A credit card is a must have accessory for any college student. For gassing up the car or buying your textbooks each semester, it is a credit card that makes it all happen. It's hard to do anything anymore without one.

Not only do they simplify the process of shopping, a credit card helps you to build your own credit history. Students are often swamped with credit card offers while on campus.

While some of these offers are form banks and other reputable institutions, others seem too good to be true - because they are (read the fine print, always!). There's a lot of pressure to sign on up. Many students are savvy enough to simply turn their backs, but others are sucked in by slick marketing and hard sell tactics.

This is known as the "net generation", a group of young people more comfortable getting information online than form other sources. Fortunately, this is also the best way to find a good deal on a credit card.

There's no reason to listen to some sales rep's pitch when all of the information is available online. You can look into credit cards anytime you have a few free minutes; between classes, even in the wee hours. With the 'net, it's available anytime you need.

There are even websites which have chart s comparing the features of every credit card out there. What you want is a card with no annual fee and the lowest APR, or annual percentage rate you can find.

Again, always read the fine print. Some credit cards will give you 0% APR for six months, then slam you with rates as high as 26%! You don't get the full benefits of adulthood until you begin to establish your own credit history - as nice as it is to turn 21.

That's why you should try to get your first credit card as soon as you can, so you can start to establish your own (good) credit. If you want to take a spring break trip, you should look for a credit card which offers reward points redeemable for travel or hotels.

If you want frequent flyer miles, you can get a credit card which is linked to an airline. That way, when you use your credit card, you'll be amassing points towards your next trip!

You can even show your school spirit with your credit card! Cards are probably available with your schools logo, the sometimes give back to your school too.

You can always try telling your parents that you're only shopping to help out your school. It may not work, but you get an A for effort. Before getting more cards though, wait until you are accustomed to paying off your minimum monthly payment on one card.

One thing you should never do is apply for a new card because one is maxed out. Use your credit wisely and it will pay off later. Developing a good credit history now will help you to do many things once you get out of school, so spend wisely!


Nick Makaryk is an Internet Publisher, Copywriter, and Founder of Best Credit Cards A Free consumer Credit Card Comparison site helps consumer minded individuals find the perfect credit card while avoiding high interest rates, charges, and no fees. Compare all Low Interest Credit Cards from accredited card issuers Visa, Master Cards, Discover, American Express.