Maybe the answer to this question is simple or maybe there are multiple correct answers. I'm not sure. I was speaking with a friend who is based in Atlanta and they are expecting their first child. Both of their families are in Orange County, CA (SNA). They asked me what the best card for them would be so they could accrue miles to cut down the cost on trips between ATL-SNA or something in the area. SNA is the easiest for them. And the only carrier flying ATL-SNA nonstop is Delta. Although nonstop is not a prerequisite, it certainly helps when travelling with an infant. I don't have one, but I can imagine it does. They are on a pretty tight budget, aren't big spenders and would prefer to not have an annual fee.

My initial thought was the 30k Delta card, you get the 1st checked bag free and priority boarding (although I suppose you get that anyways if you are travelling with a child). However, the annual fee is $95. My next thought was the 25k Starwood card since you can transfer points to Delta and with Skymiles you can use cash and miles if you haven't accrued enough miles for a free trip. Plus, the $65 fee is pretty reasonable given the flexibility of the program. I also thought of an Amex Rewards card, but I think the Starwood or the Delta Gold would be the best options.

Am I missing something or would there be a better card with no annual fee? Or possibly a better airline to focus on?