I myself have abstained from using a credit card (as an American), but I hear worrying things, namely that if the banks don't see evidence through credit history of my willingness to take on extensive debt and then pay it off reliably (but not too quick, of course, got to let that interest build), then they will be much-less willing to offer me large loans in the future, e.g. for home mortgages. As a consequence, I am frequently advised to get a credit account, use it regularly, and work a fine balance between paying debt off too quickly and too slowly. Sounds pretty lame, I have to say.

Do any of you older fellas have some wisdom to share here?