More and more consumers are learning the harsh reality that in these days, it's hard to live without a credit card on hand. This “buy now, pay later” strategy drives consumers to purchase goods and other services right at the moment, instead of waiting for the next pay check to come.

Plastic truly is fantastic, as long as you are a wise spender and a smooth payer. Unfortunately, a lot of consumers are finding their way into enormous debts because of bad paying habits. In this case, it proves to be a smart idea to heed your mother's advice: pay your debts, and purchase only what you need (or at least what you can afford) .

There is no question, though, that owning a credit card these days really is a great advantage. E-shopping through the net or telephone can be a little hard without a credit card on hand. A great amount of time is saved by paying bills through a company's website rather than physically going to the actually location. And because the credit card market is ever growing, companies are always a step ahead in thinking about new ways and promos to lure you into opening an account with them. That said, here are some useful tips to consider before getting that first card.

• Lots of offers come in by e-mail or snail mail from credit card companies trying to lure you in to sign up with them, and most aren't the best deals in the market. Do lots of research before accepting any offer. Look for a company that doesn't ask for an application fee or annual charges. Compare interest rates and ask about the grace period given before finance chargers are added to your account.

• Re-evaluate your needs and reasons to apply for a card. Ask yourself why you are applying for a card in the first place. Are you a frequent flyer? Are reward points important to you? How much of the monthly balance are you willing to pay off?

If you can pay the balance in full each month, go for the card that has an interest-free period. Though the interest rate is high, it wouldn't post that much of a problem since you are able to pay off the balance before the interest can even be added. If you cannot pay in full each month, opt for the card with a lower interest rate. It is also very important to ask when the credit card company begins to charge for interest.

• Set a budget. The excitement over a new credit card may send you going off and purchasing more than you could pay for. Do not go over the allotted credit limit as this will incur additional charges to your account. Also, avoid paying with your card for small and cheap buys. It is better to use your cash in these circumstances as these relatively small purchases usually end up as a bigger bulk in your account.

Choosing the right card for your needs is the first step to enjoying a hassle-free route. With an effective system of spending wisely and paying your debts on time, you are sure to enjoy the perks that your credit card can offer.