Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card Review: Is It Worth It?

Hawaiian Airlines, the flag carrier of Hawaii, has been a favorite among travelers for its excellent service and beautiful destinations. For frequent flyers, the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card can be an attractive choice, offering a range of benefits and rewards. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card, analyzing its features, benefits, and potential drawbacks, to help you determine if it’s worth getting.

Features of the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card

The Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card is offered in partnership with Barclays Bank, and it comes in two versions: the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard and the Hawaiian Airlines Business Mastercard. Both cards offer similar benefits, but the business card is tailored for small business owners and offers some additional perks.

One of the most appealing features of the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card is the generous sign-up bonus. New cardholders can earn a substantial number of HawaiianMiles – the loyalty points of Hawaiian Airlines – after meeting a minimum spending requirement within the first few months of account opening. This can be a great way to kick-start your rewards balance and get closer to your next Hawaiian vacation.

In terms of ongoing rewards, the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card allows you to earn HawaiianMiles on every purchase. You can earn bonus miles on Hawaiian Airlines purchases, gas, dining, and grocery store purchases, making it easy to accumulate points for your next trip. Additionally, the card offers an annual anniversary bonus, giving you even more incentive to use it for your everyday expenses.

Benefits of the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card

Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card holders can enjoy several travel benefits that enhance their flying experience. Cardholders receive a one-time 50% off companion discount for roundtrip coach travel between Hawaii and North America on Hawaiian Airlines. This can be a significant money-saver for couples or families planning a Hawaiian getaway.

Another valuable benefit of the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card is the ability to earn a complimentary checked bag on Hawaiian Airlines flights for the primary cardmember and up to 7 guests traveling on the same reservation. For frequent travelers, this can result in substantial savings over time, as checked bag fees can add up quickly.

Additionally, the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card offers a range of travel and purchase protections, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, car rental insurance, and purchase protection. These benefits can provide peace of mind when traveling, ensuring that you are covered in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Drawbacks of the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card

While the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card offers a variety of compelling benefits, it’s essential to consider some potential drawbacks before applying. One of the main concerns with this card is the annual fee, which is on the higher side compared to some other travel rewards cards. Depending on your spending habits and travel frequency, the annual fee may or may not be justified by the card’s benefits and rewards.

Furthermore, the redemption options for HawaiianMiles may not be as flexible as some other loyalty programs. While you can use HawaiianMiles for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses, the options for transferring points to other travel partners or redeeming for cash back or merchandise are limited. If you prefer more flexibility in how you use your rewards, this could be a limiting factor.

It’s also worth noting that the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card is designed for those who frequent Hawaiian Airlines and travel to and from Hawaii regularly. If you don’t fly with Hawaiian Airlines often or have no plans to visit Hawaii in the near future, the card’s benefits may not be as valuable to you.

In conclusion, the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card can be an attractive option for travelers who frequent Hawaiian Airlines and want to earn rewards for their flights. The sign-up bonus, ongoing rewards, and travel benefits make it a compelling choice for those who can take advantage of its perks. However, the annual fee and limited redemption options may not make it the best fit for everyone. Before applying for the Hawaiian Airlines Credit Card, carefully consider your travel habits and needs to determine if it’s the right choice for you.