Travel enthusiasts know that the right credit card can make a significant difference in how much they save and how many perks they enjoy on their journeys. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional vacationer, choosing the best travel credit card can help you maximize rewards, earn free flights, enjoy complimentary hotel stays, and access exclusive benefits. Here’s a guide to the top travel credit cards that offer the best rewards and savings.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Best For: Overall Travel Rewards
Key Benefits:
2x points on travel and dining
1x points on all other purchases
25% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
$50 annual hotel credit
Annual Fee: $95
Why It’s Great: The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a favorite among travelers for its flexibility and valuable rewards. Points can be transferred to various airline and hotel loyalty programs, providing even more value.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Best For: Simple Flat-Rate Rewards
Key Benefits:
2x miles on every purchase
5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
Annual Fee: $95
Why It’s Great: The Capital One Venture Rewards card is perfect for those who prefer straightforward earning without worrying about spending categories. Redeem miles for travel purchases or transfer them to partner airlines.
3. American Express® Gold Card
Best For: Dining and U.S. Supermarkets
Key Benefits:
4x points at restaurants and on up to $25,000 per year at U.S. supermarkets
3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com
$120 dining credit annually (enrollment required)
Annual Fee: $250
Why It’s Great: Foodies and those who spend heavily on dining will love the American Express Gold Card. Its generous points on dining and supermarkets make it easy to rack up rewards quickly.
4. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best For: Luxury Travel Perks
Key Benefits:
5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel
5x points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
Access to the Global Lounge Collection
Up to $200 airline fee credit annually
Annual Fee: $695
Why It’s Great: Although it comes with a high annual fee, the Platinum Card offers unmatched luxury perks like airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and extensive travel credits, making it ideal for high-end travelers.
5. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
Best For: No Annual Fee
Key Benefits:
1.5x points on all purchases
No foreign transaction fees
Introductory 0% APR for the first 18 billing cycles on purchases
Annual Fee: $0
Why It’s Great: This card is a solid choice for travelers who want to earn rewards without paying an annual fee. It’s simple to use, with points that can be redeemed for travel purchases without any blackout dates.
How to Choose the Right Travel Credit Card
When selecting a travel credit card, consider your travel habits, spending patterns, and the specific benefits that are most valuable to you. Here are a few tips to help you decide:
Assess Your Travel Frequency: Frequent travelers may benefit more from cards with premium perks like airport lounge access, while occasional travelers might prefer a card with no annual fee.
Consider Spending Categories: If you spend a lot on dining, groceries, or travel, look for a card that offers bonus points or miles in those categories.
Calculate the Value of Rewards: Compare the potential rewards against the card’s annual fee to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
Look for Sign-Up Bonuses: Many travel credit cards offer substantial sign-up bonuses, which can provide a quick boost to your rewards balance.
Check for Additional Perks: Consider cards that offer additional benefits like travel insurance, car rental coverage, or Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credits.
The right travel credit card can enhance your travel experience while helping you save money and earn rewards. Whether you’re looking for luxury perks, simple rewards, or no annual fee, there’s a travel credit card out there to suit your needs. Choose wisely, and you’ll be on your way to more rewarding adventures!