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AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
- 21.24%, 25.24% or 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.24%, 25.24% or 30.24% 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 AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® is a co-branded airline rewards card from American Airlines and Barclays US. The card offers members to earn 2 miles for every dollar spent on purchases with American Airlines and 1 mile-per-dollar-spent on all other purchases. New cardholders also benefit from the chance to earn 60,000 bonus miles when they make their first purchase using the card and pay the $99 annual fee.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 2X miles for every dollar spent with American Airlines
- 1X mile for every dollar spent with all other purchases
- Anniversary Companion Certificate for 1 guest after spending $20,000
- First checked bag free for up to 4 companions
- Preferred boarding for up to 4 companions
- 25% inflight savings on food and beverages
- $25 statement credit on inflight Wi-Fi purchases every account anniversary
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.24%, 25.24% or 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Intro Balance Transfer APR: 0% for 15 months on transfers made within 45 days from account opening date
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.24%, 25.24% or 30.24% 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 $10 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 $40
- Those who want a card that offers 0% intro APR on balance transfers for the first 15 months
- You're eager to earn a very handsome miles bonus just for using your card
- You frequently travel with American Airlines or another Oneworld carrier
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature®
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature®
- 21.24% to 29.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Regular Purchase APR
- 21.24% to 29.24% 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 Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® offers up to 5X points on eligible travel purchases, statement credits for streaming services and TSA Precheck, and plenty more – all for a $95 annual fee that U.S. Bank waives for the first year. The card also provides an impressive 50,000-point signup bonus after meeting minimum spending requirements in the first 120 days.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- No foreign transaction fees
- Earn 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center
- Earn 4X points on travel and gas station purchases
- Earn 2X points on grocery stores, grocery delivery, dining and streaming services
- TSA Precheck or Global Entry statement credit every four years
- Regular Purchase APR: 21.24% to 29.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Balance Transfer APR: 21.24% to 29.24% 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
- Annual Fee: $0 for the first year; $95 after that
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
- You either travel occasionally or commute often (or both)
- You want a statement credit for TSA Precheck of Global Entry
- You plan to spend at least $2,000 on purchases in the first four months
- You frequently use streaming services
Business Green Rewards Card
Business Green Rewards Card
- 19.49% to 27.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate for Pay Over Time purchases Regular Purchase APR
At a Glance
The American Express Business Green Rewards Card grants users the ability to earn 1X Membership Rewards® point for each dollar spent on eligible purchases and 2 Membership Rewards® points for eligible travel purchases made at AmexTravel.com. You can also earn 2X Membership Rewards® points for every dollar you spend on eligible purchases with your card, up to a maximum of $50,000, during your first three months as a cardholder.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 2X points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases at amextravel.com
- 1X points on all other purchases
- Unlimited earnings
- Employee cards for no additional fees
- No annual fee
- Terms apply.
- Regular Purchase APR: 19.49% to 27.49% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate for Pay Over Time purchases
- Penalty APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $95
- Foreign Transaction Fee: 2.7% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: $39 or 2.99% of any past due Pay in Full amount, whichever is greater
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: $39
- You want to earn 2 Membership Rewards® points for eligible travel purchases made at AmexTravel.com and 1 Membership Rewards® point for each eligible dollar spent elsewhere
- You do not want a limit on the points you can earn or points that expire
American Airlines AAdvantage® Mile Up®
American Airlines AAdvantage® Mile Up®
- 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable) Regular Purchase APR
- 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable) Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% (Variable) Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The American Airlines AAdvantage® Mile Up® is a no annual fee airline credit card from Citi. The co-branded card earns 2x miles for every dollar spent on ticket purchases or at gas stations. Every other dollar spent on purchases earns a single mile, with no cap on the total number of miles earnable. New accounts also benefit from 10,000 bonus miles – plus a $50 statement credit – after spending $500 in purchases within the first 90 days.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 10,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles and receive a $50 statement credit after making $500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
- No Annual Fee
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for each $1 spent at grocery stores, including grocery delivery services
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
- Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile for every $1 spent on other purchases
- Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible mile earned from purchases
- Save 25% on inflight food and beverage purchases when you use your card on American Airlines flights
- Regular Purchase APR: 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer APR: 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% 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
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- 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 prefer to fly with American Airlines or American Eagle
- You want to earn miles for every purchase, but don’t want to pay an annual fee for the privilege
- You like the idea of an easily achievable sign-up bonus
American Express® Green Card
American Express® Green Card
- See Pay Over Time APR Regular Purchase APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The American Express® Green Card is a solid rewards card for those who frequently travel or dine out. The card earns triple points for every dollar spent on many travel and transit expenses (such as flights, hotels, taxis, rideshares, and more) as well as on restaurant purchases. For every other dollar spent, the Green Card earns a single point. Points are applicable to a wide array of redemptions, including travel, purchases with major retailers, and more.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® Points on Restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on all eligible travel, from subway swipes and window seats to hotel stays and city tours.
- Earn up to $189 in annual statement credits to help you get through security faster with CLEAR®.
- Earn up to $100 in annual statement credits to access 750+ airport lounges globally through LoungeBuddy.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- $150 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
- Regular Purchase APR: See Pay Over Time APR
- 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
- Penalty APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $150
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You want to earn triple points on flights, hotels, taxis, mass transit, tours, rideshares, and more
- You also want to earn triple points when dining out along with takeout and delivery, as well as single points on all other purchases
- You travel often, and can make best use of $100 in statement credits for both lounge access and CLEAR security fast-pass
- You don’t mind paying $150 in annual fees
American Express Platinum Card® for Schwab
American Express Platinum Card® for Schwab
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The American Express Platinum Card® for Schwab offers cardholders an impressive 5x Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com and the ability to earn up to 80,000 Membership Rewards® points within the first three months of their card membership. Factor in other perks, such as airport lounge access through the American Express Global Lounge Collection, and this card is a powerful rewards tool for the frequent traveler.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- $100 Card statement credit if your qualifying Schwab holdings are equal to or greater than $250,000
- $200 Card statement credit if your qualifying Schwab holdings are equal to or greater than $1,000,000
- 5X points on bookings through Amextravel.com
- 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 greate
- Penalty APR: 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $695
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You travel often and can take advantage of a myriad of benefits including access to airport lounges and Uber credits
- You intend to sign up for Global Entry or TSA Pre?®
- You prefer airline flexibility when redeeming their points for travel
- You're likely spend $6,000 within their first six months on your new card
- You'll take advantage of exclusive events and experiences available only to Platinum cardholders
- You're a Schwab investor
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
- 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable) Regular Purchase APR
- 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable) Balance Transfer APR
- 29.99% (Variable) Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
Frequent American Airlines flyers will fawn over the perks available to them through the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, including access to high-end airport lounges and sizable discounts on in-flight purchases. The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is a top-notch airline rewards credit card that should be in strong consideration for every traveler’s wallet.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
- Admirals Club® membership for you and access for up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with you
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
- Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible mile earned from purchases
- First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 8 companions traveling with you on the same reservatio
- Regular Purchase APR: 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer APR: 20.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
- Balance Transfer Transaction Fee: Either $5 or 3% 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 cash advance, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $450
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $41
- You fly often on American Airlines and want to earn miles and discounts when spending on your travels with you
- You commute through an airport that has an Admirals Club® lounge and wish to unwind before or after your trips
- You're likely to spend $5,000 on your card in the next 3 months, earning you a bonus 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® miles
- You want a card with no foreign transaction fees
Sun Country Airlines® Visa Signature® Card
Sun Country Airlines® Visa Signature® Card
- 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
- 29.74% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The Sun Country Airlines® Visa Signature® Card is a dependable airline credit card ideal for those who primarily travel to and from major U.S. cities or whose international travels fall during the popular travel seasons.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- 3 points per $1 spent on Sun Country purchases
- 2 points per $1 spent on gas & groceries
- 1 point per $1 spent everywhere else
- 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 $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: $69
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $35
- You primarily travel to and from major U.S. cities
- You plan on visiting in Mexico, Central America, or the Caribbean during peak travel season
- You will spend $1,500 within the first 3 months and take advantage of the 35,000 sign up bonus points ($350 value)
- You will spend $10,000 per year to take advantage of the 10,000 bonus points ($100 value)
The Platinum Card® from American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley
The Platinum Card® from American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley
- See Pay Over Time APR Regular Purchase APR
- 29.99% variable based on the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
Luxury is always within reach when you use Platinum Card® from American Express Exclusively for Morgan Stanley brokerage customers. This exclusive version of the impressive rewards card offers premium travel rewards and a host of additional perks for the savvy voyager. Uber Cash and complimentary lounge access are just a few of the more practical perks that lend ongoing value to Morgan Stanley customers.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel. Starting January 1, 2021, earn 5X points on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year
- 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com
- $200 Airline Fee Credit, up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more when you select one qualifying airline
- Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required
- Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection
- VIP status and $200 Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually
- Complimentary Gold status in Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors programs
- Complimentary membership in premium car rental programs
- $240 Digital Entertainment statement credit
- $175 CLEAR statement credit
- $300 Equinox Statement credit
- Terms Apply.
- Regular Purchase APR: See Pay Over Time APR
- 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
- Penalty APR: See Rates & Fees
- Annual Fee: $695
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- Return Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You have a Morgan Stanley brokerage account
- You want to issue an authorized user a Platinum Card
- You travel often and can take advantage of a myriad of benefits including access to airport lounges and Uber credits
- You intend to sign up for Global Entry or TSA Pre?®
- You prefer airline flexibility when redeeming points for travel
- You're likely spend $6,000 within the first six months of being a cardmember
- You will take advantage of exclusive events and experiences available only to Platinum cardholders
Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard®
Free Spirit® Travel More 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
- 23.24% to 30.24% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate Cash Advance APR
At a Glance
The Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard is an airline rewards credit card that provides significant value to the frequent Spirit Airlines traveler. The card earns up to 3X Free Spirit points on purchases, offers priority boarding, and features no foreign transaction fees. Spirit and Bank of America also waive the $79 annual fee for the first year.
- Best Benefits
- Rates & Fees
- Why Should You Apply?
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent on eligible Spirit purchases
- 2 points per $1 spent on eligible dining and grocery store purchases
- No foreign transaction fees
- Points never expire
- 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 $10 or 3% of the amount of each transaction, 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 3% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
- Penalty APR: Up to 29.99% variable based on creditworthiness and the Prime Rate
- Annual Fee: $0 for the first year; after that $79
- Late Payment Penalty Fee: Up to $40
- You frequently fly with Spirit Airlines
- You travel to the Caribbean or South and Central America
- You want priority boarding
- You can justify the $79 annual fee
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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.