Whenever I go for a pure, leisurely walk, I make sure that I only have enough money in my pocket to buy me some food when hunger strikes and enough pennies to get me home—if and when my knees act up. I don’t bring an awful lot of stuff especially when I have a mall to stroll in mind. Why? Because it’s a jungle out there, full of so many tempting things to buy—things that I don’t need anyway. Let’s just say that when I go out, I just have my clothes-shoes-and-little-money on.
However, I am the kind of person who just accepts and holds on to everything that is handed to me in malls. Leaflets, brochures, coupons and whatnot—name it, I have it—when I get home, at least. So yes, I have accumulated enough shiny papers to wallpaper a whole room! What interests me though is the awfully huge amount of advertising and marketing materials credit card companies are giving away just to lure people into their loving arms. I wonder how much money they are making.. hmm..
I am not joking. Just take one step into a seemingly peaceful mall and there will be a slew of talking-at-once people approaching you while you stand there, dazed and disoriented. Even your telephone lines and mail boxes are quick to get clogged up with offers and whatnot. Annoying most of the time, but when you are in need of a credit card, or a company just magically sparked your interest, how would you know if you are choosing the right credit card for you?
Rule of thumb is never go for the first company that approaches you or even the ones that have gorgeous designs. Shopping around will save you bucks in the long run. Also, be very weary of small prints hidden somewhere in contracts and even in their adverts. Use a magnifier if it suits you! Most of the time, this is where the “catch” is written. Here are some points to consider when choosing the right credit card for you:
·    Card type. There are plenty of card types to choose from: credit, debit and charge cards just to name a few. Each has their own pros and cons depending on how you are planning to use them. See my post to learn more:  What to Use: Credit vs. Debit Cards
·    Card usage. Assess yourself, how are you planning to use the said card. For what reasons, on what grounds and most importantly, how are you going to pay for it? These are some of the factors that may affect your credit card fees and charges—things that you should know about.
·    Rates and interests. Like I said earlier, these should be the firsts to know when getting a credit card.
·    Due dates. This is important. This is when you should settle your outstanding balance or else you risk getting charges and fees.
·    Calculations. Particularly how the company calculates issues like finance charge, etc.
·    Credit limits. While you’re at it, set a personal limit for yourself as well.
·    Benefits and rewards. The best thing these credit card companies may give you. Enough said.