Credit cards provide a powerful means of accruing and redeeming travel rewards, but not all cards offer equal returns.
Finding the appropriate card depends on your travel goals and spending habits, but generally look for one with an attractive sign-up bonus, high travel rewards rates, and features that help save you money when planning trips.
Bonuses
No matter your goal of earning points or cash back, there are various travel credit cards with attractive sign-up bonuses and rewards rates that could provide them. Some allow flexible redemption options while others have strict redemption requirements such as blackout dates and limited inventory. Consider the Capital One Venture Rewards Card for flights, hotels and car rentals which offers generous sign-up bonuses among other appealing benefits (please see rates and fees).
To select the ideal credit card, consider what purchases you typically make and their total costs. A general travel card could be appropriate if most of your spending occurs within one category such as airfare, hotel or gas; conversely a co-branded card may prove more useful if you regularly fly a specific airline.
Rewards
Travel credit cards provide various rewards and benefits. Some provide bonus points on certain spending categories while others have a flat earn rate. Many also allow multiple redemption options for their points such as transferring them into airline loyalty programs or hotel rewards programs.
Cardholders may get more out of their rewards by redeeming them through the travel-booking platform provided by their card issuer, such as Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (terms apply). Such cards offer an easy redemption system with an affordable annual fee.
Other travel cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card (terms apply), provide more flexible redemption options – you could redeem points for airfare, hotel stays or activities such as hiking. Some even come equipped with generous sign-up bonuses and travel protection features like trip insurance.
Perks
Travel credit cards often provide travelers with various perks. These may include airport lounge access, discounted companion fares or hotel amenity credits such as upgrades or meals. Some cards even offer exclusive benefits for certain co-branded airline and hotel cards.
American Express’ Platinum Card(r) offers many benefits and protections that are worth its annual fee of $695, including free checked bags, complimentary airline elite status membership, travel insurance and annual hotel credits. Additional perks available with certain cards may include sign-up bonuses as well as bonus miles or points when spending in certain categories.
If you prefer flexible rewards, consider the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (terms apply; see rates and fees for details). With these cards, membership of any specific travel program isn’t necessary – instead you have access to redeeming miles for airfare or hotels through various partners.
Fees
Travel credit cards often charge annual fees, but can still prove worthwhile if the rewards and benefits outweigh these annual costs. Perks like free checked bags and priority boarding could save money on airfare and hotel stays.
Many of the best travel credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees, which can save travelers on international purchases. Some also come equipped with insurance and protection features that may come in handy for frequent travelers.
When choosing a travel credit card, it’s essential to set clear boundaries for yourself. Think about what annual fee you are comfortable paying; are you seeking premium or budget cards; are certain airlines or hotels of interest; these questions will help narrow down the possibilities and narrow your choices down further.
International travel
If you’re an international traveler, look for credit cards with rewarding benefits such as lounge access, free checked bags and upgrades such as elite status upgrades or hotel credits – they could save hundreds in expenses!
Airline and hotel-specific cards may earn more points, making them ideal for brand loyalists who frequently fly or stay with one airline or hotel chain. Co-branded cards often come equipped with additional benefits unique to each brand such as free checked bags or status upgrades.
Premium travel cards like American Express’ Platinum Card(r) may carry a substantial annual fee, but these cards also provide access to airport lounges and luxury amenities that could add hundreds of dollars per year in value.
