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Iberia Visa Signature Card
Iberia Visa Signature Card
- 21.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
Frequent Iberia flyers will find they can earn plenty of rewards points with the Chase Iberia Visa Signature® credit card, especially thanks to its gargantuan signup bonus.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening
- Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL
- Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel. Plus earn 1 Avios per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Save 10% on Iberia flights purchased on iberia.com/Chase10
- Earn a discount voucher of $1,000 to use toward two tickets on the same flight for each year you make purchases of $30,000 on your card
- Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad
- Simply tap to pay with your contactless Iberia Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It's fast, easy and secure!
- Member FDIC
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Annual Fee: $95
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You fly frequently, especially with Iberia Airlines, British Airways, or Aer Lingus
- You have an Iberia Plus account in which you already earn reward Avios
- You want to book travel with rewards miles instead of cash
- You have enough planned spending for a huge signup bonus
Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
- 20.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
A business and hotel credit card that leans heavily on earning points, the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card takes care of your company costs while rewarding you at the same time. The card earns 6X points for every dollar spent with Marriott brands, 4X points at U.S. gas stations and worldwide restaurant purchases, as well as U.S.-based wireless service providers, when paying for shipping on U.S. purchases, or when booking flights directly with airlines, and 2X points for every other dollar spent.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer expires 11/2/22
- 6x points at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program
- 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping
- 2x points on all other eligible purchases
- Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. Terms and Conditions Apply
- Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees
- Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card
- Terms apply.
- Regular Purchase APR: 20.99% to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $125
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: $39
- You own a small or mid-size business
- You want one of the more versatile business hotel credit card offers
- You frequently book stays at Marriott hotels worldwide
- You're looking for a hotel credit card and a business credit card that brings the best of both worlds together
- You make frequent business expenses with a credit card or use one for travel costs
Amtrak Guest Rewards® Preferred Mastercard®
Amtrak Guest Rewards® Preferred Mastercard®
- 28.24% variable based on the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 28.24% variable based on the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.74% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
For those who prefer to travel with Amtrak, the Amtrak Guest Rewards® Preferred Mastercard® offers high-speed rewards, first-class perks, and more – for a $99 annual fee.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent* on Amtrak travel, including onboard purchases
- Earn 2 points per $1 spent* on dining, travel, transit and rideshare
- 1 point per $1 spent* everywhere else
- Amtrak benefits, including station lounge passes, one-class upgrade certificates, and more
- Regular Purchase APR: 28.24% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 28.24% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.74% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $15 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Annual Fee: $99
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $35
- You travel often by train
- You frequently make purchases with Amtrak
- You're looking for a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees
- You want to earn points through the Amtrak Guest Rewards® program
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business
Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business
- 18.24% - 24.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 18.24% - 24.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 31.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
- 0% for 9 months from account opening date Intro Purchase APR
At a Glance
Touting unlimited 1.5X miles earned on every purchase and an introductory 20,000 miles once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening, the Capital One® Spark® Miles Select for Business credit card is a tool that travelers will be thankful for. In fact, travel rewards miles can be redeemed for tickets on any airline, hotel stays, vacation packages, and other qualifying rewards, with no expiration date.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn unlimited 1.5X miles on every purchase
- No annual fee
- No foreign transaction fee
- Free employee cards that also earn rewards
- Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 9 months from account opening date
- Regular Purchase APR: 18.24% - 24.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 18.24% - 24.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance APR: 31.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: 34.4% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
- You are interested in earning an unlimited 1.5X miles on all purchases, every day, without having to worry about specific spending categories
- You want to receive a bonus of 20,000 miles (equal to $200 in travel) once you spend $3,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
- You plan on traveling quite a bit for work and want to rake in the miles with Capital One
United Explorer Card
United Explorer Card
- 21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
A co-branded airline credit card with robust rewards earning capabilities, the United? Explorer Card is convenient for the most crucial aspects of a getaway – business or otherwise.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open
- $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
- Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases
- Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
- 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
- Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip. Terms Apply
- Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
- Member FDIC
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.74% to 28.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $0 for the first year. After that, $95
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You travel often
- You frequently book travel with United Airlines and/or are a member of its MileagePlus program
- You use a credit card for everyday purchases at restaurants
- You make regular in-flight purchases
- You often travel with checked luggage
U.S. Bank FlexPerks® Gold American Express® Card
U.S. Bank FlexPerks® Gold American Express® Card
- 19.74% to 29.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 19.74% to 29.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The U.S. Bank FlexPerks Gold American Express Card is a reliable – and powerful – travel rewards credit card from U.S. Bank. The card earns 3x points on restaurant purchases, 2x points with gas station and airline purchases, and 1x points on all other purchases.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 5X FlexPoints on prepaid hotels and rental cars
- 3X FlexPoints at restaurants, 2X FlexPoints at gas stations, 2X FlexPoints at airlines, and 1X FlexPoints per $1 spent on all other eligible Net Purchases
- Enjoy an automatic statement credit reimbursement for TSA Precheck® or Global Entry
- Complimentary Boingo Wi-Fi at over 1 million hotspots worldwide
- Regular Purchase APR: 19.74% to 29.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 19.74% to 29.74% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each advance, whichever is greater
- Annual Fee: $85
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
- You travel often, especially on flights
- You dine out – or while traveling – and plan to use your card to cover these purchases
- You want a travel card with no foreign transaction fees
- You dislike waiting in security lines at the airport and want a statement credit for TSA Precheck
Drury Rewards® Visa® Card
Drury Rewards® Visa® Card
- 18.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 18.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 28.49% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
- 0% for 12 months from account opening date Intro Purchase APR
At a Glance
The Drury Rewards® Visa® Card allows you to travel farther while earning Drury Rewards points and saving beaucoup bucks thanks to a generous introductory APR for purchases and balance transfers. Cardholders can also earn a special introductory bonus of 15,000 points, which is good toward one free night stay – definitely a deal you don’t want to sleep on.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 15,000 points after spending $500 or more within 90 days
- 5X Drury Rewards points per $1 spent at Drury Hotel properties
- 2X points per $1 spent on gas, restaurants, and utilities
- 1X point per $1 spent everywhere else Visa is accepted
- No annual fee
- Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 12 months from account opening date
- Regular Purchase APR: 18.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 12 months from account opening date
- Balance Transfer APR: 18.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 28.49% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: 28.49% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 1% of each transaction in U.S. dollars; 2% of each transaction made in currencies other than U.S. dollars
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
- You book hotel stays with Drury often, and plan to continue to do so
- You will spend $500 or more within 90 days of opening your account
- You want a card with no annual fee
- You will take advantage of a lengthy introductory bonus APR for both purchases and balance transfers
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card
- 20.24% to 27.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 20.24% to 27.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 23.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card earns its “Premium” designation by showering customers with travel perks, introductory bonuses, and points rewards. Whether you travel for business or pleasure on a fairly regular basis, this card can help you get around in style and comfort without an unreasonable price tag.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 60,000 bonus points after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
- 2X points per dollar spent on travel and dining purchases
- 1.5X points per dollar spent on all other purchases
- $100 Airport Security Statement Credit towards TSA Pre? ® or Global Entry Application fee, every four years
- Annual $100 statement credit for airline incidentals
- No blackout dates
- No foreign transaction fee
- Regular Purchase APR: 20.24% to 27.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 20.24% to 27.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 23.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $95
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $29
- You regularly use a credit card to make travel or dining purchases
- You're interested in travel insurance for vacations or business trips
- You want to enroll in TSA Pre? ® or Global Entry Services, as well as other airline privileges
- You're looking for a credit card to use abroad without foreign transaction fees
- You can take advantage of a curated list of luxury hotel properties with unique benefits provided by Visa
AARP® Travel Rewards Mastercard® from Barclays
AARP® Travel Rewards Mastercard® from Barclays
- 21.99%, 25.99% or 30.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.99%, 25.99% or 30.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 31.49% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The AARP® Travel Rewards Mastercard® from Barclays is a versatile rewards credit card for individuals over the age of 50. The card offers up to 3% cash back on travel purchases and features no foreign transaction fees, an introductory APR offer, and no annual fee.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- No annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
- Earn 3% cash back on travel purchases and 2% back on restaurant purchases
- 0% introductory APR on balance transfers for 15 months from account opening date
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.99%, 25.99% or 30.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 15 months from account opening date
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.99%, 25.99% or 30.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 31.49% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
- You are a new or existing AARP member
- You prefer a travel card over everyday cash back rewards
- You have an existing credit card balance that you want to pay down at a lower interest rate
- You prefer a credit card without an annual fee
Synovus Business Travel Rewards Visa® Credit Card
Synovus Business Travel Rewards Visa® Credit Card
- 14.49% to 24.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 14.49% to 24.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
- 0% for 6 months from account opening date Intro Purchase APR
At a Glance
Small business owners who travel often for work (or send employees to trade shows and conferences) can get a leg up on savings by using the Synovus Business Travel Rewards Visa® Credit Card. Cardholders enjoy up to 5X points from business purchases, a generous introductory APR period, and flexible points earning and redemption options that will help grow their business and their savings.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 0% introductory APR on purchases, balance transfers and overdraft protection for the first 6 months
- Annual fee of $50, which is waived for the first year
- Earn 5X points on up to $5,000 in net spend each year for travel purchases
- Earn 3X points on up to $3,000 in net spend each quarter for purchases in a Dynamic Earn category of your choice
- Earn 1X points on all other eligible purchases with no limit to the number of points that can be earned
- Points are worth 20% more when redeemed for travel rewards
- Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 6 months from account opening date
- Regular Purchase APR: 14.49% to 24.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 6 months from account opening date
- Balance Transfer APR: 14.49% to 24.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: $39
- Over Limit Penalty Fee: $39
- You own or operate a small or medium business
- You would like to earn up to 5X rewards points from making purchases to help grow your business
- You will take advantage of an APR of 0% on purchases, balance transfers, and overdraft protection for six months in order to maximize your savings after a large business purchase or transferring a balance from another card
- You would like a flexible rewards credit card that allows business owners to select a spending category to earn extra rewards points in
- You would like the ability to issue employee cards from your account and adjust the spending limit for each card individually
You've viewed 5 of 166 credit cards
What is a Travel Credit Card?
Travel credit cards are specifically designed for travelers and offer a range of features and rewards. They allow users to earn travel rewards through spending on travel-related purchases or meeting specific spending thresholds. These rewards can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel-related expenses.
Different types of travel credit cards cater to different needs, such as frequent hotel stays or car-related expenses. There are three main categories of travel credit cards: airline credit cards, hotel credit cards, and general travel credit cards. Each category offers unique benefits and perks to travelers.
How Do Travel Credit Cards Work?
Travel cards work like other rewards credit cards by earning points or miles on qualifying purchases. Typically, travel cards earn a base rate of 1X points or miles on purchases but may offer extra rewards on specific bonus categories, such as travel purchases, hotel stays, groceries, airfare, restaurants, and gas stations.
Points earned from purchases can then be used for various rewards, including merchandise, gift cards, or cash back as deposits or statement credits. However, booking travel is the most valuable way to redeem these points.
There are different types of travel rewards credit cards available to cater to individual travel preferences. For instance, some cards allow users to earn extra airline miles when flying with a specific carrier, while others offer bonus points for stays at particular hotel chains. By finding a travel rewards credit card that aligns with their spending habits, individuals can save thousands of dollars annually and enjoy excellent perks.
Certain cards, such as those from Chase, Capital One, or American Express, provide their own travel portals for bookings, which offer additional value. Alternatively, some cards may allow cardholders to book travel through any preferred method.
In addition to traditional travel cards, credit cards from major names in hospitality and gaming can also be a great way to maximize rewards. These cards cover a range of brands, including well-known ones like MGM and Caesars and unexpected ones like Royal Caribbean or Sandals. They offer rewards for various categories, such as travel, airfare, car rental, dining, and groceries.
Benefits of Travel Credit Cards
The benefits of travel credit cards may vary depending on the specific card chosen, but here are some common benefits for this type of credit card:
- Earn travel rewards: The primary benefit of travel credit cards is the ability to earn travel rewards. These rewards can be accumulated through everyday spending and redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and more. By using your travel credit card strategically, you can earn free or discounted travel.
- Travel perks and insurance: Many travel credit cards offer additional perks and benefits to enhance your travel experience. These include airport lounge access, complimentary hotel upgrades, priority boarding, and travel insurance coverage. Having these perks can make your travel more comfortable and stress-free.
- Waived or reduced foreign transaction fees: A foreign transaction fee may be charged when you use a regular credit card for purchases abroad. Travel credit cards often waive foreign transaction fees, saving you money on international purchases.
How to Choose the Right Travel Card for Your Needs
With so many travel credit cards on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are some critical factors to think about when searching for a travel credit card that suits your needs:
- Rewards structure: Different travel cards offer different reward structures. Some cards may offer higher rewards for specific categories like airfare or hotel stays, while others may have a flat-rate rewards structure. These reward structures often vary based on the card’s annual fee. Consider your spending habits and choose a card that aligns with your preferences.
- Annual fees: Many travel credit cards come with an annual fee. While some cards offer more benefits and perks that may justify the fee, it’s important to consider whether the benefits outweigh the cost. If you’re a frequent traveler, a card with a higher annual fee might be worth it, but if you travel infrequently, a no annual fee card might be a better option.
- Additional perks: In addition to the rewards and annual fees, consider the card’s additional perks. These include airport lounge access, travel insurance coverage, concierge services, and more. Assess which perks are important to you and choose a card that offers them.
Other Things to Look for
Travel credit cards are a great way to earn rewards for both travel and everyday purchases. But what should you consider when searching for the best travel card for you?
Reward Flexibility
Another crucial aspect to consider with travel credit cards is the flexibility of the rewards. Some cards have strict redemption terms, while others offer more versatility, like general travel rewards cards. These cards allow you to spend your rewards with significantly fewer restrictions or transfer them to loyalty or frequent flyer programs.
Travel cards will normally give you multiple options when you want to redeem your accumulated points. Free travel, in the form of booking flights, hotel stays, rentals, and vacation packages, is one of the most popular choices. Statement credits are also common. You can also redeem your points for gift cards. If the card issuer is partnered with other loyalty programs, such as an airline or hotel loyalty program, you may be able to transfer miles or points to an existing account where you might already be accumulating some.
Welcome Offers
Many travel credit cards come with signup bonuses in the form of points. Typically, these bonuses require a minimum spend of between $500 to $3,000 within the first three months. These bonuses can range from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. Therefore, rewards play a vital role in the travel card equation.
Elite Status in Loyalty Programs
Some travel rewards credit cards offer elite status in loyalty programs. The higher the annual fee, the better the elite tier you can achieve within a program. For example, the Platinum Card from American Express provides Gold Elite status in both Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalty programs.
Travel Insurance
Expect the unexpected, as the saying goes. Frequent travelers will surely be familiar with the woes of late or canceled flights, lost luggage, or rental car accidents. Several travel cards will cover most of these unwanted occurrences, providing the customer with insurance up to a set amount for when disaster strikes. Though not the most glamorous perks, travel cards allow you to enjoy your journey with peace of mind.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Travel Cards
While travel credit cards offer a host of benefits, it’s important to use them responsibly. Here are some tips for responsible use of travel credit cards:
- Stick to your budget: Set a budget for your travel expenses and stick to it. Avoid overspending just to earn more rewards, as this can lead to financial stress and debt.
- Monitor your credit card statements: Regularly review your credit card statements to ensure there are no unauthorized charges or errors. This can help you catch any issues early and take appropriate action.
- Pay your bills on time: Late payments can result in hefty fees and damage your credit score. Make it a priority to pay your credit card bills on time to maintain a healthy financial profile.
By using your travel credit card responsibly, you can enjoy the benefits it offers without falling into financial pitfalls.
FAQs
Travel credit cards cover a wide area of rewards. Since some cards earn 3x points on travel, 3x points on dining, or other unique rewards, there are cards to suit every budget, travel preference, and spending habit. A huge assortment of cards also means a vast amount of questions. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about travel rewards cards – and what you need to know to make an informed decision:
- Travel rewards credit cards are ideal for anyone who travels frequently. Trave expenses can quickly add up, so earning points for those purchases makes perfect sense. These points can offset airline fees and are earnable for travel and dining, and other everyday spending.
- Because there are so many travel credit card offers, any credit score can apply. The very best travel credit cards, like the Amex Platinum Card, Citi Prestige Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve, require an excellent credit score to qualify. Others, like the LATAM Secured Visa, require no credit history at all.
- Typically, travel cards that offer the best sign up bonuses, and most points charge an annual fee. Usually, the base rate is a $95 annual fee for the average travel card. Cards that provide impressive perks, like lounge access or credit for Global Entry, charge the very highest yearly fees. Before applying for any credit card, make sure you plan to make use of the rewards it offers – especially if there’s a high fee attached to it.
- If your travel plans change and you can’t justify a high annual fee, consider downgrading to a no annual fee version from the same card issuer. Chase offers numerous paid -and no annual fee – versions of popular airline and hotel credit cards, for example.
- The real value for most travel cards lies in the value of the rewards points they offer. These points might be in the form of airline miles, hotel loyalty program points, or general card issuer points. Chase points, for example, allow users to redeem through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for travel expenses, cashback, or other award options.
Current airline mile valuations for leading carriers:
- Alaska Mileage Plan – 1.8 cents/mile
- American Airlines AAdvantage Miles – 1.4 cents/mile
- Delta SkyMiles – 1.2 cents/mile
- Frontier Miles – 1.1 cents/mile
- HawaiianMiles – 0.9 cents/mile
- MileagePlus Miles (United) – 1.3 cents/mile
- Miles & More Miles (Lufthansa) – 1.4 cents/mile
- Southwest Rapid Rewards Points – 1.5 cents/point
- Spirit Airlines Free Spirit – 0.4 cents/point
- TrueBlue (Jet Blue) – 1.3 cents/point
Current hotel point valuations for leading brands:
- Best Western Rewards – 0.7 cents/point
- Hilton Honors – 0.6 cents/point
- IHG Rewards – 0.5 cents/point
- Marriot Bonvoy – 8 cents/point
- Radisson Rewards – 0.5 cents/point
- VOILA Rewards – 1 cent/point
- World of Hyatt – 1.7 cents/point
- Wyndham Rewards – 1.1 cents/point
- Yes. Bank of America offers a dedicated student travel rewards card – the Travel Rewards Card for Students. There are also several general rewards cards for students that allow cardholders to redeem rewards for travel purchases. Travel rewards cards are an excellent option for students who go to college out of state. Some cards feature no foreign transaction fees, making them perfect for international studies.
- Yes. Thee are some very good secured cards for frequent travelers. These include secured airline cards from SKYPASS (Korean Air) and LATAM. Beyond those airline cards, BB&T offers secured cards for general travel usage that earn points with every purchase.
Conclusion
Travel credit cards are a powerful tool for unlocking a world of benefits and rewards while you explore new destinations. By understanding how these cards work and choosing the right option for you, you can maximize the benefits and enjoy a more rewarding travel experience. Remember to use your travel credit card responsibly and take advantage of the rewards programs and perks offered.
Editorial Disclosure – The opinions expressed on BestCards.com's reviews, articles, and all other content on or relating to the website are solely those of the content’s author(s). These opinions do not reflect those of any card issuer or financial institution, and editorial content on our site has not been reviewed or approved by these entities unless noted otherwise. Further, BestCards.com lists credit card offers that are frequently updated with information believed to be accurate to the best of our team's knowledge. However, please review the information provided directly by the credit card issuer or related financial institution for full details.