Barclays Bank, a leading financial institution with a strong global presence, offers a variety of credit cards to consumers with good or excellent credit scores. These credit cards cater to various needs and preferences, including rewards, travel, and hotel accommodations. Barclays credit cards consistently receive positive reviews for their reasonable fees, competitive rewards programs, and overall customer satisfaction.

Among the top Barclays credit cards are the AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard, the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard, and the Wyndham Rewards Earner and Earner Plus cards. Each of these cards offers unique benefits and rewards tailored to specific spending categories or affiliations with certain travel partners. With a focus on delivering attractive rewards and added value, these credit cards exemplify Barclays’ atunedness to customer preferences in a competitive market.

In this review, we will delve into the features, benefits, and drawbacks of these popular Barclays credit cards, helping you identify the right option for your individual needs. Read on to gain valuable insights into the credit card offerings from one of the world’s most esteemed financial institutions, and confidently choose the card that works best for your financial goals and lifestyle.

Overview of Barclay Credit Cards

Card Types

Barclays offers a variety of credit cards catering to different needs and preferences. Some popular options include:

• AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard: Best for American Airlines flyers, offering bonus miles and travel benefits.
• Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard: Ideal for Hawaiian Airlines flyers, with rewards and travel perks.
• Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card: A no-annual-fee hotel card, offering rewards on Wyndham hotel stays and everyday purchases.
• Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card: A mid-tier hotel card with a higher rewards rate and additional benefits.

These credit cards provide different reward structures, allowing customers to earn points or miles based on their spending categories and preferred airlines or hotels.

Issuer Reputation

Barclays is a well-established financial institution with a long-standing history in the banking and credit card industry. They are known to offer reliable and competitive credit card options, catering to various customer segments. Barclays’ credit cards come with security, fraud protection, and additional benefits, making them a trustworthy choice for consumers.

While some Barclays credit cards may have annual fees, their rewards and benefits often make up for the costs, especially for frequent travelers or those loyal to specific brands. Furthermore, the credit cards often come with sign-up bonuses, allowing new cardholders to earn rewards faster after meeting initial spending requirements.

Key Features and Benefits

Rewards Program

Barclays offers a variety of credit cards that cater to different rewards programs. Some cards target specific rewards such as travel, hotel stays, or airline miles. Others focus on cashback or rewards points for dining, gas, and purchases at specific retailers. Cardholders can redeem these rewards for statement credits, gift cards, or other perks. To maximize rewards, choose a card that aligns with your spending habits and preferences.

Signup Bonuses

Barclays credit cards often come with attractive signup bonuses. These bonuses usually require cardholders to meet a minimum spending requirement within a certain period of time after opening the account. The size of the signup bonus varies depending on the card and its rewards program. For example, some cards may offer bonus miles for airline loyalty programs, while other cards may provide cashback or rewards points bonuses.

Perks and Services

In addition to rewards programs and signup bonuses, Barclays credit cards also offer various perks and services to enhance the cardholder experience. Some of these features include:

• FICO score monitoring: Barclays offers a mobile app for credit card holders, which includes FICO score monitoring, allowing cardholders to keep track of their credit health.
• Travel benefits: Cards focused on travel rewards may offer additional benefits like free checked baggage, priority boarding, or airport lounge access.
• Hotel rewards: Barclays hotel credit cards may provide benefits such as automatic status upgrades, complimentary nights, or bonus points on hotel stays.
• No foreign transaction fees: Several Barclays credit cards come with no foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travelers.
• Balance transfers: Some Barclays credit cards offer promotional balance transfer rates, helping cardholders save on interest when consolidating debt.

Overall, the key features and benefits of Barclays credit cards are quite diverse and cater to various spending habits and interests.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

Barclays credit cards offer a range of rewards and benefits, making them attractive to many customers. For instance, the JetBlue Plus Card is considered one of the best Barclays credit cards, as it offers valuable rewards at a reasonable cost. Cardholders can earn 1-6 points per $1 on purchases and an initial bonus of 40,000 points after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days, all for an annual fee of $99.

Another advantage of Barclays credit cards is the variety of options available. Barclays offers cash back and travel rewards cards to cater to different preferences. The AARP Travel Rewards Mastercard is another popular option that provides 3% cash back on airfare, hotel stays, and car rentals, as well as 2% cash back on restaurant expenditures.

Furthermore, Barclays Bank has no minimum balance requirements, no monthly fees, and provides users with a free mobile app. This adds convenience and accessibility for customers.

Disadvantages

Despite the benefits, there are some drawbacks to using Barclays credit cards. One of the most notable issues is limited customer support. This can be frustrating for clients seeking help or encountering problems with their accounts.

Another disadvantage is Barclays’ small U.S. ATM network. This limitation can be inconvenient for cardholders who need access to cash while traveling domestically.

In summary, Barclays credit cards offer a range of benefits, including valuable rewards, various card options, and a fee-free banking experience. However, limited customer support and a small U.S. ATM network can pose challenges for some customers.

Comparing Popular Barclay Credit Cards

JetBlue Plus Card

The JetBlue Plus Card offers a welcome bonus of up to 60,000 points after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days. Cardholders can earn 6x points on JetBlue purchases, 2x points at restaurants and grocery stores, and 1x points on all other purchases. The card comes with an annual fee of $99 and provides additional benefits, such as a 50% savings on eligible inflight purchases and no foreign transaction fees.

Wyndham Rewards Card

The Wyndham Rewards Card comes in two variations: Wyndham Rewards Earner Card and Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Card. The no-annual-fee Wyndham Rewards Earner Card offers a welcome bonus of 30,000 points after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days. Cardholders earn 5x points at Wyndham properties, 2x points on gas, groceries, and dining, and 1x points on all other purchases.

The Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Card comes with a $75 annual fee and a 45,000-point welcome bonus after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days. Cardholders receive higher rewards rates: 6x points at Wyndham properties, 4x points on gas, groceries, and dining, and 1x points on all other purchases.

Both cards have perks like automatic Gold status with Wyndham and no foreign transaction fees.

Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite Mastercard

The Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite Mastercard offers a welcome bonus of 70,000 miles after spending $5,000 in the first 90 days, which can be redeemed against airfare, including on Hawaiian Airlines. Cardholders earn unlimited 2x miles on all purchases, and the card has an annual fee of $89, waived the first year.

Besides, cardholders receive a 5% mileage redemption bonus. The card also comes with benefits like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee credits and no foreign transaction fees.

Uber Credit Card

The Uber Credit Card has no annual fee and offers a welcome bonus of $100 after spending $500 in the first 90 days. Cardholders can earn 5% back in Uber Cash on Uber rides, Uber Eats, and JUMP bike/scooter rides, 3% back on dining and travel expenses, and 1% back on all other purchases. The Uber Credit Card also provides cell phone protection and no foreign transaction fees. However, it does not offer a balance transfer option.

Redeeming Rewards Points

Travel and Airfare

Barclaycard Rewards MasterCard points can be redeemed for travel and airfare, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers. When using your card for travel-related expenses such as hotel stays and airfare, you can expect to earn bonus points in these categories. The sign-up bonus offered by the card can also provide a significant boost to your points balance, allowing you to enjoy more travel rewards. To redeem your points for travel and airfare, log in to your online account either on the Barclays website or through their mobile app.

Statement Credits and Cash Back

Another popular redemption option for Barclaycard Rewards MasterCard points is statement credits and cash back. This allows you to apply your points as a credit on your account, effectively reducing your card balance. With each spending category, such as grocery store purchases and restaurant expenses, you can accumulate points that can be later redeemed for statement credits. In some cases, you may also receive bonus points on specific spending categories. To redeem your points for statement credits or cash back, simply log in to your Barclaycard account online or through the mobile app.

Gift Cards and Merchandise

Barclaycard Rewards MasterCard points can also be redeemed for gift cards and merchandise from a wide range of retailers and brands. This provides a convenient way to use your points for everyday shopping or as gifts for friends and family. Earned points through spending or bonus points received from sign-up offers can be used for such redemptions. To redeem your points for gift cards and merchandise, access your online account either on the Barclays website or through the mobile app, and browse the available redemption options.

Remember to make the most of your Barclaycard Rewards MasterCard by utilizing bonus categories and redemption options available, such as travel, statement credits, and gift cards. This will ensure that you maximize the value of your points and enjoy the full benefits of the card.

Understanding Fees and Rates

In this section, we will discuss various fees and rates associated with Barclays credit cards. This will help you make more informed decisions when selecting the right credit card based on your financial needs and requirements.

Annual Fees

Some Barclays credit cards have an annual fee, while others do not. For instance, the Barclays View Mastercard does not carry an annual fee. Other cards may have annual fees that vary based on card features and reward programs. Make sure to carefully review each card’s terms and conditions to identify whether or not an annual fee is present and how it could impact your usage of the credit card.

Balance Transfer Fees

Barclays credit cards may charge balance transfer fees when you move existing balances from another credit card to a Barclays card. These fees can be a percentage of the transferred balance, such as 3-5%, or a fixed amount, depending on the specific card terms and conditions. In some cases, Barclays may offer an introductory 0% APR on balance transfers for a limited time to new cardholders, which can save you money on interest payments.

Foreign Transaction Fees

When using your Barclays credit card for transactions in a foreign country or with foreign merchants, you may be subject to foreign transaction fees. These fees are typically a percentage of the transaction amount, such as 2-3%. Some Barclays cards do not charge foreign transaction fees at all, which can be a valuable feature if you frequently travel or make international purchases.

Interest Rates

Interest rates on Barclays credit cards vary depending on the type of card and your creditworthiness. Regular APRs can range from low to high, with variable APRs subject to change based on market conditions and the cardholder’s agreement. Some Barclays cards offer an introductory 0% purchase APR for a limited time, which can be beneficial for new cardholders planning significant purchases in the near future.

Once the introductory period expires, a variable APR will apply to any remaining balance and any new charges. To avoid interest charges, it’s essential to pay off your statement balance in full each month before the due date.

Managing Your Barclay Credit Card

Payments and Billing

Managing payments and billing for your Barclay credit card can be done easily through their mobile app. You can view your available credit, due dates, and pay your credit card bill directly from the app. It’s important to make your payments on-time to avoid late fees and to maintain a healthy credit score.

Customer Service and Support

Barclays’ customer service is available to assist you with any issues or questions you may have concerning your credit card. You can reach their support team through phone or secure messaging within the mobile app. Remember to get in touch with customer service if you encounter any problems or need assistance with your account. Their team can help ensure a smooth experience with your Barclays credit card.

Credit Monitoring and Fraud Protection

Barclays offers continuous monitoring of your credit report and FICO score. Being aware of changes to your credit report can help you stay on top of your financial health. Additionally, Barclays provides fraud protection features to keep your account secure. These features include alerts for suspicious activity, the ability to lock or unlock your card, and zero liability for unauthorized charges. Regularly monitor your account and stay vigilant to protect yourself from credit card fraud.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the interest rates?

Interest rates on Barclays credit cards vary depending on the specific card and the cardholder’s creditworthiness. It’s essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of the credit card you’re considering in order to find the specific interest rates that may apply to you.

Any annual fees?

Some Barclays credit cards come with annual fees, while others do not. The annual fee, if applicable, will be clearly stated in the credit card’s terms and conditions. Make sure to review this information before applying, and consider the potential benefits of a card with an annual fee versus one without.

How’s the reward program?

Barclays offers various reward programs depending on the card you choose. These rewards can include cash back, travel miles, or points that can be redeemed for merchandise, travel, or other rewards. Each card has its specific reward structure, so it’s essential to review the card’s rewards program to determine if it aligns with your spending habits and overall financial goals.

Is customer service good?

While customer service experiences vary, Barclays’ overall customer satisfaction rating is relatively low, with a 1.3 out of 5-star rating on ConsumerAffairs. Keep in mind that individual experiences may differ, and it’s always a good idea to research other customers’ experiences with the bank’s customer service before making a decision.

What are common complaints?

Common complaints about Barclays credit cards include issues with account management, difficulty in resolving disputes, and poor customer service. It’s important to weigh these potential issues against the benefits of the specific card you’re considering in order to make an informed decision.

How’s their credit score range?

The required credit score to qualify for a Barclays credit card varies based on the specific card you’re applying for. Generally speaking, you’ll need a good to excellent credit score to be eligible for the more attractive rewards cards. Be sure to review the recommended credit score range for the card you’re interested in to ensure you’re a good fit before applying.