The colder weather is officially here and you may be one of many Australians dreaming about your next holiday to warmer shores. The good news is that Qantas frequent flyer members may be able to earn bonus points on sign up with some credit cards that cover the cost of their flights.
A common strategy amongst travellers is to sign up to a credit card to nab its sign-up bonus points to fund the cost of flights. Earning bonus frequent flyer points through credit cards is also known as ‘points chasing' or ‘points hacking’.
This month, the RateCity database shows 18 credit cards offering bulk Qantas frequent flyer points on sign up, ranging from 20,000 points to 150,000 points.
At the time of writing, these are the credit cards offering the biggest Qantas frequent flyer points bonuses at sign up:
- Qantas Premier Titanium – 150,000 points
- NAB Rewards Signature Qantas – 120,000 points
- Westpac Altitude Black (Altitude Qantas) – 120,000 points
- ANZ Frequent Flyer Black – 110,000 points
In April, the bonus points on offer from some credit cards could get you across Australia, or take you internationally to countries like Indonesia, New Zealand or the US.
Please note that there is more to a credit card than the points bonus on offer, and this strategy will not suit everyone. You will still need to meet any eligibility criteria set by the card issuer to qualify for approval and pay any upfront or ongoing costs. Consider reading the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) before signing up.
Let’s explore Qantas frequent flyer credit cards with bulk sum bonus points on sign up this April.
Qantas frequent flyer credit card signup points on offer
To assist you in comparing credit card options, RateCity has compiled a list of cards that offer Qantas frequent flyer points to cover the cost of a return ticket to some of the most popular destinations in Australia and around the globe.
20,000 – 60,000 Qantas frequent flyer points on sign up
Lender | Card | Points |
HSBC | 20,000 | |
American Express | 30,000 | |
Bankwest | 50,000 | |
St.George Bank/BOM/BankSA | 60,000 |
70,000 – 90,000 Qantas frequent flyer points on sign up
Lender | Card | Points |
Suncorp | 70,000 | |
Westpac | 70,000 | |
CBA | 70,000 | |
ANZ | 70,000 | |
NAB | 70,000 | |
Qantas Money | 80,000 | |
St.George Bank/BOM/BankSA | 90,000 |
100,000+ Qantas frequent flyer points on sign up
Lender | Card | Points |
Citi | 100,000 | |
American Express | 100,000 | |
Citi | 100,000 | |
ANZ | 110,000 | |
Westpac | 120,000 | |
NAB | 120,000 | |
Qantas Money | 150,000 |
Source: RateCity.com.au. Data accurate as of 18/04/2023.
Where your Qantas frequent flyer points could take you
At the time of writing, the current cost for a return plane ticket domestically or internationally from Sydney, in terms of frequent flyer points, were as follows:
Destination | Qantas Frequent Flyer points (Departing from Sydney) |
Melbourne | 16,000 |
Brisbane | 16,000 |
Canberra | 16,000 |
Hobart | 24,000 |
Adelaide | 24,000 |
Darwin | 36,000 |
Perth | 36,000 |
Auckland, New Zealand | 36,000 |
Denpasar (Bali) | 40,600 |
Bangkok, Thailand | 50,400 |
Singapore | 50,400 |
Los Angeles, US | 83,800 |
London, UK | 110,400 |
New York, US | 110,400 |
Rome, Europe | 138,400 |
Note: Domestic and international flight points based onQantas frequent flyer points calculator. Total points required for return trips traveling in economy class when searching on 19/04/2023. Based on travel to a major airport in the capital city (e.g. Heathrow in London) from Sydney, Australia.
What to know when comparing frequent flyer credit cards
It is important to remember that there is more to a credit card than the perks and rewards provided, and it’s worthwhile comparing other factors, such as rates and fees, as well. Especially if you plan on keeping the credit card long term.
These core factors can affect the overall cost of your purchases, regardless of the free flights you earn. It’s always wise to take your time and do your research to find the credit card that best suits your financial needs and budget, as you don’t want to go into significant debt just for a holiday.
You may also want to consider reviewing insurances offered by the different card providers, especially if you’re planning an overseas holiday. For example, a credit card with a smaller points bonus but complimentary domestic or international travel insurance, medical coverage, rental car insurance, and more, may be a better fit for your financial situation and goals.