Co-branded credit cards are partnerships between banks and companies like airlines, hotels, or retailers. These cards offer rewards tied specifically to that brand — for example, airline miles or hotel loyalty points. They often come with perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding, or automatic elite status. The trade-off is that rewards are less flexible, as points are usually limited to the brand’s ecosystem. For frequent travelers loyal to a particular airline or hotel, co-branded cards can be extremely valuable. For others, a general-purpose rewards card may provide more flexibility. Understanding co-branded cards helps consumers match rewards to their lifestyle.