The best travel credit cards tend to come with annual fees. But to offset that yearly expense, they offer plenty of rewards and perks — travel-related and otherwise.
Consumers typically need good or excellent credit to qualify for the best travel credit card offers, and those who are eligible have plenty of research to do. For example, most need to decide on the type of travel rewards credit card they want, including whether they want flexible travel points, rewards for hotels or airline miles. It's also crucial to compare cards based on their benefits, which could include elite status with hotels, airport lounge access, annual travel credits, no annual fees, and more.
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MoneyGeek’s Take: Top 10 Travel Credit Cards
The top travel credit cards we’ve selected come with reward points or miles — although the rewards/miles-per-dollar-spent rate depends on the card. For instance, the Capital One Venture X Card offers up to 10X miles per dollar on category-based spending, whereas the Platinum Card from Amex lets you earn up to 5X points per dollar on its bonus categories. Both, however, reserve their highest rewards rates for travel-related purchases. Choosing from the best travel cards on our list also requires paying attention to annual fees, welcome offers, APRs and added benefits.
The best travel credit cards are vastly different from one another, with some offering flexible travel points and others letting you earn hotel loyalty points or airline miles. Consider the type of rewards you want to earn — and how you might use them — as you compare offers.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
A good travel rewards card with airport benefits
ExcellentCredit Needed
$395Annual Fee
16.99% - 23.99%APR
2-10 MilesRewards Rate
We recommend the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card to people who have excellent credit and don’t mind paying a $395 annual fee to avail premium benefits. For instance, all cardholders get access to Capital One and Priority Pass airport lounges the world over. You also get complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status.
You may receive up to $300 as annual travel credit when you make bookings through Capital One Travel. You may also receive up to $200 as vacation rental credit during the first year.
This card comes with an early spend bonus of 100,000 miles that you may earn by spending $10,000 on purchases in the first six months. You also get an anniversary bonus of 10,000 miles each year after your first account anniversary.
Booking hotels and rentals cars through Capital One Travel earn 10x miles per dollar. If you book flights using the same platform, you earn 5x points. All other purchases earn 2x miles per dollar. While you may redeem your miles for travel bookings through Capital One Travel, you also have the option of transferring them to over 15 partner travel loyalty programs.
Using this card outside of the U.S. is perfect, given that it comes with no foreign transaction fees. Other benefits include one Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit every four years, cell phone protection and access to Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment.
Pros
Access to Capital One and Priority Pass airport lounges
Global entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit
No foreign transaction fees
Transfer miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
Cons
Only a few domestic airline and hotel travel partners
Capital One lounge network is just starting up
High APR on cash advances
$395 annual fee
No foreign transaction fees
High reward rates for bookings made through Capital One Travel
Early spend bonus of 1000,000 miles if you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first six months
Annual travel credit up to $300
Anniversary miles bonus of 10,000 miles
Up to $200 vacation rental credit in the first year
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
A great rewards card for air travel with premium benefits
Good-ExcellentCredit Needed
$695Annual Fee
1–5 Points per $1*Rewards Rate
5xRewards Rate on Air Travel
1xRewards Rate on Gas
While The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a $695 annual fee, we feel it's a great alternative for people who travel frequently and are looking for premium benefits. For instance, all cardholders get complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status and Hilton Honors Gold Status.
The card comes with two welcome offers. If you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months, you earn 100,000 bonus points. In addition, during those first six months, you get to earn 10x points per dollar on eligible purchases up to a combined total of $25,000 at restaurants anywhere in the world, and when you Shop Small with American Express in the U.S.
Booking flights through the International Airline Program with American Express Travel gives you access to competitive fares. You get access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection at airports the world over.
Not having to pay foreign transaction fees when you use this card outside of the U.S. is perfect. Different complimentary travel insurance coverages provide peace of mind when you're traveling.
Pros
Spend-based welcome offers to earn bonus points
5x points on flights booked through Amex Travel and directly through airlines on up to $500,000 per year
Redeem points in different ways, including transferring them to popular airline frequent flyer/loyalty programs
Airport lounge access
$200 airline fee credit per year
Statement credits for various other services
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit
Savings on international first, business and premium economy seats through the Amex International Airline Program
Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status and Hilton Honors Gold Status
Access to perks through the Fine Hotels & Resorts Program
Premium car rental status across different car rental programs
Complimentary travel insurance
Purchase protection and extended warranty
Cons
Annual fee of $695
Penalty APR may apply in case of a late or returned payment
Earn 100,000 membership reward points by spending $6,000 on purchases in the first six months
Earn 10x points on total spending of up to $25,000 at restaurants the world over or through Shop Small with American Express in the U.S. during the first six months.
Earn 5x points on flights booked with American Express Travel or directly with airlines, on up to $500,000 per year.
Earn 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel.
Earn 1x points on all other purchases.
Use points to pay for all or part of upcoming travel through amextravel.com.
Transfer points to partner airline frequent flyer programs such as Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, Etihad Guest, Emirates Skywards and Asia Miles.
You may redeem your points to shop online, pay off purchases or get gift cards.
Get a $100 Global Entry statement credit every four years or an $85 TSA PreCheck credit every four and a half years.
Get up to $179 in statement credits toward your CLEAR membership each year.
Get $200 as a statement credit toward prepaid Hotel Collection or Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings per year.
Get $200 as a statement credit toward incidental airline fees for one qualifying airline per year.
Earn up to a total of $200 Uber credit per year — through $15 Uber Cash credits per month for rides or eats orders in the U.S. and a $20 bonus credit each December.
Get $25 monthly statement credits toward Equinox.
Get up to $20 statement credits every month toward eligible digital entertainment purchases through Peacock, Audible, SiriusXM and the New York Times.
Pay no foreign transaction fees.
Get access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection at airports worldwide.
Book flights through the International Airline Program and look forward to savings on international first, business and premium economy seats on up to eight tickets per booking.
Get benefits such as complimentary breakfast and late check-out when you make prepaid hotel bookings through the Fine Hotels & Resorts Program.
Get complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status as well as Hilton Honors Gold Status.
Get Premium Car Rental Status for car rental programs such as Avis Preferred, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Car Rental.
Benefit through complimentary trip delay insurance, trip cancellation insurance, car rental loss and damage insurance, purchase protection and extended warranty.
Get access to Platinum Card Concierge and By Invitation Only events.
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
Navy Federal Credit Union Visa Signature Flagship Rewards card
A good travel rewards card with nominal annual fees
$49Annual Fee
2-3 pointsRewards Rate
3xRewards Rate on Air Travel
None at this timeAPR Offer Duration
6 monthsBalance Transfer Duration
We feel the Navy Federal Credit Union Visa Signature Flagship Rewards Card might work well for people who wish to make the most of their travel purchases without paying a steep annual fee.
This card comes with a $49 annual fee. It offers statement credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fees, worldwide automatic travel accident insurance, collision damage waiver, and travel and emergency assistance. It charges no foreign transaction fees, which makes it perfect for use outside of the U.S.
New cardholders stand to get 30,000 bonus points (valued at $300) if they spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 90 days. Travel purchases from a host of categories earn 3x points per dollar, and all other purchases fetch 2x points.
If you plan to maintain revolving balances in your account, you may benefit by using this card’s introductory low APR offer on purchases, through which you pay 1.99% interest for the first six months. Further, this card does away with cash advance and balance transfer fees.
Pros
Moderate annual fee
No foreign transaction fees
High travel rewards rate
Variable APR of between 9.99% to 18%
No cash advance and balance transfer fee
Cons
Not available to all
Needs very good to excellent credit score to qualify
Spending $3,000 within 90 days after receiving the card, earns you 30,000 bonus points worth $300.
Up to $100 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA PrecCheck programs.
1.99% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, following which, regular APR applies.
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
A good travel rewards card that comes with a possible annual fee waiver
Good-ExcellentCredit Needed
$95Annual Fee
1.5- 4 pointsRewards Rate
3xRewards Rate on Air Travel
3xRewards Rate at Hotels
The PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card comes with a $95 annual fee. However, you don’t have to pay this fee if you’re a PenFed Honors Advantage member. Even if you end up paying the annual fee, you may offset if easily if you make use of the available domestic air ancillary travel statement credit, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck statement credit and Priority Pass Airport Lounge membership.
New cardholders earn 50,000 bonus points if they spend $3,000 on purchases within the first 90 days. PenFed Honors Advantage members earn 4x points per dollar on all travel categories, and it changes to 3x points for non-members. All other purchases come with 1.5x points.
This PenFed credit union card comes with a 0% APR offer on balance transfers for 12 months. However, each balance transfer carried out during this period comes with a 3% fee.
Using this card when you travel internationally is perfect because it comes with no foreign transaction fees.
Pros
Earn reward points on travel and everyday purchases
No foreign transaction fees
Travel statement credits
Welcome bonus points
0% balance transfer intro APR
Cons
Annual fee of $95
Credit union membership required
Purchase variable APR of 14.99% to 17.99%
Balance transfer fees
4x points on all travel categories for PenFed Honors Advantage members
3x on all travel categories for non-members
1.5x points on all other purchases
Earn 50,000 welcome bonus points after spending $3,000 within the first 90 days
Consolidate debt with a 0% balance transfer promo offer
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
An excellent travel rewards card for international use
ExcellentCredit Needed
$95Annual Fee
1–3 Points per $1Rewards Rate
3xRewards Rate at Hotels
3xRewards Rate on Groceries
We feel the Citi Premier® Card is a great alternative for travelers not just because of its generous sign-up offer but also because it lets you transfer your reward points to different airline loyalty programs.
As a new cardholder, you may earn 60,000 bonus points by spending $4,000 in the first three months. You earn 3x points per $1 for spending on flights and hotels, at restaurants, at supermarkets and at gas stations. All other purchases come with 1x points.
Transferring your points to popular frequent flyer programs such as Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, JetBlue TrueBlue and Emirates Skywards is an option, and you pay no extra fee.
Having to pay no foreign transaction fees when you use this card outside of the U.S. is great. You also get $100 off a single hotel stay that costs $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) once every year. You may offset the card's $95 annual fee by using this benefit alone.
Getting additional cards for authorized users comes at no extra cost and gives you the ability to earn points faster.
Pros
Opportunity to earn a sizeable sign-up bonus
3x points for travel purchases and on a few other categories
No foreign transaction fees
Transfer points to popular frequent flyer programs or redeem them in other ways
$100 hotel savings benefit each year
Cons
Annual fee of $95
No complimentary insurance
No purchase protection
Cash advance and balance transfer fees
Penalty APR may apply in case of a late or returned payment
Earn 80,000 bonus points if you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months (valued at $800 when you redeem them for gift cards).
Earn 3x points on air travel, on hotel bookings, at gas stations, at supermarkets and at restaurants.
Earn 1x points on all other purchases.
Get $100 off a hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding fees and taxes) when you book through thankyou.com (online or over the phone).
Transfer your points to airline loyalty programs such as Aeromexico, Asia Miles, Avianca LifeMiles, Emirates Skywards, Etihad Guest, Flying Blue, InterMiles, JetBlue TrueBlue, Malaysia Airlines Enrich, Qantas Frequent Flyer, Qatar Privilege Club, Singapore Airlines, Thai Royal Orchid Plus, Miles & Smiles and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.
Other ways to redeem your points include getting gift cards, shopping online, paying for travel, getting statement credits, making online bill payments and making charitable donations.
Pay no foreign transaction fees when you use this card internationally.
Additional cards come with no annual fees.
Access to Citi Entertainment gives you the means to buy tickets to various events as well as presale tickets.
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
A very good rewards card with no foreign transaction fees and comprehensive travel cover
ExcellentCredit Needed
$95Annual Fee
1–2 Points per $1Rewards Rate
2xRewards Rate on Air Travel
2xRewards Rate on Dining
We're stoked about the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card because it comes with a healthy sign-up offer of 60,000 bonus points, provided you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months.
This card by Chase lets you earn unlimited rewards. While you earn 3x points on eligible dining, 5x on travel thru Chase Ultimate Rewards, and 2x on other travel purchases, all other purchases come with 1x points. If you redeem your points via Chase Ultimate Rewards, you get 25% more value for money. You may also redeem your points in the form of cash, gift cards and travel, as well as to pay for purchases.
Using this card when overseas is perfect because it comes with no international transaction fees. Extensive travel coverage provides just the protection you need when traveling.
Pros
Stand to earn 60,000 bonus points by spending $4,000 in the first three months
Earn 3x points on dining, 5x points on travel purchased thru Chase Ultimate Rewards, 2x points on other travel, and 1x point on all other purchases
Ways to redeem points include cash back, 1:1 points transfer, gift cards and more
Use the My Chase Plan to break up purchases of $100 or more into fixed monthly payments and pay just a monthly fee, no interest
Pay no foreign transaction fees
Extensive travel and purchase coverage can help provide extra peace of mind
Cons
The card comes with an annual fee
There are balance transfer and cash advance fees
Penalty APR might apply in case of returned or late payments
Get 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months
Earn 3 points per dollar on dining out, takeout and other eligible delivery services, earn 5x points on travel purchased thru Chase Ultimate Rewards, 2x points on other travel purchases
Earn 1 point per dollar on purchases across all other categories
Use points to pay for products or services made available through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program or directly from other merchants
Get 25% more value for your points when you redeem them through Chase Ultimate Rewards
Some of the 1:1 points transfer members include AerClub, British Airways Executive Club, Emirates Skywards, JetBlue TrueBlue, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, IHG Rewards Club, Marriott Bonvoy and World of Hyatt
Complimentary travel protection comes in the form of trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, baggage delay insurance, trip delay reimbursement as well as travel and emergency assistance services
Safeguard your purchases through purchase protection and extended warranty protection
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
A great rewards card that lets you earn unlimited miles
Good-ExcellentCredit Needed
$95Annual Fee
2 Miles per $1Rewards Rate
2xRewards Rate on Air Travel
2xRewards Rate at Hotels
We love the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card because of its generous early spend bonus offer and the flexibility it provides in redeeming earned miles. New cardholders stand to earn 60,000 bonus miles if they spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months.
All purchases made using this card earn 2x miles, and there is no cap on the number of miles you may earn. Adding an authorized user gives you the means to earn miles sooner, and you don’t have to pay an added fee. The $95 annual fee applies only to the primary card.
You may transfer the miles you earn to over 15 travel loyalty programs such as Air France Flying Blue, Air Canada Aeroplan and British Airways Avios. You get to redeem your miles in other ways as well.
Using this card outside of the U.S. works well as it comes with no foreign transaction fees. Travelers may also benefit through Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, travel accident insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver and 24/7 travel assistance services.
Extended warranty safeguards your purchases. $0 fraud liability provides protection against fraudulent transactions.
Pros
Earn an early spend bonus of 60,000 miles by spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months
Earn unlimited 2x miles per $1
Transfer miles to different airline loyalty programs
Redeem miles in various other ways
No foreign transaction fees
Receive Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
Cons
$95 annual fee
Cash advance and balance transfer fees
Get 60,000 miles as an early spend bonus if you spend at least $3,000 on purchases within three months from account opening.
Earn unlimited 2x miles per dollar on all purchases.
Earn 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
Transfer your miles to Accor Live Limitless, Aeromexico Club Premier, Air France KLM Flying Blue, Air Canada Aeroplan, Asia Miles, Avianca LifeMiles, British Airways Avios, Emirates Skywards, Etihad Guest, Infinity MileageLands, Finnair Plus, Qantas Frequent Flyer, Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, TAP Air Portugal Miles&Go or Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles.
Redeem your rewards with PayPal, at Amazon.com or through Capital One Shopping.
Get a $100 statement credit toward Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fees every four years.
Pay no foreign transaction fees.
Get complimentary travel accident insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver and extended warranty.
Get access to premier culinary experiences as well as various music and sports events.
Get protection against unauthorized charges made using your card through $0 fraud liability.
Setting up autopay is possible.
Getting additional cards for authorized users comes with no added fee.
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
When it comes to travel and dining rewards, the American Express® Gold Card is hard to beat. It offers some of the fastest rewards points accrual rates in the industry when you dine at restaurants or spend up to $25,000 at U.S. supermarkets. What other card allows you to earn four points for every dollar you spend at the grocery store?
Each point is worth one cent on average. Spend a bit over $6,250 each year, and you'll more than make up the annual fee. Other rewards, such as a three-points-per-dollar offer when you book flights at American Express airlines, sweeten this deal even further.
Furthermore, this card has a generous welcome bonus, provided you spend $4,000 in the first six months. The card comes with several annual credits and rewards as well, making it a great option for folks who like to fly and dine (even at the same time!).
Even better, the rewards points are transferable, either to other members or to other loyalty programs, including British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and more. All in all, it’s an excellent option for those who spend tons of money on dining and food while they travel and want some rewards for their trouble.
Pros
Potential for very high rewards points earning rate in particular categories
Can transfer points to partners or other programs
Can hold up to five authorized users
Receive free annual dining credit
No foreign transaction fees
Cons
American Express isn’t as widely accepted as other card brands
High APR overall due to “Pay Over Time” format
High “Pay Over Time” penalties
Earn 60,000 membership rewards points after spending $4,000 on all eligible purchases within the first six months of your account
4x membership rewards points on certain worldwide restaurants and specific U.S. supermarkets
Annual $120 dining credit and $120 Uber Cash
3x membership rewards points for flights booked directly through American Express
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
An outstanding travel card with flexible redemption points
ExcellentCredit Needed
$550Annual Fee
1–3 Points per $1Rewards Rate
3xRewards Rate at Hotels
3xRewards Rate on Dining
We recommend the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card to travelers who’re willing to pay a high annual fee to earn rewards faster and enjoy premium benefits. While this card charges a $550 annual fee, it offers up to $300 in statement credits as reimbursement for travel purchases each year. It also comes with a sizable spend-based welcome bonus.
Once you spend $300 in a year on travel purchases, you earn 10x points on hotels and car rentals and 5x points on flights for purchases made through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Other travel purchases earn 3x points. Dining purchases made through Ultimate Rewards earn 10x points. Other dining purchases at restaurants (including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out) come with 3x points. All other purchases let you earn 1x points.
You stand to get 50% more redemption value when you redeem your points through Chase Ultimate Rewards. This is also the case if you redeem them through the Pay Yourself Back alternative.
International travelers stand to benefit by paying no foreign transaction fees. You also get Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS fee credit and access to VIP airport lounges through one-time enrollment in Priority Pass Select.
Additional benefits include purchase protection, return protection, extended warranty protection, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, lost luggage reimbursement, trip delay reimbursement, and emergency evacuation and transportation.
Pros
No foreign transaction fees
Exceptional point rewards for dining and travel
Substantial signup bonus
Exclusive luxury perks for travelers
Travel and purchase protection
$300 annual travel credit
Cons
Significantly high annual fee
High variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Only individuals with a strong credit score are eligible
Must spend $4,000 in the first three months of card ownership to receive the welcome bonus
Certain purchases will not earn points
Authorized users are subject to an annual fee
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
The best travel rewards card with no annual or foreign transaction fees
Good-ExcellentCredit Needed
$0Annual Fee
1.25 Miles per $1Rewards Rate
1.25xRewards Rate on Air Travel
1.25xRewards Rate on Entertainment
We feel the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is best suited for people who wish to earn unlimited rewards that they may redeem for travel or other purchases.
No annual fees keep your costs to a minimum, as does not having to pay any international transaction fees.
New applicants can benefit through the card's intro APR and bonus miles.
Travel-specific coverage provides added peace of mind when you're traveling. Access to a host of culinary, sports and music events will ensure that you don't miss out on important events.
Pros
No annual fees
Earn 1.25 miles for every dollar
Earn unlimited miles that remain valid for the life of your account
Redeem miles in different ways
Intro 0% APR offer
No foreign transaction fees
Access to premier events
$0 fraud liability
Virtual card numbers
Use for balance transfers
Set up an authorized user
Cons
Redeeming points as statement credit requires that you make redemptions within 90 days from the date of your travel purchase
Not all benefits available for authorized users
Pay no interest on purchases for the first 12 months because of the intro 0% APR offer.
Earn a 20,000 miles bonus if you spend $500 on purchases within three months from account opening.
Redeeming your miles for a statement credit toward travel and other purchases is simple.
You may redeem your miles through more than 10 travel loyalty programs, such as Flying Blue, Club Premier, Asia Miles, Aeroplan, MilleMiglia, Emirates Skywards and Etihad Guest.
Use your miles when you check out using PayPal or when you shop at Amazon.
Pay no annual fees.
Pay no fees when making purchases in foreign countries.
APR for purchases applies on balance transfers.
Get extra protection when traveling through auto rental collision damage waiver and travel accident insurance.
Get additional warranty protection on eligible purchases at no extra cost.
Disclaimer: Credit card offers are constantly changing. We work hard to stay updated with the latest information, but the offers listed on our site may no longer be available.
Our experts collect 57 data points from sources such as card issuer websites, the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau and our various partners to ensure that you get access to the most accurate and up-to-date information possible. They arrive at the revised list of the best travel credit cards after subjecting all new and existing cards from this segment to our in-house ranking methodology. This involves assigning specific percentages to all the parameters that matter. Examples include:
Annual fee - 10%
Rewards rate at hotels - 10%
Rewards rate on air travel - 10%
Welcome Offer - 10%
5 Tips for Comparing Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Comparing the best travel credit cards can be a chore when annual fees are all over the place, and cards earn different types of rewards. Even so, you can narrow down your options by thinking about how you normally spend, your preferred type of travel and the cardholder benefits you want the most.
1
Take a close look at the annual fees
Some of the best travel credit cards have annual fees over $500, yet they offer benefits that are worth significantly more — if you use them. There are also plenty of travel rewards credit cards with annual fees under $100, as well as card options with no annual fee. There's nothing wrong with paying an annual fee for a rewards credit card, but you should make sure the value of any perks you receive is worth it.
2
Check for lucrative sign-up bonuses
Several travel rewards credit cards offer sign-up bonuses worth $1,000 or more, although you'll need to make sure you can meet the minimum spending threshold requirement. Make sure any card you're considering offers an initial bonus you can earn — and that it is realistic for your regular spending habits.
3
Consider ongoing rewards rates
Also compare the best travel credit cards based on the rewards they offer on everyday spending. Ideally, you'll wind up with a card that offers more points or miles in categories you spend a lot in.
4
Look for generous travel perks
If you're willing to pay an annual fee, you can look at cards that offer travel benefits like airport lounge access, annual travel credits or elite status with hotels.
5
Decide if you need travel insurance
Finally, decide if you are interested in cards with travel insurance benefits, then compare options accordingly. Some of the top travel credit cards offer protective perks like trip interruption and cancellation insurance, baggage insurance, primary or secondary auto rental coverage and more.
MoneyGeek’s Guide to Getting the Most Out of Your Travel Card
Getting the most out of your travel rewards credit card works best when you start with the right card from the start. With that in mind, you'll need to take a closer look at different types of credit cards as well as their respective rewards programs.
Take the time to compare points and miles cards, general travel credit cards, co-branded hotel cards and co-branded airline cards.
Understanding How Travel Credit Cards Work
The best travel rewards credit cards let you earn points that can be redeemed for nearly any kind of trip, although the rewards you earn don't all work the same way. Some cards let you earn points that only work within a specific hotel loyalty program, whereas others offer airline miles that only work with one airline or within an airline alliance. However, there are also flexible travel credit cards that let you redeem your points for any travel you charge to your card. Some even let you transfer your points to airline and hotel loyalty programs, which can open the door to better redemptions and help you get more bang for your buck.
Pros & Cons
Pros of Getting a Travel Credit Card
Travel rewards credit cards let you earn points for airfare, hotels and other types of travel, which can lead to travel savings.
Travel rewards points make it possible to redeem for aspirational travel redemptions that are too expensive to book with cash.
Get the chance to earn a big sign-up bonus, which could be worth $1,000 or more.
You can access travel benefits for free, including airport lounge membership, travel insurance, annual travel credits, elite status and more.
Some travel rewards credit cards give you elite status benefits like preferred boarding, free checked bags, room upgrades or early/late check-out.
Cons of Travel Credit Cards
The best travel credit cards require very good or excellent credit, so not everyone is eligible.
Several top travel credit cards charge annual fees that are over $500, and most have an annual fee of around $100. There are travel rewards credit cards with no annual fee, but they offer fewer benefits.
Like all types of credit cards, travel credit cards can charge high variable APRs that make carrying a balance an expensive proposition.
Hotel and airline programs tend to have extensive loyalty program rules that can make redeeming your points complicated or difficult.
How Points and Miles Work
When you sign up for a travel rewards credit card, you'll get the chance to earn a sign-up bonus as well as points or miles for each dollar you spend. Some types of points can be converted to cash back, whereas others are only good for airfare or hotel stays. Points values also vary, although you'll typically get a minimum of one cent per point or mile in value when you go to redeem.
Make sure to research different types of travel credit cards and their respective programs so that you know what you're getting into before you sign up.
General Travel Credit Cards
General travel credit cards are not affiliated with a specific airline or hotel, making them a lot more flexible than other options you'll find. Cards in this niche tend to work best for people who aren't committed to specific travel plans or loyal to a travel brand. Flexible travel credit cards are also perfect for consumers who want the option to redeem rewards for cash back or statement credits if they prefer.
GENERAL ATTRIBUTES OF GENERAL TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS
Typically let you redeem your rewards for travel charged to your credit card or for travel booked through a specific portal
May let you transfer points to airline and hotel partners (like with Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards and Citi ThankYou Rewards)
Can offer travel benefits including airport lounge access or flexible travel credits
Tend to have annual fees
Airline Credit Cards
Co-branded airline cards let you earn airline miles that work with a specific airline or airline alliance. For example, you could get the chance to earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points good for flights on Southwest Airlines, but you could also earn miles within the American AAdvantage program and redeem them for flights with American and other airlines in the oneworld Alliance.
GENERAL ATTRIBUTES OF CO-BRANDED AIRLINE CARDS:
Earn airline miles for flights or seat upgrades
Can come with frequent flyer benefits like early boarding or free checked bags
Rewards tend to be inflexible
Tend to have annual fees, but not always
Can offer elite qualifying miles toward elite status
Hotel Credit Cards
Co-branded hotel cards offer consumers the chance to earn hotel points in a specific loyalty program like Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy or World of Hyatt. Some cards in this niche grant cardholders automatic elite hotel status, while others offer free nights or annual travel credits good for their portfolio of properties.
GENERAL ATTRIBUTES OF CO-BRANDED HOTEL CARDS:
Earn rewards for free hotel stays or room upgrades
Can come with automatic elite status
Rewards tend to be inflexible
Tend to have annual fees, but not always
Can offer elite qualifying nights toward the next level of elite status
Questions to Ask Yourself When Choosing a Travel Credit Card
There are important questions to ask before applying for a credit card, including ones that could significantly impact your finances.
What to Ask When Comparing Cards
Do you want to pay an annual fee? If you're averse to paying a high annual fee for a travel rewards credit card, this will help you narrow your options considerably. We suggest paying an annual fee only when you know the benefits are worth it.
How often do you travel? If you only travel infrequently, you could be better off with a general rewards credit card or even a cash back credit card with no annual fee.
Do you travel outside the United States? If so, you'll want to look for a travel rewards credit card with no foreign transaction fees. That way, you can avoid paying an extra 1% to 3% (on average) toward overseas purchases.
Are you loyal to an airline or hotel brand? If you love a specific airline or hotel brand, then it's possible a co-branded travel credit card could be right for you. If you don't care where you stay or how you get there, a general travel rewards credit card will likely leave you better off.
Which travel benefits do you care the most about? Make sure to check cards for perks you'd like to have, whether that includes airport lounge access, annual travel credits, elite status, free checked bags on certain flights or something else.
Do you plan to carry a balance? If you plan to carry a balance, we suggest avoiding travel rewards credit cards since the high APR you'll pay will wipe out the rewards you earn and then some. Instead, look for low-interest credit cards or credit cards with 0% APR for a limited time.
Tips for Maximizing Miles & Travel Rewards
1
Make sure you can earn the bonus offer
If the travel rewards credit card you're considering offers a sign-up or welcome bonus, make sure you can meet the minimum spending threshold within the prescribed timeline. Remember that credit card sign-up bonuses are offered in addition to the points and miles you can earn on regular spending.
2
Pair more than one card to maximize rewards potential
If you're having trouble deciding on a specific travel credit card, consider pairing a few different cards that work well together. For example, you could pick up a co-branded hotel card or airline card and a flexible travel credit card that lets you transfer points to that program. An example would be pairing the World of Hyatt Credit Card with the Chase Sapphire Preferred, which lets you transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to the World of Hyatt program at a 1:1 ratio.
You could also pair cards within the same flexible program, such as a cash back credit card from Chase and one of their premium travel credit cards. An example would be the Chase Sapphire Preferred and the Chase Freedom Unlimited. Having both cards would let you earn optimal rewards in several categories like travel, dining and drugstores, as well as a minimum of 1.5x points on all non-bonus spending.
3
Use your credit card for all your spending and bills
Make sure you use your credit card for all your regular spending and bills since doing so will let you earn more points or miles over time. You can even set up automatic payments toward your recurring bills with your rewards credit card.
4
Keep an eye out for extra promotions
Check for additional promotions that can help you earn more rewards or cash back for each dollar you spend. Examples include travel program shopping portals, airline dining programs and add-on promotions like Amex Offers and Chase Offers.
5
Never carry a balance
The average credit card APR is currently over 16%, and travel rewards credit cards can charge rates much higher than that. Make sure to pay your credit card balance in full each month, or the rewards you earn won't be worth it.
FAQs About Travel Rewards Cards
The best travel credit cards can be confusing at first, but they start to make sense once you compare the best options and their respective programs. With some research and digging, you can learn all there is to know about the top travel credit card offers, how they work and who they're best for.
Plenty of credit cards have travel rewards programs, including ones from Chase, American Express, Citi, Discover and Capital One. Make sure to compare travel rewards credit cards from all the major issuers before you make a decision.
The best travel rewards credit cards are usually available to consumers with "very good" or "excellent" credit, which includes any FICO credit score of 740 or higher. However, you may qualify with "good" credit, or a credit score between 670 and 739.
The best travel credit cards charge high annual fees, yet they offer valuable benefits that can more than offset them. For example, some of the top travel credit card offers come with annual travel credits of $200 or more and Priority Pass Select membership, which has a retail value of $429 on its own.
Some travel rewards credit cards let you redeem points for car rentals, but not all. Flexible travel credit cards are the most likely to offer this option.
How you'll redeem your points or miles depends on the card you have. Some travel credit cards let you redeem for travel through a specific portal, while others let you book any type of travel you want with your credit card before "erasing" all or part of the charge with your points.
Many travel credit cards offer travel insurance, although the types of coverage you receive will vary. The Chase Sapphire Reserve has the most robust collection of travel insurance benefits, which include trip cancellation and interruption insurance, primary auto rental coverage, baggage delay insurance, emergency evacuation and transportation coverage, lost luggage reimbursement, travel accident insurance and more.
Anyone who wants to earn rewards for travel can consider a travel credit card. However, frequent travelers or brand enthusiasts may get the most bang for their buck.
Some flexible travel programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards and American Express Membership Rewards let you transfer points to airline and hotel partners. Some programs also let you pool all your points from different cards in a single account, and a handful let you pool points with other people.
Having more than one travel credit card can make a lot of sense for frequent travelers. With a handful of cards, you can benefit from diverse earning rates and cardholder benefits.
Business credit cards shouldn't be used for personal travel if you are striving to keep personal and business purchases separate, which you should be. However, there is nothing to stop you from using your business credit card to pay for personal expenses, including travel.
The number of miles you'll need for a flight varies from program to program. However, you'll typically need somewhere around 10,000 miles for a one-way flight within the United States at a minimum. Some programs require a lot more miles than others for an award.
Cash back credit cards may not offer points specifically for travel, yet they do let you redeem for statement credits that can be used to cover travel expenses. With that said, travel credit cards tend to offer a lot more perks specific to people who fly or stay in hotels. There is no "right" or "wrong" rewards credit card to sign up for, so make sure to compare both types of cards before you decide.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get a Travel Credit Card?
Travel rewards credit cards make sense for people who like to redeem rewards for flights, hotels, rental cars and even Airbnb stays. Even so, you'll be better off if you take the time to compare the different types of card options available based on their rewards programs, fees and cardholder benefits.
You don't have to be a frequent flyer or jetsetter to benefit from a travel rewards credit card, but you will get more value from your card if you make an informed decision before you sign up.
Tips From the Pros: Finding and Using the Right Travel Credit Card
Who is best suited for a travel rewards credit card and how can consumers determine if a travel card is right for them?
What factors should consumers consider when searching for and comparing travel credit cards?
What common mistakes do people make when it comes to choosing and using a travel credit card?
Julia Menez
Travel Hacking Coach and Founder of Geobreeze
Michelle Gabor
Business Lecturer at the University of Wisconsin - Parkside, Entrepreneur, CPA
Mark Ma
Assistant Professor of Business Administration at the University of Pittsburgh
Dr. Maria H. Sanchez
Professor of Accountancy at Rider University, CPA, Ph.D.
Sean Tossi
Assistant Professor of Management at University of Cincinnati
Kevin J. Machan
Adjunct Faculty Member of the College of Graduate Studies at Cardinal Stritch University
Gage Kemsley
VP of Sales & Investment Advisor Representative at Oxford Wealth Advisors
Michael B. Keeler
Certified Financial Planner and Chief Executive Officer of Peak Financial Solutions
Brian Walkup, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Finance, Crummer Graduate School of Business at Rollins College
Haley Tolitsky, CFP®
Financial Planner at Cooke Capital
Adriana Arismendi, MBA
Business Instructor at Northwest College
Elaine Luther
Business Management Professor at Point Park University
Donna Bobek Schmitt
Professor of Accounting, Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina
Justin Green, CFP®
Founder & Financial Planner at Assist Financial Planning
Alex Hamboyan, CRPC®
Wealth Advisor at Green Future Wealth Management
Michael A. Adamo
Professor at County College of Morris
Ryan Marshall
Partner, CFP®, AIF® at ELA Financial Group
Robert Fitzgerald
Accounting Instructor at Motlow State Community College
Becky Walen, AFC, CFP, MSFP
SVP, Market Development Director at Bell Bank Wealth Management
Michael Murray, AIF®, CPFA
President/LPL Financial Planner
Jill Carr
Financial Advisor, CFP, CPA at Stephens Wealth Management Group
Acie Middleton
Financial Coach CMC® CFEI at Rebel Financial
Robert Gmeiner
Assistant Professor of Financial Economics at Methodist University
Roxanne Alexander
Senior Financial Advisor with Evensky & Katz / Foldes Financial
Jeff Gale
Fiduciary Financial Advisor, CFP®, CRPC®, with Willamette Financial Advisors, LLC
Juan Munoz, CFP®, AIF®, CRC®, AAMS®
Financial Planner and Founder, Life Strategy Financial
Brian Jenkins
Associate Teaching Professor and Director of Undergraduate Studies in the Department of Economics at the University of California, Irvine
Dr. Linchi Kwok
Associate Professor at The Collins College of Hospitality Management, California State Polytechnic University Pomona
Adam Murray
CFP®, Financial Advisor at Berman McAleer
Richard Haskell
Associate Professor of Finance at Westminster College; Director Westminster Center for Financial Wellness
William Bevins, CFP® CFTA
Investment Advisory Representative of Cypress Capital
Lorette Pellettiere-Calix
Lecturer/Mentor, Center for International Education, SUNY Empire State College
Cristina Briboneria, CFP®, AWMA®, ADPA®
Managing Director, Private CFO® at oXYGen Financial
Ashley Burrell
CFP®, Investment Operations Manager at Meld Financial, Inc.
Kerry Jackson
CFP®, CRPS®, CSLP, Partner and Director of Financial Planning at Fish and Associates
Brent Weiss
Chief Evangelist, CFP, and Co-Founder of Facet Wealth
Dr. Corey Cole
Assistant Professor of Finance at Eastern New Mexico University
Ervin Starr, Ph.D.
Professor of Management and Strategy at Roberts Wesleyan College
Tim Kessel
Assistant Professor of Business and Finance at Dickinson State University
Ekenna Anya Gafu, CFP®, AAMS®
Chief Financial Officer and Director of Planning at Bay Street Capital Holdings
Steve Hengehold
Certified Financial Planner and Retirement Income Certified Professional with HCM Wealth Advisors
Emily Wood
Director of Financial Planning at Connecticut Wealth Management
Carrie Cook, CFP®, CRPC®
Founder & CCO of What About Us Financial, LLC
Jacqueline Schadeck
CFP® at Apex Financial Services, Inc.
Peter Vilim, CFP®, CDFA®, CIMA®
Associate Advisor at Francis Financial
Dr. Bob Castaneda
Program Director in Walden University’s College of Management and Technology
Michael Frontera CFP®, RICP®, ChFC®
Founder of Retirement Theory
Erika Safran, CFP®
Founder of Safran Wealth Advisors, LLC
Dr. Stephen Henry
Assistant Professor of Economics and Finance at SUNY Plattsburgh
Brittany Davis, AFC®
Associate Financial Planner at Brunch & Budget
Lydia P. Sheckels
CFP®, CLU, ChFC, Partner, CIO Emeritus and Senior Financial Advisor at Wescott Financial Advisory Group LLC
Tim and Amy Rutherford
Vloggers at GoWithLess/Early-Retired, Full-Time Nomads
Chuck Lopez
Lecturer at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Jennifer Wallis
Senior Marketing Vice President at Retirement Investment Advisors, Inc.
Bill Miller
Professor of Accounting at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
Michael Dixon
Adjunct Instructor of Business Administration at Shepherd University
Dr. James J. Carroll, CPA
Professor Emeritus
Tufan Ekici
Visiting Assistant Professor of Economics at Ramapo College of New Jersey
Mark Oxley
Accounting & Business Instructor, Casper College
Dr. Stephen Brincks
Professor of Finance at San Diego State University
Kimberly Bailiff
Adjunct Instructor of Marketing at Walsh College
Tanya Noah
Chair of Undergraduate Programs for the School of Business and Assistant Professor of Finance at Lincoln Memorial University
Wilfred Paul Suozzo
Associate Professor of Economics at North Shore Community College
Andrew Singer
Professor of Business/MBA Director at Lourdes University
John Korsak
Assistant Teaching Professor, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Economics Department
Rita W. Green, Ed.D.
Founder of GRADES LLC, Certified Personal/Family Finance Educator and Accredited Financial Counselor
Susan Mellace, CPA, MSF
Adjunct Professor of Accounting and Finance at Quinsigamond Community College
Richard Elias
CFP®, AWMA® at Rodgers & Associates
Dr. Robert Chatt
Assistant Professor of Finance at Westfield State University
Jeremiah Bentley, Ph.D.
Richard Dieter MS ‘66 & Susan C. Dieter Faculty Fellow and Associate Professor of Accounting at the University of Massachusetts Amherst
Eddy Junarsin, Ph.D., CFP
Visiting Assistant Professor of Finance, Economics and Finance at Murray State University
Aaishatu Glover
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Economics at St. Johns University
Zafar D. Khan
Professor of Economics at The University of Virginia’s College at Wise
Kathryn Brownell
Associate Professor at Jefferson Community College
Guan Jun Wang
Associate Professor of Finance at Savannah State University
Next Steps
Now that you know what the best travel credit cards have to offer, decide if getting one might work in your favor. If you plan to apply for a new card, compare your options based on factors such as annual fees, rewards rates, welcome bonuses and travel-related perks.
Holly Johnson is the co-founder of Club Thrifty, co-author of the book Zero Down Your Debt, and is recognized as one of the top credit card experts in the field. She is also a financial expert and award-winning writer who has traveled to over 40 countries and counting.
Holly's work has been featured in publications like The Wall Street Journal, CNN, and Fox Business. She is also a regular contributor to publications that include Business Insider, Bankrate, Money.com, LendingTree, U.S. News and World Report Travel, CreditCards.com, and more.
*Rates, fees or bonuses may vary or include specific stipulations. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting/last updated date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. We recommend visiting the card issuer’s website for the most up-to-date information available. Editorial Disclosure: Opinions, reviews, analyses and recommendations are the author’s alone and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. Advertiser Disclosure: MoneyGeek has partnered with CardRatings.com and CreditCards.com for our coverage of credit card products. MoneyGeek, CardRatings and CreditCards.com may receive a commission from card issuers. To ensure thorough comparisons and reviews, MoneyGeek features products from both paid partners and unaffiliated card issuers that are not paid partners.
