Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Card: Worth the Sky-High Fee?
A travel enthusiast's dream or just another card with a hefty fee? Let's delve into the Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card.
The Quick Version
The Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card is a solid choice for frequent flyers of Virgin Atlantic, offering 1.5 Virgin Points per £1 spent and 3X points on Virgin Atlantic purchases. However, the £160 annual fee and a steep 56.6% APR might make you think twice if you don't fly often or carry a balance.
What's Inside
The Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card is built for those who love to fly. With a sign-up bonus of 15,000 Virgin Points after your first purchase, it's tempting to jump aboard. Every £1 spent nets you 1.5 Virgin Points, and if you're booking directly with Virgin Atlantic, that jumps to 3X points. It's a Mastercard, so it's widely accepted, but the annual fee of £160 is something to consider. The card requires a good credit score (700+), and the APR is a whopping 56.6% variable, a key point if you don't pay off your balance monthly.
What's Actually Good
If you're a Virgin Atlantic loyalist, this card is a no-brainer. The ability to earn 3X points on Virgin Atlantic flights can accelerate your point accumulation quickly, making those dreamy vacations more attainable. The card's global acceptance as a Mastercard means you won't be left stranded abroad. Plus, the initial 15,000-point bonus is a nice jumpstart toward your next reward flight.
The Catch
Here's the kicker: the £160 annual fee can be a dealbreaker if you're not a frequent flyer. And let's not ignore the elephant in the room—the 56.6% variable APR is sky-high, so carrying a balance will cost you dearly. If you're not someone who flies Virgin Atlantic frequently or can't pay off your balance each month, this card might not be the best fit.
Who It's For
This card is tailor-made for jet-setters who have a soft spot for Virgin Atlantic. If you're someone who flies regularly on Virgin and can leverage the 3X points on flights, this card can offer great value. However, if you're just an occasional traveler or someone who frequently carries a balance, you might find the high APR and annual fee a bit punishing.
The Bottom Line
The Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card is a powerful tool for frequent Virgin Atlantic flyers, but its high fee and APR mean it's not for everyone. Before you take the plunge, weigh how often you fly with Virgin against the costs. Curious about how it compares to other travel cards? Check out my take on Is the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex Worth Your Wallet Space?.
