When you’re on vacation, you always think of the highest level of comfort and convenience. Many credit card companies offer a variety of benefits to increase your convenience. These benefits may be included on your card, but you may not be aware of them. Be aware of the following:

1. Car rental insurance – When you rent a car with your card, before taking out the insurance offered by the car rental company, you should know what your card includes. Most card companies offer a collision damage waiver automatically. Some companies also offer coverage for damage and loss. Check with the car rental company about what is covered before taking out your insurance policy.

2. Airport Lounge Access – You may be entitled to some VIP treatment at the airport! Many airports have lounges reserved specifically for frequent travelers with specific cards. These lounges offer services such as internet fees, complementary drinks and televisions to pass the time. You should check this with your card issuing company before you start your trip.

3. Auto Travel Accident Insurance – It is the policy of most travelers to purchase travel accident insurance for every trip they take. There are literally hundreds of cards that offer such travel accident insurance for free. The only condition is that you must purchase your ticket with that credit card. This service is available for both domestic travel and worldwide travel. You must confirm with your card issuer about automatic travel insurance coverage.

4. Restaurant Discounts – It’s good to check with your card company about gift cards or discounts at specific restaurants in the area where you’ll be traveling. It will reduce your food bills.

5. Free Travel Club Membership – Many cards offer complimentary travel club memberships. Benefits include VIP services offered at various resorts and hotels, room upgrades on cruise ships, etc.

6. Regional discounts: When you travel to a specific city like Chicago or New York, many card companies offer special discounts for a certain time at various establishments in that specific city.

7. Sports Travel Discounts – Some card companies offer cardholders the opportunity to save on tickets to specific sporting events and discounts on sports merchandise at participating retailers.

If you’re planning your vacation, check with your credit card company to see if any of the above benefits are included on your card.