When it comes to exploring new destinations, the best travel credit cards can be your passport to exclusive perks, extra miles, and free flights. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your next vacation, choosing the right travel credit card is essential. Let’s dive deep into what makes a travel card stand out and how you can make the most of your next trip using one.
Why Do You Need a Travel Credit Card?
Let’s be honest: traveling can be expensive. Airfare, hotels, rental cars—those costs add up fast. That’s where travel credit cards come into play. These cards are specifically designed to help you earn rewards for your everyday purchases that can go toward your travel expenses. With the best travel credit cards, you can:
- Earn miles or points for every dollar you spend
- Get access to airport lounges and priority boarding
- Avoid pesky foreign transaction fees
- Enjoy complimentary travel insurance and other perks
But, how do you choose the best card for your needs?
What to Look for in the Best Travel Credit Cards
Not all travel credit cards are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of key features to look for when choosing the best one:
1. Rewards Program
Most travel cards offer rewards in the form of points or miles. Look for cards that give you more bang for your buck, like 2x or 3x points on travel purchases. Some cards even offer bonus rewards on dining, groceries, or gas, which can help you rack up points faster.
2. Sign-Up Bonus
Who doesn’t love a good deal? Many top travel cards offer a hefty sign-up bonus after you spend a certain amount within the first few months. These bonuses can be a fast way to earn free flights or hotel stays.
3. Annual Fee
Some of the best travel credit cards come with annual fees. While these can range from $95 to over $500, the benefits often outweigh the cost. Just be sure you’re getting enough value in perks and rewards to justify the fee.
4. Foreign Transaction Fees
If you’re planning on using your card abroad, avoid ones that charge foreign transaction fees. These fees can range from 1% to 3% on each purchase, which can add up quickly during international trips.
5. Additional Perks
Look for cards that offer extra perks like airport lounge access, travel insurance, or priority boarding. These may seem like small benefits, but they can make your travel experience more comfortable and stress-free.
Best Travel Credit Cards for 2024
Here are some of the best travel credit cards to consider, based on rewards, perks, and overall value. Each of these cards is perfect for globetrotters, whether you’re flying across the world or enjoying a weekend getaway.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Rewards: 2x points on travel and dining, 1x on other purchases
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
- Annual Fee: $95
- Perks: No foreign transaction fees, 25% more value when redeeming points through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Why It’s Great: This card is a favorite among frequent travelers thanks to its flexible point redemption options.
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Rewards: 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines, 1x on other purchases
- Sign-Up Bonus: 80,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months
- Annual Fee: $695
- Perks: Complimentary access to Centurion Lounges, up to $200 in Uber credits, no foreign transaction fees
- Why It’s Great: The Platinum Card offers luxury travel perks like no other, making it ideal for high-end travelers.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Rewards: 2x miles on every purchase
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
- Annual Fee: $95
- Perks: No foreign transaction fees, up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
- Why It’s Great: This is a simple, straightforward card with generous rewards, making it perfect for the casual traveler.
4. Citi Premier® Card
- Rewards: 3x points on air travel, hotels, and dining; 1x on other purchases
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
- Annual Fee: $95
- Perks: No foreign transaction fees, points can be transferred to travel partners
- Why It’s Great: A versatile card that offers great rewards in several categories, not just travel.
5. Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- Rewards: 2x miles on Delta purchases, restaurants, and U.S. supermarkets; 1x on all other purchases
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 40,000 miles after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months
- Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $99
- Perks: First checked bag free, priority boarding, no foreign transaction fees
- Why It’s Great: If you’re a loyal Delta flyer, this card offers excellent benefits for your trips.
How to Maximize Your Travel Credit Card
Now that you know about the best travel credit cards, let’s talk about how to make the most out of your card.
1. Use It for Everyday Purchases
It’s not just for flights! Use your travel card for groceries, dining, or gas to accumulate points or miles faster. Many cards offer bonus rewards in these categories.
2. Pay Your Balance in Full
To avoid paying interest and potentially negating the value of your rewards, always pay off your balance in full each month. This helps you stay debt-free while enjoying your perks.
3. Take Advantage of Travel Insurance
Many travel credit cards come with built-in travel insurance. If your trip is canceled or delayed, or if your luggage is lost, you could be covered—without spending extra on separate insurance.
4. Redeem Your Points Wisely
Don’t just redeem your points for gift cards or merchandise—these options usually offer less value. Instead, use your points for travel bookings, especially through your card’s rewards portal, where you might get 25%-50% more value.
FAQs About Travel Credit Cards
Q: Are travel credit cards worth the annual fee?
A: It depends on how much you travel and how well you can take advantage of the card’s perks. If you’re a frequent traveler, the rewards and benefits often outweigh the annual fee.
Q: Do travel credit cards work internationally?
A: Yes! Most travel credit cards, especially the ones on this list, have no foreign transaction fees, making them perfect for international use.
Q: What is the difference between miles and points?
A: Miles are typically earned and redeemed with airlines, while points can be earned across various categories and used more flexibly, including for flights, hotels, and more.
Q: Can I use travel rewards for anything other than travel?
A: Yes, many cards allow you to redeem points or miles for merchandise, gift cards, or cash back, but these options generally don’t offer the same value as redeeming for travel.
Conclusion: Choosing the Best Travel Credit Card
Selecting the best travel credit card comes down to your spending habits and travel goals. Whether you’re looking for luxury travel perks, no foreign transaction fees, or a straightforward rewards system, there’s a card out there for you. Use the information in this guide to find the best travel credit card that suits your needs and start earning rewards today.