I have a credit card for the exact reason we're talking about, just so my credit score stays at a high level.

I found one with no fee that pays high % cash back on all purchases. So I use it like cash/a debit card and just pay off my entire balance every day or every other day.

That way I get the cash back on every purchase and keep my credit score high, but don't pay a dime in interest.

It's easier said than done to be that disciplined but if you force yourself or even like set yourself a damn reminder every nite or every week to pay off your whole balance, you're literally just getting free money out of it.

So as much of a predatory scam as our credit system can be, it can work in your favor if you are able to be fully committed to it.