Smarter Christmas shopping on credit cards

A new survey has found the best credit card deals for different types of customer. As Christmas lights are being turned on throughout the UK and the festive period is drawing closer, a number of providers are promoting their seasonal savings.
Egg Money has announced its doubling cash back offer on purchases made between16th November and 10thDecember, helping to ease the burden of present buying.
Cardholders will receive two per cent cash back, up from one per cent, on all items bought in this period, while they will also be eligible for one per cent back on transactions at any other time.
Further reasons to carry on with the Christmas shopping include ten per cent cash back at Selfridges, including the online store, itunes and www.currys.co.uk, while five per cent is also available at www.lastminute.com.
Customers of Egg Money are encouraged to limit the amount of debt they mount up over the festive season by using separate accounts for shopping money and household bills and repayment money. This provides a more realistic account of a disposable income, say the developers of the account.
Mark Nancarrow, Egg’s chief financial officer said, “For many people, the run up to Christmas is their most expensive time of year. Doubling cash back to two per cent will help shoppers using the card to ease the cost of the festive period or treat themselves to something extra.
Shoppers have been advised to steer clear of store cards this Christmas and look for more competitive credit cards deals.
Industry experts have warned that store cards can have hidden charges, as well as high rates of interest, and said that finding a credit card with a good introductory offer, cash back facilities and anti-fraud guarantee is the better option.