I wouldn't let an annual fee dissuade you. For one thing, often an annual fee is waived the first year. And simply getting the signup bonus, keeping the card for one year, and canceling is well worth it...especially lately, the large signup bonuses more than make up for the annual fee.

Depending on the particular card and your individual needs, the annual fee can even be worth it on an ongoing basis. For example, the SPG Amex which I think is more valuable than the annual fee. Also for me, a card like the Chase Priority Club Rewards or BA Visa, with no FOREX fees, have more than paid for their annual fees due to our international trips.

Lots of other little partner bonuses - sign up for Netflix, DirecTV/DISH signups, etc.