Best credit cards for 2026 (UK)

About this video

• Video Title: Best credit cards for 2026 (UK)
• Channel: Be Clever With Your Cash
• Speakers: Andy Webb, Amelia Murray
• Duration: 00:20:29

Overview

This video provides a comprehensive guide to the best credit cards available in the UK for 2026, presented by Andy Webb. It covers various categories, including welcome bonuses, 0% purchase and balance transfer cards, credit builder cards, and cards for overseas spending. The video emphasizes the importance of credit checks, eligibility searches, and responsible credit card usage, particularly by clearing balances monthly to avoid interest.

Key takeaways

• Credit Card Application Strategy: Always perform an eligibility search before applying for a credit card. A rejection can negatively impact your credit score, affecting future applications for credit, mortgages, and even mobile phone contracts.
• Responsible Credit Card Use: The most beneficial way to use credit cards is by clearing the balance in full every month. This avoids interest charges, helps build credit history, and provides access to consumer protections and perks.
• Welcome Bonuses: For those who can clear their balance monthly, welcome bonuses can be a significant perk. The American Express Cashback credit card is highlighted for its accessible 5% cashback on up to £2,500 spending in the first three months, potentially earning £125.
• 0% Purchase Cards: The M&S Purchase Plus credit card is recommended for its 25-month 0% interest period on purchases, offering a long duration to spread costs. It's also noted for potential cashback through sites like Quidco.
• Balance Transfer Cards: For transferring existing debt, the Barclaycard 14-month Balance Transfer card is suggested for its 0% transfer fee, ideal if the debt can be cleared within 14 months. For longer repayment periods, the Barclaycard Platinum 36-month Balance Transfer card offers up to 36 months at 0%, though with a 3.45% fee.
• Money Transfer Cards: These are useful for transferring debt from sources like overdrafts to a credit card. The Tesco Bank All Round credit card is mentioned for its 0% period on money transfers, purchases, and balance transfers, though with a 3.99% transfer fee.
• Credit Builder Cards: Designed for those with no or poor credit history, cards like the Tesco Bank Foundation credit card and Barclaycard Forward credit card help demonstrate responsible credit use. The Tesco card offers potential cashback and Clubcard points.
• Overseas Spending: The Lloyds Ultra credit card is recommended for spending abroad due to its fee-free transactions for the first year and 1% cashback. While debit cards are often preferred for overseas spending, a credit card like this serves as a valuable backup for specific situations like car hire or hotel bookings.