Many ready for credit card Christmas spree

One in three credit card holders haven't a clue what interest rate they pay on their plastic, but are quite happy to depend on it for their Christmas shopping spree.

That's the finding of a poll conducted by Essential Research for the Customer Owned Banking Association, which say its underscores the need for better consumer education.

The association's boss Mark Degotardi says there is no doubt people are very aware of the convenience offered by credit cards.

"But there's a knowledge gap we need to bridge so consumers can get the right card for their individual circumstances."

Nearly two-thirds of the 1000 people surveyed will use a credit card this Christmas.

Just over 40 per cent will use their credit card for at least half their spending, while 14 per cent will use one for all of their Christmas spending including gifts, travel and food.