If you are in a position where you want to make a large purchase on a credit card then you will need to look for one that offers zero percent interest on purchases for as long a period as possible. Here are some that fit the bill.

The Halifax One card offers zero percent interest on purchase for nine months, after which the APR is 13.9%. It also offers zero percent for nine months on balance transfers for a handling fee of 3%. The card has no annual fee and offers cover against online fraud for internet purchases. To benefit from the 0% rate you must stay within your credit limit and make your payments on time. Balances transferred from other Halifax or Bank of Scotland cards are not eligible for the 0% balance transfer offer.

HSBC’s credit card offers zero percent on purchases for twelve months and 4.9% on balance transfers until 31 January 2012. There is a balance transfer fee of 2.5%, and a minimum £5 charge. You can also get a free credit card for a partner or family member. If you hold Bank Account Plus, HSBC will refund 10% of any interest paid on the HSBC Bank Credit Card during the assessment period. APR is 15.9% after the free period.

Sky’s SkyCard offers zero percent on purchases until 1 June 2008, and zero percent on balance transfers to the same date, with a 2.99% percent balance transfer fee, with a minimum transfer balance of £100. The card also saves you money on Sky as every time you buy something with Sky Card you'll earn SkyPoints, which you can use to save money on Sky or buy Sky Box Office movies. The APR is 16.9% after the interest free period.

The Capital One card has zero percent on purchases until 1 May 2008 and zero percent on balance transfers to the same date. There is a low balance transfer fee of 1.7%, and the APR is 9.9% after the free period.