We’re all familiar with the usual credit card benefits: cash back, points for travel, and the occasional upgrade if you’re lucky. But did you know some of the best credit cards offer perks that can help with everything from replacing a cellphone to last-minute concert tickets? Some of these features go way beyond the basics, giving cardholders access to experiences and savings they might not even know about.
Here’s a deeper look at four surprisingly useful benefits that add value to your card.
1. Cellphone insurance
If you’re one of those people who treat their phone with all the care of a bouncing ball, this perk might save you a ton of money. Several cards, even some with no annual fee, offer cellphone insurance as long as you pay your phone bill with the card.
This perk typically covers damage or theft with a small deductible, which is a huge help when considering how much it can cost to fix or replace a phone. It’s like having a little safety net for those “oops” moments, whether it’s a drop in the driveway or an accidental dip in the pool. Just double-check the policy details; the coverage might not include wear and tear or minor scratches, but for major mishaps, it’s a lifesaver.
2. VIP event access and reservations
Imagine this: it’s Friday night, and you want a table at that impossible-to-book restaurant that everyone’s talking about. Or maybe you’re eyeing a concert that sold out weeks ago. With certain credit cards you can use concierge services to snag exclusive tickets or hard-to-get reservations.
These services act like your personal assistant, helping you get access to exclusive events, VIP sections, and special experiences. The concierge is there to make things happen, whether it’s an invite-only art exhibit, a red-carpet premiere, or a last-minute reservation at a top-tier restaurant. It’s a perk that adds a little luxury to your life and is perfect for those who like to feel like an insider without putting in the legwork.
3. Free museum access
For those who enjoy museum visits but hate the idea of shelling out for every entry fee, there’s a credit card benefit that might make your cultural outings much easier on the wallet. Bank of America credit and debit cards offer free admission to participating museums, zoos, and aquariums across the U.S. on certain days. It’s an ideal perk for families looking to add educational outings to their weekend plans or for anyone wanting to drop by an art exhibit or science museum casually.
You don’t need to be a serious art critic to enjoy this — just grab your card, check which museums participate, and explore a new exhibit without paying a dime. Bonus: if you’re traveling, this benefit extends to museums in other cities, giving you a reason to make a quick cultural pit stop on your next trip.
Looking for a new credit card to take on vacation? Click here for our best travel rewards credit cards.
4. Price protection
You know that feeling when you buy something at full price, only to see it discounted a week later? Price protection can be a lifesaver in those moments. For example, some Wells Fargo cards will reimburse you the difference if an item you bought goes on sale shortly after.
While not every card offers this perk, if yours does, it’s like having a personal shopper who always finds the best deal — even after you’ve made the purchase. If you buy a new laptop for $1,200 and its price drops to $1,000 within a set period, your credit card could refund the $200 difference.
Just check your card’s fine print since policies vary on the time frame and items eligible for this protection. But for big-ticket items, it’s a benefit worth knowing about — and using.
In the end, these quirky perks prove that credit cards aren’t just for earning cash back or redeeming travel points. From cellphone insurance to VIP access and museum days, credit cards offer surprising extras that can make your day to day a little bit easier (and a lot more enjoyable).
So, the next time you’re considering applying for a new card, check out these lesser-known perks — you might be surprised at what’s available and how it can unexpectedly elevate your lifestyle.
