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For years, opening a rewards credit card felt like something other people did — people who have “financial goals” and use words like “mileage redemption” in casual conversation. Meanwhile, I was over here swiping my debit card like it was doing me any favors. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t.

Fast forward to now, and I’ve joined the world of rewards cards. But instead of celebrating, I’m kicking myself for waiting so long. Why? Because I’ve been leaving free money, perks, and experiences on the table.

Here are five reasons I deeply regret dragging my feet on getting some of the best credit cards — and why you shouldn’t make the same mistake.

1. Missed sign-up bonuses

You know those 50,000-point or $200 cash back bonuses you get just for opening a rewards card and spending what you already would’ve spent? I missed out on those for years. That’s like being handed free money and saying, “No thanks, I’m good.”

Every time I think about the sign-up bonuses I could have collected, I want to scream into a void. Those points could’ve funded flights and hotel stays or taken the sting out of my grocery bill. Thankfully, I’ve learned my lesson.

Be on the lookout for boosted welcome offers to earn even more points, miles, or cash back. In recent years, I’ve opened two different highly rated cards at times when the welcome offer was significantly higher than what’s standard for the cards. As an example, both Chase and Amex are known for occasionally boosting welcome offers for cards in their respective lineups.

2. My daily spending earned me nothing

I don’t want to do the math on how much money I’ve spent on groceries, gas, and dining out over the years because it might make me cry. With a rewards card, those purchases could have been earning me points, cash back, or other perks.

Instead, they just disappeared into the ether, like socks in a dryer. Now, every time I swipe, I’m earning something back — and honestly, it’s a little addictive.

Click here to check out our picks for the best gas and groceries rewards cards — you can earn money back on the purchases you make every day.

3. I paid full price for travel

Until recently, I thought everyone paid full price for flights and hotels. Turns out, that’s just what people without rewards cards do. Now that I’ve joined the points game, I can’t believe how much money I’ve wasted.

Recently, I booked round-trip flights to the Caribbean for my family and spent only $450 because I used points from some of my top travel credit cards. Now, I can’t stop thinking about all the trips I could’ve taken if I’d started earning points sooner.

4. I lost out on VIP treatment

Let me paint you a picture: you’re at the airport, sipping a free latte in a quiet lounge while everyone else is fighting over power outlets and $15 sandwiches. That could’ve been me.

Instead, I spent years waiting at crowded gates and paying for overpriced snacks. Many rewards cards offer lounge access, hotel upgrades, and other little luxuries that improve travel. Knowing I could’ve been living that life earlier stings a bit.

5. I could’ve saved thousands with travel perks

Rewards cards aren’t just about earning points — they come with built-in perks that can save you serious cash. Case in point: the travel insurance on my card recently reimbursed me $1,500 for a trip mishap.

Had I known earlier that perks like trip cancellation coverage, rental car insurance, and even delayed baggage protection were included, I could’ve saved myself countless headaches — and dollars. Waiting so long to take advantage of these benefits feels like leaving a suitcase full of cash at the airport.

The takeaway

If you’re still on the fence about opening a rewards card, let me be your cautionary tale. I’ve missed out on points, perks, and priceless travel experiences, all because I waited too long to sign up. Don’t make the same mistake.

Find a card that fits your lifestyle, start earning rewards, and enjoy the smug satisfaction of knowing you’re not leaving anything on the table. Trust me, future you will thank present you. And maybe even buy you a drink — with points, of course.

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