What is the largest purchase you have made on a credit card and received rewards points for?

Introduction

Credit cards have become an essential financial tool, offering convenience, security, and—most importantly—rewards. Whether it’s cashback, airline miles, or hotel points, credit card rewards can significantly offset expenses when making large purchases.

In this article, I’ll share the largest purchase I ever made on a credit card, how I maximized the rewards, and the lessons I learned along the way. If you’re considering a big-ticket purchase, this guide will help you strategize to get the most out of your credit card rewards.

My Largest Credit Card Purchase: A Luxury Watch

The most expensive single transaction I’ve ever put on a credit card was a $12,000 luxury watch. I had been saving for years for this purchase, and when the time came, I wanted to ensure I got the best value—not just in terms of the watch itself, but also through credit card rewards.

Why I Used a Credit Card Instead of Cash

At first, I considered paying in cash or via a bank transfer to avoid credit card fees (some merchants charge a 2-3% processing fee). However, after doing the math, I realized that the rewards and protections offered by my credit card far outweighed the extra cost. Here’s why:

Sign-Up Bonus Acceleration – I was working toward a sign-up bonus that required $5,000 in spending within the first three months. This purchase alone put me well over that threshold.
Travel Points Multiplier – The card offered 3x points on travel and luxury purchases, which included high-end watches.
Purchase Protections – Credit cards often come with extended warranties, fraud protection, and return guarantees—valuable for expensive items.
No Immediate Financial Strain – Instead of depleting my savings all at once, I could pay off the balance over a few months (interest-free, thanks to a 0% APR introductory offer).

The Rewards Breakdown

Here’s how the rewards stacked up:

Sign-Up Bonus: 80,000 points after spending $5, 000 in t h e f i rs tt h ree m o n t h s (w or t h$ 1,200 in travel).
Base Rewards: 3x points on $12, 000 = * * 36, 000 p o in t s * * ($ 540 in travel).
Additional Perks: The card also offered price protection, meaning if the watch went on sale within 60 days, I could get a refund for the difference.

Total Estimated Value: ~$1,740 in rewards and protections.

Even after accounting for a potential 3% merchant fee ( $360), I s t i ll c am eo u t * *$ 1,380 ahead**—not to mention the added security of buying with a credit card.

How to Maximize Rewards on Large Purchases

If you’re planning a major purchase, here’s how to ensure you get the most rewards and benefits:

1. Choose the Right Credit Card

Not all cards are equal when it comes to big purchases. Consider:

Travel Cards: Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express Platinum (great for luxury purchases).
Cashback Cards: Citi Double Cash, Capital One Venture X (flat-rate rewards).
Store-Specific Cards: Some retailers offer bonus points for using their co-branded cards.

2. Meet Sign-Up Bonuses Strategically

Many premium cards offer huge sign-up bonuses (e.g., 100,000 points after $4,000 in spending). If you have a large purchase coming up, time it with a new card application to hit the minimum spend requirement effortlessly.

3. Use Shopping Portals for Extra Points

Some credit card issuers have shopping portals that offer additional points (e.g., 5x-10x) when you buy through their links. Always check before making an online purchase.

4. Negotiate the Credit Card Fee

Some merchants add a 2-3% surcharge for credit card payments. If you’re spending thousands, try negotiating this fee down—many stores will waive it for large purchases.

5. Leverage Purchase Protections

Credit cards often include:

Extended warranties (adding 1-2 years to manufacturer warranties).
Price protection (refunding the difference if the price drops).
Return protection (allowing returns even if the merchant refuses).

6. Pay It Off Quickly

While rewards are great, carrying a balance with high interest can negate them. If you can’t pay in full, use a 0% APR card to avoid interest charges.

Other Large Purchases Worth Putting on a Credit Card

Beyond luxury items, here are other big-ticket expenses where credit card rewards make sense:

1. Home Appliances & Electronics

Why? Extended warranties, cashback, and bonus points.
Example: Buying a $3, 000 l a pt o p co u l d e a r n 5$ 150) plus an extra year of warranty coverage.

2. Travel Bookings (Flights, Hotels, Cruises)

Why? Travel cards often offer 3x-5x points on bookings.
Example: A $5, 000 v a c a t i o n co u l d e a r n 15, 000 - 25, 000 p o in t s ($ 300-$500 in value).

3. Tuition or Medical Bills

Why? If the provider accepts credit cards without fees, it’s an easy way to earn rewards.
Example: Paying a $10, 000 t u i t i o nbi llw i t ha 2$ 200 back.

4. Wedding Expenses

Why? Venues, catering, and rings can add up—putting them on a rewards card can earn thousands of points.
Example: A $20,000 wedding could generate 40,000+ points with the right card.

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

While maximizing rewards is great, there are risks:

1. Overspending Just for Points

Never buy something you wouldn’t otherwise purchase just to earn rewards. The interest charges will outweigh the benefits.

2. High Merchant Fees

If a store charges a 3% fee and your card only gives 2% back, you’re losing money. Always do the math.

3. Carrying a Balance

Credit card interest rates (often 20%+) can quickly erase rewards. Only spend what you can pay off.

4. Damaging Your Credit Score

Large purchases can increase your credit utilization ratio, temporarily lowering your score. Plan accordingly if you’re applying for a loan soon.

Final Thoughts

Using a credit card for a major purchase—like my $12, 000 w a t c h — c anb e in cre d ib l yre w a r d in g i fd o n es t r a t e g i c a ll y . B yse l ec t in g t h er i g h t c a r d, ma x imi z in g s i g n - u p b o n u ses, an d l e v er a g in g p ro t ec t i o n s, I e a r n e d n e a r l y * *$ 1,700 in value** while enjoying extra security.