Top 10 Best Travel Credit Cards: Find the Perfect Card
Jet Setting with Jen contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. Read our Privacy Policy for more information.
Hey there, fellow travelers! If you’re like me, you’re always on the lookout for ways to make your adventures more affordable and rewarding. One of the best tools I’ve found is the right travel credit card. Trust me, finding the best travel credit cards can make a world of difference in how you plan, pay for, and enjoy your trips. I’ve done a deep dive into the top options out there, and I’m excited to share my picks with you. Let’s find the perfect card to fuel your wanderlust!
Introduction
Navigating the world of travel credit cards can be overwhelming with so many options promising perks and rewards. But how do you know which one truly delivers the most value? In this guide, we’ll explore the best travel credit cards available today, breaking down the key features, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional vacationer, this post will help you choose the card that best suits your travel habits and maximizes your rewards. Let’s dive in and find out which card can take your travel game to the next level!
Best Travel Credit Cards
1. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
One of the best all-around travel credit cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a top pick for many travelers. With its generous sign-up bonus and flexible rewards program, you can earn points on every purchase and redeem them for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal or transfer to various airline and hotel partners. The card also offers valuable perks like travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and primary car rental coverage. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to maximize their travel rewards without paying a high annual fee.
Perks:
Generous Sign-Up Bonus: Earn a significant number of points after meeting the minimum spending requirement.
Flexible Rewards: Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.
Travel Protections: Includes trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and primary rental car insurance.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: Great for international travel.
Considerations:
Annual Fee: $95, which is modest but should be considered.
Best Use of Points: To maximize value, transfer points to Chase’s airline and hotel partners.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Combine with Chase Freedom: Pairing with Chase Freedom cards can help you earn even more points.
Use for Big Purchases: Take advantage of the sign-up bonus by using the card for large purchases or bills.
Travel Portal: Use the Chase travel portal to get 25% more value out of your points.
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
For luxury travelers, the Platinum Card® from American Express is hard to beat. While it comes with a hefty annual fee, the benefits can easily outweigh the cost if you take full advantage of them. Think access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide, generous travel credits, elite status with hotel and rental car companies, and extensive travel protections. Plus, the rewards program offers a high points rate on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel. If you’re all about luxury and convenience, this card is a game-changer.
Perks:
Luxury Travel Perks: Access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide, including Amex’s own Centurion Lounges.
Travel Credits: Up to $200 airline fee credit and $200 Uber credit annually.
Elite Status: Automatic elite status with Hilton and Marriott, plus car rental privileges.
Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Includes trip delay and cancellation coverage, lost baggage insurance, and more.
Considerations:
High Annual Fee: $695, which can be justified by the perks but may be a barrier for some.
Point Redemption: Best value is often found by transferring points to airline and hotel partners.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Use Lounge Access: Take full advantage of lounge access during your travels to offset the annual fee.
Redeem Wisely: Transfer points to Amex’s airline and hotel partners for the best value.
Travel & Lifestyle Credits: Be sure to use the annual travel and Uber credits to maximize the card’s value.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a fantastic option for those who value simplicity and flexibility. With 2x miles on every purchase, this card makes it easy to earn rewards without worrying about spending categories. Miles can be redeemed for travel purchases, or you can transfer them to various travel partners for even more value. This card also offers a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, no foreign transaction fees, and a reasonable annual fee, making it a solid choice for frequent travelers.
Perks:
Simple Rewards Structure: Earn 2x miles on every purchase, no matter the category.
Flexible Redemption: Redeem miles for any travel purchases or transfer them to over 15 travel partners.
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit: Receive a statement credit for your application fee.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: Ideal for international travel.
Considerations:
Annual Fee: $95, which is reasonable given the rewards.
Limited Transfer Partners: Though expanding, Capital One’s transfer partners are still fewer compared to other issuers.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Use for Every Purchase: With 2x miles on everything, this is a great card for daily spending.
Redeem for Travel: Use miles to cover travel purchases or transfer to partners for even more value.
Take Advantage of the TSA PreCheck/Global Entry Credit: This perk alone can save you time and hassle at the airport.
4. Discover it® Miles
If you’re new to travel rewards or want a no-annual-fee card, the Discover it® Miles is a great starting point. This card offers 1.5x miles on every purchase, and Discover will match all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. The card also comes with no foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international travel. While it lacks some of the premium perks of other cards, its straightforward rewards structure and no annual fee make it a great option for casual travelers.
Perks:
Mile-for-Mile Match: Discover matches all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year.
No Annual Fee: Keep all your rewards without paying a fee.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: Perfect for travelers who don’t want to pay extra for overseas purchases.
Flexible Redemption: Use miles to pay for travel purchases or get cash back.
Considerations:
Lower Miles Earning Rate: 1.5x miles on every purchase, which is lower than some competitors.
Limited Travel Perks: No luxury travel perks like lounge access or travel credits.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Max Out Spending in Year One: Since Discover matches your miles after the first year, maximize your spending to double your rewards.
Use for Daily Spending: With 1.5x miles on everything, this is a good card for everyday use.
Redeem Wisely: Consider using your miles for travel purchases to get the best value.
5. Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card is another excellent choice for travelers who want to earn rewards quickly. With this card, you’ll earn 3x points on travel, including gas stations, and 2x points on dining and entertainment. Points can be transferred to airline partners or redeemed for travel through the Citi ThankYou® Rewards portal. The card also offers a decent sign-up bonus and a range of travel protections, all for a moderate annual fee. It’s a well-rounded option for those who want to rack up points across multiple categories.
Perks:
High Earning Potential: 3x points on travel, including gas, 2x points on dining and entertainment.
Transfer Partners: Points can be transferred to over a dozen airline partners.
Travel Protections: Includes trip cancellation, travel accident insurance, and car rental coverage.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: Travel abroad without extra costs.
Considerations:
Annual Fee: $95, typical for cards in this range.
Best Use of Points: Transfer points to airline partners for the highest value.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Utilize Transfer Partners: Maximize the value of your points by transferring them to airline partners.
Use for Gas and Travel: Earn more points on travel-related expenses and gas purchases.
Take Advantage of Dining & Entertainment: Use this card for dining out and entertainment to rack up more points.
6. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
For frequent Delta flyers, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers significant value. Cardholders earn 2x miles on Delta purchases, restaurants, and U.S. supermarkets, with a solid sign-up bonus to boost your miles balance. You’ll also enjoy perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs. Plus, the annual fee is waived for the first year, making it an accessible choice for those loyal to Delta.
Perks:
Earn Miles Quickly: Earn 3x miles on Delta purchases and 1x miles on all other eligible purchases. Additionally, get a welcome bonus of miles after spending a certain amount in the first few months of card membership.
Complimentary Sky Club Access: Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club and two one-time guest passes each year, making your airport experience more comfortable and luxurious.
Medallion® Status Boost: Spend on your card to earn Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs), which help you reach higher Medallion Status levels faster. This comes with added perks like complimentary upgrades, priority boarding, and waived baggage fees.
Companion Certificate: Receive an annual companion certificate for domestic travel, which can cover a round-trip Main Cabin ticket for a friend or family member. This perk alone can easily offset the card’s annual fee.
Travel Protections: Benefit from trip delay insurance, baggage insurance, and purchase protection, adding peace of mind when you travel.
Considerations:
High Annual Fee: The Delta Reserve card has a higher annual fee compared to other travel cards, but frequent Delta flyers can easily justify this cost with the value of the benefits provided.
Best for Delta Loyalists: This card is most beneficial for travelers who frequently fly with Delta or its partners. If you primarily fly with other airlines, you might not maximize the rewards and perks.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Book Delta Flights: To maximize your miles, always use your Delta Reserve card when booking Delta flights. The 3x miles earning potential can add up quickly, especially if you travel often.
Leverage the Companion Certificate: Plan a trip with a friend or loved one and use the companion certificate to save on airfare. Be sure to book early, as availability can be limited.
Achieve Medallion Status: Focus on using your Delta Reserve card for significant purchases to accumulate Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) faster, helping you reach elite status levels and enjoy more travel perks.
Utilize Sky Club Access: Make the most of your complimentary Sky Club access to relax and unwind before your flights, enhancing your overall travel experience.
Redeem Miles Wisely: Use your miles for high-value redemptions, such as international flights or upgrades, to get the most out of your rewards.
7. United℠ Explorer Card
The United℠ Explorer Card is perfect for travelers who frequently fly with United Airlines. This card offers 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays, plus a generous sign-up bonus. Cardholders enjoy perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and two United Club passes each year. Additionally, the card includes valuable travel protections and no foreign transaction fees, making it a strong contender for United loyalists.
Perks:
United-Specific Benefits: 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays.
Free Checked Bags: First bag free for you and one companion.
United Club Passes: Two complimentary United Club passes each year.
Travel Protections: Includes trip cancellation, travel accident insurance, and rental car coverage.
Considerations:
Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $95.
United-Only Rewards: Best for those who fly United frequently.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Fly United Often: Ideal for frequent United travelers, allowing you to maximize rewards.
Use for Dining & Hotels: Earn 2x miles on these categories to increase your mileage balance.
Use United Club Passes: Make use of the two annual passes to relax before your flight.
8. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
For those who love flying Southwest, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is a great way to maximize your Rapid Rewards points. You’ll earn 2x points on Southwest purchases, as well as hotel and car rental partner purchases. The card also comes with a rich sign-up bonus, annual travel credit, and upgraded boarding. With no blackout dates or seat restrictions, this card is a must-have for Southwest enthusiasts.
Perks:
Southwest-Specific Benefits: 2x points on Southwest purchases and hotel and car rental partners.
Annual Travel Credit: $75 annual Southwest travel credit.
Upgraded Boarding: Four upgraded boardings per year.
No Blackout Dates: Use points for any available seat without blackout dates.
Considerations:
Annual Fee: $149, which is higher but offset by perks if you travel frequently.
Southwest-Only Rewards: Best suited for loyal Southwest flyers.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Fly Southwest Often: This card is perfect for those who frequently fly Southwest, as you’ll maximize the rewards.
Use Annual Travel Credit: Be sure to take advantage of the $75 travel credit to offset the annual fee.
Redeem Points for Flexibility: No blackout dates mean you can redeem points for any available seat.
9. The World of Hyatt Credit Card
The World of Hyatt Credit Card is ideal for travelers who frequently stay at Hyatt properties. This card offers up to 9x points on Hyatt stays, 2x points on dining, flights, and fitness club memberships, and a sign-up bonus that can earn you free nights. Cardholders also enjoy automatic elite status, anniversary free nights, and the ability to earn additional free nights through spending. It’s a fantastic option for those who want to maximize their stays at Hyatt hotels.
Perks:
Bonus Points: Earn up to 9x points on Hyatt stays—4x points per dollar spent at Hyatt hotels, plus 5x points for being a World of Hyatt member.
Free Nights: Enjoy a free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort after your cardmember anniversary, and earn an additional free night when you spend $15,000 in a calendar year.
Elite Status: Receive automatic World of Hyatt Discoverist status and earn 2x night credits towards the next tier status for every $5,000 spent.
Travel Protections: Includes trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and purchase protection.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: Use your card abroad without incurring any extra charges.
Considerations:
Annual Fee: $95, which can be easily justified by the free night certificate and bonus points.
Hyatt-Only Focus: Rewards are best maximized when staying at Hyatt properties, so it’s most beneficial for frequent Hyatt guests.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Stay at Hyatt Properties: Use this card for Hyatt hotel stays to earn the maximum points. The 9x points can add up quickly, especially with frequent stays.
Leverage Free Nights: Plan to use your free nights at higher-category Hyatt properties to maximize value.
Combine with World of Hyatt Membership: Pair this card with your existing World of Hyatt membership to stack even more benefits, such as free room upgrades or late check-outs.
Use for Large Purchases: For every $5,000 you spend, you earn two additional qualifying nights, helping you to reach elite status faster.
10. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
Finally, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is a great choice for those who want a no-annual-fee card with flexible rewards. You’ll earn unlimited 1.5x points on every purchase, and points can be redeemed for travel purchases with no blackout dates or restrictions. This card also comes with no foreign transaction fees, making it a solid option for budget-conscious travelers who still want to earn rewards on every purchase.
Perks:
Unlimited 1.5x Points: Earn 1.5 points for every dollar spent on all purchases, with no limit on the amount you can earn.
Flexible Redemption: Points can be redeemed for statement credits towards travel purchases, including flights, hotels, vacation packages, cruises, rental cars, and more.
No Annual Fee: Unlike many other travel cards, this card has no annual fee.
No Foreign Transaction Fees: Make purchases abroad without paying extra fees.
Preferred Rewards Program: Earn 25% to 75% more points on every purchase if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member.
Considerations:
No Travel Perks: This card lacks some of the travel-specific perks, like free checked bags or airport lounge access, offered by other cards.
Lower Earning Rate: The flat 1.5x points on all purchases is straightforward but may not offer as much value as cards that offer higher rewards in specific categories.
Tips for Maximizing Benefits:
Use for Everyday Purchases: Since this card offers a flat 1.5x points on all purchases, it’s ideal for everyday spending, particularly if you don’t want to worry about spending categories.
Combine with Preferred Rewards: If you have a Bank of America account, consider qualifying for the Preferred Rewards program to boost your earning rate.
Redeem Points for Travel: Use your points to offset travel purchases like flights and hotels, which offers more flexibility compared to other travel cards that require you to book through specific channels.
Use Abroad: With no foreign transaction fees, this card is a great option for international travel.
Additional Tips for Choosing and Using the Best Travel Credit Card
While each of the top travel credit cards offers unique perks and benefits, there are a few general tips to keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the most out of your card:
Leverage Additional Benefits
Beyond the obvious perks, many travel credit cards offer additional benefits like travel concierge services, emergency assistance, and special access to events. Explore and use these benefits to enhance your travel experience.
Understand Your Spending Habits
Before choosing a card, take a close look at your spending habits. Do you spend a lot on travel, dining, or groceries? Select a card that offers bonus points in the categories where you spend the most.
Maximize Sign-Up Bonuses
Sign-up bonuses are one of the easiest ways to rack up a large number of points quickly. Plan your spending to meet the required thresholds for these bonuses but be mindful not to overspend just to earn points.
Combine Cards for Maximum Rewards
Consider pairing two or more travel credit cards to maximize your rewards. For example, you could use one card that offers high rewards on travel purchases and another for dining or grocery spending.
Take Advantage of Transfer Partners
Many travel credit cards allow you to transfer your points or miles to airline or hotel loyalty programs. This can often give you more value per point, especially if you’re redeeming for premium flights or hotel stays.
Stay on Top of Annual Fees
While some travel credit cards have high annual fees, these can often be offset by the value of the perks and rewards. Make sure to use the card’s benefits, such as travel credits, free nights, or lounge access, to get the most out of your investment.
Use Your Card Abroad
Many travel credit cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel. Always use your travel card when making purchases abroad to avoid additional charges.
Protect Your Purchases
Travel credit cards often come with built-in protections such as trip cancellation insurance, rental car insurance, and purchase protection. Familiarize yourself with these benefits and use your card for purchases that might need coverage.
Monitor and Redeem Points Wisely
Points and miles can devalue over time as loyalty programs change their redemption rates. Keep an eye on your balances and redeem your points for travel as soon as you find a good deal to avoid potential devaluation.
Stay Organized
Keep track of your rewards, spending, and annual fees. Use apps or spreadsheets to monitor when your points expire, when to pay your bill, and when you’re due for an annual fee.
Conclusion
Choosing the best travel credit card involves carefully considering your travel habits, goals, and preferences. As you evaluate your options, think about whether you prioritize luxury, flexibility, or simplicity. There’s undoubtedly a card out there that not only enhances your travel experience but also helps you earn valuable rewards along the way. Therefore, it’s essential to take the time to compare your options thoroughly, weigh the perks that matter most to you, and select the card that best aligns with your travel style. With the right card in your wallet, your next adventure is truly just a swipe away!
Personally, my two go-to airline cards are the Delta Reserve, as I exclusively fly with Delta and Delta Partners, and the Capital One Venture for places, usually outside of the US, that don’t accept American Express.
Featured Travel Tips & Tricks Posts
