Too many credit cards are a fear that a lot of people have. Credit card holders worry that with too many credit cards will cause them to get their finances mixed up or they may miss a bill. Then their are those that fear that with all of these credit cards lying around they may be tempted to break them out and splurge. Then there are those that fear that too many credit cards will make the lenders think they have too much potential to go in to debt.
Talking to some experts they say that having extra credit cards are good thing. Just in case your purse or wallet is stolen you could have a back up for emergencies. This backup credit card could be kept in a safe or security box at the bank. Keeping this card out of arms reach (and the reach of thieves) can help keep it truly safe from use. Check with your credit card issuer about the potential pitfalls to this. Sometimes your issuer will close the account if you dont use the card. In this case, use it carefully and buy a few small things monthly and quickly pay them off.
It is wise to stay away from "trophy collecting". This type of credit card collection is a mere collection for the purpose of saying you have them. Some people may think it is a status symbol to have many cards and these are the ones that can usually get into trouble with them. If you are out to impress someone you may decide to over spend or splurge on things you really dont need or use.
In closing the best bet is to only apply for cards if you have thought through the purpose. Remember to check with your credit card issuer if you plan to only use in emergency and see what you may need to do to keep your account open. Avoid Credit card collecting, too many cards lead to over spending quickly.