Freedom Unlimited®
Annual fee: $0
Welcome bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
Earning rates: Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no limits on how much you can earn.
Why we like it: The Freedom Unlimited is a great card for those looking for simplicity and flexibility. It earns a solid 1.5% cash back on all purchases, including tickets to music festivals and concerts. Additionally, cardholders have access to Chase Experiences, which offers exclusive events and experiences that can enhance your festival experience.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Annual fee: $95
Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. That’s $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Earning rates: Earn 2X points on travel and dining at restaurants worldwide, 1X point per dollar on all other purchases.
Why we like it: The Sapphire Preferred is a popular card for those who love to travel and attend events like music festivals. Cardholders earn 2X points on travel, including tickets to festivals, and have access to exclusive events through Chase Experiences. Additionally, the card offers up to $50 in hotel credits annually, which can come in handy during festival weekends.
Citi Premier® Card
Annual fee: $95
Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
Earning rates: Earn 3X points on air travel and hotels, 2X points on dining at restaurants and entertainment, and 1X point per dollar on all other purchases.
Why we like it: The Citi Premier card offers a solid earning rate on entertainment purchases, including tickets to music festivals. Cardholders also have access to Citi Entertainment, which offers presale ticket access, VIP event experiences, and preferred seating at select events.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees)
Welcome bonus: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earning rates: Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year), 5X points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com, and 1X point per dollar on all other purchases.
Why we like it: While the Platinum Card has a high annual fee, it offers a range of benefits that can enhance your festival experience. Cardholders have access to exclusive tickets with By Invitation Only and American Express Experiences, as well as pop-up events and lounges for Platinum and Centurion cardmembers only. Additionally, the card offers monthly Uber Cash, which you can use for rides to concerts, festivals, and other events.
Tips for using credit cards at music festivals
While having the right credit card can help you earn extra rewards and benefits at music festivals, it’s important to use your card wisely. Here are some tips for using credit cards at music festivals:
1. Pay off your balance: Music festivals can be expensive, so it’s important to pay off your credit card balance in full each month to avoid accruing interest charges. If you can’t pay off the full balance, try to at least make more than the minimum payment to reduce interest costs.
2. Use a card with no foreign transaction fees: If you’re attending a music festival in another country, make sure to use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. This can save you money on each purchase you make abroad.
3. Monitor your account: Keep an eye on your credit card account while at the festival to watch for any unauthorized charges. Report any suspicious activity to your card issuer immediately.
4. Take advantage of card benefits: Many credit cards offer benefits like purchase protection, extended warranty coverage, and travel insurance that can come in handy at music festivals. Familiarize yourself with your card’s benefits before attending the festival.
5. Use mobile payment apps: Some festivals now accept mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Link your credit card to these apps for a convenient and secure way to pay for purchases at the festival.
By choosing the right credit card and following these tips, you can make the most of your music festival experience while earning rewards and enjoying exclusive perks. Whether you’re a frequent festival-goer or attending your first event, having the best credit card for music festivals can enhance your experience and make your festival weekend even more memorable.