If you travel frequently, a travel credit card can be an excellent way to earn rewards and cut costs on flights, hotels, and other expenses. With so many options available, selecting the right card can be overwhelming. This guide highlights some of the best travel credit cards for earning rewards and maximizing savings. Whether you prefer airline miles, hotel points, or flexible redemption options, these cards offer valuable benefits to help you get more out of your travels.
Please note that card offerings and policies may change at any time. Always check with the card provider for the most up-to-date information.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
A favorite among travelers, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers generous rewards and flexible redemption options. Users earn points on travel and dining purchases, which can be redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards or transferred to airline and hotel partners. This flexibility makes it one of the most valuable travel cards available.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is another strong contender for travelers who prefer straightforward rewards. It offers 2X miles on every purchase, with the ability to redeem miles for flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses. The lack of restrictions on earning rewards makes this card a great option for everyday spending.
American Express Gold Card
For those seeking premium travel benefits, the American Express Gold Card provides excellent rewards on dining and travel-related purchases. In addition to earning bonus points, the card offers perks such as hotel upgrades and airport lounge access, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card
If you frequently fly with Southwest Airlines, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card can be a smart choice. Cardholders earn points on Southwest purchases and everyday spending, while also enjoying perks like priority boarding and an annual anniversary bonus, making it a valuable option for loyal Southwest travelers.
United Explorer Card
Ideal for frequent United Airlines flyers, the United Explorer Card offers rewards on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays. Additional benefits include priority boarding, two annual United Club passes, and a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, making it a solid choice for those who travel often with United.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card
Travelers who frequently stay at Hilton hotels may find the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card highly rewarding. Cardholders earn extra points on Hilton purchases, dining, and other select categories. The card also provides automatic Gold status and a free weekend night after meeting a spending threshold, adding to its appeal.
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card
For those who prefer Marriott properties, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card offers great value. Users earn extra points on Marriott purchases and general spending, while also enjoying perks such as automatic Silver Elite status and an annual free night award.
World of Hyatt Credit Card
Hyatt loyalists can maximize their stays with the World of Hyatt Credit Card, which provides extra points on Hyatt purchases, dining, and other travel expenses. Additional benefits include automatic Discoverist status, annual free night awards, and opportunities to earn elite night credits, making it a valuable option for frequent Hyatt guests.
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card
Frequent Delta Airlines travelers can benefit from the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card, which offers miles on Delta purchases and general spending. Cardholders also receive a free checked bag, priority boarding, and access to discounted Delta Sky Club entry, making it a practical choice for Delta flyers.
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card
If you frequently fly with Alaska Airlines, the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card can help you earn miles quickly. The card provides bonus miles on Alaska Airlines purchases and everyday spending, while also including an annual companion fare and free checked bags for added value.
IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card
The IHG Rewards Club Premier Credit Card is a great option for travelers who often stay at IHG hotels. Cardholders earn bonus points on IHG purchases, dining, and other spending categories. Additional perks include automatic Platinum Elite status, an annual free night award, and a fourth-night-free benefit when booking with points.
Travel credit cards can help travelers earn valuable rewards and reduce costs on flights, hotels, and other expenses. Whether you prefer flexible redemption options, airline-specific perks, or hotel loyalty benefits, there is a travel credit card to suit your needs. By selecting the right card, you can maximize your travel rewards and make every trip more rewarding.
Resource Links
“18 Best Travel Credit Cards of August 2023” via Forbes
“How Do Travel Credit Cards Work?” via Experian
“Best Travel Credit Cards of August 2023” via U.S. News Money