March Madness Meets Rewards: Capital One Cafe Perk

Capital One is bringing some extra fun to March Madness with a simple offer: fill out an NCAA tournament bracket at a Capital One Cafe, and you'll get a free drink. While a free beverage is always a nice bonus, RewardSmart wants to help you think bigger and use this opportunity to boost your credit card rewards.

Level Up Your Cafe Visit: Strategic Spending

Here's how to make the most of your Capital One Cafe visit from a rewards perspective:

  • Capital One Card Power: Of course, using a Capital One card at a Capital One Cafe is a no-brainer. Check your card's rewards structure. Many Capital One cards offer elevated rewards on dining or everyday purchases. Even if the cafe doesn't code as a traditional "restaurant," using your Capital One SavorOne or Capital One Quicksilver card could still yield valuable cashback or miles. Some cards also offer additional perks at Capital One Cafes, so double-check your card benefits!
  • Amplify with a Bonus Category Card: If you're buying anything beyond the free drink (maybe a pastry or a coffee for a friend), consider using a card that offers bonus rewards on dining or even just general spending. For example, a card that earns 5% cashback on dining would be a great choice. Even if it's a small purchase, every point or mile counts!
  • Mobile Wallet Magic: Many credit cards offer bonus rewards for using mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay. Check your card's current promotions and see if using a mobile wallet at the Capital One Cafe will earn you extra points or cashback. This is an easy way to maximize your rewards with minimal effort.

Beyond the Bracket: Other Rewards Opportunities

Think outside the cafe! While you're focused on March Madness, consider these other rewards-boosting strategies:

  • Bracket Pools and Online Purchases: Participating in online bracket pools often requires a small entry fee. Use a credit card that offers bonus rewards on online purchases to earn extra points or cashback. Many cards offer temporary or rotating bonus categories that include online shopping.
  • Restaurant Rewards: If you're watching the games at a restaurant or bar, be strategic about which card you use. Many restaurants offer loyalty programs in addition to credit card rewards. Stack the two for maximum rewards!
  • Travel Rewards: If you're traveling to attend a March Madness game, use a travel rewards card to book your flights and hotels. You'll earn valuable points or miles that can be redeemed for future travel experiences.

Actionable Takeaways

Don't just grab a free drink – turn your Capital One Cafe visit into a rewards-maximizing opportunity. By strategically using your credit cards and considering other March Madness-related spending, you can significantly boost your rewards balance. Remember to always pay your credit card bill on time and in full to avoid interest charges, ensuring you truly benefit from the rewards you earn. Check your RewardSmart app for card recommendations based on spending categories.