Starting your next journey should be as exciting as the destination itself. The right travel credit card turns everyday purchases into rewards that fuel unforgettable adventures. Imagine earning bonus points for flights, enjoying complimentary lounge access, and receiving travel insurance—all while making your travel dreams a reality.
Our article will help you navigate the best travel credit cards in the U.S., ensuring you maximize your rewards and travel perks. Let’s find the perfect card to be your ultimate travel companion.
Key Takeaways
- The best travel credit cards offer rewards like free flights, hotel stays, and airport lounge access.
- Consider factors like annual fees, bonus categories, and travel perks when choosing a card.
- Some cards cater to specific travel needs, such as airline loyalty or luxury perks.
- Checking your credit score and understanding approval criteria can improve your chances of getting approved.
- Smart spending and strategic redemptions maximize the benefits of a travel credit card.
The Best Travel Credit Cards in the U.S.
Choosing the right travel credit card can enhance your journeys with rewards and perks. Below, we dive into five of the best credit card options, detailing their pros, cons, fees, and how you can use and transfer the points you earn. Each card shines in a different category, so you can find the one that best fits your travel style.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card® – Best Overall Travel Credit Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is widely regarded as one of the best travel credit cards, thanks to its generous rewards, flexible redemption options, and strong travel protections. It earns 3× points on dining and 2× on other travel purchases, with points worth 25% more when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
A standout feature of the chase travel card is its ability to transfer points at a 1:1 ratio to 14 airline and hotel partners, including United Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue, British Airways, and Hyatt. The card offers a large sign-up bonus, typically around 60,000 points, which translates to $750 in travel when booked through Chase. It also includes primary rental car insurance and trip cancellation coverage of up to $10,000 per person.
Pros:
- High-value points that transfer to top airline and hotel programs
- 25% more value when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- No foreign transaction fees, making it great for international travel
- Strong travel protections, including trip cancellation and rental car insurance
Cons:
- $95 annual fee
- No built-in airport lounge access or luxury perks
- Requires a good to excellent credit score for approval
Fees: The annual fee is $95, and there are no foreign transaction fees.
Points Redemption & Transfers: You can redeem points for travel through Chase at 1.25 cents per point or transfer them to partners like United, Southwest, Hyatt, and Marriott for potentially higher value. This flexibility makes the card an excellent choice for frequent travelers.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card – Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Card
The Bank of America Travel Rewards card is a great option for travelers who want a simple rewards structure without an annual fee. It earns 1.5× points on all purchases, with no need to track bonus categories.
Points can be redeemed for statement credits toward travel or dining purchases, making it easy to offset travel expenses without worrying about blackout dates. The card is particularly valuable for Bank of America Preferred Rewards members, who can earn up to 75% more points, boosting the effective earning rate to 2.62× per dollar spent.
Pros:
- No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
- Flat 1.5× points on all purchases
- Travel points can be redeemed for any travel or dining expense without restrictions
- Preferred Rewards members get higher earning rates
Cons:
- No bonus categories for higher rewards
- No luxury travel perks like lounge access or travel insurance
- Points cannot be transferred to airline or hotel loyalty programs
Fees: The card has a $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, making it a budget-friendly travel card.
Points Redemption & Transfers: Points can be redeemed as a statement credit to cover any travel or dining purchase. While it does not have point transfer capabilities, its flexibility allows you to book travel however you like and still get rewards.
The Platinum Card® from American Express – Best for Luxury Travel Perks
The Amex Platinum is a top-tier travel card designed for frequent travelers who value luxury perks. It offers access to over 1,400 airport lounges, including Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, and Delta Sky Clubs.
It earns 5× points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel and comes with extensive travel credits, including a $200 airline fee credit, $200 hotel credit, $200 Uber Cash, and $189 CLEAR® credit for expedited airport security. Cardholders also get automatic Gold status with Hilton and Marriott.
Pros:
- Unmatched luxury benefits, including extensive airport lounge access
- High earning rate on flights (5× points)
- Annual credits can offset much of the high fee
- Strong travel protections, including trip delay and baggage insurance
Cons:
- High annual fee of $695
- Credits require planning to maximize value
- 1× points on non-travel purchases is low compared to other premium cards
Fees: The card has a $695 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees. Additional cardholders cost $175 for up to three Platinum cards.
Points Redemption & Transfers: Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for travel through Amex Travel (1 cent per point) or transferred to 20+ airline and hotel partners, including Delta, Air Canada, British Airways, and Marriott. Transferring points often yields the best value, especially for premium airline tickets.
United℠ Explorer Card – Best for Airline-Specific Rewards (United Airlines)
For frequent United Airlines travelers, the United Explorer Card provides valuable perks such as free first checked bags for you and a companion, priority boarding, and two one-time United Club lounge passes per year. It earns 2× miles on United purchases, dining, and hotels, making it a solid choice for those loyal to the airline. A key benefit is the $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, which helps frequent flyers get through security faster.
Pros:
- Free first checked bag on United flights
- Two complimentary United Club passes annually
- $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
- $95 annual fee after the first year
- Best suited for United flyers—less useful if you don’t fly United often
- Limited transfer flexibility—United miles can only be used in the MileagePlus program
Fees: The first year is free, then $95 annually. No foreign transaction fees.
Miles Redemption & Transfers: United miles can be used for United flights and partner airlines in the Star Alliance network, including Lufthansa, ANA, and Air Canada. However, unlike Chase or Amex points, United miles cannot be transferred to other loyalty programs.
World of Hyatt Credit Card – Best for Hotel Rewards (Hyatt)
The World of Hyatt Credit Card is ideal for travelers who frequently stay at Hyatt hotels. It earns 4× points on Hyatt stays, plus 2× on dining, flights, and gym memberships.
One of its best perks is an annual free night at a Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel, which can easily offset the $95 annual fee. Cardholders also get automatic Hyatt Discoverist elite status and five elite night credits toward higher Hyatt status.
Pros:
- Free annual night certificate (worth more than the card’s annual fee)
- 4× points on Hyatt stays, 2× on dining and travel
- Helps earn Hyatt elite status faster
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
- Hyatt has fewer locations than Marriott or Hilton
- $95 annual fee that only pays off if you stay at Hyatt properties
- Points are mainly useful for Hyatt stays, not flexible like Chase or Amex points
Fees: The card has a $95 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
Points Redemption & Transfers: Points can be used for Hyatt hotel stays, upgrades, and experiences. Hyatt points are valued higher than most hotel points, often around 1.5–2 cents each. While Hyatt points can be transferred to airline partners, the conversion rate is poor (5 Hyatt points = 2 airline miles), so it’s usually better to use them for hotel stays.
Why You Need a Travel Credit Card
A travel credit card does more than just cover expenses—it enhances your travel experience while saving you money. In the United States, credit card usage has grown significantly, rising from 18.18% of all transactions in 2016 to 32.61% in 2023. This shift towards digital transactions highlights the importance of choosing the right credit card to maximize benefits, especially for travelers.
Benefits of Travel Credit Cards
Travel credit cards offer a multitude of advantages that can significantly enhance your travel experiences and provide financial benefits. Here’s an expanded look at the key benefits:
1. Rewards and Points Accumulation
Travel credit cards allow you to earn points or miles on everyday purchases, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rental, and more. Some cards offer higher rewards rates on travel-related expenses, accelerating your ability to earn free or discounted travel.
2. Travel Perks and Amenities
Many travel credit cards come with additional perks that enhance your travel experience. These can include:
- Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy complimentary access to airport lounges, providing a comfortable space to relax before flights.
- Priority Boarding: Board flights earlier, ensuring ample overhead bin space and a more relaxed boarding process.
- Free Checked Bags: Save on baggage fees with complimentary checked bags on eligible flights.
- Hotel Room Upgrades: Access to complimentary room upgrades, late check-outs, and other hotel benefits.
3. Travel Protections
Travel credit cards often provide insurance and protections that can be invaluable during your trips, such as:
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Reimbursement for non-refundable expenses if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons.
- Lost Luggage Reimbursement: Coverage for lost or delayed baggage, helping you replace essential items.
- Rental Car Insurance: Secondary or primary coverage for rental car damages, potentially saving you from purchasing additional insurance.
4. No Foreign Transaction Fees
When traveling internationally, foreign transaction fees can add up quickly. Many travel credit cards waive these fees, allowing you to make purchases abroad without incurring extra charges.
5. Sign-Up Bonuses
Many travel credit cards offer substantial sign-up bonuses after meeting a minimum spending requirement within the first few months. These bonuses can jumpstart your rewards balance, allowing for immediate redemption opportunities.
6. Enhanced Security
Using a credit card for travel purchases provides an added layer of security. Credit cards often come with fraud protection, and disputing unauthorized charges is more straightforward compared to other payment methods.
How Travel Rewards Work
Travel rewards programs let you accumulate points or miles for flights, hotels, and more. Some cards offer higher rewards on travel-related purchases, while others provide flat-rate points on all spending. The key is strategic spending—using your card in bonus categories to maximize your rewards.
How to Choose the Right Travel Credit Card
Selecting the best travel credit card requires careful consideration of your spending habits, travel goals, and financial situation. With so many options available, it’s essential to evaluate key factors that will impact the card’s value and usability. Here’s how to choose the right travel credit card for your needs.
Factors to Consider: Annual Fees, Rewards, and APR
Not all travel credit cards are created equal, and different cards serve different types of travelers. Here are the most important aspects to evaluate before applying:
- Annual Fees: Many premium travel cards come with annual fees ranging from $95 to over $695. While high annual fees can be worth it for frequent travelers who use perks like airport lounge access and free checked bags, casual travelers may benefit more from a no-annual-fee card that still earns rewards. Always weigh the cost of the annual fee against the benefits you’ll use.
- Rewards Structure: Some cards offer flat-rate rewards, meaning you earn the same amount of points on all purchases (e.g., 1.5 points per dollar on everything). Others have bonus categories that provide higher earnings on travel, dining, groceries, or other specific spending. Choose a card that maximizes rewards based on your spending habits.
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Many travel cards offer large welcome bonuses for spending a certain amount in the first few months. These bonuses can often be worth hundreds of dollars in travel rewards and should be a major consideration if you can meet the spending requirement without overspending.
- APR & Interest Rates: If you plan to carry a balance, travel credit cards may not be the best option since they often come with high interest rates. Many travel rewards cards do not offer introductory 0% APR periods, making them better suited for people who pay their balances in full each month.
Comparing Travel Credit Card Benefits
Beyond rewards, travel credit cards offer valuable perks that can make your trips smoother and more cost-effective. These benefits vary significantly by card, so comparing them is essential to picking the right one.
- Travel Protections: Some travel credit cards include trip cancellation/interruption insurance, lost baggage protection, and rental car insurance. These benefits can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in unexpected expenses.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: If you travel internationally, choosing a card with no foreign transaction fees is essential to avoid paying an extra 2-3% on purchases made abroad.
- Airport Lounge Access: Premium travel cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and Chase Sapphire Reserve® provide access to airport lounges, offering a more comfortable experience before flights. If you spend a lot of time at airports, this benefit can make a high annual fee worthwhile.
- Point Transfers vs. Fixed-Value Redemptions: Some travel credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred®, allow point transfers to airline and hotel partners, which can maximize value when booking flights or hotel stays. Others, like the Bank of America® Travel Rewards card, allow points to be redeemed as a statement credit at a fixed rate, providing simplicity but less value maximization.
How to Apply for a Travel Credit Card
Applying for a travel credit card isn’t complicated, but a strategic approach increases your approval chances.
Checking Your Credit Score and Eligibility
Most travel credit cards require a good to excellent credit score (700+). Before applying:
- Check your credit report for errors.
- Pay down existing debts to improve your credit utilization.
- Ensure you meet the issuer’s income and credit history requirements.
Steps to Apply and Get Approved
- Compare cards and select the one that aligns with your travel goals.
- Check your credit score to ensure you qualify.
- Apply online through the issuer’s website, providing accurate financial information.
- Wait for approval, which can be instant or take a few days.
- Activate your card and start earning rewards!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
- Applying for multiple cards at once, which can lower your credit score.
- Ignoring the terms and conditions, especially interest rates and fees.
- Not meeting minimum spend requirements for sign-up bonuses.
By avoiding these mistakes, you increase your chances of approval and long-term travel rewards success.
Maximizing Travel Credit Card Benefits
Getting the card is just the beginning. To maximize your rewards, you need a smart strategy, something like:
How to Earn and Redeem Travel Points Effectively
- Use your card for everyday purchases in bonus categories.
- Meet the minimum spending requirement to earn sign-up bonuses.
- Transfer points to airline and hotel partners for better value.
- Look for promotional offers and bonus multipliers.
Travel Hacks Using Credit Card Perks
- Use lounge access during long layovers for a more comfortable experience.
- Take advantage of travel insurance and purchase protections.
- Book flights and hotels strategically to maximize redemption value.
These small hacks and strategies help you get more value from your travel credit card.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do travel credit cards protect against fraud?
Travel credit cards come with built-in fraud protection that monitors transactions for suspicious activity. Most issuers offer zero-liability policies, ensuring that you won’t be held responsible for fraudulent charges if they are reported promptly. Many cards also include virtual card numbers and two-factor authentication for added security. If your card is lost or stolen, most banks offer 24/7 fraud support and the ability to freeze your card instantly through a mobile app.
2. What should I do if my travel credit card is lost or stolen?
If your travel credit card is lost or stolen, immediately contact your card issuer to report the loss and request a replacement. Many issuers offer emergency card replacement services, sometimes even providing a temporary card while you wait for the new one. If you’re traveling, some premium travel cards also offer emergency cash advances to cover expenses while your card is being replaced. Additionally, check your transaction history and report any unauthorized charges to avoid liability
3. Can I transfer or combine rewards between different cards?
Some travel rewards cards allow you to transfer points to airline and hotel partners, but not all points are interchangeable between different credit card programs. For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred to partners like United Airlines, Southwest, and Hyatt, while American Express Membership Rewards points can be transferred to Delta, Air Canada, and Marriott. However, you generally cannot transfer points between issuers (e.g., you can’t transfer Chase points to an Amex card). Some hotel and airline programs allow you to combine rewards with a spouse or family member, but restrictions vary by program.
4. What are foreign transaction fees, and how can I avoid them?
Foreign transaction fees are surcharges (typically 2-3%) on purchases made in a foreign currency or processed by an international merchant. To avoid these fees, choose a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred®, Amex Platinum®, and Bank of America Travel Rewards® are all great options for international travelers.
5. Are there travel credit cards for students or beginners?
Yes! Several travel credit cards cater to students or beginners with limited credit history. The Discover it® Miles card offers 1.5 miles per dollar on all purchases with no annual fee and is a good starter travel card membership. Additionally, cards like the Capital One Quicksilver Student Rewards offer cashback that can be redeemed for travel. If you’re building credit, focus on cards with no annual fees and straightforward rewards.
