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U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Power World Elite Mastercard®
U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Power World Elite Mastercard®
- 20.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 20.24% to 28.24% 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 Business Altitude™ Power World Elite Mastercard® is a business rewards card for that earns up to 2.5X points on eligible purchases with mobile wallets, with no foreign transaction fees and a $0 introductory annual fee.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 6X points on on hotels and car rentals booked in the U.S. Bank Rewards Center
- 2.5X points on up to $5,000 in mobile wallet purchases each quarter
- 2X points on all other purchases
- No foreign transaction fees
- Regular Purchase APR: 20.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 20.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either 3% of the amount of each transfer or $5 minimum, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either 5% of the amount of each advance or $10 minimum, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: 32.49%
- Annual Fee: $195
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: $40
- Over Limit Penalty Fee: $40
- Your company spends heavily on mobile wallet purchases
- You plan to issue multiple employee cards to maximize rewards
- You want to streamline your bonus categories
- You spend enough on to justify the annual fee
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Visa® Credit Card
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Visa® Credit Card
- 21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% 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 Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card provide a lucrative earning platform for travelers who want the freedom to book travel on their terms and not based on a bank's travel portal. The card earns up to 5X points on travel purchases, offers points transfers to leading carriers and hotels, and comes with a slate of tarvel credits and benefits for a modest $95 annual fee.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- $50 annual airline statement credit
- No foreign transaction fees
- Earn 5X points on hotels, 4X on airlines, and 3X on travel and dining purchases
- Earn 1X points on all other purchases
- Transfer points to leading loyalty programs
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Introductory fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater, for 120 days from account opening. After that, up to 5% for each balance transfer, with a minimum of $5
- 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: $95
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You already bank with Wells Fargo
- You want a lucrative travel credit card without needing to book in restrictive travel portals
- You don’t want to pay any foreign transaction fees
- You can make use of the $50 annual credit
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
- 21.49% to 28.49% Variable Regular Purchase APR
- 21.49% to 28.49% Variable Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% Variable Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card is a reliable airline rewards credit card for those who like to fly and prefer Southwest Airlines when they travel. The card earns 2X points on Southwest Airlines purchases and 1X points on all other purchases. The card has an annual fee of $69, which is mostly offset by the cardmember anniversary bonus of 3,000 miles given after each year of membership.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- 3,000 anniversary points each year.
- Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
- Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
- Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
- 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year.
- Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
- Member FDIC
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.49% to 28.49% Variable
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.49% to 28.49% Variable
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% Variable
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 of 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% Variable
- Annual Fee: $69
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
- You fly often and prefer to fly with Southwest
- You plan to use your card in conjunction with other Southwest programs to earn maximum points
- You have a large purchase planned that will allow you to reach the spending requirement on the card within the first 90 days to qualify for a signup bonus
- You plan to use the card primarily for purchases within the United States
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
- 21.49% to 28.49% Variable Regular Purchase APR
- 21.49% to 28.49% Variable Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% Variable Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
For frequent Southwest Airlines® flyers, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is an airline card that makes it easy to reap benefits rapidly with (up to) triple points earning, travel credits, and convenient in-flight discounts.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Limited-time offer: earn Companion Pass® good through 2/28/25 plus 30,000 points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- 7,500 anniversary points each year.
- Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
- Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
- Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
- $75 Southwest® travel credit each year.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Member FDIC
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.49% to 28.49% Variable
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.49% to 28.49% Variable
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% Variable
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Annual Fee: $149
- You travel often, especially with Southwest Airlines®
- You're looking to use your credit card to make purchases abroad
- You make frequent in-flight purchases
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
- 21.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.24% to 28.24% 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
For frequent Southwest Airlines® flyers, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card is a business rewards card that offers all the perks of a great travel rewards card while also propelling card members’ businesses forward.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 60,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open,
- Earn 3 points for every $1 you spend on Southwest Airlines® purchases
- Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases
- Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend on social media, SEM, an local transit and commuting, including rideshare services
- Earn 1 point for every dollar you spend on all other purchases
- 6,000 anniversary points each year on your Cardmember anniversary
- 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each yea
- $500 Fee credit for points transfers
- 25% back on inflight purchases
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.24% to 28.24% 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 $15 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: $99
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: $40
- You travel often, especially with Southwest Airlines®
- You own or operate a business
- You make frequent in-flight purchases
- You plan on issuing additional cards to your employees
United℠ Business Card
United℠ Business Card
- 21.99% - 28.99% Variable Regular Purchase APR
- 21.99% - 28.99% Variable Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% Variable Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
Businesses can benefit significantly from airline cards, and the United Business Card from Chase is an excellent example of the breed. The card earns miles on the types of purchases businesses often make, with additional points coming from the United MileagePlus Program.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
- Receive a 5,000-mile "better together" bonus each anniversary when you have both the United℠ Business Card and a personal Chase United® credit card.
- Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
- Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
- Enjoy a free first checked bag - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip (terms apply), 2 United Club℠ one-time passes per year, and priority boarding privileges.
- $100 United® travel credit after 7 United flight purchases of $100 or more each anniversary year.
- Member FDIC
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 29.99% Variable
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $15 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% Variable
- Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $99
- You run small to medium-sized companies
- You plan to issue additional employee cards (at no extra cost)
- You frequently use your credit card to book flights with United or Star Alliance carriers
- You expect to make at least $5,000 in purchases within the first 90 days of becoming a cardholder to earn the card’s signup bonus (for new cardmembers)
TAP Miles&Go American Express®
TAP Miles&Go American Express®
- 21.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
At a Glance
The TAP Miles&Go American Express® credit card is the ideal travel companion for anyone who want premium travel perks but hate paying a steep annual fee of hundreds of dollars. The card, from Cardless, charges $79 per year but grants perks like lounge access, preferred boarding, and more.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- No foreign transaction fees
- Earn 60,000 miles after spending $2,500 in purchases in the first three months
- Earn 3X miles on TAP Air Portugal purchases
- Earn 2X miles on dining, plus rideshares, taxis, and public transit
- Earn 1X miles on all other purchases
- Two complimentary TAP lounge passes each year
- Preferred boarding on TAP-operated flights
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.24% to 28.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $79
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $30
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $30
- You travel to Portugal, Europe, or other similar destinations often
- You prefer to fly with TAP Air Portugal or other Star Alliance airlines
- You want access to premium perks like airport lounges and upgrades
- You plan to spend at least $2,500 in the first three months
Mastercard® Gold Card™
Mastercard® Gold Card™
- 21.24%, 25.43% or 28.24% Regular Purchase APR
- 21.24%, 25.43% or 28.24%, based on your creditworthiness. There is a fee for balance transfers. Balance Transfer APR
- 30.49%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The Mastercard® Gold Card™ is a lavish rewards credit card from Luxury Card™ that offers opulent rewards as well as a 24K gold-plated metal card design guaranteed to make a statement and catch the eye of anyone who sees it. Ideal for anyone who enjoys the finer things in life, it showers cardholders in exclusive benefits and VIP experiences.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Ideal for those seeking a premium travel card that doubles as an everyday workhorse, paired with elevated service beyond the ordinary. Leave behind the hassle of juggling various cards and monthly statements, while finding peace of mind with protection benefits that exceeds standard credit cards.
- Flat-rate redemption value of 2% for cash back or 2% value for airfare redemption with no airline or seat restrictions and no blackout dates. Earn one point for every dollar spent. Straightforward redemption without needing a high-maintenance reward strategy. No foreign transaction fees, no earning caps, no rotating categories, and no need to chase down transfer partners to escape very low point values.
- Annual Airline Credit—up to $200 in statement credits toward flight-related purchases including airline tickets, baggage fees, upgrades and more. Just pay for airline purchases with your Mastercard Gold Card and we will automatically apply the credit to your account. That’s it. No need to activate or designate an airline. The credit amount is available in full at the start of the calendar year.
- Up to a $100 application fee credit for the cost of TSA Pre✓® or Global Entry. Also, enjoy automatic enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select with access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide with no guest or lounge limits. Includes credits at select airport restaurants for cardholder and one guest.
- 24/7 Luxury Card Concierge®—Make requests the way you want by phone, email, SMS and chat in the app. Connect directly with a real agent and receive 24/7 assistance for tasks big and small. Requests do not require a purchase, incure no charge for making them, and do not involve department transfers.
- Exclusive Luxury Card Travel® benefits—average value of $500 per stay (e.g., resort credits, room upgrades, free wifi, breakfast for two and more) at over 3,000 properties. Receive protection benefits like trip cancellation and interruption, auto rental car collision waiver, travel accident and baggage delay. Cell phone protection for eligible claims of up to $1,000 each year. Plus additional World Elite Mastercard® benefits.
- Made with 24K Gold: Weighing in at an industry-leading 22g. Designed for frequent shoppers, big ticket purchases and everything in between.
- Annual Fee: $995 ($295 for each Authorized User). Terms and conditions apply.
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.24%, 25.43% or 28.24%
- Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% introductory APR for the first fifteen billing cycles following each balance transfer that posts to your account within 45 days of account opening
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.24%, 25.43% or 28.24%, based on your creditworthiness. There is a fee for balance transfers.
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 30.49%. This APR will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Annual Fee: $995 ($295 for each Authorized User added to the account)
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $39
- You're searching for a credit card that goes miles beyond offering simple rewards and instead emphasizes luxurious treatment and amenities
- You're looking for unparalleled 24/7 concierge service that works tirelessly to meet your personalized requests
- You frequently travel and can benefit from rewards that can be earned and redeemed towards future travel
- You wish to stand out with a visually stunning credit card design crafted with a 24K-gold-plated stainless steel front and carbon back
Caesars Rewards Visa®
Caesars Rewards Visa®
- 23.24%, 27.24%, or 32.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 26.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 33.24% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
Earn up to 5X Reward Credits with the Caesars Rewards Visa and redeem towards discounted (or complimentary) shopping, dining, and more. Enjoy fast-tracked spending to Platinum status within the Caesars Rewards program along with exclusive VIP perks only available to cardholders.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 5X Reward Credits for every $1 spent at Caesars Rewards resorts and casinos
- 3X Reward Credits for dining at any of the 11,000 participating restaurants
- 2X Reward Credits for every $1 spent on airlines, gas, and groceries
- 1X Reward Credits for every $1 spent everywhere else
- One buffet pass (valid for 6 months)
- Earn 10,000 bonus points after spending $750 within 90 days
- Receive VIP Access Pass in Las Vegas for spending $10,000 within calendar year
- Regular Purchase APR: 23.24%, 27.24%, or 32.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 26.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $10 or 5% of the amount of the balance transfer, whichever is greater
- Cash Advance APR: 33.24% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Cash Advance Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
- You have an upcoming trip to Las Vegas or other U.S-based Caesar property
- You will spend $750 within the first 90 days of owning the card
- You would use this card at least once every 6 months
- You typically spend $1,000 or more in entertainment or amenities at Caesar venues
Mopar® DrivePlus Mastercard®
Mopar® DrivePlus Mastercard®
- 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate Balance Transfer APR
- 29.74% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
- 0% for 6 months from the transaction date for eligible purchases Intro Purchase APR
At a Glance
The Mopar® DrivePlus Mastercard® is a rewards-heavy auto rewards credit card for shoppers of all things Mopar. With enticing introductory offers as well as continuous rewards, it’s an easy contender for the title of daily credit card.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 5% back on FCA US purchases, 2% back on gas and travel purchases, and 1% back on all other purchases
- $100 statement credit when you spend $499 in FCA US purchases in your first billing cycle after the account is opened
- 0% APR special financing for 6 billing cycles on every FCA US dealership purchase of $499 or more
- When you spend $7,500 in your first year you will receive $1,000 Bonus Certificate towards the purchase of your next FCA vehicle.
- Intro Purchase APR: 0% for 6 months from the transaction date for eligible purchases
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and 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
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $35
- You own an FCA vehicle (FIAT, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, SRT)
- You frequently make Mopar products purchases
- You plan to make daily purchases with your credit card
- You regularly make purchases at US FCA dealerships
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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.