The best travel rewards credit card is subjective as it depends on individual preferences and spending habits. However, some popular options include the
Chase Sapphire Preferred, Capital One Venture Rewards, and American Express Gold Card. Other factors to consider when choosing a travel rewards credit card include annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and redemption options such as transfer partners or statement credits. Evaluating these factors is essential before selecting the best travel rewards credit card for your needs. It is also worth noting that some travel rewards credit cards offer additional perks such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, and bonus points for specific categories such as dining or gas purchases. Therefore, assessing which benefits are most valuable to you and align with your lifestyle is essential before deciding which card to apply for.
The Best Travel Rewards Credit Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is an excellent option for travellers because it offers valuable points that can be used for various travel expenses. Additionally, the card comes with multiple benefits, including primary rental car insurance, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, and baggage delay insurance. There is a $95 annual fee, but the sign-up bonus and ongoing rewards can easily offset this cost. Cardholders can earn 2X points on travel and dining purchases and 1X point on all other purchases. The points can be transferred to several airline and hotel loyalty programs, providing flexibility for travellers.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is another excellent choice for travel rewards. With this card, you earn two miles per dollar on all purchases, which can be redeemed for travel expenses or transferred to several airline and hotel loyalty programs. The card also offers a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit, saving you time and hassle when travelling. There is a $95 annual fee, but the card's benefits and rewards can make it worth the cost.
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card provides travel accident insurance and 24-hour travel assistance services. Furthermore, there are no foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent option for international travellers.
American Express Gold Card
The American Express Gold Card is a premium card that offers excellent dining, grocery shopping, and travel rewards. With this card, you earn four points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide and on up to $25,000 in purchases at U.S. supermarkets annually, three points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, and one point per dollar spent on everything else. Points can be redeemed for travel or transferred to travel partners. The card also has various valuable benefits, including travel insurance and shopping protection. However, the card does have a $250 annual fee. Despite the annual fee, the card's benefits and rewards can easily offset the cost for frequent travellers and foodies.
Additionally, the card offers a generous welcome bonus and statement credits for select purchases, making it a worthwhile investment for those who meet the spending requirements.
Citi Premier Card:
The Citi Premier Card is an excellent option for earning bonus points on travel and entertainment expenses. With this card, you earn three points per dollar on travel, including gas stations, air travel, and hotels, and two points per dollar spent on dining and entertainment. Points can be redeemed for travel through Citi or transferred to travel partners. The card also has various valuable benefits, including travel insurance and shopping protection. However, the card does have a $95 annual fee. If you are a frequent traveller, the rewards and benefits of this card can easily offset the annual fee. Additionally, the ability to transfer points to travel partners gives you even more options for redeeming your rewards.
Discover it Miles Card
The Discover it Miles Card is a unique travel rewards card because it earns 1.5 miles per dollar on all purchases, with no limit on the miles you can make. Miles can be redeemed for statement credits on travel expenses or transferred to your bank account. Additionally, Discover will match all the miles you've earned at the end of your first year, which can significantly boost your rewards. The card has various benefits, including free FICO credit scores and fraud protection. There is no annual fee for this card. Furthermore, the Discover it Miles card offers a 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 14 months, making it a great option for those looking to finance larger purchases. This card is an excellent choice for frequent travellers who want to earn rewards without paying an annual fee.
The best travel rewards credit card for you will depend on your spending habits, travel preferences, and other factors. Considering each card's benefits, fees, and rewards is essential before deciding. The five cards I listed earlier are all great options. By using one of these cards to pay for your travel expenses, you can earn rewards that can help offset the cost of your trip and make your travels more enjoyable.