What is an affinity credit card?

Affinity cards are credit or charge cards that offer extra benefits as a result of being issued by banks in partnership with other organisations. Affinity credit cards come in various types:

Reward affinity credit cards - by using the affinity card you earn points towards rewards linked to the affinity partner (eg with football club cards, you might spend points on official club merchandise).

Travel affinity credit cards - by spending on credit cards that are issued by banks in association with airlines or travel companies, you might earn points or frequent flyer miles to get free flights or other travel rewards.

Cause-related / charity affinity credit cards - when you apply for and use an affinity card, the partner receives money from the bank, at no cost to you. They may receive a payment when you first use your affinity card and further, ongoing payments linked to your future spend - all paid by the bank!