Ryan Flanigan is a former Bankrate credit cards writer and Certified Credit Counselor with the National Association of Certified Credit Counselors. He has more than 10 years of experience using credit cards to help people reach their travel goals. Before he began writing about maximizing credit card points, Ryan performed worldwide as an entertainer, which grew his love of travel.
Before Bankrate, Ryan spent the past three years as a freelance writer for AwardWallet and Miles To Memories, discussing beginning to advanced strategies.
In his free time, he enjoys traveling with his family, watching sports and creating memories with his son.
Don’t be afraid of using credit cards to help put money back in your pocket. Whether in miles, points, or cash back, as long as you have the discipline to use credit cards responsibly, you can reap significant rewards to make your dreams come true.
My miles and points philosophy can be summed up in three words — earn and burn.
— Ryan Flanigan, CCC
The USAA® Rewards™ American Express® Card combines the earnings potential of a traditional rewards card with perks and benefits specifically tailored to consumers serving in the military.
A Barclays credit card that earns rewards for the Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles loyalty program.
Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card with Cashback offers an accessible start to credit building.
The Savor Student launches as one of the best student cards for cash back, benefits and credit-building.
Here’s my tips and tricks for saving money on your next destination trip.
Good for Frontier loyalists, but most consumers will find little value here.
Next Millennium is a catalog credit card offering 0 percent interest on purchases made at My Unique Outlet. But because you can’t use it to shop anywhere else, it’s only worth it if you’re a fan of the store.
The Sony Card has lost much of its power and may not appeal even to dedicated gamers. Here's our full review.