Anúncios
Want to earn maximum rewards without overcomplicating your wallet? A smart two-card setup can strike the perfect balance between everyday cash back and premium travel perks.
By combining the flat-rate power of Citi Double Cash with the category bonuses and no-foreign-transaction fee benefits of Citi Premier, you can cover nearly every type of purchase with strong rewards.
Anúncios
This guide explains the Citi Double Cash and Citi Premier strategy, including which card to use for what, how to avoid fees abroad, and why this pairing works better than relying on just one card. If you’re looking for a wallet that works equally well at home and overseas, here’s how to build it.
Why use two cards
Cover everyday spending + travel costs
No single credit card earns the highest rewards across every purchase. The Citi Double Cash delivers a flat 2% back on everything, while the Citi Premier unlocks strong bonuses on travel, dining, and international categories. Pairing them ensures you always get above-average value whether you’re buying groceries or booking flights.
Avoid fees abroad and maximize bonuses
The Premier card charges 0% foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international purchases. Meanwhile, the Double Cash still works well domestically, but is less efficient abroad because of its 3% fee. This is where the combination shines—using the right card at the right time protects your rewards from being eaten by fees.
Where each card excels
Double Cash categories (simple structure)
The Citi Double Cash keeps things straightforward: you earn 1% when you buy + 1% when you pay, for a total of 2% back on every purchase. There are no category limits, making it a perfect catch-all card for expenses that don’t fit bonus categories.
Premier categories (travel-focused bonuses)
The Citi Premier offers elevated rewards where it counts for travelers:
- 3x points on air travel, hotels, and restaurants
- 3x points on supermarkets and gas stations
- 1x on all other purchases
Because it has no foreign transaction fees, the Premier becomes your go-to card overseas, especially for dining, lodging, and transportation.
Practical purchase routing
Domestic vs. international
At home, route your everyday expenses like utilities, insurance, or non-bonus online shopping through the Double Cash for a reliable 2%. Use the Premier where it beats 2%—grocery runs, restaurant meals, and travel bookings. Abroad, stick to the Premier for all charges to avoid fees and maximize categories.
Flights, hotels, dining, and online shopping
- Airfare + hotels: Premier, for 3x and no-FTF
- Restaurants: Premier, both domestic and international
- Groceries: Premier (3x beats Double Cash’s 2%)
- Online or miscellaneous purchases: Double Cash, unless Premier earns a category bonus
Travel benefits and protections
What to check before leaving
Before traveling, ensure both cards are set up in your Citi app. Enable transaction alerts, confirm travel notifications (Citi cards typically don’t require advance notice, but it’s smart to check), and carry both cards for backup. The Premier card may also include travel protections such as trip cancellation coverage, rental car insurance, and purchase protection—worth reviewing before your trip.
Zero-FTF alternatives if Premier isn’t an option
If the Citi Premier isn’t right for you, other travel cards can complement the Double Cash without charging foreign transaction fees:
- Capital One Venture Rewards: flat-rate 2x miles, no FTF
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: strong travel protections and 2x on dining/travel
- Capital One SavorOne: 3% back on dining and entertainment, no FTF, no annual fee
Quick spending-to-rewards table
Here’s an example of how rewards add up with $2,000 in monthly spending:
| Category | Spend | Card | Rewards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Groceries | $600 | Citi Premier | 1,800 points (3x) |
| Dining | $400 | Citi Premier | 1,200 points (3x) |
| Travel (flights/hotels) | $300 | Citi Premier | 900 points (3x) |
| Miscellaneous | $700 | Citi Double Cash | $14 (2%) |
Total: 3,900 ThankYou points + $14 cashback in one month, just by routing correctly.
How to apply for Citi Double Cash and Citi Premier
Getting these cards is straightforward, but preparation improves your approval odds. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Check your credit score: Citi Double Cash usually requires a score of 670+, while Citi Premier is best suited for applicants with 700+.
- Review your credit reports: Fix errors and pay down balances to lower utilization before applying.
- Start with prequalification: Citi sometimes offers prequalification tools online that use a soft pull to check eligibility.
- Apply directly on Citi’s website: You can apply online in minutes. Most applicants receive an instant decision, though some may require manual review.
- Wait for approval and card delivery: If approved, your physical card usually arrives within 7–10 business days. You can also add it to your digital wallet immediately.
Tip: If you’re unsure about approval, apply for Double Cash first since it has slightly easier requirements. Later, once your profile strengthens, add Premier to complete the strategy.
FAQs
Does pairing two cards complicate daily use?
Not really. Think of the Double Cash as your “everything else” card and the Premier as your “bonus categories + travel” card. With habit, routing becomes second nature.
Are there annual fees worth paying for travel cards?
Yes. The Premier’s annual fee is offset by higher-category rewards and travel protections. If you spend heavily in 3x categories, the fee pays for itself quickly.
How do I avoid foreign transaction fees entirely?
Always use the Premier (or another no-FTF card) abroad. Carry the Double Cash only for domestic backup since it charges 3% internationally.
What protections should I look for when traveling?
Valuable perks include rental car insurance, trip cancellation protection, lost luggage coverage, and no-FTF. These benefits can save hundreds on unexpected travel issues.
Can I start with one card and add the second later?
Absolutely. Many start with Double Cash for simplicity, then add Premier once they want stronger travel rewards and no-FTF benefits.
Pro tip: Always carry both cards while traveling. Use the Premier for international dining, hotels, and flights, and keep the Double Cash as a reliable backup for unplanned purchases.
