Martin's smash & grab raid on the card firms

ReportInvestor

Sunday Times

Consumer Revenge: Martin's smash & grab raid on the card firms

"MY DEFINITION of pleasure: sitting on a warm beach with my girlfriend after both flying for free, listening to my free Sony Walkman MP3 player while reading a free book — and with the real joy that all this comes from legally kicking credit-card companies in the teeth. Ah, my eyes are almost leaking with joy......

There follows all the tricks of the trade and some current offers.

But watch your credit rating

"....Every credit application adds a search to your file, which can harm your ability to gain new credit. Those with good credit histories shouldn’t unduly worry though; many people have successfully applied for 10 freebies without problems.

The trick is to space out applications because making a large number in a short space of time looks as if you’re desperate and hits your credit score. After the first couple of freebie grabs, spread them out every four or five months, and always cancel unused cards.

Those with poor credit histories or who are likely to need new cheap credit or a mortgage imminently should back off freebie grabbing."