Diners Club International, owned by Discover Financial Services, is a renowned banking and payment services company that introduced the world’s first multipurpose charge card for dining and travel expenses. Diners Club aims to support global dining and entertainment through partnerships that benefit its cardholders, known as “Clubmembers”. This article explores the various types of Diners Club cards, their benefits, and how to obtain one.
Understanding Diners Club Cards
Diners Club cards are particularly appealing to individuals who frequently travel worldwide and wish to take advantage of exclusive Clubmember benefits at select restaurants, golf clubs, entertainment venues, and more. While Diners Club credit cards issued in the U.S. can be used wherever Mastercard is accepted, applications for consumer Diners Club cards are currently closed. Corporate cards, however, are still available, and those interested should inquire if their employer is a member of the Diners Club Corporate Card program.
Types of Diners Club Cards
When applications were last open for Diners Club credit cards, there were two types of consumer cards available: the Diners Club Card Premier and the Diners Club Card Elite. Let’s explore the features and benefits of each:
Diners Club Card Premier
The Diners Club Card Premier had a $95 annual fee and boasted several advantages. Cardholders enjoyed a Personal Assistant available 24/7 to assist with reservations for golf, dinner, and more. Additionally, membership to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide provided travelers with a comfortable and luxurious experience. For every dollar spent on eligible purchases, Premier cardholders earned 1 Club Reward point. Foreign transaction fees were completely waived, making this card an excellent choice for international travelers.
Diners Club Card Elite
The Diners Club Card Elite, with a $300 annual fee, offered all the benefits of the Premier card, and then some. Elite cardholders earned 3 Club Reward points per dollar spent at grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations. All other eligible purchases earned 1 point per dollar spent. Moreover, the Elite card provided additional perks such as travel accident insurance and trip cancellation insurance when the card was used to book a trip.
Club Rewards and Other Benefits
One of the major advantages of being a Diners Club cardholder is the ability to earn Club Rewards points. These points can be transferred to various airline rewards programs or redeemed for custom travel benefits and more. However, it’s important to note that card offerings and benefits may change over time, especially when Diners Club opens its applications again.
Exploring Alternatives
While Diners Club cards are highly sought after, it’s essential to consider alternatives for those who are unable to obtain one. Below are a few options to explore:
Best Credit Cards for Lounge Access
If access to airport lounges is a priority, there are several credit cards available that offer this perk. These cards provide travelers with a comfortable and relaxing environment while waiting for their flights. Some notable options include:
- Card A
- Card B
- Card C
Best Cash Back Cards
For individuals who prefer cash rewards, there are numerous credit cards that offer excellent cashback programs. These cards allow users to earn a percentage of their purchases back in cash, providing a tangible benefit. Consider the following options:
- Card X
- Card Y
- Card Z
Final Thoughts
Diners Club cardholders, or Clubmembers, enjoy exclusive benefits at restaurants, golf clubs, and other service-industry merchants worldwide. The partnership between Diners Club and over 1,000 airport lounges makes a Diners Club card highly valuable for frequent travelers seeking a luxurious experience. Although applications for consumer cards are currently closed in the U.S., there are still alternative credit cards available that provide similar benefits. Whether it’s access to airport lounges or the allure of cash rewards, individuals can find the right credit card to suit their needs.
Remember, the world of credit cards is vast, and it’s important to conduct thorough research to find the best option for your specific requirements.