Score Free Stuff Now!

Rack up credit-card rewards—without wrecking your finances.

- Katia Savchuk

IT USED TO BE that cashing in on credit-card points meant nabbing a lame canvas bag or crappy tchotchke. Yeah, no. Now companies are attracting younger customers with rewards programs that allow them to score European trips and Instaworthy meals. “This generation really values experiences over the accumulation of things,” notes Pamela Codispoti, president of Chase Branded Cards. Adds Emily McNutt, associate editor at the site The Points Guy: “Flights that cost thousands of dollars are now accessible to everyone.”

Before you whip out your plastic, there is one big caveat to consider: If you’re currently paying interest on credit-card debt—or if your credit score is below 700—you should hold off. “Chasing points will just tempt you to spend more, when you should be paying down your balance,” says Erin Lowry, author of Broke Millennial. To improve your standing, chip away each month at what you owe—and set an alert so you always pay on time. All good now? Follow these tips.

START WITH CASH BACK