Website sees jump in millennials searching for credit cards before summer break

The number of credit card inquiries being made by 18 to 24-year-olds has surged in the run-up to the summer holidays and festival season, according to a comparison website.

MoneySuperMarket said credit card inquiries among this age group leapt by 74% in April and May this year compared with the same months in 2017.

It has seen a jump in inquiries about cards designed for rewarding consumers for spending, cards specialising in overseas spending and cards offering 0% interest on purchases for an initial period of time.

Kevin Pratt, consumer affairs expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: "This summer might be the first time those aged 18 to 24 are applying for a credit card so it's important they are aware of the options and choose the right type of card for their circumstances and requirements."

He continued: "If you're applying for a credit card to cover the cost of this summer, some of the options include cards offering favourable charges on overseas spending, cards that do not charge interest on your spending for a certain length of time, cards that allow you to transfer existing debt and avoid paying interest for a period, and cards that offer you rewards for spending.

"But whatever the card, it's crucial to remember that anything you spend has to be paid back, so bear that in mind before applying."