Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Traveling can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be expensive. One way to offset the costs of your adventures is by using a travel rewards credit card. These cards offer points or miles that can be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related perks. Here’s a list of the best travel rewards credit cards currently available.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a popular choice among travelers due to its generous sign-up bonus, high points earning potential, and flexible redemption options. You’ll earn 2X points on travel and dining purchases and 1X point on all other purchases. Points can be transferred to more than a dozen airline and hotel partners or redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal at a higher value.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
With the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, you’ll earn 2X miles on every purchase, making it a simple and straightforward option for earning travel rewards. The card also comes with a substantial sign-up bonus and miles that can be redeemed for any travel expense, giving you supreme flexibility in how you use your rewards.
3. American Express Gold Card
The American Express Gold Card is an excellent choice for those who frequently dine out and travel internationally. Cardholders earn 4X Membership Rewards points on dining at restaurants and on purchases at U.S. supermarkets, 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, and 1X point on all other purchases. Points can be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners or redeemed for travel through the Amex Travel portal.
4. The Platinum Card from American Express
The Platinum Card from American Express is perfect for those who are willing to pay a premium for luxury travel perks like access to airport lounges, complimentary hotel status upgrades, and concierge services. The card earns 5X Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel and 5X points on prepaid hotels booked through the Amex Travel portal. Additionally, you’ll receive up to $200 in airline fee credits, along with many other valuable benefits.
5. Discover it Miles Card
For travelers seeking no annual fee with a simple rewards structure, the Discover it Miles Card is an excellent choice. You’ll earn 1.5X miles for every dollar spent on all purchases with no limit to the amount you can earn. Plus, Discover will match all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year as a cardmember, effectively doubling your rewards.
When choosing the best travel rewards credit card for your needs, consider how often you travel, your spending habits, and what types of travel benefits are most important to you. For some, a card that offers generous points on dining and accommodations may be more valuable than a card that focuses solely on flights. Compare the options and select the one that aligns best with your travel style and preferences.