Passport to Perks
If you’re planning an exciting vacation, now is the best time to think about your credit card. By using the right card you can enjoy great rewards including discounted flights and access to luxury lounges across the globe.
Read on to discover our contenders for the very best travel card on the market today.
Navigating the Top Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Capital One Venture X
With Capital One Venture X, you’ll be rewarded for traveling. For a start, you’ll earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend US$4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months. And that’s not all! You’ll also get 10,000 bonus miles each year on the anniversary of your account opening. US$300 in annual travel credit seals the deal, making this one of the best cards for travel rewards. Capital One Venture X has an annual fee of US$395.
It’s worth noting that users of this credit card also receive 10x miles on hotels and rental cars and 5x miles on flights - so long as they are booked through Capital One Travel. All other purchases using Capital One Venture X will earn you 2x miles.
Chase Sapphire
Chase continues to provide customers with fantastic rewards. It’s no wonder that so many people have joined their Sapphire scheme. Their Sapphire Preferred credit card has an annual fee of US$95, but the travel rewards are worth it. New card members can earn as much as US$750 toward travel in the first three months of opening an account. Travel purchases made through Chase Ultimate Rewards will earn you 5x points.
Alternatively, Chase’s Sapphire Reserve credit card has an annual fee of US$550, but the travel reward potential is even bigger. You can earn up to US$900 toward your travel. What’s not to love? Plus, you’ll earn 5x points on flights and 10x on hotels and car rental.
Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select
With Citi’s AAdvantage Platinum Select credit card, you’ll earn 50,000 bonus miles as soon as you’ve spent US$2,500 within the first three months of opening your account. The first year has no fee either, which is great for those looking to travel soon.
For every US$1 you spend at restaurants and gas stations, you’ll earn two AAdvantage miles. Plus, you’ll pay nothing on your first checked-in bag and enjoy 25% discounts on inflight food and drinks with American Airlines.
BILT
The BILT credit card offers bonus points on travel purchases. You’ll receive a base point plus a bonus point for every US$1 spent on airlines, hotels, motels, resorts, cruise lines and car rental agencies. These points can be used on future bookings with BILT’s travel partners.
Plus, with BILT, you’ll get up to US$5,000 back for a non-refundable passenger fare if your trip is canceled for a covered reason. If your travel plans are delayed, you’ll be reimbursed for expenses including meals.
The BILT card is great when used abroad too. You won’t pay a conversion fee for any purchases that are converted to US dollars.
American Express
In the running for the best card for travel rewards is the American Express Platinum credit card. You’ll enjoy up to US$200 in statement credits per year when charged for checked bags and in-flight refreshments. You’ll select an airline to generate credits with early in the process of opening your account.
American Express Platinum cardholders can also take advantage of exclusive lounges across the world. There are over 1,400 in total spread across more than 650 cities and 140 countries. Plus, you can take advantage of a US$200 hotel credit. Simply stay at a recommended hotel to get US$200 back in statement credits each year.
Still not convinced? When American Express Platinum cardholders book through AmexTravel, they can earn 5x Membership Rewards points.
Alternatively, consider American Express’ Gold card. With this, you’ll receive three points per dollar spent on flights when booked directly with airlines or through AmexTravel.
Wells Fargo Autograph
Looking for great travel rewards with your next credit card? Look no further than the Wells Fargo Autograph. When you travel, you’ll earn 3x points. It’s unlimited too, so there’s no cap on the points you can earn. Flight bookings, hotels, car rentals and cruises are all included.
You’ll also earn 3x points at your destination on subway tickets and parking. Your points can be spent on future travel, meaning that your next vacation is just around the corner. Whether you spend your points on hotels or flights is up to you.
High-Flyer Favorites
In conclusion, navigating the world of travel rewards cards can be both exciting and rewarding. While the ideal card depends on individual preferences and spending habits, some standout options cater to various needs. If you're a frequent traveler seeking flexibility, the Chase Sapphire Preferred or American Express Gold Card might be your go-to choice.
Read on to learn about some of the best cars for traveling.