Best Air Miles Credit Cards in Singapore 2025
updated: Jan 14, 2025
From racking up miles on everyday purchases to enjoying priority boarding and lounge access, you can elevate your travel experience when using the correct cards. Choosing the right miles credit card can be tricky and that's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of miles credit cards in Singapore.
Best Miles Credit Cards
Our Pick for Frequent Flyers: American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card
American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 397.85 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | 1.2 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 1.2 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (1)
card_details
Our Pick for Rewards: Citi PremierMiles Card
Citi PremierMiles Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | 2.2 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 1.2 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (8)
card_details
Our Pick for Rewards: Standard Chartered Rewards+ Credit Card
Standard Chartered Rewards+ Credit Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | 2.9 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 0.29 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (7)
card_details
Our Pick for Lounge Access: Citi Prestige Card
Citi Prestige Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 545.00 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | 2 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 1.3 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (8)
card_details
Our Pick for Travel Promotions: Maybank Horizon Visa Signature Card
Maybank Horizon Visa Signature Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | S$ 800.00 per month |
| Airmiles Overseas | 2.8 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 1.2 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (4)
card_details
Our Pick for Loyal Travelers: Standard Chartered Journey Credit Card
Standard Chartered Journey Credit Card (Annual Fee Paying)
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | 2 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 1.2 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (8)
card_details
Our Pick for Travel Insurance: DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card
DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | Up to 5 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | Up to 1.3 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (1)
card_details
Our Pick for Free Checked Bags: Standard Chartered Journey Credit Card (Annual Fee Paying)
Standard Chartered Journey Credit Card (Annual Fee Paying)
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | 2 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 1.2 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (8)
card_details
Our Pick for International Spending: HSBC TravelOne Credit Card
HSBC TravelOne Credit Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | 2.4 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 1.2 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (8)
card_details
Our Pick for Discounts: Standard Chartered Rewards+ Credit Card
Standard Chartered Rewards+ Credit Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | 2.9 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | 0.29 miles per dollar |
| REWARDS | |
| |
eligible_rewards (7)
card_details
Our Pick for Earning Miles: UOB Lady's Card
UOB Lady's Card
on_provider_website
| Annual Fee | S$ 196.20 |
|---|---|
| Monthly Spend Required | None |
| Airmiles Overseas | Up to 10 miles per dollar |
| Airmiles Local | Up to 10 miles per dollar |
card_details
Which is the Best Credit Card For Air Miles in Singapore?
Choosing the best credit card for airline miles in Singapore can be a game-changer for frequent travellers. However, the key is understanding how each card matches your spending habits, preferred airlines, and what you typically spend the most on.
Some cards offer higher rates for specific categories, while others provide flexibility in redeeming miles across multiple carriers. With numerous options, each offering different benefits, earn rates, and fees, finding the best air miles card means considering more than just the perks.
To simplify things, we've outlined the top miles credit cards contenders below to help you maximise your mile-earning potential.
|
Card name |
Earn rate |
Best for |
Additional travel perks |
Annual fee |
|
American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card |
Earn 1.2 miles for every S$ 1 spent overseas Earn 1.2 miles for every S$ 1 spent locally |
KrisFlyer Miles for regular travelers |
Receive a free annual night stay at participating Hilton properties |
S$ 397.85 |
|
Earn 2 miles for every S$ 1 spent overseas Earn 1.3 miles for every S$ 1 spent locally |
Miles that don’t expire |
-Enjoy unlimited access to Priority Pass lounges -Receive a complimentary night stay with every four-night consecutive booking at any hotel or resort |
S$ 545 |
|
|
Earn 2.2 miles for every S$ 1 spent overseas Earn 1.2 miles for every S$ 1 spent locally |
Miles that don’t expire |
-Enjoy two complimentary airport lounge visits annually at over 1,300 Priority Pass lounges around the globe -Access to 11 different airline and hotel transfer partners -Benefit from comprehensive travel insurance included at no extra cost -Get up to S$1 million in travel insurance coverage when you charge your travel fares to this card |
S$ 196.20 |
|
|
Earn 2.2 miles for every S$ 1 spent overseas Earn up to 1.3 miles for every S$ 1 spent locally |
Highest mile per dollar spend ratio |
Receive two free lounge passes annually, valid at over 1,500 airport lounges worldwide |
S$ 196.20 |
|
|
Earn 2.8 miles for every S$ 1 spent overseas Earn 1.2 miles for every S$ 1 spent locally |
Daily local purchases |
Enjoy comfortable travel with free access to select VIP lounges |
S$ 196.20 |
|
|
Earn 2.4 miles for every S$ 1 spent overseas Earn 1.2 miles for every S$ 1 spent locally |
Flexible spending and installment plans |
Receive free travel insurance coverage, along with four free airport lounge visits for the primary cardholder and accompanying guests |
S$ 196.20 |
|
|
Earn 2 miles for every S$ 1 spent overseas Earn 1.2 miles for every S$ 1 spent locally |
Miles that don’t expire |
-Enjoy a S$10 discount on Grab rides to or from Changi Airport -Receive two free visits to Priority Pass lounges worldwide annually -Travel with peace of mind with up to S$500,000 in complimentary travel insurance coverage |
S$ 196.20 |
|
|
Earn 2.9 miles for every S$ 1 spent overseas Earn 0.29 miles for every S$ 1 spent locally |
Everyday overseas spending |
Receive up to S$500,000 in free travel insurance coverage when you pay your entire travel fare with the card |
S$ 196.20 |
Best credit cards to earn air miles for every spending category
Best miles card for local/general spend
*Credit card and miles offers are subject to changes at any time.
General spending credit cards typically allow you to earn a flat earn rate (between 1.2 to 1.4 miles per S$1 spent) on most transactions. Compared to specialised spending cards, which could help you earn up to 3 to 6 mpd on certain transactions, general spending cards should often be used as a last resort or when you have maxed out or hit the earning cap on your specialised credit cards.
If you meet the minimum annual income requirement, then the DBS Vantage Visa Infinite is your best bet to earn miles on local spending, allowing you to earn 1.5 mpd on all local spending.
Otherwise, any UOB PRVI Miles Cards will make a viable substitute, allowing cardholders to earn 1.4 mpd on all local spending.
Do note that the Citi Rewards Card is an exception when paired with the amaze card. It turns all local spending into online transactions. However, it caps the earn rate at S$1,000 per month.
Best miles card for overseas spend
*Credit card and miles offers are subject to changes at any time.
These credit cards specialise in overseas spending, allowing you to earn extra miles or rewards points whenever you complete an offline or online transaction in a foreign currency.
If you are worried about foreign conversion fees or can’t decide between cash vs credit card vs multicurrency card for your overseas spend, you should consider the popular Citi Rewards + amaze card combo, which converts overseas transactions into SGD. Plus, it converts all eligible offline spending to online transactions.
Therefore, when paired with the Citi Rewards Card, you're actually earning four mpd on most of your purchases, even for local spending.
Remember to note the conditions to earn those bonus points, such as minimum spending requirements and the spending categories for each respective card.
Best miles card for dining
*Credit card and miles offers are subject to changes at any time.
Do you live to eat? If your answer is a resounding "yes", consider using these miles credit cards that double as the best dining credit cards in Singapore to enjoy a bonus earn rate every time you treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal.
The UOB Lady's and Lady's Solitaire cards are favoured amongst miles chasers as they allow you to earn six mpd on Dining transactions, provided you select it as one of your preferred/enrolled categories. Despite their name, they are available for both men and women!
If you prefer something more versatile, then the HSBC Revolution Card is a safer bet as it allows you to earn four mpd on all contactless spending, including payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay. It also comes with complimentary access to ENTERTAINER with HSBC, allowing you to get more bang for your buck while dining out.
Best miles card for food delivery
*Credit card and miles offers are subject to changes at any time.
Prefer dining from the comforts of your own home? No worries, there are several miles credit cards that offer bonus miles on food deliveries.
Once again, the UOB Lady's and Lady's Solitaire cards are preferred as they allow you to earn six mpd on all food deliveries if you have selected Dining as your enrolled category.
Other alternatives include the DBS Woman's World Card, the Citi Rewards Card, and the HSBC Revolution Card. All three cards allow you to earn four mpd on food deliveries, which count as online spending.
Best miles card for offline transactions
*Credit card and miles offers are subject to changes at any time.
Prefer to get your retail therapy done in person? Besides the instant gratification you get from shopping, these miles credit cards will ensure you get the most out of your offline purchases.
By selecting Fashion as your enrolled category, you'll get six mpd on your UOB Lady's and Lady's Solitaire cards at departmental, clothing, sports, and shoe stores.
For those who prefer versatility, then the Citi Rewards Card and HSBC Revolution Card are, once again, popular choices. They allow cardholders to earn four mpd on shopping and contactless spending.
Best miles card for hotel bookings
*Credit card and miles offers are subject to changes at any time.
Have an upcoming holiday or trip soon? Well, this is your chance to earn up to 10 mpd on booking aggregators like Kaligo, Agoda, and Expedia thanks to the best credit cards for booking hotels.
Credit cards like the Citi PremierMiles Card, DBS Altitude Card, and UOB PRVI Miles Cards are popular choices if you don't mind going through these booking aggregators. They allow cardholders to earn six to 10 mpd depending on the credit card of choice.
If you prefer a direct booking from the hotel, the UOB Lady's and Lady's Solitaire cards are also solid choices, allowing you to earn six mpd as long as you set your enrolled category to Travel.
Best miles card for air tickets
*Credit card and miles offers are subject to changes at any time.
Similar to hotel transactions, another great way to rack up frequent flyer miles is to use the best credit cards for buying airline tickets to purchase your plane ticket via travel aggregators.
For example, the UOB PRVI Miles Cards allow cardholders to earn up to eight mpd when you purchase your air ticket on Expedia, Agoda and UOB Travel.
Meanwhile, the DBS Altitude Card is another viable option, netting you 10 mpd on Kaligo hotel bookings, six mpd on Expedia bookings (flights, hotels, and travel packages), and more recently, 4.3 mpd on Agoda hotel bookings. Talk about an all-rounded credit card for booking all your travel needs! It is also among the best credit cards for airport lounge access, offering complimentary entry to select lounges to make your journey even more comfortable!
Best miles card for public transport
*Credit card and miles offers are subject to changes at any time.
Don't own a car? No worries, you can still earn miles via public transport in Singapore with the best credit cards for bus/MRT rides via SimplyGo.
Once again, the UOB Lady's and Lady's Solitaire cards are solid choices for earning six mpd on public transport costs if you select Transport as your enrolled category.
Another popular choice is the Standard Chartered Smart Credit Card, which gives you a bonus earn rate of 5.6 mpd on SimplyGo transactions. It also comes with zero annual fee!
Understanding Miles Credit Cards: Benefits and Features
Miles credit cards offer a unique way to earn travel rewards. These specialised cards cater to frequent flyers and travel enthusiasts in Singapore. Let's explore how they work and why they might be the best credit card for airline miles seekers.
What is an air miles credit card?
A credit card for airline miles is a financial product that rewards users with air miles for their spending—these cards often partner with specific airlines or alliances, allowing cardholders to accumulate miles faster than standard rewards cards.
Miles redemption for flights
Curious about how to turn your air miles into actual travel? The process is simple but varies by destination. Airlines categorise their flight routes into zones, so the miles you'll need depend on the distance to your destination.
Typically, the further you plan to go, the more miles you'll need to redeem your ticket. Running a bit short on miles? No problem—most airlines allow you to pay the difference in cash. However, keep in mind that your miles cover the ticket cost but not the additional fees and taxes.
To get a clear picture, always check the specific airline’s redemption chart to see how far the miles you've already accumulated on your credit card can take you.
Advantages of airline-specific credit cards
-
Airline credit cards come with perks that make travel more enjoyable
-
Accelerated mile earning on travel-related purchases
-
Priority boarding and check-in
-
Free checked baggage
-
Travel insurance coverage
These benefits can significantly enhance your travel experience and save you money. However, these cards may also have their fair share of cons:
-
The rewards and perks often come with substantial annual fees.
-
Rewards rates might be lower than general rewards cards and often apply mainly to airline purchases.
-
Benefits may be tied to a specific airline, limiting your choices and flexibility.
-
While miles can be redeemed for various rewards, the best value typically comes from booking flights, which may be subject to availability and blackout dates.
Airline miles vs cashback rewards credit cards
While cashback credit cards offer straightforward savings, airline miles cards provide flexibility in redemption. You can use miles for flights, upgrades, or even hotel stays. Additionally, the value of miles often exceeds that of cashback, especially for long-haul or business-class travel. For savvy travellers, the best credit card for airline miles can yield substantial savings on flights and travel expenses.
|
Feature |
Airline miles |
Cashback |
|---|---|---|
|
Redemption |
Flights, upgrades, hotels |
Cash credit on statement |
|
Value |
Variable, potentially high |
Fixed percentage |
|
Expiration |
Often yes |
Typically no |
Key factors for choosing the best air miles credit card in 2025
Selecting the best credit cards to earn airline miles in Singapore requires careful consideration. Let's break down the key aspects to consider when comparing your air miles credit card.
Mile earning rates
Different cards offer varying rates for earning miles. Some provide a flat rate across all spending, while others offer higher rates for specific categories like dining or travel.
Redemption options
Redemption options are crucial. Some cards restrict you to specific airlines; however, some offer flexibility, allowing redemptions across multiple carriers and even for non-travel rewards.
Annual fees & foreign transaction charges
Annual fees vary significantly among cards. Some charge hefty sums, while others waive fees for the first year. Weigh these costs against the benefits offered. If you can find a credit card with annual fee waiver, that would help you save even more on fees and charges.
Travel protection
Travel insurance coverage included with your miles credit card can save you money on separate policies. To ensure comprehensive protection, check the extent of protection offered, including trip cancellation and medical expenses.
Additional airline perks
Additional perks can tip the scales. Features like lounge access, priority boarding, companion passes, or complimentary travel insurance enhance the travel experience for frequent flyers, adding more value to the miles credit card.
Sign-up bonus
You can jumpstart your rewards journey with a miles card offering attractive sign-up bonuses. Earn bonus miles effortlessly by signing up or meeting the minimum spend, and unlock exclusive benefits.
|
Factor |
Importance |
Considerations |
|
Annual Fee |
High |
Assess cost vs benefits, look for fee waivers |
|
Mile Earning Rate |
High |
Check spending categories and bonus rates |
|
Redemption Options |
Medium |
Explore airline partnerships and transfer options |
|
Travel Insurance |
Medium |
Review coverage types and the claims process |
|
Additional Perks |
Low |
Consider lounge access and priority services |
By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision when comparing airline credit cards in Singapore, ensuring you choose a card that best suits your travel needs and spending patterns.
How to earn & use your air miles credit cards effectively
Earn
Select a card that offers a generous amount of welcome bonus air miles
One of the fastest ways to accumulate miles is by choosing a credit card with a substantial welcome bonus. For instance, the DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card and the American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend provide up to 30,000 and 38,000 miles, respectively, enabling rapid mile accrual from the outset if you pay the annual fee and meet the minimum spending requirements.
Maximise the advantages of various air miles credit cards
Different air miles credit cards offer unique benefits tailored to various spending habits. For example, some cards reward you with bonus miles for paying annual fees, while others feature substantial sign-up bonuses.
By selectively using several cards, each tailored to specific types of spending or benefits, you can optimise your overall mileage accrual. However, avoid combining air miles cards with cashback cards, as their reward structures do not align.
Exchange reward points for air miles
Utilise the flexibility of reward points credit cards by converting your points into air miles. This strategy enables you to extend the value of every purchase, transforming everyday spending into potential savings on flights, hotel bookings, and more luxurious travel experiences.
Use
Accumulate miles through everyday spending
One of the best and easiest ways to earn miles is by using your air miles credit card for regular expenses such as dining, local transport, and fuel purchases. This method seamlessly integrates into your daily routine, maximising your rewards without extra effort.
Apply air miles toward travel accommodations
Utilise your collected air miles to cover hotel stays and other travel accommodations, making your trips more affordable and allowing you to enjoy luxury lodging without the hefty price tag.
Opt for the best deals on airline or third-party platforms
Usually, redeeming miles involves booking directly through the airline's website. However, it's worth checking third-party sites like Expedia or Agoda for potentially better offers. Carefully compare these promotions against the points or miles needed for direct bookings to ensure you choose the most cost-effective option for your travel needs.
Best miles credit card in Singapore: Comparing offers and promotions
If you're on the hunt for the best airline credit card welcome bonus in Singapore, you're in for a treat. Airlines and banks often team up to offer enticing sign-up perks that can jumpstart your miles collection faster!
Sign-up bonuses
New cardholders can snag impressive welcome bonuses that often include a hefty chunk of miles. Some cards, like the DBS Altitude Visa Signature Card, offer up to 30,000 miles just for signing up and meeting a minimum spend requirement. However, this promotion is only available until 31 January 2025.
On the other hand, the American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card also offers a lucrative opportunity, giving up to 38,000 miles to cardholders who pay the annual fee and fulfil the spending criteria. This offer is valid from 3 December 2024 to 15 January 2025. So, if you haven't already taken advantage of this, now is the perfect time to sign up.
Keep in mind that these offers can vary, so it's worth keeping an eye out for the best credit card to earn airline miles that suit your travel habits.
Limited-time offers
Banks frequently roll out special promotions that boost their standard welcome bonuses. These might include extra miles, waived annual fees, or additional travel perks. It's not uncommon to see offers doubling the usual miles or providing statement credits for travel expenses.\
Exclusive partnerships and discounts
Many airlines collaborate with hotels, car rental agencies, and other service providers to offer exclusive discounts and perks to their credit cardholders. These partnerships can significantly enhance the value of your miles card, providing savings on various aspects of your travels.
How to maximise your welcome bonus value
To get the most from your welcome bonus, time your application right. Aim to apply when you have big expenses coming up to meet spending requirements easily. Consider pairing cards to combine bonuses, and always read the fine print to understand any restrictions or expiration dates on your miles.
Remember, the best airline credit card welcome bonus isn't just about the highest number of miles. Factor in your travel goals and spending habits to choose a card that will serve you well beyond the initial bonus, perhaps even funding your next holiday.
Air miles credit cards reviews
The UOB PRVI Miles Visa Card stands out with fast miles accrual, no cap on rewards, and exclusive travel perks like airport transfers and insurance.
The AMEX Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card will spoil you with complimentary lounge passes, a night’s stay at a Hilton property, and seemingly unending bonus miles.
The Maybank Horizon Visa Signature Card offers generous miles on dining, transport, and travel bookings, with fast redemption options and complimentary airport lounge access.
Frequently asked questions about air miles credit cards
Should I get a miles credit card?
Absolutely, if you love to travel! A miles credit card can turn your everyday spending into free flights and travel upgrades, making it ideal for frequent flyers who want to make the most out of their purchases and enjoy travel benefits.
What’s the difference between KrisFlyer Miles, Asia Miles, etc.?
KrisFlyer Miles and Asia Miles are loyalty programmes from Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific, respectively.
KrisFlyer miles credit cards, for instance, are tailored specifically for earning with Singapore Airlines, offering unique redemption options and partnerships that include flights, shopping, dining, and more.
Asia Miles follows a similar structure but aligns with Cathay Pacific's specific routes and alliances. Each programme allows you to maximise rewards based on your travel habits and preferences.
Can miles be transferred between airlines?
Generally, you cannot transfer miles directly between different airlines' programmes. However, redeeming your accumulated miles on flights operated by partner airlines may be possible, expanding your options for using your miles.
How do I redeem miles earned from my airline credit card?
The redemption process varies depending on the card and associated airline programme. Generally, you can log into your account on the airline's website or app, select 'Redeem Miles' or a similar option, and choose your desired reward. This could be flight bookings, upgrades, hotel stays, or even experiences. Some cards also allow you to transfer miles to partner airlines for more flexibility.
Is it worth paying an annual fee for an airline credit card?
The value of paying an annual fee depends on your travel frequency and spending habits. If you travel often and can take advantage of perks like lounge access, free checked bags, and travel insurance, the benefits may outweigh the fee.
Additionally, the rewards can offset the annual fee if you spend enough to earn significant miles. However, a no-annual-fee card might be more suitable if you travel infrequently.
What are the conversion fees for air miles credit cards?
Conversion fees for air miles credit cards can vary depending on the card and issuer. For instance, cards like the Citi PremierMiles and DBS Altitude typically charge a fee of S$25 per conversion. Meanwhile, some miles cards offer an annual option, like the DBS Altitude Card at S$40, which may cover unlimited conversions for a year.
Can I keep my miles if I cancel my credit card?
Whether you can keep your miles after cancelling your credit card depends on your bank's policy. Some banks pool points across multiple cards, meaning you won’t lose your miles if you cancel one card.
However, other banks keep points separate for each card, leading to a loss of miles upon cancellation. Always confirm your bank's policy and consider redeeming your miles before closing any accounts.