Start by deciding what you need the card for, such as spreading purchases, transferring a balance or earning rewards, then compare the relevant APR, fees and introductory periods. Check eligibility using a soft search where available, as this can indicate your chances without usually leaving a hard search on your credit file. Look at balance-transfer fees, foreign-use charges, late-payment costs, rewards conditions and whether the representative rate applies to you. Only apply if repayments are affordable, and check that the provider is FCA-authorised through the FCA’s register.