Virgin Money 0% Purchase Card offers the longest interest-free shopping period. Purchase credit cards offer a way to spread the cost of large purchases without paying interest, as long as the balance is paid off during the introductory 0% period.
If you use your credit card simply for purchases and are not concerned about balance transfers and other perks, you need to look at any interest-free purchase promotional period, followed by an ongoing generous low APR.
Compare Purchase Credit Cards
| Purchase Credit Card | Purchase Rate (APR) | 0% Purchase Period | Annual Fee | Representative APR |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barclaycard Platinum Purchase Card | 24.9% | 21 months | £0 | 24.9% variable |
| Sainsbury’s Dual Offer Credit Card | 21.9% | 22 months | £0 | 21.9% variable |
| TSB Advance Purchase Card | 21.9% | 20 months | £0 | 21.9% variable |
| Virgin Money 0% Purchase Card | 24.9% | 23 months | £0 | 24.9% variable |
| Tesco Bank All Round Credit Card | 22.9% | 18 months | £0 | 22.9% variable |
What Are Purchase Credit Cards?
Purchase credit cards are designed to help spread the cost of spending without paying interest, typically over a fixed 0% introductory period. After this time, interest applies to any remaining balance.
They are commonly used for larger purchases like home appliances, holidays, or furniture, especially when you want to repay gradually without a loan.
Pros
- Spread the cost of big purchases
- 0% interest for up to 23 months
- Purchase protection included
Cons
- High APR after the 0% period
- Late payments cancel 0% deals
- Not suitable for cash withdrawals
How Can They Be Used?
You can use a purchase credit card anywhere that accepts standard credit cards. The 0% rate applies from the date of purchase, allowing you to repay over several months. Many cards also come with section 75 protection for purchases over £100, giving you added security.
What Should You Do to Keep the Costs Down?
To avoid paying interest, always clear your balance before the 0% period ends. Set up direct debits to avoid missing payments, which could cancel the promotional rate. Don’t withdraw cash or transfer balances unless the card also offers favourable terms for those.
Alternatives to Purchase Credit Cards
If you’re looking to manage debt, a 0% balance transfer card might be better. For everyday rewards, a cashback or rewards credit card may be more beneficial, though they rarely offer long interest-free purchase periods. For planned future spending, a personal loan may provide more predictable repayments.
Different Types of Credit Card
All Credit Cards
Everyday credit cards offer you the most flexibility for everyday use while having a reasonable interest rate, a balance transfer option and an initial interest-free period on purchases.
Balance Transfer Credit Cards
Astute credit card holders know they can shop around for a new card and transfer the balance from their old one, benefiting from a lower interest rate or even an interest-free period. Balance transfer credit cards are also a great way to consolidate debt from several cards to one.
Rewards Credit Cards
Reward credit cards are an easy way to earn hundreds of pounds in bonuses, just for your normal spending. But while some offers look valuable, you might be paying through the nose in interest fees. Also, consider whether the rewards offered are worthwhile to you.
Cash Back Credit Cards
You’ll be familiar with the cashback concept, where you earn rewards in the form of money or credit on your account when you spend. You must shop around as the “earn rate” varies, while some cards affiliated to a brand reward more for spending with that brand.
Travel Credit Cards
Don’t get hit by high fees when using your credit card abroad. Look for a credit card that offers no fees on foreign transactions and preferably some rewards as well.
Bad Credit Credit Cards
When you have a poor credit score, perhaps because of bankruptcy or some form of previous default, you can begin to rebuild your score using these cards. For those with credit problems here are our top ten bad credit credit cards.
Money Transfer Credit Cards
Using a credit card to pay off your expensive bank overdraft (or another loan) makes total sense when you can do so interest-free. Therefore, look for a card that has the longest 0% money transfer period and pay off as much as you can from the card quickly.
Air Miles Credit Cards
Bag yourself free travel simply by spending on your credit card. But select your card carefully as only some offer air miles, and some are more generous than others.
Purchase Credit Cards
If you use your credit card simply for purchases and are not concerned about balance transfers and other perks, you need to look at any interest-free purchase promotional period, followed by an ongoing generous low APR.
