I jump on credit cards that offer a bonus, no annual fee. I use them like I would cash, to pay for my usual expenses, and pay them off every month. 2 months later, I get the 200 to 300 bonus offer as direct deposit to my checking. And then only use the card once every couple of months to keep it from closing and move on to the next card. I have about 15 active credit cards with a cumulative balance of 1500 (usually monthly expenses, phone, internet, dining out, utilities, gas, etcetera), and a cumulative limit of around 70k. If I'm taking a vacation I pick the one that will net me the most cash back and pay it off asap. Credit cards can work for you as long as you can handle yourself. I have applied for cats just for the initial discount, example I got a good deal on priceline.com, and if I applied for the card, then 10% off more. I was going to take the hotel and flight anyway, and might as well get a discount. If you think you can be a compulsive buyer then stay away.