Who doesn’t love traveling? But let’s face it, travel costs can add up quickly. From flights to hotels, and even that coffee at the airport lounge, it all adds to the bill. The good news? Travel credit cards can help you earn points and rewards that take some of the financial burden off your shoulders. In this guide, we’ll break down the best travel credit cards, explain how they work, and help you decide which one fits your jet-setting style.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer, road trip enthusiast, or just someone looking to rack up points for that dream vacation, you’ll find a card that’s perfect for you.
How Travel Credit Cards Work
Before diving into our top picks, let’s first understand how travel credit cards work. Unlike regular credit cards, these are designed to reward you for travel-related expenses. Every time you book a flight, reserve a hotel room, or even dine out, you earn points or miles. These can then be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and more. Many cards even offer sign-up bonuses, airport lounge access, and travel insurance perks.
Best Travel Credit Cards for 2024
Let’s cut to the chase. Here are the best travel credit cards you should consider:
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card consistently tops the list for frequent travelers. Why?
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months. That’s equivalent to $750 in travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Rewards Rate: 2x points on travel and dining, 1x on everything else.
- Annual Fee: $95, which is on the lower end for premium cards.
- Additional Perks: No foreign transaction fees, travel insurance, and access to exclusive experiences.
With its flexibility, whether you’re booking flights, hotels, or even Uber rides, this card is a solid option for casual travelers who still want to rack up rewards.
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
If luxury travel is more your style, look no further than the Platinum Card® from American Express.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 in the first six months.
- Rewards Rate: 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, and 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel.
- Annual Fee: $695, but the perks can outweigh the cost.
- Additional Perks: Complimentary access to Centurion Lounges, Hilton Honors Gold Status, and up to $200 in Uber credits annually.
This card is perfect for frequent flyers who want a premium experience, from exclusive lounges to concierge services.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
For the minimalist traveler who values simplicity, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great option.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards Rate: 2x miles on every purchase, no need to remember categories.
- Annual Fee: $95.
- Additional Perks: TSA PreCheck/Global Entry fee credit and no foreign transaction fees.
The beauty of this card is its flat-rate rewards, which are perfect for travelers who don’t want to keep track of bonus categories.
4. Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card is ideal for those who want high rewards for everyday spending.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards Rate: 3x points on air travel, hotels, gas stations, restaurants, and supermarkets.
- Annual Fee: $95.
- Additional Perks: Transfer points to over a dozen airline loyalty programs, no foreign transaction fees, and a $100 annual hotel savings benefit.
This card offers more than just travel rewards; it’s great for daily spending too.
5. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
Looking for a no-annual-fee option? The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card fits the bill.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 25,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
- Rewards Rate: 1.5x points on every purchase.
- Annual Fee: $0.
- Additional Perks: No foreign transaction fees, and points never expire.
This card is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who still want to earn travel rewards.
Key Features to Look for in a Travel Credit Card
Now that you’ve seen the top options, how do you choose the right one? Here are some factors to consider:
1. Sign-Up Bonus
Most travel cards offer a significant bonus when you first sign up. But be sure to check the spending requirements. Some cards may offer a high bonus, but you’ll need to spend thousands in a short period to get it.
2. Annual Fees
Premium travel cards often come with high annual fees, but don’t let that scare you away. Many offer perks like travel credits, airport lounge access, and hotel benefits that more than make up for the fee.
3. Foreign Transaction Fees
If you travel abroad often, look for cards with no foreign transaction fees. This can save you 2-3% on every purchase you make outside the U.S.
4. Rewards Structure
Do you prefer a flat-rate rewards system, or are you happy to juggle categories like dining, flights, and hotels? Make sure the rewards structure fits your spending habits.
FAQs About Travel Credit Cards
- Do travel credit cards require excellent credit?
Yes, most travel credit cards require a good to excellent credit score (typically 670 or higher). However, there are some options for those with fair credit. - Can I transfer points between cards or loyalty programs?
Many premium travel cards allow you to transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs, which can maximize the value of your points. - Are travel credit cards worth the annual fee?
If you travel often and use the card’s perks—like travel credits, lounge access, and rewards—then the annual fee can be worth it. But if you rarely travel, you might not get your money’s worth. - How do I redeem travel rewards?
You can redeem travel rewards through your card issuer’s portal. Some cards also allow you to transfer points to partner airlines or hotels, which can give you more flexibility. - What happens if I cancel a card after earning the bonus?
Canceling a card too soon after earning a sign-up bonus can hurt your credit score, and some issuers might take back the bonus points. It’s best to keep the card for at least a year.
Conclusion
Choosing the best travel credit card depends on your spending habits and travel goals. Whether you’re looking for luxury perks, no annual fees, or simple flat-rate rewards, there’s a card out there for you. Take advantage of sign-up bonuses, maximize your rewards, and enjoy the journey.