Best Credit Cards with Travel Rewards

Looking for Travel Credit Cards? We have made a list from the very best choice. Go ahead and find out their features.

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Travel credit cards are credit cards that offer rewards and benefits specifically tailored for travelers. These cards typically offer perks such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, and bonus points or miles for travel-related purchases. Some travel credit cards also have no foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travelers. Travel credit cards can help travelers save money on flights, hotels, rental cars, and other travel expenses. Cardholders can earn points or miles for every dollar spent on travel purchases, which can then be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, or other travel rewards. When choosing a travel credit card, it's important to consider the annual fee, rewards structure, and any additional benefits offered by the card. Some popular travel credit cards include the Chase Sapphire Preferred, American Express Platinum Card, and Capital One Venture Rewards Card. Overall, travel credit cards can be a valuable tool for frequent travelers looking to maximize their rewards and benefits while on the go.
  • AARP
    AARP

    AARP - Resource and advocacy organization for older adults in U.S.

    Annual fee: $150

  • Chase Bank
    Chase Bank

    Chase Bank - Leading bank providing various financial services and products.

    Annual fee: $95

  • Bank of America
    Bank of America

    Bank of America - Major U.S. bank offering financial services and products.

    Annual fee: zero

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  • Discover
    Discover

    Discover - Financial services company known for credit cards and banking

    Annual fee: zero

  • U.S. Bank
    U.S. Bank

    U.S. Bank - Diverse banking services and financial solutions for customers.

    Annual fee: zero

  • American Express
    American Express

    American Express - Global financial services company known for credit cards.

    Annual fee: zero

  • Citi Prestige® Credit Card
    Citi Prestige® Credit Card

    Citi Prestige® Credit Card - Citibank's official website for banking services in India.

    Annual fee: $495

  • Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
    Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

    Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card - American Express Hilton Honors Surpass card details and application.

    Annual fee: $95

  • World of Hyatt Credit Card
    World of Hyatt Credit Card

    World of Hyatt Credit Card - Hyatt Hotels & Resorts official website for reservations and information.

    Annual fee: $95

  • IHG® Rewards Club Traveler Credit Card
    IHG® Rewards Club Traveler Credit Card

    IHG® Rewards Club Traveler Credit Card - Chase IHG Rewards Club Traveler card details and application.

    Annual fee: zero

Top 10 Sites for the Travel Credit Cards

1.

AARP

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AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that is dedicated to empowering Americans aged 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. The organization offers a variety of benefits and services to its members, including access to members-only products, hundreds of discounts, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine. AARP also provides resources and information on topics such as small business and entrepreneurship, scams and fraud, and Social Security. The organization has a Help Center where members can find answers to common questions or get support from the service team. AARP The Magazine occasionally accepts story ideas from writers, but the magazine rarely uses unsolicited ideas.

Pros

  • pros Flexible Redemption Options: The card offers flexibility in redeeming rewards for various travel expenses, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and more.
  • pros Complimentary Access to FICO® Credit Score: Cardholders can access their FICO® credit score for free, enabling them to monitor and manage their credit health.
  • pros Additional Travel Benefits: The card provides additional travel benefits, such as travel insurance coverage, which can provide peace of mind during your trips.

Cons

  • consHigh Annual Fee: The card comes with a high annual fee, which may be a deterrent for some users, especially if they don't take full advantage of the card's benefits.
  • consLimited Travel Benefits: While the card offers travel perks, such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance and no foreign transaction fees, it may not provide the extensive benefits of other premium travel cards, like airport lounge access or elite status benefits.
  • Total Visits Gender Ratio Popular User Base
  • 39.4M
    male 46.93%
    female53.07%
    25-34

2.

Chase Bank

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Chase.com is a financial services website owned by JPMorgan Chase & Co. It provides a range of banking, investing, and other financial services to customers. Customers can open checking and savings accounts, apply for credit cards, and manage their investments. They can also use the website to pay bills, transfer money, and access their accounts from anywhere. Chase.com also offers a variety of tools and resources to help customers make informed financial decisions. Customers can use the website to research products, compare rates, and find the best financial solutions for their needs.

Pros

  • pros Travel Benefits: The card offers a variety of travel perks, including free checked bags, priority boarding, and two United Club passes per year, enhancing your travel experience with United Airlines.
  • pros Generous Rewards Program: Cardholders can earn miles on all purchases, with accelerated earning on United Airlines purchases, providing opportunities to accumulate rewards faster.
  • pros Additional Travel Protections: The card provides travel insurance coverage, such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance and auto rental collision damage waiver, offering peace of mind during your travels.

Cons

  • consLimited Redemption Options: The card's rewards are primarily focused on United Airlines, so if you prefer more flexibility in redeeming rewards for various airlines or travel expenses, the card may not be as beneficial.
  • consAnnual Fee: The card comes with an annual fee, which may deter some users, especially if they don't frequently fly with United Airlines or utilize the card's benefits to their full extent.

3.

Bank of America

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The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card is a credit card that offers a variety of rewards and benefits to its users. With unlimited points, up to $200 in travel statement credits, and a 50,000 bonus points offer, this card is designed to provide users with flexibility and value. Cardholders can choose how they want to be rewarded, whether it's through travel, cash back, a statement credit, distinctive experiences, or gift cards. The card also offers flexible redemption options, making it easy for users to get the most out of their rewards. If you qualify for Bank of America Preferred Rewards, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card has the potential to be quite a lucrative card to use on everyday spending.

Pros

  • pros Flexible rewards program: The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card offers a flexible rewards program, allowing you to earn points on all purchases, including hotel bookings, with no blackout dates.
  • pros Zero annual fee: It has no annual fee and provides an introductory 0% APR period, making it suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
  • pros Additional perks: The card offers additional perks like no foreign transaction fees and the ability to boost your rewards as a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member.

Cons

  • consFewer premium travel benefits: The card may have fewer premium travel benefits compared to other travel-focused cards, such as airport lounge access or travel statement credits.
  • consLimited redemption: While the rewards program is valuable, there may be limitations or restrictions on redeeming your points for hotel bookings.

4.

Discover

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Discover it® Miles is a rewards credit card that offers an unlimited 1.5x miles on every purchase. With no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, it's a great way to earn rewards on everyday purchases. Plus, you can redeem your miles for travel, gift cards, cash back, and more. With Discover it® Miles, you can also get access to exclusive benefits like free FICO® Credit Score, fraud protection, and more. With Discover it® Miles, you can get the most out of your rewards and enjoy the freedom to explore the world.

Pros

  • pros No annual fee
  • pros Flexible redemption options

Cons

  • consLow rewards rate compared to other travel cards
  • consLack of travel perks
  • consNot widely accepted outside the US

5.

U.S. Bank

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The U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card is a premium rewards card that offers a variety of benefits and rewards. Cardholders can earn 3X points on eligible travel and mobile wallet purchases, and receive up to $325 in annual travel credits. Cardholders also receive a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, which provides access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide. Other benefits include a 12-month subscription to a streaming service, up to $100 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA Pre✓® application fees, and no foreign transaction fees. With the U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card, you can enjoy a world of rewards and benefits.

Pros

  • pros Zero annual fee and decent dining rewards: The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card has no annual fee and focuses on dining rewards, including hotel dining expenses.
  • pros Various perks: It offers valuable perks like cell phone protection, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Cons

  • consLimited kinds of travel benefits: The travel benefits of the card may not be as extensive as other travel-specific cards, potentially limiting your access to travel perks like airport lounge access.
  • consUnattractive redemption policies: The value of the rewards when redeeming for hotel bookings may not be as high compared to other cards.

6.

American Express

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Americanexpress.com is a website owned by American Express, a global financial services company. The website provides customers with access to a range of products and services, including credit cards, charge cards, travel services, and more. Customers can use the website to manage their accounts, pay bills, view statements, and access exclusive offers. The website also provides customers with access to a range of tools and resources, such as budgeting and financial planning tools, travel guides, and more. Americanexpress.com is a convenient and secure way for customers to access their accounts and manage their finances.

Pros

  • pros Great rewards rate in certain categories with flexible redemption options
  • pros No annual fee

Cons

  • consLow rewards rate on non-category purchases
  • consAmerican Express not widely accepted internationally
  • consRewards have minimum redemption thresholds

7.

Citi Prestige® Credit Card

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Citibank is a global financial institution that offers a wide range of banking services and products. It is a subsidiary of Citigroup Inc., an American multinational investment bank and financial services corporation headquartered in New York City. With over 200 million customer accounts worldwide, Citibank is one of the largest global consumer banks. Some of the key businesses and services offered by Citibank include: 1. **Banking**: Citibank provides various banking services, including checking and savings accounts, small business and commercial banking, and personal wealth management. They offer products and services as one integrated institution, treating clients as one global relationship. 2. **Credit Cards**: Citibank offers a range of credit cards with different features and benefits, catering to different customer needs. 3. **Mortgage**: Citibank provides mortgage services, helping individuals and families finance their homes. 4. **Personal Loans**: Citibank offers personal loans to help individuals meet their financial needs, whether it's for education, home improvement, or other purposes. Citibank aims to provide responsible financial services that enable growth and economic progress. They have a global presence, operating in more than 160 countries and jurisdictions.

Pros

  • pros Excellent welcome offer worth 75,000 miles

Cons

  • consThe Citi Prestige card is no longer open to new applicants
  • consThe card's bonus categories are mostly geared toward travel

8.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

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The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is a credit card offered by American Express in partnership with Hilton Honors. Here are some key features of the card: - **Welcome Offer**: As of July 2023, the card offers a welcome bonus of 130,000 Hilton Honors bonus points and a free night reward after spending $2,000 in purchases on the card in the first three months of card membership. - **Earnings**: Cardholders earn 12 points for every dollar spent on eligible Hilton purchases, 6 points per dollar spent at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations, and 3 points per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. - **Elite Status**: Cardholders receive complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, which includes benefits such as complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, and boosted earnings when staying at Hilton brands. - **Annual Fee**: The card has an annual fee of $95. According to The Points Guy, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is well worth the annual fee if you're a Hilton loyalist, as it offers valuable earnings rates and automatic Hilton Gold elite status. However, the card may not be as flexible as other travel rewards cards and requires a high level of spending to earn the free night award.

Pros

  • pros Generous Hilton Honors Rewards: The card offers a generous rewards program that allows you to earn Hilton Honors points on everyday purchases, helping you accumulate points for hotel stays, upgrades, and other benefits within the Hilton portfolio.
  • pros Complimentary Hilton Honors Elite Status: Cardholders receive automatic Hilton Honors Gold status, which provides additional perks like room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and late checkout, enhancing your hotel experience.
  • pros Bonus Points on Eligible Spending: The card offers bonus points on eligible spending categories, such as dining, supermarkets, and gas stations, allowing you to earn rewards faster in everyday spending areas.

Cons

  • consAnnual Fee: The card comes with an annual fee, which may be a deterrent for some users, especially if they don't frequently stay at Hilton hotels or take advantage of the card's benefits.
  • consLimited Transfer Partners: While the Hilton Honors program offers a wide range of hotels and resorts, the card's rewards are primarily focused on Hilton properties. If you prefer more flexibility in transferring points to other loyalty programs, the card's options may be limited.

9.

World of Hyatt Credit Card

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Hyatt Hotels Corporation is an American multinational hospitality company that manages and franchises luxury and business hotels, resorts, and vacation properties. The company was founded by Jay Pritzker in 1957 when he purchased the Hyatt House motel. Hyatt is one of the businesses managed by the Pritzker family. The company has a portfolio of brands that includes Andaz, Alila Hotels and Resorts, Thompson Hotels, Hyatt Centric, and more. Hyatt Residence Club and UrCove by Hyatt are also part of the company's portfolio. Hyatt is known for its innovative design and hospitality, and the company has received numerous awards for its work, including being ranked 16th on Fortune magazine's list of "America's Best Companies to Work For" in 2021. The company also offers a credit card, the World of Hyatt Credit Card, which allows customers to earn points that can be redeemed for free stays at Hyatt properties.

Pros

  • pros Generous Rewards Program: The card offers a generous rewards program that allows you to earn World of Hyatt points on your purchases, helping you accumulate points for free hotel stays, upgrades, and other valuable benefits within the Hyatt portfolio.
  • pros Elite Status Benefits: Cardholders receive automatic Discoverist status in the World of Hyatt loyalty program, unlocking perks like room upgrades, late checkout, and access to exclusive member rates, enhancing your hotel experience.
  • pros Valuable Anniversary Free Night: Each year, you receive a complimentary night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel, providing excellent value and the opportunity to enjoy a free stay.

Cons

  • consLimited Hotel Portfolio: While the World of Hyatt loyalty program offers a range of hotels and resorts, the card's rewards are primarily focused on the Hyatt brand. If you prefer more flexibility in terms of hotel options, especially when traveling to destinations where Hyatt properties are limited, the card's benefits may be restricted.
  • consAnnual Fee: The card comes with an annual fee, which should be considered in relation to the benefits and rewards you expect to derive from the card. If you don't frequently stay at Hyatt hotels or utilize the card's features, the annual fee may outweigh the benefits.

10.

IHG® Rewards Club Traveler Credit Card

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The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is a credit card offered by Chase that allows users to earn IHG Rewards points on every purchase, with up to 17X points total per $1 spent when staying at IHG hotels and resorts. The card has no annual fee and offers new cardholders a bonus of 80,000 points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is one of several credit cards offered by Chase that allow users to earn IHG Rewards points, with other options including the IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card and the IHG Rewards Premier Business Credit Card. These cards offer similar benefits, including the ability to earn points on every purchase and bonus points for spending at IHG hotels and resorts. Additionally, the IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card and the IHG Rewards Premier Business Credit Card offer additional perks such as an anniversary free night and a statement credit for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS.

Pros

  • pros IHG Rewards Club Membership: The card offers automatic enrollment in the IHG Rewards Club, allowing you to earn and redeem points at a wide range of IHG hotels worldwide, including popular brands like InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, and Holiday Inn.
  • pros No Annual Fee: The card does not have an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for those who want to earn rewards without incurring additional expenses.
  • pros Bonus Points on IHG Purchases: Cardholders earn bonus points for every dollar spent on IHG hotel stays, helping you accumulate rewards faster and enjoy free or discounted stays.

Cons

  • consLimited Benefits: Compared to premium hotel cards, the IHG Rewards Club Traveler Credit Card offers fewer luxury perks and benefits. If you're looking for extensive travel benefits like complimentary elite status or airport lounge access, you may want to consider other options.
  • consLimited Bonus Categories: While the card offers bonus points for IHG purchases, the earning potential in other spending categories may be limited. If you primarily spend on non-IHG expenses, you may not maximize the rewards potential of the card.

How to find the best credit cards with travel rewards?

When it comes to narrow down the scope of credit cards with best travel rewards, by evaluating credit cards based on these standards, you can find the best credit cards that align with your travel goals, spending habits, and preferences.

  1. Rewards Program: Look for credit cards with robust rewards programs that offer generous earning potential on travel-related purchases. Consider the redemption options and flexibility in using your rewards for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses.

  2. Sign-Up Bonus: Take note of the sign-up bonuses offered by different cards. A higher sign-up bonus can provide an immediate boost to your rewards balance, helping you earn free flights or hotel stays sooner.

  3. Annual Fees: Consider the annual fees associated with the credit cards. While some cards may have higher fees, they often come with valuable benefits and perks. Evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the cost of the annual fee for your travel needs.

  4. Additional Travel Benefits: Look for cards that offer additional travel benefits such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, concierge services, priority boarding, free checked bags, or hotel elite status. These perks can enhance your travel experience and provide added value.

Frequently Asked Questions About Travel Credit Cards

less Is it better to have a credit card for travel?

Credit cards often offer more favorable currency conversion rates compared to ATMs and currency exchange booths. Depending on the credit card provider, your purchases may be eligible for automatic insurance coverage, which extends beyond just consumer goods to include protection for travel delays and lost baggage. Credit cards with attractive travel rewards offer a variety of benefits and perks for travelers. These cards typically provide opportunities to earn points or miles on your purchases, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or other travel-related expenses. Additionally, they often come with travel-related benefits such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, and exclusive discounts. By using these cards strategically, you can maximize your rewards and enjoy a more rewarding travel experience.

less Does a travel money card affect your credit score?

In the case of reloadable prepaid cards, you have the ability to top up or deposit funds onto the card as required. On the other hand, non-reloadable prepaid credit cards, commonly marketed as gift cards, become unusable once the funds have been depleted. Since the usage of prepaid credit cards is not reported to credit bureaus, they do not have any impact on your credit score.

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