What is point hacking and how can I do it?

Point hacking turns the money you’re already spending on groceries, bills and rent… into free flights, upgrades and gift cards.

This little hack is growing in popularity across Australia, especially among renters who are keen to get more from their regular payments.

With a little strategy, your rent could be the biggest contributor to your rewards stash, or the perfect way to start it.

What exactly is point hacking?

Point hacking is the clever (and legal!) art of earning the most possible rewards points through everyday spending.

This usually involves using a credit card that earns points, then maximising how much you can put on that card (including rent payments).

The goal? Rack up points fast, then redeem them for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, tech, gift cards and more.

Some people even book round-the-world flights just on points. But don’t worry, you don’t have to go full hacker to benefit from point hacking.

RentPay helps with point hacking

Most rental payments don’t count toward credit card points because they’re seen as bank transfers.

But with RentPay, you can pay your rent using a points-earning credit card and have it processed like a card transaction.

That means your bank sees it as eligible spending, and you earn your usual points (or even bonus ones, depending on your card).

Point hacking is one of the easiest ways for you to turn your “dead money” into travel rewards, shopping credit or savings.

Why renters should care about point hacking

Rent is probably your biggest monthly expense. If you’re already shelling out hundreds (or thousands) a week, why not get something back?

Let’s say your credit card earns 1 point per dollar. Paying $500 a week in rent could mean over 26,000 points a year... just from rent.

Add your in bills, groceries and any other expenses, and you're suddenly sitting on a serious pile of reward points.

With the right card and strategy, point hacking can literally pay off.

Top Tip: Do yourself a favour and set a reminder to pay your card off each month. This keeps your rewards free and your finances stress-free.

Get started with point hacking

1. Choose the right credit card: Look for one that earns solid rewards for every dollar spent and suits how you like to redeem points.
2. Link it to RentPay: Use your chosen card to pay your rent through RentPay. Make sure your card is eligible for points on these transactions.
3. Pay off your card on time: Always clear your balance monthly to avoid interest charges. The goal is to earn rewards, not debt.
4. Track your points: Watch your rewards and check for promotions, as some cards offer bonus points (spend categories or special periods).
5. Redeem smartly: Use points on things that offer good value. Flights and upgrades often give better bang-for-buck than smaller rewards.

Top Tip: Set up a dedicated credit card just for rent and bills. This makes it easier to track spending, repayments and points.

Things to watch out for

Point hacking only works when you’re in control of your spending. Credit cards are handy, but should never mean spending more than you can afford.

Also, check if your credit card charges a fee for RentPay transactions. Some do, but the rewards can still be worth it (time for a little bit of maths).

Using RentPay to funnel rent through a rewards credit card is one of the smartest ways renters can take part in point hacking.

It’s rent money well spent. Literally.

Final reminder: Make sure your card suits your goals, you’re paying it off responsibly (this is vital!) and you're tracking your points like a pro.

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