If you fly Alaska Airlines regularly, selecting the right credit card can significantly boost your rewards and unlock valuable travel perks. This guide breaks down the top options, from airline-specific cards to flexible rewards programs, helping you make the most of every flight.
Alaska’s Ecosystem: The Atmos Rewards Program
Alaska Airlines operates within the Atmos Rewards loyalty program alongside Hawaiian Airlines. Bank of America offers three co-branded cards: two for personal use and one for businesses. While these cards offer direct benefits, other options with transferable rewards can often provide greater value.
Key Credit Card Options for Alaska Flights
Here’s a breakdown of some top cards, considering earning rates and benefits:
- Atmos Rewards Cards (Bank of America): These cards offer perks like free checked bags, preferred boarding, and discounts on inflight purchases. These benefits can easily offset the annual fee if you frequently check luggage.
- Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Cards: The personal Hawaiian Airlines card provides two free checked bags on Alaska flights, which may be worthwhile if you often pay for baggage.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: Earns 4 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines. This is ideal if you don’t prioritize airline-specific perks but want high reward earnings.
- American Express Green Card: Another option for earning bonus points on airfare.
Perks vs. Points: Which Approach Is Best?
The ideal card depends on your travel habits:
- Frequent Checkers & Boarders: If you regularly check bags and value priority boarding, an Atmos Rewards card is likely the best choice. The free baggage allowance alone can justify the annual fee.
- Elite Status Holders: If you have elite status with Alaska or another Oneworld carrier, the benefits of airline-branded cards diminish. You already receive free bags and priority boarding regardless of your payment method. In this case, a card with higher point earnings (like Chase Sapphire Reserve) is more valuable.
- Maximizing Rewards: If you don’t check bags and prioritize point accumulation, transferable rewards cards offer greater flexibility. You can redeem points for flights, hotels, or other travel expenses.
The Bottom Line
For most Alaska Airlines flyers, an Atmos Rewards card provides the most immediate value due to baggage and boarding benefits. However, if you have elite status or prefer maximizing point earnings, a transferable rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve is a smarter choice.
The best card isn’t just about earning points; it’s about aligning with your specific travel needs and maximizing the benefits that matter most to you.
