When using credit cards, the question is, Should I simply limit myself to one card?'' or Should I use multiple cards for different purposes?’’ There is no one correct answer to this eternal theme. This time, we will propose the optimal approach and card structure for two completely different personalities and lifestyles (personas). Which type are you closer to?

Type A: “Minimalist” who wants to reduce management effort as much as possible

👉 Optimal solution: 1 main card with a high return rate + 1 sub-card with a different international brand (stored at home)

Some people feel that carrying around multiple cards makes their wallets bulky, and it’s stressful to manage account balances with different withdrawal dates. With this type, you carefully select one excellent, highly versatile main card (Visa or Mastercard) that has a stable return rate of 1% to 1.2% or more no matter where you use it, and consolidate all payments from daily purchases to fixed expenses on that card. However, in case there is a system failure or loss of your main card, or a store that only accepts a specific brand (for example, ``We only accept JCB’’), keep a sub-card with no annual fee (a different brand than your main card) in your drawer at home or in your smartphone (Apple Pay, etc.) for emergencies.

Type B: “Optimizer” who doesn’t want to miss a single point

👉 Optimal solution: Use 3 to 5 cards optimized for each economic area and frequently visited stores

``I like to maximize the return rate like it’s a game, and I don’t have any trouble managing my household finances.''

• A card that offers high returns of 3% to 5% on online shopping (Amazon, Rakuten, etc.)
• Everyday card that gives you 5% to 7% back when you make smartphone touch payments at convenience stores and specific cafes.
• A mileage-specific card for flying, or a credit card investment card

Arrange these in your wallet or smartphone wallet and instantly draw the most suitable one in front of the cash register. However, the biggest weakness of this method is that points are dispersed into various types and expire without being able to be used. Therefore, advanced management skills are required to unify the final exit (miles and specific common points) using point exchange sites.

The biggest tip when it comes to structuring your credit card is to find the one that is most stress-free for your personality and money management style. Let’s build the strongest portfolio for ourselves within reason.