How can I travel for free?

It’s possible to cover the cost of your next trip or vacation by maximizing your credit card travel rewards. Here are a few ways to do so: You can apply for a travel credit card when a large sign-up bonus offer becomes available. You can shuffle between multiple cards to earn rewards in each of your top spending categories. You can also redeem rewards through issuers’ travel portals or transfer them to loyalty programs. Or, make your purchases through the issuers’ online shopping portals when possible.

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American Express Disclosure

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

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18 Best Travel Credit Cards in December 2024

Q: What is the best travel credit card?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best travel credit card because of its flexible points, reasonable $95 annual fee and array of travel insurance and protections. You’ll earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which are worth 25% more value when redeemed for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. You can also transfer points to hotel and airline loyalty programs at a 1:1 rate.

Updated on:

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Chase Sapphire Preferred<sup>®</sup> Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card is the best travel credit card of 2024 because it earns flexible, valuable points and offers moderate travel protection.

Best travel credit cards in January 2024

Winner: Best for general travel

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

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Best for no annual fee

Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card

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Best for international travel

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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Best for business

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

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Best for lounge access

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

Learn More
Best for travel insurance

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

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Best for beginner travel card

Discover it^® Miles

Learn More
Best for students

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students

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Best for fair credit

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Learn More
Best for luxury travel

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

Learn More
Best for airline miles/Delta

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card

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Best American Airlines credit card

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®

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Best Southwest credit card

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

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Best United credit card

United℠ Explorer Card

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Winner: Best for hotels/Hilton

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card

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Best Marriott credit card

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

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Best IHG credit card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

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Best Hyatt credit card

World of Hyatt Credit Card

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Citi is an advertising partner.

If frequent travel is on your agenda, you are going to want to take a look at a travel credit card. The best travel cards offer lucrative rewards that can save you hundreds of dollars each year on travel. Travel cards also provide valuable travel benefits, like free checked bags, free hotel stays, lounge access, travel insurance and annual credits.

General travel credit cards

Winner

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card*

LendingTree's Review

4.7

LendingTree's Review

4.7

Learn More

Travel rewards: 2x – 5x points

Enjoy beneﬁts such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.

Generous sign-up bonus
Flexible rewards rate
25% boost in rewards value
Travel transfer partners
Extensive trip insurance benefits
$0 foreign transaction fee
Statement credits each account anniversary year

$95 annual fee
No intro APR

First year card value: $2,032*
Ongoing annual card value: $832*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card is the best travel card because it has some of the most flexible and valuable points. It also has several types of travel insurance and protections while having a reasonable $95 annual fee. The benefits, earning rate and generous sign-up bonus make this card perfect for beginners and experienced travelers.

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Enjoy beneﬁts such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
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, 2027.
Member FDIC

*The information related to the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best travel credit card with no annual fee

Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card*

LendingTree's Review

3.6

LendingTree's Review

3.6

Learn More

Travel Rewards: 1x-3x points

Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases.

$0 annual fee
Intro APR on purchases
Rewards on popular travel categories
Valuable sign-up bonus
Foreign transaction fees: None

No balance transfer intro APR
Rewards can’t be transferred to loyalty partners
Limited travel benefits

First year card value: $642*
Ongoing annual card value: $342*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card charges a $0 annual fee and offers a generous rewards rate in popular travel spending categories. Cardholders earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases.

The card also offers a solid sign-up bonus with a low spend requirement. Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value. You must select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer. You can redeem rewards for travel, gift cards, statement credit and merchandise.

Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 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. 19.49%, 24.49%, or 29.49% variable APR thereafter.
Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. 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.
Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

*The information related to the Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best credit card for international travel

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card*

LendingTree's Review

4.7

LendingTree's Review

4.7

Learn More

Travel rewards: 2x – 5x miles

2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 5 Miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

Generous sign-up bonus
Rewards rate with flexible redemption options
Transfer miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
Foreign transaction fee: None

$95 annual fee
Light on travel perks

First year card value: $2,150*
Ongoing annual card value: $800*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is our top pick for international travel because it has no foreign transaction fees. Plus, it’s a Visa card, which means it has wide international acceptance. It has a simple rewards structure and a moderate $95 annual fee, which also makes it a good card for beginners.

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

*The information related to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best business credit card for travel

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card*

LendingTree's Review

4.7

Ink Business Preferred<sup>®</sup> Credit Card

LendingTree's Review

4.7

Learn More

Travel Rewards: 1-3 points

Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases-with no limit to the amount you can earn.

Huge sign-up bonus
Rewards on travel and business purchases
Points are worth 25% more when redeemed through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal
Transfer points at a 1:1 rate to Chase travel partners
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Free employee cards

$95 annual fee
Sign-up bonus has a high minimum spending requirement
Travel insurance benefits are lacking

First year card value: $2,393*
Ongoing annual card value: $393*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card is an excellent choice for business owners who want to earn lucrative travel rewards. The sign-up bonus allows you to save significantly on travel. When you transfer points to a Chase airline or hotel partner, points are worth around 2 cents per point or higher.

The travel perks and trip insurance benefits are lacking on this card when compared with other travel credit cards. You’ll earn more on business-related spending categories to make up for it.

Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
Member FDIC

*The information related to the Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best travel card with lounge access

The Platinum Card^® from American Express*

LendingTree's Review

4.5

The Platinum Card<sup>®</sup> from American Express

LendingTree's Review

4.5

Learn More

Travel rewards: 5x points

5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Terms apply.

Generous welcome offer
Transfer points to airline and hotel partners
$1,000+ worth of travel and shopping credits
Airport lounge access through The Global Lounge Collection®, including Centurion lounge access
Automatic Gold Elite Status with Marriott and Hilton (enrollment required)
Trip delay/cancellation insurance*
Emergency medical transportation coverage
Foreign transaction fee: None

$695 annual fee
Annual credits can be hard to use
Bonus spending categories are narrow

First year card value: $3,375*
Ongoing annual card value: $1,775*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express is an elite travel card that gives you access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 650 cities in 140 countries. Its annual fee is $695, but it comes with a long list of other perks, like large travel credits and hotel statuses (enrollment required). With strong travel protections* and a large welcome offer, it can be well worth the steep annual fee for frequent travelers.

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
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.
$200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
$200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
$199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
$695 annual fee.¤
Terms Apply.

*The information related to the The Platinum Card^® from American Express has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best credit card for travel insurance

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*

LendingTree's Review

4.9

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

LendingTree's Review

4.9

Learn More

Travel rewards: 2x – 5x miles

2X Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 10X Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 5X Miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel

Generous sign-up bonus
Bonus miles each account anniversary
Transfer miles to 15+ loyalty programs
$300 annual travel credit
Travel and purchase protections
Airport lounge access
Free to add authorized users

High annual fee
No automatic elite status

First year card value: $2,563*
Ongoing annual card value: $1,393*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

If you frequently travel and have the budget to splurge on a premium travel credit card, The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is an excellent choice offering a number of luxury travel perks, including Priority Pass lounge access. It includes a $300 travel credit for Capital One travel purchases that can cover most of your annual fee each year. The card also comes with an extensive list of travel and purchase protections, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage delay reimbursement and auto rental collision damage waiver.

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 a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip 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 and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
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
Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

*The information related to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best travel credit card for beginners

Discover it^® Miles*

LendingTree's Review

4.3

LendingTree's Review

4.3

Learn More

Travel Rewards: Unlimited 1.5x miles per $1 spent

1.5 Miles per dollar on all purchases.

Simple flat-rate rewards
Generous sign-up bonus
Long intro APR
$0 annual fee
Foreign transaction fee: None

Can’t transfer miles
Not always accepted abroad
No premium travel perks like travel credit or insurance

First year card value: $900*
Ongoing annual card value: $300*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Discover it^® Miles has a $0 annual fee and lets cardholders earn 1.5 Miles per dollar on all purchases. Each mile is worth 1 cent, so you earn 1.5% back on each and every purchase. This card is even more valuable with its unique sign-up bonus for new card members: Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. You could turn 35,000 Miles to 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.

UNLIMITED BONUS: Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. You could turn 35,000 Miles to 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
No annual fee
Turn Miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more.
0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.74% - 27.74% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
Terms and conditions apply.

*The information related to the Discover it^® Miles has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best travel credit card for students

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students*

LendingTree's Review

4.9

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students

LendingTree's Review

4.9

Review Coming Soon

Travel rewards: 1.5 points

1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases.

Simple rewards structure
Generous sign-up bonus
$0 annual fee
Long intro APR offer
Easy to qualify for
Foreign transaction fee: None

Limited travel insurance and protections
No elevated earning categories

First year card value: $550*
Ongoing annual card value: $300*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students can help students start earning points while establishing their credit. It’s easier to qualify for than most other premium travel cards. It features better-than-average rewards for a starter credit card, including a large sign-up bonus. Plus, it doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, making it a great companion for your studies abroad. It has a $0 annual fee — so it costs students nothing to learn how to use credit card points.

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 as long as your account remains open.
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.
0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a 18.74% - 28.74% Variable APR will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job. Access your FICO® Score for free within Online Banking or your Mobile Banking app.
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.

*The information related to the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best travel credit card for fair credit

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card*

LendingTree's Review

4.1

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

LendingTree's Review

4.1

Learn More

Travel rewards: 1.5% to 5% cash back

1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)

$0 annual fee
Solid rewards rate
Ability to increase credit line
Foreign transaction fee: None

High purchase APR
No sign-up bonus
Maximum credit line cap

First year card value: $313*
Ongoing annual card value: $313*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

If you are looking to travel internationally, the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent option. This card is easy to get approved for if you have limited / poor credit. It also requires a minimum security deposit of only $200, which becomes your line of credit. It doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good option for cardholders who want to travel while building credit.

No annual or hidden fees, and you can earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. See if you're approved in seconds
Put down a refundable $200 security deposit to get a $200 initial credit line
Building your credit? Using a card like this responsibly could help
Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
You could earn back your security deposit as a statement credit when you use your card responsibly, like making payments on time
Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months with no additional deposit needed
Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

*The information related to the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best luxury travel card

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express*

LendingTree's Review

4.4

The Business Platinum Card<sup>®</sup> from American Express

LendingTree's Review

4.4

Learn More

Travel rewards: 1x to 5x points

5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.

Generous welcome offer
Transfer points to airline and hotel partners
$1,000+ worth of credits
Airport lounge access through The Global Lounge Collection®, including Centurion lounge access
Automatic Hilton and Marriott Gold status (enrollment required)
Business Platinum Card Concierge
Foreign transaction fees: None

$695 annual fee
Credits come with restrictions that can make them hard to use
Low rewards rate for everyday purchases

First year card value: $3,774*
Ongoing annual card value: $1,374*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express is similar to The Platinum Card^® from American Express, but offers a few additional perks that can add to your luxury travel experience.

Cardholders can get more than $1,000 worth of credits, including up to a $200 airline fee credit* and up to $189 back in CLEAR® Plus Credits per year*. You’ll also get access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection — one of the best lounge networks around.

Other plush travel benefits include Hilton Honors Gold Status*, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status* and perks with the Fine Hotels and Resorts program.

Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
$199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
$695 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

*The information related to the The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Airline credit cards

Winner: Best airlines credit card / Delta

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card*

LendingTree's Review

3.2

Delta SkyMiles<sup>®</sup> Gold American Express Card

LendingTree's Review

3.2

Learn More

Travel rewards: 1x to 2x miles

Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.

Solid earning rate across a wide range of categories
Free checked bag on Delta flights
Priority boarding
$100 Delta flight credit
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.
Foreign transaction fees: None
Nice travel perks

Other travel cards offer higher welcome offers
No airport lounge access

First year card value: $855*
Ongoing annual card value: $316*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card is one of the best for airline miles. It offers an excellent welcome offer and rewards rate that can help your airline miles add up quickly.

Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.

Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $150.
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
$200 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel.
Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
You can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
$100 Delta Stays Credit: Get up to $100 back per year as a statement credit after using your Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
With Send & Split®, you can send money and split your Card purchases with any other Venmo or PayPal user, directly from the Amex App. Enroll today.
Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
Terms Apply.

*The information related to the Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best American Airlines credit card

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®*

LendingTree's Review

3.6

Citi<sup>®</sup> / AAdvantage<sup>®</sup> Platinum Select<sup>®</sup> World Elite Mastercard<sup>®</sup>

LendingTree's Review

3.6

Learn More

Travel rewards: 1 – 2 miles

Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases.

Large sign-up bonus
0% foreign transaction fees
Bonus rewards on gas station, restaurant and eligible American Airlines purchases
Travel benefits like a free checked bag and preferred boarding
Savings on in-flight food and beverage purchases
Flight discount

Annual fee after the first year
No intro APR on purchases or balance transfers
Few bonus categories
No travel or purchase protections

First year card value: $1,353*
Ongoing annual card value: $479*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^® is a great choice if you are loyal to the American Airlines brand and are looking to save on airfare. You’ll receive a high sign-up bonus and bonus rewards on all American airlines, gas and restaurant purchases.

Plus, you’ll earn a $125 American Airlines flight discount after you spend $20,000 during your card membership year and renew your card. You’ll also get 25% savings on in-flight food and beverage purchases, your first checked bag free and preferred boarding for you and up to four companions.

Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases
Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
No Foreign Transaction Fees
First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to four companions traveling with you on the same reservation
Enjoy preferred boarding on American Airlines flights

*The information related to the Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^® has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best Southwest credit card

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card*

LendingTree's Review

3.4

Southwest Rapid Rewards<sup>®</sup> Priority Credit Card

LendingTree's Review

3.4

Learn More

Travel Rewards: 2X-3X points

Receive 7,500 anniversary points, 4 upgraded boardings per year when available, and a $75 Southwest® travel credit each year. Enjoy benefits including 3X points on Southwest purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare, 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming, 10,000 Companion Pass® qualifying points boost each year, and more.

7,500 Rapid Rewards points every cardmember anniversary
Southwest annual travel credit that applies to airfare
Four upgraded boardings per year
Companion pass points boost each year

$149 annual fee
Low point earnings on regular purchases

First year card value: $1,047*
Ongoing annual card value: $452*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card comes with a number of valuable perks for frequent Southwest flyers. You’ll earn a $75 annual Southwest travel credit, four upgraded boardings and a boost of 10,000 Companion Pass® qualifying points every year. Plus, you’ll earn 7,500 Rapid Rewards points on every cardmember anniversary. Although this card comes with a $149 annual fee, the benefits easily outweigh the cost and make it the most valuable Southwest credit card.

Earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening.
7,500 anniversary points each year.
Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
$75 Southwest® travel credit each year.
No foreign transaction fees.
Member FDIC

*The information related to the Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best United credit card

United℠ Explorer Card*

LendingTree's Review

3.5

LendingTree's Review

3.5

Learn More

Travel rewards: 1 – 2 miles

2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays. 1x mile on all other purchases

Generous sign-up bonus
First checked bag free
Priority boarding
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
Two United Club passes each year

Benefits are limited to United
$0 Intro for the First Year, then $95

First year card value: $1,214*
Ongoing annual card value: $339*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The United℠ Explorer Card is a great choice for both frequent United flyers and those who only fly United occasionally. It offers a variety of benefits like a free checked bag, priority boarding, annual United Club passes, Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus statement credit and numerous travel protections. You’ll also earn a valuable sign-up bonus and bonus miles on United, dining and hotel purchases.

Limited-time Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays
Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
Member FDIC

*The information related to the United℠ Explorer Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Hotel credit cards

Winner: Best for hotels / Hilton

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card*

LendingTree's Review

4.2

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass<sup>®</sup> Card

LendingTree's Review

4.2

Learn More

Travel rewards: 3x – 12x points

Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio. Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations. Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases. Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.

Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required)
Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your card in a calendar year
Strong welcome offer
Great earning rate

$150 annual fee
Can only redeem points for Hilton purchases

First year card value: $1,174*
Ongoing annual card value: $1,074*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card is a great choice for Hilton Honors rewards members. It offers a high earning rate and generous welcome offer. You can earn elevated points on a wide variety of purchases, including Hilton hotels and resorts, U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and more. It also offers exclusive benefits that make this worth the $150 annual fee for Hilton frequenters.

*To see rates & fees for Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card, please click here.

Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.
Get up to $200 back each year on eligible Hilton purchases after you use your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors ™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year.
Enjoy complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status. Enrollment in the complimentary Emerald Club® program is required. Terms apply.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
$150 annual fee.
Terms Apply.

*The information related to the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best Marriott credit card

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card*

LendingTree's Review

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant<sup>®</sup> American Express<sup>®</sup> Card

LendingTree's Review

Learn More

Travel rewards: 2x – 6x points

Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.

Monthly dining statement credit
Automatic Marriott Platinum status (enrollment required)
Annual free-night award
25 elite night credits each calendar year
Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® (enrollment required)
Foreign transaction fees: None

$650 annual fee
High spending requirement for welcome offer

First year card value: $1,463*
Ongoing annual card value: $1,373*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card offers a number of luxury travel perks for Marriott loyalists. While the card comes with a high $650 annual fee, you’ll get enough value to more than cover the cost. Luxury perks include a high welcome offer, numerous travel credits, airport lounge access, automatic Platinum Elite Status and more. Plus, you’ll earn bonus points on restaurant, flight and other everyday purchases.

Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
$300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
$100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
$650 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

*The information related to the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best IHG credit card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card*

LendingTree's Review

3.6

LendingTree's Review

3.6

Learn More

Travel rewards: 3 to 5 points

Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Anniversary free night
Fourth Night Free on award nights
Automatic IHG Platinum status
Large welcome offer
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or NEXUS Statement Credit
$0 foreign transaction fee

$99 annual fee
IHG points not as valuable as other types of points
Not a great source of points on everyday spending

First year card value: $1,114*
Ongoing annual card value: $614*

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card comes with an outstanding sign-up bonus worth $700 and a free anniversary night each year. Plus, you’ll receive valuable perks, including automatic Platinum elite status, 10,000 bonus points every year, Global Entry/TSA Precheck credit and travel and purchase protections. Though IHG points are worth less than most travel rewards, you’ll still get outstanding value from its perks and rewards, especially in the card’s first year.

Earn 140,000 Bonus Points
Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay.
Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 ($120 starting 10/1/24) every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®
Member FDIC

*The information related to the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Best Hyatt credit card

World of Hyatt Credit Card*

LendingTree's Review

3.5

LendingTree's Review

3.5

Learn More

Travel rewards: Up to 9 points

Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 Bonus Points per $1 when you use your card at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member. 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit and commuting as well as fitness club and gym memberships. Plus, earn 1 Bonus Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Valuable sign-up bonus
Free night award
Hyatt points are high in value
Automatic Hyatt Discoverist status
Great redemption options

$95 annual fee
Hyatt’s hotel network is smaller than that of other major chains
Free night certificate is limited to category 1-4 Hyatt hotels

First year card value: $1,431
Ongoing annual card value: $411

*This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card offers a number of unique perks if you frequently stay at Hyatt hotels. You’ll receive automatic Hyatt Discoverist status, which typically requires 10 stays to earn. Plus, you can earn Hyatt points at a high rate with great redemption options to choose from. You can also get a free night award on each card anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort. Hyatt does not have as many hotel properties as brands like IHG, Marriott and Hilton. However, you’ll find great options in most popular travel destinations, especially with its lower hotel tiers, which are more upscale than average.

Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent
Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships

*The information related to the World of Hyatt Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

Compare the 18 best travel credit cards of 2023

Credit Cards	Our Ratings	Welcome Offer	Rewards Rate	Annual Fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card* Learn More	4.7 Winner: Best for general travel	Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.	Enjoy beneﬁts such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.	$95	Learn More
Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card* Learn More	3.6 Best for no annual fee	Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.	Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases	$0	Learn More
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card* Learn More	4.7 Best for international travel	75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening	2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 5 Miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel	$95	Learn More
Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card* Learn More	4.7 Best for business	Earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.	Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases-with no limit to the amount you can earn.	$95	Learn More
The Platinum Card^® from American Express* Learn More	4.5 Best for lounge access	Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.	5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Terms apply.	$695	Learn More
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card* Learn More	4.9 Best for travel insurance	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	2X Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 10X Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 5X Miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel	$395	Learn More
Discover it^® Miles* Learn More	4.3 Best for beginner travel card	Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. You could turn 35,000 Miles to 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.	1.5 Miles per dollar on all purchases.	$0	Learn More
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students* Review Coming Soon	4.9 Best for students	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	1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases.	$0	Review Coming Soon
Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card* Learn More	4.1 Best for fair credit	N/A	1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)	$0	Learn More
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express* Learn More	4.4 Best for luxury travel	Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.	5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.	$695	Learn More
Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card* Learn More	3.2 Winner: Best for airline miles/Delta	Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.	Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.	$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.	Learn More
Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®* Learn More	3.6 Best American Airlines credit card	Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.	Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases.	$99, waived for first 12 months	Learn More
Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card* Learn More	3.4 Best Southwest credit card	Earn a $400 statement credit and 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 4 months from account opening.	Receive 7,500 anniversary points, 4 upgraded boardings per year when available, and a $75 Southwest® travel credit each year. Enjoy benefits including 3X points on Southwest purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare, 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming, 10,000 Companion Pass® qualifying points boost each year, and more.	$149	Learn More
United℠ Explorer Card* Learn More	3.5 Best United credit card	Limited-time Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.	2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays. 1x mile on all other purchases	$95	Learn More
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card* Learn More	4.2 Winner: Best for hotels/Hilton	Earn 165,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 1/8/2025.	Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio. Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations. Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases. Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.	$150	Learn More
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card* Learn More	4.0 Best Marriott credit card	Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.	Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.	$650	Learn More
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card* Learn More	3.6 Best IHG credit card	Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening	Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.	$99	Learn More
World of Hyatt Credit Card* Learn More	3.5 Best Hyatt credit card	Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.	Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 Bonus Points per $1 when you use your card at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member. 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit and commuting as well as fitness club and gym memberships. Plus, earn 1 Bonus Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.	$95	Learn More

*The information for the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card, Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card, The Platinum Card^® from American Express, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Discover it^® Miles, Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students, Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card, Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®, Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card, United℠ Explorer Card, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and World of Hyatt Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms Apply.

Best travel card offers by bank

You may prefer a specific issuer over others due to the benefits offered. You may also want to pool points from multiple credit cards to maximize their value. If this is the case, you should choose a travel credit card based on the bank that issues the card. Here are our top overall travel card picks from these major issuers:

Issuer	Credit card	Welcome offer	Annual fee
American Express travel card	The Platinum Card^® from American Express	Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.	$695
Bank of America travel card	Bank of America^® Premium Rewards^® credit card	60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.	$95
Capital One travel card	Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card	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	$395
Chase travel card	Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card	Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.	$95
Citi travel card	Citi Strata Premier^℠ Card	For a limited time, earn 75,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $750 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com.	$95
Discover travel card	Discover it^® Miles	Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. You could turn 35,000 Miles to 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.	$0
Wells Fargo travel card	Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card	Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.	$0

*To see rates & fees for Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, please click here.

What is a travel card?

A travel credit card offers travel-related benefits and rewards. These rewards typically include bonus points on travel spending and a rewards system with travel redemption options.

The best travel credit cards come with travel protections and perks, like trip insurance, airport lounge access and elite status.

Types of travel credit cards

Some credit cards, like Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card, offer transferable points. You can transfer these to a variety of airline or hotel loyalty programs typically at a rate of 1:1.

You can redeem fixed-value rewards for cash back, statement credits, travel, gift cards and more at a set value with cards like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

Airline miles are earned through one particular airline, and can be redeemed for flights with that airline and its airline partners like the Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card.

Hotel points are earned with one particular hotel program and can be redeemed for hotel nights with that program like the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card.

Business travel cards, like the Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card, let business owners earn rewards to use toward future business travel.

Are travel cards worth it?

A travel credit card is worth it for both frequent travelers and those who travel just a few times a year. Access to the rewards and benefits offered with a travel credit card can save you on flights and hotel stays. Plus, you will travel more comfortably when you take advantage of travel benefits. What makes a travel credit card worth it:

Sign-up bonus: Get a head start on earning points towards your next trip.
No foreign transaction fee: A travel credit card can help you save abroad on foreign transaction fees.
Redemption options: Many travel credit cards come with portals that offer a number of ways to redeem points at higher values.
Rewards structure: Using your card on other daily purchases can help you save points for your next vacation.
Loyalty programs: Increase your earnings by pairing a travel credit card with a rewards, hotel or airline loyalty program.
Benefits: Checked bags, trip insurance, early check-in and more will make your trip more enjoyable.

Are travel cards worth it?

Earn rewards that can offset the cost of travel
Travel discounts and perks can also help make travel more affordable
Travel protections and insurance can reimburse you for travel mishaps, and may even save you the expense of purchasing a policy
May not charge foreign transaction fees when used to make purchases outside of the U.S.

More robust benefits typically require a higher annual fee
Redeeming rewards can be complicated
Hefty sign-up bonuses may come with a high spending requirement
Usually require good credit or better

What is a co-branded vs. general travel credit card?

Co-branded travel credit cards

What are co-branded travel credit cards?

Issued by banks with a specific airline or hotel brand partner like American Airlines or Marriott Bonvoy
Offer perks specific to the particular airline or hotel, like free checked bags or room upgrades
May earn a higher rewards rate on specific, brand-related purchases
May accelerate earning elite status with the airline or hotel

Who are co-branded travel credit cards for? if you are loyal to one hotel or airline brand.

Examples of co-branded travel credit cards:

General travel credit cards

What are general travel credit cards?

Issued by a bank but not specific to a single airline or hotel brand partner
Can potentially earn rewards on a wider variety of purchases
Are good for daily spending
Offer more flexible ways to redeem rewards

Who are general travel credit cards for? If you are not brand loyal and plan to use your card with a number of hotel and airline brands.

Examples of general travel credit cards:

Loyalty programs

Loyalty programs are another important factor in choosing the best travel credit card. These programs differ in how you can use points and how much they are worth. Some programs allow you to redeem points by transferring them to a qualifying airline or hotel partner at a 1:1 ratio. Others only allow you to redeem points or miles within the program.

You should make sure that a card’s underlying rewards program matches up with your travel preferences and offers redemption options that fit your travel goals. You should also take a close look at the program to make sure there aren’t hurdles like blackout dates or limited inventory that will prevent you from redeeming your rewards.

Consider how you plan to use your points and see if your goals match up with one of these popular loyalty programs:

American Express Membership: Best for heavy travelers with higher incomes who value luxury perks. Especially good for frequent flyers of Delta Air Lines.
Chase Ultimate Rewards®: Best for people who want to rack up points quickly and want multiple options for redeeming. Especially good for frequent flyers of Southwest and United Airlines.
American Airlines AAdvantage: Best for people who want to earn VIP airline benefits and who enjoy maximizing miles, especially on international flights.
Delta SkyMiles: Best for both frequent business travelers and occasional travelers who want to earn free flights and benefits, particularly for domestic travel.
JetBlue TrueBlue: Best for people who want an easy way to earn and redeem rewards and who live along the East Coast.
Southwest Rapid Rewards: Best for people who fly domestically and prefer a simple, straightforward loyalty program.
United Airlines’ MileagePlus: Best for people looking to earn rewards on international flights, especially those who are flexible with their travel dates.
Best Western: Best for budget travelers looking for rewards on affordable hotel stays.
Choice Privileges: Best for people who want a variety of redemption options including hotels, vacation rentals and cruises.
Hilton Honors: Best for people who want a loyalty program that is packed with benefits and offers a large, international hotel network.
IHG: Best for people who want a wide variety of hotel options with a large, international hotel network.
Marriott Bonvoy: Best for people who want an easy way to earn free hotel stays and want a large, international hotel network.
World of Hyatt: Best for people who prefer staying at upscale properties and are looking for flashy elite benefits.

Transfer partners

Even if you decide you want flexible points, you’re going to want to identify your preferred airlines and hotels. You might be able to transfer your points at a 1:1 value.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card offers transferable points. The list of available transfer partners can help you choose which general travel credit card to get.

Credit card transfer partners:

Aer Lingus
AeroMexico
Aeroplan/Air Canada
Air France KLM
ANA Mileage Club
Avianca LifeMiles
British Airways Executive Club
Cathay Pacific
Delta Air Lines
Emirates Skywards
Etihad Guest
Flying Blue (Air France/KLM)
HawaiianMiles
Iberia Plus
JetBlue TrueBlue
Qantas Frequent Flyer
Qatar Airways Privilege Club
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
Choice Privileges
Hilton Honors
Marriott Bonvoy

Aeromexico Club Premier
Air Canada – Aeroplan®
ALL – Accor Live Limitless
Cathay Pacific – Asia Miles
Avianca LifeMiles
British Airways Executive Club
Choice Privileges®2
Emirates Skywards
Etihad Guest
EVA Air – Infinity MileageLands
Finnair Plus
Flying Blue
Qantas Frequent Flyer
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
TAP Miles&Go
Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles
Virgin Red
Wyndham Rewards

Aer Lingus
Aeroplan/Air Canada
British Airways
Emirates Skywards
Flying Blue (Air France/KLM)
Iberia
JetBlue TrueBlue
Singapore Airlines
Southwest Airlines
United Airlines
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
IHG Rewards Club
Marriott Bonvoy
World of Hyatt

AeroMexico
Accor Live Limitless
Avianca Lifemiles
Cathay Pacific
Choice Privileges
Emirates Skywards
Etihad Guest
EVA Air
Flying Blue (Air France/KLM)
JetBlue TrueBlue
Qantas Frequent Flyer
Qatar Privilege Club
Singapore Airlines
Thai Orchard Royal Plus
Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
Wyndham Rewards

Savvy traveler tip: Many airlines belong to an airline alliance (oneworld, SkyTeam or Star). You can use your miles with any partner in an airline’s alliance. For instance, you can use Turkish Airlines miles with airlines in the Star Alliance, including United Airlines. This means, even if you’re unlikely to fly with a particular airline, you may be able to transfer points to its loyalty program to fly via its alliance partners.

How much are your points and miles worth?

The best airline or hotel rewards program, the best hotel rewards program or the best credit card for travel points will depend on how you redeem your points. You’ll need to consider points and mile value to earn the most rewards on your spending.

In general, you’ll find that some rewards will take you farther than others. Keep these rules in mind:

With the exception of Hyatt, hotel rewards program points tend to be inflated
Airline miles tend to be a little more valuable than average
Flexible points like Chase Ultimate Rewards® and Amex Membership Rewards tend to be especially valuable because you can transfer them to a variety of loyalty programs

Here’s how some popular rewards programs stack up according to our own estimates:

Loyalty program	Average point/mile value
American Express Membership Rewards	$0.02
Chase Ultimate Rewards®	$0.02
Citi ThankYou® Rewards	$0.018
World of Hyatt	$0.017
Southwest Rapid Rewards	$0.014
Delta SkyMiles	$0.011
United MileagePlus	$0.013
American Airlines AAdvantage	$0.018
Marriott Bonvoy	$0.009
Hilton Honors	$0.005
IHG Rewards Club	$0.005

Ultimately, the value of points and miles depends on how you redeem them. According to a recent LendingTree study, the cost of domestic plane tickets has risen 9.8% since 2022 and 28.4% since 2021, which could cause the value of miles to fluctuate. With a redemption option in mind, use this simple equation to calculate the value of your points/miles:

Cash price* ÷ Number of points needed for redemption = Points value

*Check to see if taxes and fees are included in your award

For example, through Hilton Honors, a stay at the Hilton Grand Vacations Club Hokulani Waikiki Honolulu starts at $290 or 138,0000. $290 ÷ 138,000 = $0.0021.

Or, you could stay at the Hampton Inn & Suites Williamsburg-Central through Hilton Honors starting at $82 per night or 22,000 points. $82 ÷ 22,000 = $0.0037.

How much can a travel credit card help you save?

Travel credit card	Rewards rate	Annual fee	First year savings
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express	5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.	$695	$3,774
The Platinum Card^® from American Express	5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Terms apply.	$695	$3,375
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card	2X Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 10X Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 5X Miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel	$395	$2,563
Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card	Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, Internet, cable and phone services, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases-with no limit to the amount you can earn.	$95	$2,393
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card	2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 5 Miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel	$95	$2,150
Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card	Enjoy beneﬁts such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.	$95	$2,032
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card	Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines and 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.	$650	$1,463
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card	Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio. Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations. Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases. Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.	$150	$1,174
Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®	Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases.	$99, waived for first 12 months	$1,353
United℠ Explorer Card	2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays. 1x mile on all other purchases	$95	$1,214
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card	Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.	$99	$1,114
Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card	Receive 7,500 anniversary points, 4 upgraded boardings per year when available, and a $75 Southwest® travel credit each year. Enjoy benefits including 3X points on Southwest purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare, 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming, 10,000 Companion Pass® qualifying points boost each year, and more.	$149	$1,047
Discover it^® Miles	1.5 Miles per dollar on all purchases.	$0	$900
Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card	Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.	$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.	$855
World of Hyatt Credit Card	Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 Bonus Points per $1 when you use your card at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member. 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit and commuting as well as fitness club and gym memberships. Plus, earn 1 Bonus Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.	$95	$770
Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card	Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases	$0	$642
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students	1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases.	$0	$550
Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card	1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day; 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)	$0	$313

*To see rates & fees for Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, please click here.

*To see rates & fees for Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, please click here.

*To see rates & fees for Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card, please click here.

How to maximize your travel credit card

To get the most value from your travel credit card, take full advantage of the card’s rewards program and benefits.

1. Plan out your next few cards. It’s helpful to create a timeline of when you plan to apply for different cards. Some issuers have restrictions that could influence when they approve you for cards.

For example, Chase has its unspoken “5/24 rule.” Chase may deny you for a card if you’ve opened five or more credit cards in the last 24 months. Wells Fargo also has a rule that prevents you from opening a new Wells Fargo card if you’ve already opened a card from the issuer in the last six months.

2. Time your applications for bonus offers. Credit card bonus offers can be significant. Earning a sign-up bonus before you book a trip can help you reduce the price of your flight or hotel. Many cards — like the Delta credit cards and the Southwest credit cards — frequently update their offers. You should monitor and try to time your application for when a card’s offer is at a high point.

3. Juggle multiple cards. Using multiple cards can take some extra planning and effort, but it can be worth it. Strategically using certain cards for specific earning categories can help you earn points faster. This also helps you spend less money to get the same number of points.

4. Consider how to redeem your points. There are several ways to redeem your points, depending on what travel card you have. Two of the best ways for travel are either your issuer’s travel portal or transferring to airline or hotel loyalty programs. How you redeem can alter the value of your points.

For example, Chase points are worth 25%-50% more when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. However, when you transfer Chase points to a travel partner, it’s possible to get values of more than 2 cents per point.

5. Use the issuer’s shopping portal. Some issuers have online shopping portals that allow you to shop at popular retailers, but earn more points for it. If you’re already going to be shopping, you might as well do it where you can earn more rewards for it.

6. Take advantage of card benefits and protections. It’s important to be aware of what benefits and protections your card offers. Benefits like trip cancellation insurance and car rental protection can save you thousands of dollars in case a trip goes awry and can potentially save you from having to purchase a policy. Some notable protections include:

Car rental insurance
Lost luggage reimbursement
Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
Trip delay insurance

7. Look for travel benefits. These travel benefits can be a significant value add, so shouldn’t be overlooked:

Free checked bags: A free checked bag on an American Airlines flight, for example, can save you from $30 to $75 each flight.
Airport lounge access: For example, airport lounge access with United can save you $550 to $650 per year on a United Club membership.
Room upgrades: Some hotel cards grant you automatic elite status in a hotel’s loyalty program with free room upgrades as an included perk.
Elite status upgrades: For example, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card comes with complimentary Platinum elite status. It would normally take 50 hotel stays with Marriott to get this level of status.
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credit: Cards like the United℠ Explorer Card offer a statement credit of up to $100 every four years to cover the application fee for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or NEXUS.

Alternative rewards credit cards if you don’t travel

If you don’t travel enough to justify a travel credit card, there are other rewards credit card options:

Bonus cash back cards give you elevated cash back in certain categories like groceries, gas and more. The Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express is one of our top category cards.
Regular flat-rate cash back credit cards like the Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card give you a single percentage, usually 1% to 2%, of cash back on every purchase.
Rewards credit cards with a long intro APR and no annual fee, like the Citi Double Cash^® Card, save you money on interest and fees.

Frequently asked questions

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card is the best travel credit card because of its flexible points, reasonable $95 annual fee and an array of travel insurance and protections. You’ll earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which are worth 25% more value when redeemed for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. You can also transfer points to hotel and airline loyalty programs at a 1:1 rate.

It’s possible to cover the cost of your next trip or vacation by maximizing your credit card travel rewards. Here are a few ways to do so:

You can apply for a travel credit card when a large sign-up bonus offer becomes available.
You can shuffle between multiple cards to earn rewards in each of your top spending categories.
You can also redeem rewards through issuers’ travel portals or transfer them to loyalty programs.
Or, make your purchases through the issuers’ online shopping portals when possible.

Cash back and travel rewards credit cards are both types of rewards credit cards. They differ in how you are being rewarded. A cash back credit card earns rewards in the form of dollars. You can redeem them for statement credits, gift cards, a direct deposit into your bank account and more. Travel rewards credit cards offer rewards in the form of points and miles that you can redeem for travel-related expenses.

Most credit card points and miles don’t expire as long as your credit card account is open and in good standing. Leaving your card open is your best bet. If your points are in a hotel loyalty or frequent flyer account rather than your credit card account, you typically have to have activity every 12 to 24 months. Activity can include earning or redeeming points or miles. You can either buy or redeem some points/miles to keep your account active.

The credit score needed will depend on the travel rewards credit card you apply for. You should generally try to aim for a good credit score or higher for the best chance of approval. This means you should have a FICO Score of 670 or greater. If you’re looking for a travel credit card for fair credit, start with the Capital One Platinum Credit Card. Build credit, work your way up to a good credit score, then apply for a more rewarding travel card.

The credit cards with the most worldwide acceptance include cards that use either the Visa or Mastercard networks. American Express and Discover cards are less widely accepted.

Methodology: How we chose our travel cards

We’ve looked at credit cards reviewed on LendingTree, as well as cards on major issuer sites, to compile a list of the best travel credit cards available right now. Our recommendations are based on the additional value you can earn with these travel cards. We primarily considered the following:

Welcome offer and travel rewards value
Cost of ownership
Value of benefits, like travel and purchase protections, lounge membership and airline companion passes

We selected cards whose features best represented each identified topic. For example, when choosing the best travel rewards card for beginners, we analyzed cards with a simple and valuable rewards structure. Our choices are not influenced by our advertisers. Learn more on how we calculate rewards.

*To see rates & fees for The Platinum Card^® from American Express, please click here.

*To see rates & fees for Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card, please click here.

*To see rates & fees for Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card please click here.

*To see rates & fees for The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, please click here.

*To see rates & fees for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, please click here.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

The information related to the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card, Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card, The Platinum Card^® from American Express, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Discover it^® Miles, Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students, Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express, Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card, Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®, Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card, United℠ Explorer Card, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, World of Hyatt Credit Card, Bank of America^® Premium Rewards^® credit card, Citi Strata Premier^℠ Card, Blue Cash Preferred^® Card from American Express, Wells Fargo Active Cash^® Card, Citi Double Cash^® Card and Capital One Platinum Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.

The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.

Sammi Scharf

Expertise: Credit cards, personal finance
Education: Appalachian State University

Sammi Scharf is a web content coordinator covering credit cards at LendingTree.

Before joining LendingTree, Sammi worked as a content marketing and paid media specialist at a digital marketing agency, a marketing specialist covering topics in home appliances and real estate and a freelance writer. From her experience writing about personal finance and homeownership, Sammi is passionate about guiding consumers toward making wise financial decisions

Sammi earned a bachelor’s degree in communications with a focus in advertising from Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina.

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18 Best Travel Credit Cards in December 2024

Our pick for best travel credit card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Our pick for best travel credit card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Related Topics

Best travel credit cards in January 2024

General travel credit cards

Winner

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card*

Best travel credit card with no annual fee

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card*

Best credit card for international travel

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card*

Best business credit card for travel

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card*

Best travel card with lounge access

The Platinum Card® from American Express*

Best credit card for travel insurance

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*

Best travel credit card for beginners

Discover it® Miles*

Best travel credit card for students

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students*

Best travel credit card for fair credit

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card*

Best luxury travel card

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*

Airline credit cards

Winner: Best airlines credit card / Delta

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card*

Best American Airlines credit card

Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®*

Best Southwest credit card

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card*

Best United credit card

United℠ Explorer Card*

Hotel credit cards

Winner: Best for hotels / Hilton

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card*

Best Marriott credit card

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card*

Best IHG credit card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card*

Best Hyatt credit card

World of Hyatt Credit Card*

Compare the 18 best travel credit cards of 2023

Best travel card offers by bank

What is a travel card?

Types of travel credit cards

Transferable rewards

Fixed value

Airline miles

Hotel points

Business rewards

Are travel cards worth it?

Are travel cards worth it?

What is a co-branded vs. general travel credit card?

Co-branded travel credit cards

General travel credit cards

Loyalty programs

Transfer partners

American Express

Capital One

Chase

Citi

How much are your points and miles worth?

How much can a travel credit card help you save?

How to maximize your travel credit card

Alternative rewards credit cards if you don’t travel

Frequently asked questions

What is the best travel credit card?

How can I travel for free?

What are cash back vs. travel rewards?

How do I keep my points and miles from expiring?

What credit score do I need to get a travel rewards credit card?

Which travel credit card is most accepted worldwide?

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card*

Wells Fargo Autograph^℠ Card*

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card*

The Platinum Card^® from American Express*

Discover it^® Miles*

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express*

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card*

Citi^® / AAdvantage^® Platinum Select^® World Elite Mastercard^®*

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card*

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card*

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card*