I am new at the miles thing. We have a son going to college far enough away that the air miles look GREAT! We would like to pay his college costs with Visa or Mastercard and at least get free miles for all of this money we are forking out. We need a card on which we can charge anything--not just online stuff... and definitely not one that just gives u air miles if u charge an airline ticket. Our goal is to not have to spend money to get our son home each holiday. I checked into AmEX and feel that their deal is the best I have seen so far--with its double miles and all--but the univ. doesn't take amex. Does anyone know of a visa or mc that has good benefits--like bonus miles for signup or dbl points? Thanks!