaiian Airlines purchases, 2x miles on gas, dining, and grocery stores, and 1x mile on all other purchases.
Bonus Categories Explained
The card’s bonus categories are designed to reward travelers and everyday spenders alike. Whether you're booking flights, dining out, or filling up your gas tank, you’ll accumulate miles quickly.
How Miles Accumulate Over Time
By using your card for daily expenses and travel, your miles can add up faster than you think. Regular usage can lead to free flights sooner than expected.
How to Redeem HawaiianMiles®
Booking Flights
Miles can be redeemed for award flights on Hawaiian Airlines or its partner airlines. The process is simple and offers flexibility in choosing dates and destinations.
Upgrades and Seat Selection
Want extra legroom? Use your miles for seat upgrades or premium seating options.
Hotel Stays and Car Rentals
Beyond flights, HawaiianMiles® can be used for hotel stays and car rentals, making your entire trip more affordable.
Gift Cards and Other Perks
For non-travel rewards, you can redeem miles for gift cards or merchandise through the Hawaiian Airlines marketplace.
Annual Fees and Interest Rates
Standard Fees for Personal vs. Business Cards
The personal card typically comes with a $99 annual fee, while the business version might have a slightly higher fee depending on the credit limit and benefits.
APR Details and What to Expect
Interest rates are competitive but vary based on creditworthiness. Expect an APR between 17% to 25%.
Comparing Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card with Other Travel Cards
Hawaiian Airlines Card vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred®
While the Chase Sapphire Preferred® offers flexible points that can be transferred to multiple airlines, the Hawaiian Airlines card is more focused on direct Hawaiian travel perks.
Hawaiian Airlines Card vs. American Express® Gold Card
The Amex Gold Card shines in dining and grocery rewards, but lacks the specific Hawaiian travel benefits that come with the Hawaiian Airlines card.
Who Should Get the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card?
Frequent Flyers to Hawaii
If you travel to Hawaii often, this card is a no-brainer. The rewards and perks are tailored to make your island trips smoother and cheaper.
Occasional Travelers
Even if you only visit Hawaii occasionally, the companion discount and welcome bonus can make it worthwhile.
Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
The business version offers great perks for those who travel for work or want to earn miles on business expenses.
Maximizing Your Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card
Tips for Earning More Miles
Use the card for everyday spending, especially in bonus categories, and always book flights through Hawaiian Airlines to maximize rewards.
Best Times to Redeem for Maximum Value
Plan ahead and look for off-peak travel times to get the most out of your miles.
Pros and Cons of the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card
Advantages
Generous welcome bonus
Companion discounts
No foreign transaction fees
Disadvantages
Limited to Hawaiian Airlines rewards
Annual fee may not be worth it for infrequent travelers
Customer Service and Support
Contacting Customer Service
You can reach customer service through phone or the online portal for any issues, from billing disputes to travel inquiries.
Handling Disputes and Issues
The card offers purchase protection and easy dispute resolution for fraudulent charges.
Security Features and Protection
Fraud Protection
The card includes zero liability for unauthorized transactions, ensuring your money stays safe.
Travel Insurance Benefits
Enjoy travel insurance, including baggage delay and trip cancellation coverage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Misunderstanding the Rewards Program
Ensure you understand how to earn and redeem miles efficiently to get the most value.
Ignoring the Annual Fee
Weigh the annual fee against your expected rewards to ensure the card is worth it.
How to Apply for the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants need good to excellent credit to qualify. Check your credit score before applying.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Visit the Hawaiian Airlines website or Barclays Bank site, fill out the application, and submit the required documents.
Conclusion
The Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card is a fantastic option for those who frequently fly to the islands or are planning a big trip. With great perks like the companion discount and solid mile-earning potential, it offers value for both occasional vacationers and regular travelers. Just be sure to evaluate the annual fee against your travel habits to make sure it's the right card for you.
FAQs
1.Q:Is the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card worth it?
Answer : If you travel to Hawaii regularly or even once a year, the rewards and perks can easily outweigh the annual fee.
2.Q:How can I maximize my HawaiianMiles®?
Answer : Focus on Hawaiian Airlines purchases and use your card for everyday spending in bonus categories like gas and dining.
3.Q:Can I transfer HawaiianMiles® to other loyalty programs?
Answer : While HawaiianMiles® aren’t as flexible as other programs, you can redeem them with select partner airlines.
4.Q:What happens if I cancel my card?
Answer : You’ll lose access to certain perks, but your HawaiianMiles® will remain active as long as your loyalty account stays in good standing.
5.Q:Are there blackout dates when redeeming miles?
Answer : Hawaiian Airlines offers flexible redemption options with no blackout dates on most flights, though availability can vary.
