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Travel credit cards help you earn valuable points and miles to put toward flights, hotel stays and other travel-related expenses. They're also known to come with generous sign-up bonuses and additional travel perks, like airport lounge access and travel insurance. Check out some of the best credit cards for travel from our partners and start planning your trip today.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5X
Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
2X
Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day.
Intro offer
75,000 miles
New Venture cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once they spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
18.99% - 26.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card tops the list of best overall travel credit cards due in part to its flexibility. You'll earn unlimited miles and can redeem them as statement credits for a variety of travel expenses, including airfare and accommodations.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
3X
Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases
1X
Earn 1X points on other purchases
Intro offer
30,000 Points
Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $300 cash redemption value
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
17.99%, 22.99%, or 27.99% Variable APR
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Wells Fargo Autograph card is a great option for occasional travelers and households on the go looking to earn rewards on everyday purchases while avoiding an annual fee. It’s one of a few entry-level travel cards to offer high bonus rewards for dining at restaurants and the majority of your travel needs, including gas stations, transit, airfare and hotels. Plus, your rewards won’t lose value if you want to redeem them for a statement credit.
Several popular travel and everyday categories come with boosted reward rates
Comes with one of the highest sign-up bonuses for a no-annual-fee travel card
Cons
Unlike with traditional travel cards, you cannot transfer your points to airlines or hotels
Depending on your creditworthiness, you could end up with a high variable APR after the intro purchase APR period.
Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $300 cash redemption value
Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases
$0 annual fee
0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 17.99%, 22.99%, or 27.99% variable APR thereafter
Get up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with your eligible Wells Fargo card. (subject to a $25 deductible).
Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
Enjoy a premium collection of benefits at a selection of the world's most intriguing and prestigious hotel properties with Visa Signature Concierge.
Select “Apply Now” to learn more about the product features, terms and conditions.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
1.5X
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire.
Intro offer
25,000 points
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
16.99% - 26.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
This average travel credit card gets a whole lot more lucrative if you’re a Bank of America customer who can qualify for a rewards boost through the bank’s Preferred Rewards program.
There’s a relatively low spend requirement associated with the card’s welcome offer.
No annual fees or foreign transaction fees sweeten this offer.
Cons
This is a flat-rate travel rewards credit card; you can’t maximize earnings via bonus categories.
The top tiers of the Preferred Rewards program may be out of reach for many cardholders.
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire.
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
New longer intro period! 0% Introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 16.99% - 26.99% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee (min $10) applies to all balance transfers.
If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
additional features
Purchase intro APR
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases
Balance transfer intro APR
0% Intro APR for 18 billing cycles for any BTs made in the first 60 days. A 3% fee (min. $10) applies.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5x
5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
3x
3x on dining.
2x
2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.
Intro offer
60,000 points
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
18.24% - 25.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
With excellent travel protections and a relatively low annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a great introduction to the world of travel rewards credit cards. The welcome offer is an attractive incentive for any cardholder and the base rewards offer as much as 2 points per dollar in rewards on general travel purchases.
The $95 annual fee is reasonable for the category and card of this caliber.
The card touts significant travel protections, such as trip cancellation insurance and a car rental collision damage waiver.
Cons
You’ll miss out on premium travel perks, like lounge access and free checked bags.
The $95 annual fee, though easily recouped for frequent travelers, might price the card out of some shoppers’ budget.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Enjoy benefits such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining and 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.
Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
With Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 25% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
5X
Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
1.25X
Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day.
Intro offer
20,000 miles
Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
17.99% - 27.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card offers many of the same perks as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, without the burden of an annual fee. If you’re looking for a low-cost travel card, consider this one a top option.
The welcome offer is generous for a no-annual-fee travel credit card.
There’s no minimum you’ll need to meet to start redeeming miles.
Cons
Redeeming for non-travel purchases waters down your miles.
Capital One has no major U.S. carrier in its line-up of travel partners.
$0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 17.99% - 27.99% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
See if you're pre‐approved for this card with
CardMatch™
Rewards rate
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
3X
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® Points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
Intro offer
60,000 points
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$250
Regular APR
18.99%-25.99% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If your love of dining is a constant travel companion, few credit cards are more rewarding than the American Express Gold Card. The rewards rates at restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets and on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com are exceptional.
This card features one of the best rewards return rate on dining currently on the market.
The card touts a formidable collection of travel protections and perks, like hotel upgrades (when available for onsite credit on qualifying activities).
Cons
The $250 annual fee is on the pricey side when compared to similar cards.
Flights are only rewarded at 3X when booked with airlines directly or on AmexTravel.com.
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® Points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
Updated $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
10X
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
5X
5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel.
2X
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Intro offer
75,000 miles
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Annual fee
$395
Regular APR
19.99% - 26.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Excellent (740 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Those looking for travel-centric rewards will find a healthy dose of earning options with this card. You’ll earn a solid 2X miles on every purchase as a base, in addition to 10X miles on rental car and hotel purchases booked through Capital One’s travel portal and 5X miles on flights when booked through Capital One’s travel portal.
You’ll get 10,000 bonus miles (equivalent to $100 in travel) each year starting at your first account anniversary.
This card offers up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®.
Cons
There are no intro APR offers on purchases or balance transfers.
This card charges a $395 annual fee.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Receive up to $300 back annually as statement credits for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of options
Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,400+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and our Partner Lounge Network
Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
See if you're pre‐approved for this card with
CardMatch™
Rewards rate
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Intro offer
Earn 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Annual fee
$695
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Luxury travelers and big spenders will appreciate the bevy of travel benefits associated with The Platinum Card from American Express. Just be sure to factor in the value of the many perks, plus the lucrative rewards rates, when you consider the $695 annual fee.
The welcome bonus offer can provide 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the card in your first six months of card membership.
A robust line-up of airline and hotel partners make this card truly valuable for travelers.
Cons
The $695 annual fee is steep; it may deter certain cardholders from applying for this card.
Redeeming and maximizing the card’s credit and benefits requires some legwork and can be a bit confusing.
Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. And if you fly, you can receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year after you select a qualifying airline and incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.
American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
$200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
$300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $25 back each month on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required.
$189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership. CLEAR® is available at select airports and stadiums.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
3X
Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
3X
Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Hotels
1X
Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Intro offer
80,000 points
For a limited time, earn 80,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
18.99% - 26.99% (Variable)
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The big draw of the Citi Premier Card is that you can earn bonus rewards on everyday expenses as opposed to just travel. A generous sign-up bonus also sweetens the deal, making this a solid travel card for everyday shoppers who want to pay a low annual fee.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
10x
Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
5x
Earn 5x total points on air travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
3x
Earn 3x points on other travel and dining.
1x
Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Intro offer
60,000 points
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Annual fee
$550
Regular APR
19.24% - 26.24% Variable
Recommended credit
Excellent (740 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve has a generous points structure and comes with a $300 annual travel credit among other perks. This card is well worth the $550 annual fee if used strategically by cardholders who spend enough in the card’s rewards categories and take advantage of the added benefits.
Points redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards are worth up to 50 percent more.
The annual statement credit of $300 can help offset the cost of the annual fee.
Cons
The high annual fee could be a deterrent for some new cardholders.
You won’t get as many luxury travel perks with this card as you would with some of its luxury card competitors.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
Earn 5x total points on air travel and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel
With Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 50% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories
1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
2X
Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases
1.5X
Unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
Intro offer
50,000 points
Receive 50,000 online bonus points - a $500 value - after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
18.99% - 25.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If you do your banking with Bank of America, this card provides an intriguing opportunity for an earnings boost. The Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card provides generous rewards rates—2X points on dining and travel, with 1.5X points on all other purchases—as well as solid travel perks.
The $95 annual fee is relatively affordable for this card category.
Rewards never expire and there’s no cap on earnings.
Cons
Attaining the highest rewards rate is not an easy feat, since you’ll need to hold significant funds in Bank of America accounts.
This card does not offer premium travel perks like lounge access
Receive 50,000 online bonus points - a $500 value - after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire.
Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
No foreign transaction fees.
Low $95 annual fee.
This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
1.5X
Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase - with no annual fee.
Intro offer
Discover Match®
Unlimited Bonus: Only Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you've earned at the end of your first year. For example, if you earn 35,000 Miles, you get 70,000 Miles. There's no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
14.99% - 25.99% Variable
Recommended credit
Good to Excellent (670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Another option for people looking for a low-cost travel credit card, this Discover card combines decent (though not exactly best-in-class) rewards with consumer-friendly terms, like no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
As part of a generous welcome offer, all miles earned in your first year will receive a match at the end of that year
Miles don’t lose value when they’re redeemed for cash back.
Cons
You’ll miss out on pretty standard travel perks like travel insurance, and car rental damage protection.
The rewards structure lacks flexibility; you won’t be able to transfer your miles or use them to book travel.
Unlimited Bonus: Only Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you've earned at the end of your first year. For example, if you earn 35,000 Miles, you get 70,000 Miles. There's no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.
Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase - with no annual fee.
Redeem Miles to pay any part of your monthly bill, including your minimum payment.
Turn Miles into cash in any amount, any time. Or redeem as a statement credit for travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more with no blackout dates. However you redeem, Miles keep the same value. And Miles never expire.
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 14.99% - 25.99% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
New! Discover helps remove your personal information from select people-search websites. Activate by mobile app for free.
Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
Freeze your account in seconds with an on/off switch either on the mobile app or website to prevent new purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers.
Get an alert if we find your Social Security number on any of thousands of Dark Web sites.* Activate for free.
Our writers, editors and industry experts score
credit cards based on a variety of factors
including card features, bonus offers
and independent research. Credit card issuers have
no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Rewards rate
10X
Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel site
5X
Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
1X
Earn 1x points on all other purchases
Intro offer
10,000 Bonus Points
Earn 10,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days and redeem for a $100 statement credit, gift cards, or travel
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
25.49% Variable
Recommended credit
Fair to Good (580 - 740)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
If you want to earn points on travel but have trouble qualifying for top-tier rewards cards, the Wander card is a solid option. Not only is this card available with only fair credit, but its rewards program is also quite generous, boasting a high rewards rate in several key travel categories, including gas, airfare and hotels.
It’s one of the only travel rewards cards available with a fair credit score, making it a decent option if you want to earn travel rewards as you work on your score.
Its 10,000-point sign-up bonus (after you spend $1,000 in your first 90 days) is enough to completely offset the card’s annual fee in the first year.
Cons
Its annual fee is high compared to other cards you can get with a fair credit score, so it may not be the best fit if you prioritize building credit over earning rewards.
Other travel cards may offer better perks and value at this price level, so it may be worth working on your score with a lower-cost card before you focus on earning rewards.
Earn 10,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on eligible purchases in the first 90 days and redeem for a $100 statement credit, gift cards, or travel
Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel site
Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
Earn 1x points on all other purchases
Redeem your reward points for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, flights, hotels, and more
With $0 Fraud Liability, you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
View your free online access to your Experian credit score, terms apply
If you are a Covered Borrower under the Military Lending Act, you may get a different offer
Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit AmericanExpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex assurance company.
The information about the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card and the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuers.
Compare the best travel credit cards of 2022
Card name
Rewards highlights
Welcome offer
Annual fee
Bankrate review score
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
Unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day.
75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within three months of account opening, equal to $750 in travel
5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
100,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new card in your first six months
A closer look at Bankrate’s top travel credit cards
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best overall travel card
What we love about the Venture Rewards card: It offers an easy way to earn travel rewards and comes with a generous sign-up bonus and several travel and purchase protections. The annual fee is a modest $95, which will appeal to a broad range of travelers who don’t need a luxury experience.
Who this card is good for: Travelers who want to earn flat-rate rewards on all of their purchases but want to maintain flexibility in how they redeem their miles.
Travel benefits: Get an up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, transfer your miles to 15+ loyalty programs and earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
Alternatives: You could squeeze a lot more value out of your points with the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, which offers bonus rewards in everyday spending categories and the chance to up the value of your rewards by 25 percent when you redeem for travel through Chase.
Wells Fargo Autograph Card: Best for no annual fee + boosted rewards
What we love about the Wells Fargo Autograph Card: This card earns a solid rewards rate for purchases in popular categories like gas stations and dining at restaurants, which are great additions to a card that also rewards generously for travel purchases. Some issuers typically limit bonus rewards to travel purchases made exclusively through airlines or issuer portals. The Wells Fargo Autograph is a flexible option for cardholders who want to shop around for the best deal on third-party travel sites and earn extra rewards.
Who this card is good for: This card is a good choice if you’re new to travel rewards or just want a low-cost card with a simple rewards program that covers your dining and travel purchases.
Travel benefits: This card charges no foreign transaction fees and comes with valuable perks like rental car coverage, roadside assistance and Visa Signature benefits, which opens the door to additional features like access to Visa’s Luxury Hotel Collection.
Alternatives: Although the card has great rewards rates in several categories, you can’t transfer your points to airlines or hotels like you would be able to with other travel cards that share some of the same rewards categories. If you’re looking for ways to maximize the value of your rewards, you should consider upgrading to a travel card with an annual fee, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or the Citi Premier® Card.
Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card: Best for qualifying travel purchases
What we love about the Bank of America Travel Rewards card: Unlike other travel rewards cards, this card counts more than just airfare and hotel rooms as travel. You can redeem points for statement credits to cover purchases at zoos, art galleries, aquariums, travel agencies and more.
Who this card is good for: Occasional travelers looking for a no-annual-fee travel card that offers a simple flat rate for all purchases.
Travel benefits: Points don’t expire and you can book any airline, any hotel any time without blackout dates. You can also flexibly redeem points for statement credits to pay for travel or dining purchases like flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, as well as restaurant and take out purchases.
Alternatives: The Chase Freedom Flex℠ takes a little getting used to, but its rotating and fixed categories earn bonus rewards in travel and everyday categories, which could bring in more value than a flat-rate travel rewards card.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: Best for mid-level travel perks
What we love about the Sapphire Preferred card: For a $95 annual fee, this card is packed with features. On top of an outstanding sign-up bonus, you get travel and purchase protections, as well as a rewards program that earns points, not only on travel purchases but also on everyday purchases like groceries and streaming services.
Who this card is good for: This is a great travel card for anyone willing to put in a bit of work to get the maximum value out of their rewards. Be sure to take advantage of Chase’s hotel or airline transfer partners or book your travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards online portal, where points are worth 25 percent more value.
Travel benefits: Redeem points for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal to get a 25 percent boost to the value of your points. Additionally, a $50 hotel credit further curbs your expenses while you earn 5X points on travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
Alternatives: Travelers who dine at restaurants regularly or cook at home both benefit from rewards rates available on the Citi Premier Card. It has a comparable sign-up bonus and the same annual fee as the Sapphire Preferred, but also earns 3X points for purchases at gas stations, air travel and hotels.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: Best for flexible travel miles with no annual fee
What we love about the VentureOne Rewards card: This entry-level travel rewards card comes with a nice sign-up bonus, the chance to earn unlimited miles, and a good amount of travel and purchase protections.
Who this card is good for: Beginner and occasional travelers looking for flexibility and savings. Cardholders don’t need to worry about maximizing rewards to offset an annual fee or travel rewards redemption restrictions.
Travel benefits: You can transfer your miles to over 15 loyalty programs, redeem them for travel through the Capital One Travel portal or use them to cover outside travel purchases—a unique level of redemption flexibility for a travel rewards card.
Alternatives: A general-purpose flat-rate credit card that offers 2X points or 2 percent cash back on all purchases may bring more value if you don’t travel often and aren’t ready to upgrade to a travel rewards credit card with an annual fee.
American Express Gold Card: Best for travel rewards on dining
What we love about the Amex Gold Card: Amex gives users plenty of chances to offset the high annual fee of $250. This includes annual credits and high-earning bonus categories that will reward your spending in numerous areas, including dining, U.S. supermarkets and flights.
Who this card is good for: Travelers who want to earn rewards for dining out and ordering in. The generous rewards rate on dining at restaurants and Uber Eats in the U.S. makes it easy for foodies to rake in a lot of points.
Alternatives: If the American Express Gold Card’s annual fee doesn’t fit your budget, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred.It’s a great alternative because it also earns high travel and dining rewards but for a much lower annual fee.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best value for premium travel
What we love about the Venture X card: This card offers top-of-the line benefits, including complimentary lounge access and a high rewards rate for both travel and non-travel purchases. It also comes with a fairly affordable annual fee compared to other luxury travel cards on the market.
Who this card is good for: Travelers looking to sample luxury benefits without paying a huge annual fee. The premier perks you’ll get with this card aren’t quite as luxurious as those found with other premium travel cards, but Venture X’s annual fee is far more modest and can be quickly offset thanks to an annual credit and anniversary miles bonus.
Travel benefits: The card includes up to $300 back annually as statement credits for travel bookings made through Capital One Travel. You also get access to over 1,300 Priority Pass lounges worldwide.
Alternatives: The Platinum Card® from American Express is for frequent travelers looking for the best of the best when it comes to premium travel experiences. From an impressive sign-up bonus and annual credits to luxury lounge access and everyday benefits, this card packs it all in.
The Platinum Card from American Express: Best for luxury travel
What we love about the Amex Platinum card: With a $695 annual fee, the Amex Platinum card doesn’t come cheap. But it will be worth it for those who can take advantage of all the high-value benefits packed in this card. That includes a welcome offer, annual statement credits worth well over $1,000, and complimentary access to the expansive American Express Global Centurion Lounge Collection.
Who this card is good for: Frequent travelers who enjoy luxury travel benefits and elite status with select hotels.
Travel benefits: Take advantage of an up to $200 airline fee credit, up to $200 in Uber Cash, an up to $189 CLEAR® credit and a host of other non-travel credits that more than make up for the card’s annual fee as part of the Amex Platinum’s expansive benefit offerings. Plus, you’ll earn 5X points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year).
Alternatives: Thanks to the Capital One Venture X card, it’s possible to get a taste of luxury for far less than the cost of the Amex Platinum card. For $395, travelers get a card packed with high bonus rewards categories, a higher base rewards rate, complimentary lounge access, as well as travel credit and anniversary miles.
Citi Premier Card: Best for travel rewards on everyday purchases
What we love about the Citi Premier: This mid-level travel card packs a punch thanks to high-earning travel- and household-related bonus categories, an annual hotel credit and a modest fee of $95.
Who this card is good for: Occasional travelers who want to earn travel rewards for all their grocery, gas and dining purchases.
Travel benefits: You can earn a $100 Hotel Savings Benefit when you book a single hotel stay of $500 or more through Citi online or by phone. The card also carries no foreign transaction fees.
Alternatives: Depending on your spending habits, the Chase Sapphire Preferred may not have the everyday value of the Citi Premier, but it does outclass the Citi card when it comes to travel value, especially when you use the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal to redeem points for travel.
Chase Sapphire Reserve: Best for travel redemptions
What we love about the Sapphire Reserve: Even with an annual fee of $550, this premium travel rewards card is in demand and for good reason. The card comes loaded with short- and long-term value, including one of the highest cash back sign-up bonuses around, annual travel credit, bonus points for travel and dining purchases and complimentary airport lounge access.
Who this card is good for: Frequent travelers who can take advantage of the top-of-the-line travel benefits.
Travel benefits: Earn an additional 50-percent value for your points when you redeem for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal and benefit from 1:1 point transfer with leading airline and hotel loyalty programs. Chase also provides access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide after one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select. Also receive up to $100 as a statement credit every four years to cover the cost of Global Entry, NEXUS or TSA PreCheck®.
Alternatives: Travelers who dine at restaurants regularly or cook at home both benefit from rewards rates available on the Citi Premier Card. It has a comparable sign-up bonus and the same annual fee as the Sapphire Preferred, but also earns 3X points for purchases at gas stations, air travel and hotels.
Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card: Best Bank of America travel card
What we love about the Premium Rewards card: The one-time sign-up bonus and annual chance to earn up to $200 in travel statement credits enhance the value of this easy travel rewards credit card.
Who this card is good for: Frequent travelers who are also Bank of America Preferred Rewards members. Eligible Bank of America customers can boost their rewards rate by up to 75 percent based on the size of their accounts.
Travel benefits: Receive up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually as well as TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100 every four years.
Alternatives: The Capital One Venture Rewards card might be a safer bet. The bigger sign-up bonus, higher flat rewards rate, and supersized hotel and rental car bonus categories come packed in a card with great travel benefits and flexible redemption options.
Discover it Miles: Best for earning unlimited miles
What we love about the Discover it Miles: Discover will match every Mile you’ve earned at the end of your first year as a cardholder. It’s like essentially earning 3X Miles instead of 1.5X Miles during your first year.
Who this card is good for: Travelers who want simplicity. There are no complex redemption programs and cardholders are free to redeem rewards for statement credits they can apply to recent travel purchases.
Travel benefits: Earn miles for every purchase you make whether it’s travel related or not. You’ll also benefit from Discover’s 99 percent acceptance rate nationwide, making it an ideal choice for the traveler who ventures to a variety of places. Also, redeem your miles as cash or as a statement credit to cover travel purchases.
Alternatives: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card won’t make you wait as long as the Discover it Miles to earn your sign-up bonus. The VentureOne card also has more than a dozen transfer partners, which can help increase the value of the rewards you earn.
What we love about the Credit One Bank Wander Card: Few unsecured credit-building cards let you earn rewards on travel, much less such at such a high rate and in so many categories. This makes the Wander card a uniquely good fit for frequent travelers who want to get in on the travel rewards game but don’t have the score needed to qualify for elite travel cards.
Who this card is good for: Frequent travelers looking for a way to earn rewards while they work on their credit score. You’ll also need to spend $950 to $1,900 in the card’s bonus categories to offset the annual fee, so make sure that fits with your spending habits.
Alternatives: If you don’t mind putting down a refundable security deposit, consider a no-annual-fee secured card that could help earn rewards on travel as you work on your score. The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card* is one great option. It earns 3 percent cash back in a category of your choosing (with travel just one of many popular options) as well as 2 percent cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (bonus rewards in 3 percent and 2 percent categories are limited to the first $2,500 in combined spending per quarter). Plus, once you build your score with responsible use, you may be able to upgrade to an unsecured Bank of America travel or rewards card.
Travel credit cards allow cardholders to earn points or miles on a variety of purchases (typically travel-related), which are redeemable for travel bookings, statement credits, gift cards and more.
The best travel credit cards do more than help you foot the bill for your next flight—travel cards also offer perks to upgrade your entire travel experience. Trip insurance, annual travel credits, concierge services and lounge access are all common benefits. Airline and hotel co-branded credit cards sometimes offer specific discounts and perks for loyalty program members.
Bankrate insight
When researching a new travel card, look beyond the obvious features like the sign-up bonus and APR. The top cards will feature benefits that give the card better long-term value and give you additional savings and peace of mind. To make sure you’re getting the most out of your travel credit card, check out travel expert Ariana Arghandewal’s article on the top 5 benefits of travel credit card in 2022.
Types of travel rewards credit cards
As with other types of cards, travel credit cards offer you a lot of variety to choose from. Notable features include issuer travel portals with boosted rewards value, hotel and airline loyalty status and credits for some of your favorite products and services. To zero in on which card might best fit your needs, consider the different categories of travel cards.
Issued by a credit card company, bank or other financial business, a general-purpose travel card typically offers the most flexibility for how you choose to travel and redeem your rewards. The easiest option is to redeem rewards directly through the issuer’s travel portal program, which ensures they’ll always have the same value or may even increase the value of your points (depending on the issuer).
Some cards also let you transfer rewards to the issuer’s travel partners (usually airlines and hotel chains but sometimes cruise lines as well). You may even be able to increase the value of your card points or miles by transferring to certain airlines.
Examples: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and The Platinum Card from American Express.
A travel card co-branded by an airline and a credit card issuer is known as an airline rewards card. You can earn miles or points by using the card to book flights with the airline, make in-flight purchases and so on. You redeem the rewards through the airline’s loyalty program. You may even receive complimentary loyalty status with the brand tied to your card.
Examples: Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card and Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card.
A co-branded hotel credit card is similar to an airline card, except with a hotel chain instead of an airline. Likewise, using the card to book stays at the hotel’s properties earns points that you redeem through the hotel loyalty program. Like airline cards, some co-branded hotel cards also include complimentary elite status, an excellent benefit that can provide you with higher rewards rates or perks like room upgrades.
Examples: Marriott Bonvoy Business™ American Express® Card and Hilton Honors American Express Card.
How do credit card points and miles work?
Credit card miles are one of the three types of credit card rewards in addition to points and cash back. Credit card miles and credit card points work in mostly the same way, but miles are usually associated with air travel. You earn credit card rewards by making purchases using your card and storing up those points for travel, gift cards and other options.
Types of credit card points and miles
Credit card points and travel miles come in a variety of forms, including:
Points or miles tied to a specific airline through a frequent flyer program
Points or miles redeemable for travel purchases with a number of different airlines and hotels
Points or miles that are worth more when they’re redeemed through a credit card company’s online travel booking portal.
When using a co-branded credit card the airline—not the card issuer—sets the number of miles needed to reach the various levels of a loyalty rewards program. With these types of cards, customers who frequently use a specific airline will see the most value. If you’re not partial to any particular airline, a general travel or miles credit card would serve you best.
How to redeem points and miles
Common ways of redeeming points and air miles include:
To book free or discounted flights
To book free or discounted hotel stays with particular chains
As a statement credit to cover past travel expenses
Transferring to loyalty and partner programs
As cash back, gift cards and merchandise
The best way to redeem your points or miles will depend on which cards you carry, the redemption options they offer and the value you can get out of your points with each option. Transferring from an issuer program to an airline rewards program will often help you maximize the value of your points, but if you’d rather not wade into those sometimes-confusing waters, redemption through an issuer’s travel portal will likely get you a solid redemption value of at least 1 cent per point.
Some issuers even offer a value boost when you redeem through their portal. A great example is the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal: Your Chase points are worth 25 percent to 50 percent more when you redeem for travel through the portal, depending on the card you hold.
Bankrate insight
The value of your travel rewards can vary for a number of reasons, including how and when you redeem your cash back, points or miles. To make sure you’re getting your money’s worth, check out our guide to learn how much points and miles are worth. We’ll show you a straightforward way to calculate the value of your rewards. That way, you’ll know which redemption method will give you the best value or whether you’re better off paying in cash and saving your points for another time.
Rewards optimized for travel: Rewards categories are often designed to earn more points or miles for purchases directly related to travel, mainly expenses such as airfare, hotel rooms, rental cars and more.
Travel-friendly benefits: Many travel cards offer perks such as travel insurance, free checked bags, lounge access and credits for Global Entry and TSA PreCheck.
High reward rates: Travel credit cards typically have some of the most generous rewards rates. It’s not uncommon to see travel purchases earn 5X, 6X, 7X or more points or miles.
The convenience of travel portals: Many card issuers have their own online travel portals where you can book travel and redeem your rewards toward those purchases in one session. Sometimes, using these portals may even boost your rewards value.
Cons
Credit score requirements: The typical baseline credit score requirement for a travel card is good-to-excellent, which could make it difficult to qualify with a credit score below 670.
Using rewards can be complex: You’ll frequently have to calculate points, check for eligibility requirements for flights and hotel stays and otherwise navigate the process to get full value of your rewards.
Annual fees: Some of the top travel credit cards have annual fees starting in the $95 to $100 range. Upper-tier hotel and airline cards and luxury travel cards could have annual fees exceeding $200 or even $500.
Losing value on non-travel redemptions: Points or miles typically lose value when redeemed for cash back, gift cards or merchandise, rather than travel.
How to make a travel card work for you
A travel credit card is almost always a good idea if you want to offset the cost of future travel. If you are able to save up airline miles, rack up points for free nights at hotels or get discounted travel through your credit card issuer, you’re on your way to saving significantly on travel costs. The right travel card will vary depending on your travel habits, but there is at least one that can fit your travel style and budget.
Naturally, the ideal candidate for a travel card is someone who travels a lot or plans to book several flights and hotel stays per year. However, in some cases, you don’t have to be a frequent traveler to reap the benefits of a travel rewards card. A number of cards offer good rewards rates on general purchases, such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Card (cardholders earn 2X miles).
If you’re new to travel or just researching how to cut costs of future travel plans, a good place to start is with a travel card that earns straightforward rewards for purchases you’re already likely to make, in a program that’s easy to navigate and offers cardholders simple redemption options. Once you’ve gotten the hang of things, you can explore a travel card with a more complex rewards program that may require more in fees but offers more lucrative travel rewards.
Some people like to fly with the same airline whenever possible or stay at the same hotel brand wherever they go. If you belong to a loyalty program, a co-branded travel card will probably provide the best value. They often feature brand-related purchases as a bonus rewards category and other perks for loyal customers. For example, the Hilton Honors Amex card and the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card earn points redeemable for Hilton and Delta purchases, respectively.
Some of the most valuable travel credit cards are business cards. Whether you’re a freelancer on the go or the CEO of a Fortune 500, the right travel credit card can help you earn high rewards rates on everyday business purchases. Examples include the Bank of America® Business Advantage Travel Rewards World Mastercard® credit card and the Capital One Spark Miles for Business.
If you travel out of the country frequently or want to book that trip abroad you’ve always talked about, a card with no foreign transaction fees like the Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card or the Chase Sapphire Reserve help you avoid extra costs on overseas purchases. And if you hate waiting in line at airport security or customs, a lot of travel cards provide statement credits to reimburse you for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees, including the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.
If you’re really looking for a luxury travel experience, you need a top-tier travel card. Premium cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, and The Platinum Card from American Express provide cardholders with a ton of value. Perks like priority boarding, and access to lounges at airports all over the world are the small touches that make traveling a much more luxurious experience. While the best travel credit cards also tend to charge annual fees, you can compensate for the cost if you take full advantage of the trip insurance, travel credits and other perks.
Still unsure if a travel credit card is right for you? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.
How to choose the best travel credit card for you
A good travel credit card can make traveling easier and more affordable. The best travel credit cards earn cardholders free or heavily discounted trips, assist during travel emergencies and keep fees to a minimum (or skip them altogether). With the right information, you can find the best travel credit card for you and your travel habits. When deciding on a travel credit card, keep the following in mind:
Airline or hotel loyalty. A co-branded credit card will carry the name of a specific airline or hotel. You’ll get the most value out of its rewards when redeeming them with that particular airline or hotel. While your options for redeeming points are limited, these cards also give you access to exclusive perks, like priority boarding or free room upgrades with the carrier or chain in question.
Travel protections. Many credit card issuers offer cards that provide protections like trip cancellation/interruption insurance, rental car coverage in case of an accident, emergency assistance, lost luggage insurance and concierge services.
Annual fee. Most luxury travel cards carry a steep annual fee. This cost can typically be offset by lucrative rewards and added perks, such as airport lounge access and free checked bags. To see if an annual fee is worth it, compare a card’s cost with the value you receive from its rewards, statement credit offers and added perks that you plan to use.
Sign-up bonus. A good sign-up bonus could translate into free airfare or other travel purchases. As a rule of thumb, the higher the annual fee, the higher the sign-up bonus should be. Before you sign up, ensure that you can reasonably cover the spending required to earn the bonus.
Travel rewards vs. cash back rewards. Credit card rewards generally come in two varieties: cash back or travel. You should get a travel credit card if you purchase plane tickets or hotel stays several times per year and you’re comfortable with paying an annual fee (in many cases) in exchange for higher rewards rates and travel perks. A cash back credit card is a better fit if you don’t travel regularly but still want to earn decent rewards on your spending.
Inflation is curbing the value of your dollar and adding financial stress to consumers across the country. While the federal reserve spikes interest rates to combat it, navigating your expenses is likely to grow more difficult, forcing many to find ways to cut expenses out of their budget—including vacations.
But before you cancel your travel plans, it may be worth considering some of the ways a credit card can fight inflation. Since most travel cards earn rewards for some of the hardest hitting categories–gas and groceries–stockpiling rewards for your next trip could potentially soften the rising costs.
Plus, some cards, namely the American Express Gold Card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card and the Citi Premier Card have recently begun offering increased bonuses, which can help to further drive down the costs of travel. If a vacation is an important part of your life, now may be the perfect time to sign up for one of these travel cards
How to compare travel credit cards
If you’re having trouble choosing a travel credit card, it can help to compare a few of your top choices. Start by making sure each card fits in your credit score range so you don’t apply for a card you’re not likely to be approved for.
Next, think about which features matter most to you and make sure the card can help you take full advantage of those benefits. If you’re looking for luxury travel perks like complimentary lounge access, you’ll need to check to make sure the card you want gives you access to lounges at the airports you’re likely to frequent. You may also want to consider if that access is complimentary (or comes at a discount) and how much it will cost to bring guests.
Don’t forget to pay attention to the costs associated with the card, including the annual fee and APR. Once you’ve done that, you can compare those costs to the benefits that come with each card to see which one provides the best value.
A beginner’s guide to travel hacking with credit cards
Travel hacking with credit cards is the practice of signing up for a travel credit card with plenty of benefits and a high rewards rate to collect free or discounted airfare, hotel stays or transportation when traveling. Many people use unique methods with travel credit cards to finance trips of a lifetime.
Be sure you can qualify for the welcome bonus. The best travel credit cards will offer sizable welcome offers to attract customers. These generous sign-up bonuses—which can range between 30,000 to 100,000 points—typically come with spending requirements that cardholders must meet to obtain the welcome offer.
Get the right card. With rewards credit cards, not all purchases are rewarded in the same way. If you’re going to sign up for a travel credit card to get free or discounted travel, be sure that the card rewards purchases that are in line with your everyday spending habits.
Avoid credit card churning. Credit card churning is when someone frequently applies for and opens new credit cards in order to obtain the welcome bonus with no intention to use the card long-term. Many card companies have strict rules about card churning and it can impact your credit score negatively.
How we chose our list of top travel rewards cards
Bankrate evaluates credit cards on a 5-star system that factors in attributes such as annual fees, APR, rewards value and welcome bonuses. To make our list of best travel rewards cards, our writers and editors pay particular attention to:
Rewards structure
The best travel card for you will allow you to earn the most rewards for your specific spending habits. The cards in our lineup cover a variety of programs geared toward hotel lodging, dining, air travel costs and other factors. In general, the best travel cards reward you with two to three points per dollar on bonus categories.
Travel perks
The top travel rewards cards offer travel-specific benefits that take the hassle out of travel. Some perks we looked for are designed to save you money, including trip cancellation insurance, delayed baggage insurance, rental car insurance, checked bag discounts and travel credits. Other perks are all about making your experience more comfortable, such as airport lounge access, flight and hotel upgrades and concierge service.
Annual fees
Annual fees are common among travel credit cards, but our top picks that charge these fees make it easy to get your money’s worth. Some luxury cards with very high annual fees might be worth the expense for frequent travelers who put a premium on comfort.
Sign-up bonus
Though long-term value should always be weighed the most heavily, travel credit cards often come with sign-up bonuses that can be worth a flight or two. We highlight the most competitive offers so that, all other factors equal, the better sign-up bonus can help you make a decision.
Foreign transaction fees
Foreign transaction fees can make or break the value of a travel credit card, especially if you travel outside the country often. This fee typically tacks on an extra 3% to purchases made overseas, so our top-rated travel cards tend to be of the no-foreign-transaction-fee variety.
Find out more about rewards cards for travelers
Several travel rewards cards come with additional perks and benefits that add value to the card beyond what you earn back with rewards.
Some cards include TSA PreCheck or CLEAR credits that give you complimentary access to airport security perks while others may come with limited-time promotions that increase the card’s value. There are also plenty of rewards programs through airlines, hotels and credit card issuers that overlap with one another with transferable points. Depending on your card issuer, you may also have a rewards portal that sometimes includes boosted rewards rates.
Check out our latest travel advice for expansive guides on rewards programs, benefits and how best to maximize your travel rewards credit card.
Video guide: What is a travel credit card?
Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email, find us on Facebook, or Tweet us @Bankrate.
Travel credit card frequently asked questions
You'll likely need at least a 670 credit score if you want to get a travel credit card. Though most credit cards don't come with an explicit credit score requirement, rewards cards usually are geared toward people with good to excellent credit.
One of the best ways to earn miles without traveling is to use a travel credit card, like an airline card or a rewards card that earns miles that can be redeemed for flights. When you sign up, you’ll likely have a chance to earn an impressive amount of miles as a sign-up bonus. You can then earn at least 1 mile on all of your everyday purchases when you use the card, though many travel cards also give you a chance to earn bonus miles on non-travel spending, like dining or groceries.
The best credit cards for travel insurance offer one or more types of complimentary travel insurance, but it may not be as comprehensive as what you get when you purchase travel insurance through a third-party vendor. It most likely also won’t include a travel policy that allows you to cancel for any reason. Check the policy details that come with your credit card travel insurance. If you’re not happy with the terms or the amount of coverage, consider purchasing a travel insurance policy.
No reward flight is technically “free,” as you’ll need to spend to earn enough rewards to redeem on a flight cost. Different airlines and card issuers have different rules when it comes to redeeming points or miles for travel. Most reward programs use a 1:1 one conversion rate where each reward mile or point is worth 1 cent. You can redeem travel rewards by using an issuer’s travel portal or transferring the points or miles to a partner program. Depending on the issuer, your rewards could be worth more if you book using either of these options.
Even though many credit card issuers have adopted no-expiration policies, your points and miles typically expire if your account does not remain open and in good standing. Your points may also expire if there is a lack of activity on your account. Our guide to credit card rewards expiration breaks down the policies of a few popular issuers.
Travel cards with annual fees typically come with a number of features not found with other cards. These perks, which may include higher sign-up bonuses, travel credits, free nights at hotels, complimentary lounge access and elite status, have plenty of value that can help offset the annual fee. For travelers who can take advantage of these perks, the cost-saving benefits can often justify the annual fee.
Former Senior Editor Barry Bridges has been writing about credit cards, personal loans, mortgages and other personal finance products since 2017. Before joining Bankrate, he was an award-winning newspaper journalist in his native North Carolina.
Mariah Ackary is a personal finance editor who joined the Bankrate team in 2019, excited by the opportunity to help people make good financial decisions. Send your questions to mackary@bankrate.com
* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.
Advertiser Disclosure
Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. The offers that appear on this site are from companies from which Bankrate.com receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site, including, for example, the order in which they may appear within listing categories. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and the likelihood of applicants' credit approval also impact how and where products appear on this site. Bankrate.com does not include the entire universe of available financial or credit offers. Bankrate has partnerships with issuers including, but not limited to, American Express, Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Discover.
