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When it comes to travel rewards, credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, American Express Platinum Card®, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card, Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card®, CITI® / AADVANTAGE BUSINESS™ WORLD ELITE MASTERCARD® and many other credit cards that can be particularly valuable for travelers.

These cards often come with perks such as waived annual fees, sign-up bonuses, and lower interest rates during the introductory period. They provide a great way to earn rewards on your purchases while you’re on the go.

Summary Table (TLDR)

Top 18 Credit Cards for Travellers in USA [2025]

S. N.Name of Credit Cards for Travellers in USABest Known & Value for
1.Chase Sapphire Reserve® Best Travel Credit Card Known For Complimentary Lounge Access
2.American Express Platinum Card® Best Travel Credit Card Known for Class Travel Perks
3.Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card Best Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
4.American Express® Gold Card Best Travel Credit Card Known For High Rewards on Dining
5.Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Best Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
6.Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card Best Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
7.Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit CardBest Travel Credit Card Known For High Rewards for Business Expenses
8.Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardBest Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
9.American Express Business Platinum Card® Best Travel Credit Card Known For Airline Bonus Credit
10.Citi Strata Premier℠ CardBest Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
11. Bank of America® Travel Reward Credit CardBest Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
12.Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express CardBest Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
13.CITI® / AADVANTAGE BUSINESS™ WORLD ELITE MASTERCARD®Best Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
14.Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®Best Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
15.Chase United GatewaySM Credit CardBest Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards
16.Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card® Best Travel Credit Card Known For Southwest Airlines Travel Perks
17.Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card® Best Travel Credit Card Known For Southwest Airlines Travel Perks 
18.American Express® Green CardBest Travel Credit Card Known For Transit Expenses

Best Credit Cards for Travellers in USA [March 2025]

Choosing the right travel credit card can help maximize rewards, enjoy luxury perks, and save on travel expenses. From premium lounge access to high reward rates on flights and hotels, these top cards offer excellent value for frequent travelers.

Explore the best options to enhance your travel experience:

1. Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card serves as a valuable asset for frequent travelers who seek to maximize their travel rewards. This credit card offers exciting rewards for travel and dining purchases. It provides an annual travel credit, which enhances the overall value of the card for its users.

A premium travel credit card, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, offering extensive travel rewards, lounge access, and dining perks

Travel Rewards

  • Issuer – Chase
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $550
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.49% – 28.49% Variable
  • Sign-up Bonus – 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – 21.49% – 28.49% Variable
  • Best For – Frequent Travelers, High Spenders

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card is a premium card for frequent travelers that offers 3x points on travel and dining. It provides complimentary airport lounge access and top-tier travel protection. Applicants need excellent credit and a strong income.

The $550 annual fee is justified by a $300 travel credit, Priority Pass membership, and high-end rewards. Users get premium travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and flexible point transfers.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Premium Travel Rewards10x points on hotels & rental cars via Chase TravelCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Dining Rewards3x points on dining & travelCharges $550 Annual Fee
Lounge Access5x total points on flights
$300 Annual Travel Credit
Concierge Service
No International Transaction Fee

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Offers high rewards rate.
  • It provides luxury perks.
  • Offers complimentary lounge access
  • Provides Transfer partners.

Cons

  • Lacks an intro APR on purchases or balance transfers.
  • Requires excellent credit.

Expert Advice

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card is a great travel card that offers premium travel perks, which is beneficial for people who travel more. It offers a 0% international transaction fee and an annual travel credit of $300. Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card also allows travelers to earn various travel rewards points on travel purchases such as hotel bookings, car rentals, and many more along with rewards on dining at restaurants and takeouts.

2. American Express Platinum Card®

The American Express Platinum Card® is a premium card with several features and a generous welcome bonus. This card can be a good option for travelers as it offers many reward benefits, broad airport lounge access, elite status bonuses, and much more.

Travel Rewards, Luxury Benefits

  • Issuer – American Express
  • Payment Gateway – AMEX
  • Credit Score – Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $695
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24%–29.24%
  • Sign In Bonus – 80,000 Membership Rewards points after $8,000 spent in 6 months
  • Balance Transfer – N/A
  • Best For – Professionals, Frequent Travelers
A high-end travel card, American Express Platinum Card®, featuring premium lounge access, hotel perks, and extensive rewards

The Platinum Card® from Amex, issued by American Express, offers unparalleled travel benefits, including airport lounge access and hotel upgrades. Its best feature is the no pre-set spending limit, providing flexibility and exclusive experiences.

The card has an annual fee of $695 plus applicable taxes. Unique features include access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection and a renewal benefit. The required credit score is 750+. The referral program offers additional Membership Rewards points.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel Rewards5x points on flights booked via Amex TravelCharges $695 Annual Fee
Lifestyle & Shopping Rewards5x points on prepaid hotels booked via Amex TravelCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Global Lounge Access1x points on other purchases
No International Transaction Fee
Hilton Honors Gold & Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status
Premium Car Rental Status with Hertz, Avis, and National

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Provides rewards on bonus categories
  • Offers reward points on prepaid hotels
  • Membership reward points on prepaid hotels
  • Membership reward points on flight purchases.

Cons

  • Complicated rewards
  • Requires good/excellent credit
  • Lounge access is limited to domestic lounges.

Expert Advice

The American Express Platinum Card® serves as a great option for individuals who frequently engage in travel expenditures. However, the card’s high-end features are particularly advantageous for those who travel regularly. This card may help travelers enjoy various reward benefits such as travel rewards on booking hotels and flights, global lounge access, lifestyles and shopping rewards and many more. It also offers an annual travel credit of approximately $200 every year.

3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Reward card provides the opportunity to earn unlimited 2X miles on all expenditures, which makes it a good option for individuals who travel infrequently and may not fully utilize high rewards rates associated with travel-specific purchases. Qualified purchases include vacation rentals, flights on any airline, hotel accommodations, car rentals, and cruises.

A versatile travel credit card, Capital One Venture Rewards, known for unlimited miles and flexible redemptions

Travelers

  • Issuer – Capital One
  • Payment Gateway – MasterCard
  • Credit Score – Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $95
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 19.99% – 29.24% variable APR
  • Sign In Bonus – 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
  • Bonus Transfer – 19.99% – 29.24% variable APR
  • Best For – Travelers

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a premium travel rewards card offering unlimited 2x miles on every purchase. Issued by Capital One, it allows flexible redemption options, including flights, hotels, and statement credits for travel purchases. The card also comes with Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit, making it ideal for frequent travelers who want a straightforward way to earn and redeem miles.

The card has a $95 annual fee but provides significant value through travel perks. A good-to-excellent credit score (700+) is required for approval. There’s no preset spending limit, making it a flexible option for large purchases. The referral program allows users to earn bonus miles for referring friends. Additional benefits include travel accident insurance, rental car collision coverage, and access to Capital One Travel for price monitoring and booking assistance.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
No Foreign Transaction FeesEarn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, every dayCharges $10 or 3% Cash Advance Fee
Rental Car Insurance CoverageEarn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One TravelCharges $95 Annual Fee
Flexible Redemption Options
Sizable Sign-Up Bonus
High Ongoing Rewards Rate

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Unlimited flat-rate travel miles on all purchases
  • No foreign transaction fees 
  • Flexible redemption options.

Cons

  • Miles are usually valued at 1% or less, except in specific airline transfers.
  • Other cards offer better rewards with more diverse bonus categories.

Expert Advice

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great choice for travelers who prefer easy flat-rate rewards on travel or don’t spend enough on travel to justify a bonus category card or a high annual fee premium travel card. It does not charge any international transaction fee and provides unlimited miles to cardholders on everyday purchases and hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

4. American Express® Gold Card

The American Express® Gold Card stands out as one of the best travel rewards cards, thanks to its impressive array of dining and travel benefits that cater to high-spenders willing to pay the $325 annual fee. It offers substantial rewards on recurring purchases for flights, dining out, and shopping at U.S. supermarkets, along with enough credits to effectively offset its relatively steep annual cost.

Travel Card

  • Issuer – American Express
  • Payment Gateway – AMEX
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $325
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24%–29.24%
  • Sign In Bonus – 60,000 Membership Rewards points after $4,000 spent in 6 months
  • Balance Transfer – N/A
  • Best For – Frequent Travelers, Food Enthusiasts
A rewards-heavy card, American Express® Gold Card, ideal for dining and travel benefits

The American Express® Gold Card, issued by American Express, offers generous rewards on everyday purchases, particularly for dining and travel. Its standout feature is the Membership Rewards program, which allows cardholders to earn valuable points for various expenses.

The card has an annual fee of $325, plus applicable taxes. Unique features include no pre-set spending limit and access to the Gold Collection rewards. To qualify for the card, a credit score of 700 or higher is required. The referral program provides bonus Membership Rewards points for recommending the card to others.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel Rewards4x points on dining at restaurantsCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
No Foreign Transaction Fees.4x points on grocery shopping at supermarkets on purchases upto $25,000 per yearCharges $325 Annual Fee
Grocery Rewards3x points on flights booked directly with airlines
No Preset Spending Limit
Provides Travel and Insurance benefits
Dining Rewards

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Ideal for dining and travel, with credits to cover the annual fee
  • Has transfer partners
  • No fixed credit limit.

Cons

  • Require a good – excellent credit score
  • Does not offer lounge access
  • Complicated rewards.

Expert Advice

The American Express® Gold Card is tailored for travelers who value earning rewards. With this card, you can rack up 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants (up to $50,000 spent each year, after which it drops to 1X) and at U.S. supermarkets (capped at $25,000 per year, then it reverts to 1X). Additionally, you can earn points on a variety of other purchases, such as booking tickets through AmexTravel.com or directly from airlines, as well as prepaid hotel reservations and more.

5. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a range of enticing travel rewards which makes it an excellent choice for frequent travelers, budget-conscious adventurers, and high spenders alike. With features such as a $300 annual travel credit for Capital One bookings and the ability to earn multiple miles on hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel expenses, this card truly enhances your travel experience.

A premium credit card, Capital One Venture X, offering extensive travel benefits, lounge access, and reward points

Travel Rewards, Lounge Access

  • Issuer – Capital One
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Good – Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $395
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 19.24%-26.24% Variable
  • Sign In Bonus – 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – 19.24%-26.24% Variable
  • Best For – Frequent Travelers, Budget Travelers, High Spenders

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is one of the most exquisite overall travel credit cards. It has a great introductory bonus, and cardholders may earn lots of miles on ordinary purchases, as well as a 10,000-mile anniversary incentive to boot. 

It has a $395 annual fee, but cardholders receive a $300 yearly credit against travel booked through Capital One Travel each year, as well as additional key features such as access to Priority Pass lounges and Capital One’s own developing network of airport lounges.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
No Preset Spending Limit10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One TravelCharges $395 Annual Fee
$300 Annual Capital One Travel Credit5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One TravelCharge 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
No Foreign Transaction Fees2X miles on other purchases
$120Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® Credit
$0 Fraud Liability For Unauthorized Charges

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Offers 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year
  • Flat-rate rewards offer consistent value for businesses
  • Best sign-up bonuses for a business card
  • No international transaction charges.

Cons

  • Limited ways to earn bonus miles
  • No bonuses provided other than travel
  • Charges high interest rates.

Expert Advice

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card program provides exceptional rewards and benefits at a reasonable cost. Despite the expensive annual price, features like lounge access and travel credits make it an excellent option for business travelers. However, the generous sign-up bonus necessitates large spending, and the card does not enable you to carry a balance. Still, if you pay in full each cycle, it’s a great option for accumulating credits and receiving premium travel benefits.

6. Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card is best used for travel and dining purposes. This card can be a good option for frequent travelers who enjoy cashback rewards on travel purchases.

International Transaction

  • Issuer – Bank of America
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $95
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24% – 29.24% Variable APR
  • Sign In Bonus – 60,000 online bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 90 days 
  • Balance Transfer – 21.24% – 29.24% Variable APR
  • Best For – Frequent Travelers, Lifestyle
A well-rounded travel credit card, Bank of America® Premium Rewards®, providing cashback, flexible points, and travel benefits

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card, issued by Bank of America, offers 2 points per dollar on travel and dining and 1.5 points on all other purchases. It’s perfect for frequent travelers seeking flexible rewards and travel benefits.

The card has a $95 annual fee and offers a 60,000-point bonus after $4,000 in purchases within the first 90 days. It also includes travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel Rewards2 points for every $1 spent on travel purchasesUp to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually
Sign-up Bonus2 points for every $1 spent on dining purchasesCharges $95 Annual Fee
Purchase Protection1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases
Airport Lounge Facility
Automotive Protection
No International Transaction Fee

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Offers travel insurance for trip delays, cancellations, baggage issues, lost luggage, and emergency evacuation.
  • Provides contactless chip technology
  • Do not charge international transaction fees.

Cons

  • Charges late payment penalty fee.
  • Redemption options for rewards are limited 
  • No Priority Pass™ airport lounge access
  • No airline or hotel point transfer partners.

Expert Advice

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card is an excellent choice for frequent travelers, offering two points per dollar on travel and dining. It provides generous sign-up bonuses in refundable miles and essential travel insurance for added peace of mind. However, the card has limited luxurious benefits, particularly regarding access to exclusive airport lounges. Overall, it’s a strong option for those seeking to maximize rewards and enjoy travel perks.

7. Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Chase Ink Business Preferred® Card can be a great option for small business owners, entrepreneurs, or frequent travelers who enjoy travelling along with gaining rewards.

A top-tier business travel credit card, Chase Ink Business Preferred®, offering high rewards and business perks

Travelers

  • Issuer – Chase Bank
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $95
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 20.24%–25.24%
  • Sign In Bonus – 90,000 points after $8,000 spent in 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – 20.24%–25.24%
  • Best For – Small Business Owners, Frequent Travelers, Entrepreneurs

The Chase Ink Business Preferred® Card is specifically designed for business owners. Issued by Chase, this card provides substantial rewards on business-related expenditures and facilitates efficient expense management. It offers flexibility in the accumulation of rewards.

The card charges an annual fee of $95 and offers 3X points on travel and select business categories. The credit limit varies, and a good credit score is required. It also includes a referral program and travel insurance.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Business Rewards3x points on travel, shipping, internet, phone servicesCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Travel Benefits1x points on all other purchasesCharges $95 Annual Fee
No international transaction Fee
Supports Employee Spending
Offer 25% more in Travel Redemption
Provides 5x points on Lyft rides

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Offers bonus points for new cardholders.
  • Provides a high redemption rate
  • Does not charge any international transaction fees.

Cons

  • No lounge access or travel credits are included.
  • There are spending caps on rewards.

Expert Advice

The Chase Ink Business Preferred® Card is a great option for small business owners, or frequent travelers who enjoy earning travel rewards. It does not charge any international transaction fee and offers 90,000 points after $8,000 spent in 3 months. Chase Ink Business Preferred® Card offers 3% reward points for various purchases such as advertising, internet, cable, phone services, purchases made with social media sites and search engines, and many more.

8. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a good option for frequent travelers as it helps them to earn various rewards in different categories such as travel rewards, bonus points, dining points, and many more.

Travel Card

  • Issuer – Chase Bank
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $95
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24%–28.24%
  • Sign In Bonus – 60,000 points after $4,000 spent in 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – N/A
  • Best For – Frequent Travellers, Food Enthusiasts
A popular travel rewards card, Chase Sapphire Preferred®, known for its generous points system and travel perks

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a great option for travel enthusiasts which is issued by Chase. This card offers various travel rewards, dining reward points and flexible redemption options, which allow users to maximize their travel benefits while managing expenses efficiently.

The card has an annual fee of $95 and provides 2X points on travel and dining purchases. Credit limits vary, and applicants need a good credit score to qualify. In many cases, it may also allow beginners to have a credit card. This card also includes a referral program and travel insurance.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel Rewards5x points on travel via Chase Ultimate RewardsCharges $95 Annual Fee
Dining Benefits3x points on dining, streaming, and online groceryCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Transferable points to airlines
Offers 60,000 Bonus Points
No Foreign Transaction Fee

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • No international transaction fees.  
  • Earn dining and travel points on purchases.  
  • Includes primary rental car coverage.  
  • Flexible rewards redemption options.

Cons

  • The bonus rates are lower compared to other cards, 
  • No introductory APR on balance transfers.
  • It has complicated rewards 
  • Requires good-excellent credit.

Expert Advice

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a great travel card for frequent travelers as it provides various travel rewards. It offers a 0% international transaction fee. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Credit Card also offers various reward points on travel purchases, dining, online grocery, streaming services, and many more.

9. American Express Business Platinum Card®

The American Express Business Platinum Card® is a premium card with several features and a generous welcome bonus. This card can be a good option for travelers as it offers many reward benefits, broad airport lounge access, elite status bonuses, and much more.

A premium business travel card, American Express Business Platinum®, providing luxury travel perks and exclusive benefits

Travel Card

  • Issuer – American Express
  • Payment Gateway – AMEX
  • Credit Score – Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $695
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 19.24% – 27.24%
  • Sign-up Bonus – 80,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months 
  • Balance Transfer  – N/A
  • Best For – Business Owners, Frequent Travelers

American Express Business Platinum Card® is ideal for high-spending business owners, this card offers enhanced travel rewards and expense management tools. Qualification requires an excellent credit score and business financials.

The $695 annual fee covers benefits such as 5x points on travel, $200 airline fee credits, and employee card options. No preset spending limit and a strong referral program enhance its value.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Business Travel5x points on flights and hotels via AMEX TravelCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Lounge Access1.5x points on eligible business purchasesCharges $695 Annual Fee
Expense Management1x on other eligible purchases
35% Airline Bonus Credit
$200 Hilton Statement Credit
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Membership Rewards® Points

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Does not charge any international transaction fee.
  • Provides annual statement credit for travel, business expenses
  • Offers automatic elite status
  • Offers trip delay insurance.

Cons

  • Long ongoing reward rate
  • High annual fee is hard to justify for occasional travelers.

Expert Advice

The American Express Business Platinum Card® is an excellent choice for those who often incur travel expenses. Its premium features are particularly beneficial for frequent travelers. This card allows users to take advantage of a variety of rewarding perks, such as travel rewards when booking hotels and flights, access to global lounges, lifestyle and shopping discounts, and much more. When you book through AmexTravel.com, you can earn 5x membership rewards points on flights and prepaid hotels.

10. Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card is an excellent choice for frequent travelers and food lovers who want to earn rewards on their travel expenses. Whether it’s hotel bookings, dining experiences, or more, this card provides a wealth of opportunities to rack up rewards. It’s a great option even for those who don’t travel often.

Travel Card

  • Issuer – Citibank
  • Payment Gateway – MasterCard
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $95
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24%–28.24%
  • Sign-up Bonus – 75,000 points after $4,000 spent in 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – 21.24%- 28.24%
  • Best For – Frequent Travelers, Food Enthusiasts
A travel rewards credit card, Citi Strata Premier℠, designed for maximizing points on travel and dining

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card, issued by Citi, is a top-tier travel rewards card offering 3X points on air travel, hotels, and restaurants. Ideal for frequent travelers, it provides valuable Citi ThankYou® Points, redeemable for flights, gift cards, and more. With flexible redemption options and travel protections, it helps maximize travel spending while ensuring security.

The card has a $95 annual fee and offers a competitive credit limit based on creditworthiness. It typically requires a good to excellent credit score (700+). A unique feature is the transferability of points to Citi’s airline and hotel partners. There’s no foreign transaction fee, making it a solid choice for international travelers.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel Rewards10x points Hotel, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked through CitiTravel.comCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Dining Benefits3x points on air travel, hotels, gas, diningCharges $95 Annual Fee
Hotel Perks1x points on all other purchases
$100 Annual Hotel Benefits
No Transaction Fee

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Offers high reward rate
  • Do not charge any international transaction fee
  • Provides $100 annual hotel benefits to the cardholders.

Cons

  • Charges annual fees.
  • Do no offer 0% intro APR 
  • Charges high regular APR.

Expert Advice

The  Citi Strata Premier℠ Card is a great choice for travelers and food enthusiasts who prefer easy flat-rate rewards on travel. It does not charge any international transaction fee and provides reward points on various purchase categories such as dining, hotel bookings, and many more. It offers a $100 annual hotel benefit for a single hotel stay of $500 and more.

11. Bank of America® Travel Reward Credit Card

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is a great option for travelers looking to earn rewards on their travel expenses. You can redeem these travel rewards as a statement credit to cover costs such as flights, hotels, vacation packages, cruises, rental cars, baggage fees, and dining expenses, including meals at restaurants and takeout.

A no-annual-fee travel card, Bank of America® Travel Rewards, offering unlimited points and flexible redemptions

International Transaction

  • Issuer – Bank of America
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Good/Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $0
  • Intro APR – 0% intro APR for 15 months
  • Regular APR – Variable APR of 18.24% – 28.24%. 
  • Sign-up Bonus – 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days
  • Balance Transfer – 18.24% – 28.24%
  • Best For – Travelers

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card, issued by Bank of America, offers unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases. It’s designed for travelers who want to earn rewards on everyday spending with no blackout dates.

The card has no annual fee and provides a 25,000-point bonus after $1,000 in purchases within the first 90 days. It also includes no foreign transaction fees and a low introductory APR.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel RewardsEarn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases.Charges $10 or 3% Cash Advance Fee
No Annual FeePoints can be redeemed for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases.
No International Transaction fee
Free Assess to FICO score
Online & Mobile Banking
Digital Wallet Technology
Contactless Chip Technology
$0 Liability Guarantee

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Earn 1.5 points per $1 on every purchase
  • No annual fee is charged.  
  • No international transaction fee is charged.

Cons

  • Does not offer bonus categories
  • Charges 3% Balance transfer fee.
  • Best rewards are limited to some cardholders.

Expert Advice

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is ideal for travelers who want to earn unlimited points on all purchases with no blackout dates or restrictions. Points do not expire as long as your account is open and can be redeemed as a statement credit for travel and dining expenses, such as flights, hotels, and restaurants. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card offers features such as free access to your FICO score, contactless chip technology, digital wallet compatibility, account alerts, and many more.

12. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Amex Card is an excellent choice for frequent travelers and Delta enthusiasts looking to earn rewards on their travel expenses. This card provides rewards across various categories, including airlines, dining, and travel without charging any international transaction fees.

Travel Card

  • Issuer – American Express
  • Payment Gateway – AMEX
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $350
  • Intro APR – 0% for 12 months
  • Regular APR – 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR 
  • Sign-up Bonus – 90,000 SkyMiles after $4,000 spent in 6 months
  • Balance Transfer – 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR 
  • Best For – Frequent Flyers, Delta Loyalists
A co-branded airline credit card, Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Amex, providing Delta travel perks and miles

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Amex Card, issued by American Express, offers rewards on Delta Air Lines purchases and travel. Its best feature is the 3x miles on Delta purchases, providing significant value for frequent flyers.

The card has an annual fee of $250. Unique features include 3x miles on Delta purchases and a required credit score of 720+. Referral program offers bonus Membership Rewards points.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Airline Rewards3x miles on Delta purchasesCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Travel Benefits3x miles on hotels booked through Amex TravelCharges $350 Annual Fee
Dining Rewards2x miles on dining at restaurants, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
No International Transaction Fee2x miles on groceries at U.S. Supermarkets
Groceries Rewards1x miles per dollar on other purchases

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Offers free checked bag
  • Allows early boarding 
  • Provides companion benefits.

Cons

  • Charges a high annual fee
  • Requires good-excellent credit.

Expert Advice

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Amex Card is a perfect choice for frequent flyers eager to earn unlimited rewards and perks on their travel purchases, whether booking tickets, hotels, or dining experiences. Cardholders earn miles on Delta purchases made directly through the airline. The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Amex Card boasts a variety of other benefits, including a First Checked Bag Free, a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, 20% back on in-flight purchases, access to a Complimentary Upgrade List, and much more.

13. Citi® / AAdvantage BUSINESS™ World Elite Mastercard®

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is a fantastic option for avid travelers and business professionals keen on earning rewards for their travel spending. With this card, you can accumulate miles on American Airlines purchases, as well as on eligible hotel bookings made through aadvantagehotels.com and car rentals through aadvantagecars.com.

A business travel credit card, Citi® / AAdvantage BUSINESS™ World Elite, offering American Airlines miles and perks

Travel Card

  • Issuer – Citibank
  • Payment Gateway – MasterCard
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $99
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 20.24% – 29.24% (V)
  • Sign-up Bonus – 65,000 AAdvantage miles after $4,000 spent in 4 months
  • Balance Transfer – 20.24% — 29.24% (V)
  • Best For – Frequent Travelers, Small Business Owners

The Citi® / AAdvantage BUSINESS™ World Elite Mastercard® is a premium business travel credit card issued by Citibank in partnership with American Airlines. It is best for frequent flyers, offering 2x AAdvantage miles per $1 spent on American Airlines purchases and 1x mile per $1 on all other purchases. The card also provides Admirals Club membership, allowing access to over 50 airport lounges.

With a $99 annual fee after one year of the card membership, this card is designed for small business owners and frequent travelers. It requires a good to excellent credit score (700+) and offers a 65,000-mile sign-up bonus after spending $4,000 in the first 4 months. The credit limit varies based on financials. Additional perks include priority boarding, free checked bags, no foreign transaction fees, and a dedicated travel concierge service.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel Rewards2x miles on eligible American Airlines purchasesCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Business Rewards2x miles at gas stations and car rental merchantsCharges $99 Annual Fee
Airport Lounge Access2 miles at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers
No international Transaction Fee1x mile on all other purchases

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Common business expense categories have bonus options. 
  • Generous sign-up bonus 
  • Several travel perks, including a free first-checked bag and preferred boarding.

Cons

  • Charges an annual fee.  
  • Limited options for redeeming benefits.

Expert Advice

The Citi® / AAdvantage BUSINESS™ World Elite Mastercard® is an excellent option for frequent travelers and small business owners looking to earn unlimited rewards and benefits on their travel expenses. Cardholders can earn miles on purchases made with American Airlines, along with many additional perks. These include a First Checked Bag Free, a premium airport experience, 25% savings on in-flight purchases, including Wi-Fi, food and beverage purchases, and no foreign transaction fees, among other advantages.

14. Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is a fantastic option for avid travelers and business professionals keen on earning rewards for their travel spending. With this card, you can accumulate miles on American Airlines purchases, as well as on eligible hotel bookings made through aadvantagehotels.com and car rentals through aadvantagecars.com.

Travel Card

  • Issuer – Citibank
  • Payment Gateway – MasterCard
  • Credit Score – Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $595
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24% – 29.99%
  • Sign-up Bonus – 50,000 AAdvantage miles after spending $5,000 in 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – 21.24% – 29.99%
  • Best For – Frequent Travelers, Business Executives
A premium airline card, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite, providing Admirals Club access and airline benefits

Issued by Citi, this premium travel card is designed for frequent American Airlines flyers. It offers Admirals Club® lounge access, free checked bags, priority boarding, and 4x AAdvantage® miles on eligible American Airlines purchases. Ideal for those who value luxury travel perks and an enhanced airport experience.

The card has a $595 annual fee and requires an excellent credit score (750+). It offers Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credits, priority airport services, and a referral program for additional miles.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel Rewards10x AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible hotels booked through aadvantagehotels.comCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Airline Miles5x AAdvantage® miles boosterCharges $595 Annual Fee
Enhanced travel protections4x miles on American Airlines purchases
No International Transaction Fee1x miles on all other purchases
Travel Protection
Dedicated Concierge
Lounge Access

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Offers up to 20,000 additional Loyalty Points.
  • Enhanced airport experience
  • First checked bag free
  • 25% savings on inflight purchases.

Cons

  • Charges a  high annual fee
  • Limited bonus categories
  • Do not offer intro APR.

Expert Advice

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is an excellent option for frequent travelers looking to earn unlimited rewards and benefits on their travel expenses. Cardholders can earn miles on purchases made with American Airlines, along with many additional perks. These include a First Checked Bag Free, a premium airport experience, 25% savings on in-flight purchases, and no foreign transaction fees, among other advantages.

15. Chase United GatewaySM Credit Card

The Chase United Gateway℠ Card is an excellent choice for frequent travelers and United travelers looking to have travel perks, airline rewards, and unlimited miles. This card provides rewards on hotel bookings, gas, transit, and other purchases.

An airline rewards card, Chase United Gateway℠, offering no annual fee and great United Airlines perks

Travel Card

  • Issuer – Chase
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $0
  • Intro APR – 0% for 12 months
  • Regular APR – 21.24%–28.24%
  • Sign-up Bonus – 20,000 miles after spending $1,000 in 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – 21.24%–28.24%
  • Best For – Frequent Flyers, United Travelers

The Chase United Gateway℠ Card is a no-annual-fee travel credit card designed for United Airlines flyers. It offers 2X miles on United purchases, gas, and transit, making it a solid entry-level airline rewards card.

This card requires a good credit score. Benefits include no foreign transaction fees, travel insurance, rental car insurance, and extended warranties. It does not have a referral program but offers United perks such as priority boarding and discounts on in-flight purchases.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Airline Rewards2x miles on United, gas, transitCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
No Annual Fee5x miles on fare from United as a MileagePlus member
Travel Perks2x miles on the entire United purchase with the United Gateway Card
Unlimited Miles3x total miles on hotel stays booked through United Hotels
No International Transaction Fee1x miles on all other purchases
5000 Bonus Miles After Adding an Authorize User to Your Account

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • No annual fee is charged.
  • Offers bonus categories
  • Provides bonus offers to new cardholders.
  • Provides premium travel protection.

Cons

  • Requires good- excellent credit score.
  • No free checked bags
  • It limits the reward flexibility.

Expert Advice

The Chase United Gateway℠ Card is an ideal option for United travelers and frequent flyers looking to earn unlimited rewards and benefits on their travel expenses, whether it’s for booking flights, hotels, or other transit options. With the United Gateway Card, cardholders earn unlimited miles on every United purchase. This card comes packed with a range of additional perks, such as receiving 25% back on premium drinks purchased during United Inflight and Club services, access to United Card Events offered by Chase, exclusive United MileagePlus events, and no foreign transaction fees.

16. Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card®

The Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Card is an excellent choice for frequent flyers and Southwest travelers, as it allows you to earn unlimited points on all your purchases. One of its standout features is the EarlyBird check-in, which automatically checks you in to secure a better boarding position and gives you earlier access to overhead bins.

Travel Card

  • Issuer – Chase
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $99
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24%–28.24%
  • Sign-up Bonus – 50,000 points after $1,000 spent in 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – 21.24%–28.24%
  • Best For – Frequent Flyers, Southwest Travelers
A Southwest Airlines credit card, Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier, designed for frequent flyers

The Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Card, issued by Chase, offers 2 points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases and 2 points per dollar on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners. It benefits frequent Southwest travelers by providing valuable points and travel perks.

The card has an annual fee of $149 and offers a $75 Southwest annual travel credit. It provides a credit limit based on your credit score and requires a good credit score. The referral program allows you to earn additional points by referring others.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Airline Rewards3x points per $1 spent on Southwest purchasesCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Travel Benefits2x points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partnersCharges $99 Annual Fee
Southwest Perks2x points per $1 spent on Internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming
EarlyBird Check-In Offer2x points per $1 spent on transit, commuting, and internet services
No International Transaction Fee1x points per $1 spent on all other purchases made with the card
Earns Towards Southwest Companion Pass

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Cardholders earn an annual loyalty bonus of 6,000 points 
  • No cap on rewards 
  • Reward points don’t expire.

Cons

  • Do not have any airline partners.
  • Rewards redemption options are limited.
  • Flies to a few international destinations.

Expert Advice

The Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Card is a great choice for Southwest travelers as it offers various benefits that come with using the card and flying Southwest Airlines. It offers unlimited points on Southwest purchases, local transient and commuting purchases, internet services, and all other purchases. It also offers rapid rewards on hotels and car rental partners. Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Card offers 6,000 points annually on your card and 25% back on inflight purchases.

17. Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority

The Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Card is a great option for frequent flyers and Southwest travelers. With this card, you can earn unlimited points on all your purchases. It provides a boost of 10,000 Companion Pass® qualifying points each year.

A premium Southwest Airlines card, Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority, with travel credits and rewards

Travel Card

  • Issuer – Chase
  • Payment Gateway – Visa
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $149
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24%–28.24%
  • Sign-up Bonus – 50,000 points after $1,000 spent in 3 months
  • Balance Transfer – 21.24%–28.24%
  • Best For – Frequent Flyers, Southwest Loyalists

The Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Card, issued by Chase, offers 3 points per dollar spent on Southwest purchases and 2 points per dollar on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners. It benefits frequent Southwest travelers by providing valuable points and travel perks.

The card has an annual fee of $149 and offers a $75 Southwest annual travel credit. It provides a credit limit based on your credit score and requires a good credit score. The referral program allows you to earn additional points by referring others.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Airline Rewards3x points on Southwest purchasesCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Southwest Perks2x points per $1 spent on rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partnersCharges $ 149 Annual Fee
No International Transaction Fee2x points per $1 spent on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming
Annual $75 Southwest Travel Credit2x points on local transit and commuting purchases
Travel Benefits1x points per $1 spent on all other purchases

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Cardholders earn an annual loyalty bonus of 7,500 points
  • Offers 25% back on inflight purchases
  • Earn 1,500 tier qualifying points (TQPs) toward A-List status for every $5,000 spent annually.

Cons

  • Charges annual fee
  • Rewards redemption options are limited.
  • Doesn’t offer any luxury perks such as lounge access or statement credits.

Expert Advice

The Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Card is an excellent option for those who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines, as it comes packed with a range of benefits designed for travelers. Cardholders enjoy unlimited points on Southwest purchases, local commuting expenses, internet services, and all other purchases. The card rewards users with rapid points through hotel stays and car rental partnerships. Each year, cardholders receive 7,500 bonus points and 25% back on in-flight purchases, which makes it a fantastic choice for avid Southwest travelers.

18. American Express® Green Card

The American Express Green Card® is an excellent choice for travelers, as it provides a variety of rewards for travel, transit, and dining. It does not charge any international transaction fees which makes it particularly beneficial for those who travel frequently.

Travel Card

  • Issuer – American Express
  • Payment Gateway – AMEX
  • Credit Score – Good-Excellent
  • Annual Fee – $150
  • Intro APR – N/A
  • Regular APR – 21.24%–29.24%
  • Sign-up Bonus – 40,000 Membership Rewards points after $3,000 spent in 6 months
  • Balance Transfer – 21.24%–29.24%
  • Best For – Travelers, Environmentally Conscious
A flexible travel credit card, American Express® Green Card, offering valuable points on travel and transit

The American Express Green Card®, issued by American Express, offers rewards on everyday purchases and travel. Its best feature is the Membership Rewards program, providing valuable points for various expenses.

The card has an annual fee of $150. Unique features include access to the Green Collection rewards and a required credit score of 700+. The referral program offers bonus Membership Rewards points.

Key FeaturesReward RateOther Information
Travel Rewards3x points on travel & transitCharges $150 Annual Fee
Reward Points on Dining at Restaurants3x points on dining worldwideCharges 5% or $10 Cash Advance Fee
Eco-Friendly
No international Transaction Fee

Pros & Cons:

Pros

  • Offers 3x reward points on travel, transit, and dining.
  • There is no preset spending limit.

Cons

  • Charges $150 annual fee.
  • Charges 29.99% variable penalty APR that lasts at least six months.

Expert Advice

The American Express Green Card® is a fantastic choice for frequent travelers looking to earn rewards on a variety of travel-related expenses. This includes flights and transit options such as trains, taxis, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, and buses, as well as dining experiences. Cardholders enjoy a multitude of benefits, including a $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit, no foreign transaction fees, car rental loss and damage insurance, and the opportunity to use the Membership Rewards® Program – Pay with Points. These perks make the American Express Green Card® a valuable asset for those who love to travel.

Table of Comparison

Best Credit Cards for Travelers in USA

Name of the CardPayment GatewayBest ForCredit ScoreAnnual FeeIntro Annual Percentage RateRegular Annual Percentage RateBalance TransferSign in BonusDecision Criteria
Chase Sapphire Reserve®VisaFrequent TravelersHigh SpendersExcellent$550N/A21.49% – 28.49% Variable21.49% – 28.49% Variable60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 monthsIdeal for high spenders seeking premium travel rewards and benefits.
American Express Platinum Card®AMEXProfessionalsFrequent TravelersExcellent$695N/A21.24%–29.24%N/A80,000 Membership Rewards points after $8,000 spent in 6 monthsBest suited for professionals who travel frequently and value luxury perks.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardMastercardTravelersExcellent$95N/A19.99% – 29.24% variable APR19.99% – 29.24% variable APR75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 monthsGreat for general travelers looking for solid rewards with a low annual fee.
American Express® Gold CardAMEXFrequent TravelersFood EnthusiastsGood-Excellent$325N/A21.24%–29.24%N/A60,000 Membership Rewards points after $4,000 spent in 6 monthsSuitable for food enthusiasts who also travel often and appreciate dining
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardVisaFrequent TravelersBudget TravelersHigh SpendersGood-Excellent$395N/A19.24%-26.24% Variable19.24%-26.24% Variable75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 monthsIdeal for budget-conscious travelers seeking premium benefits at a reasonable cost.
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit CardVisaFrequent TravelersLifestyleExcellent$95N/A21.24% – 29.24% Variable21.24% – 29.24% Variable60,000 online bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 90 daysPerfect for lifestyle-oriented travelers who want a balance of rewards and low fees.
Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit CardVisaSmall Business OwnersFrequent TravelersEntrepreneursGood-Excellent$95N/A20.24%–25.24%20.24%–25.24%90,000 points after $8,000 spent in 3 monthsBest for small business owners who travel frequently and want to maximize rewards on business expenses.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardVisaFrequent TravellersFood EnthusiastsGood-Excellent$95N/A21.24%–28.24%N/A60,000 points after $4,000 spent in 3 monthsGreat for food enthusiasts who travel often and want flexible rewards options.
American Express Business Platinum Card®AMEXBusiness OwnersFrequent TravelersExcellent$695N/A19.24% – 27.24%N/A80,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months Ideal for business owners seeking premium travel benefits and high rewards potential.
Citi Strata Premier℠ CardMastercardFrequent TravellersFood EnthusiastsGood-Excellent$95N/A21.24%- 28.24%21.24%- 28.24%75,000 points after $4,000 spent in 3 monthsOffers substantial rewards points for spending in travel categories. The annual fee is moderate, and you can earn a significant sign-up bonus
Bank of America® Travel Reward Credit CardVisaTravelersGood-Excellent$00% intro APR for 15 months



18.24% – 28.24%18.24% – 28.24%25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 daysNo-annual-fee card with a strong introductory offer and rewards on travel purchases without high interest rates after the intro period.
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express CardAMEXFrequent FlyersDelta LoyalistsGood-Excellent$3500% for 12 months19.99% to 28.99% variable APR 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR 90,000 SkyMiles after $4,000 spent in 6 monthsEarn miles quickly with a generous sign-up bonus and travel perks such as free checked bags.
CITI® / AADVANTAGE BUSINESS™ WORLD ELITE MASTERCARD®MastercardFrequent TravelersSmall Business OwnersGood-Excellent$99N/A20.24% – 29.24% (V)20.24% – 29.24% (V)65,000 AAdvantage miles after $4,000 spent in 4 monthsProvides valuable AAdvantage miles and business-related benefits at a reasonable annual fee.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®MastercardFrequent TravelersBusiness ExecutivesExcellent$595N/A21.24% – 29.99%21.24% – 29.99%50,000 AAdvantage miles after spending $5,000 in 3 monthsValuable for frequent traveler who values premium benefits such as lounge access and are willing to pay a higher annual fee for enhanced perks.
Chase United GatewaySM Credit CardVisaFrequent FlyersUnited TravelersGood-Excellent$00% for 12 months21.24%–28.24%21.24%–28.24%20,000 miles after spending $1,000 in 3 monthsFly United often and prefer a no-annual-fee option that still provides rewards on travel purchases with an introductory APR offer.
Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card®VisaFrequent FlyersSouthwest TravelersGood-Excellent$99N/A21.24%–28.24%21.24%–28.24%50,000 points after $1,000 spent in 3 monthsSouthwest Airlines and want to earn points quickly with a manageable annual fee and solid sign-up bonus.
Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card®VisaFrequent FlyersSouthwest LoyalistsGood-Excellent$149N/A21.24%–28.24%21.24%–28.24%50,000 points after $1,000 spent in 3 monthsSouthwest traveler looking for additional perks like priority boarding despite the higher annual fee compared to other options.
American Express® Green CardAMEXTravelersEnvironmentally ConsciousGood-Excellent$150N/A21.24%–29.24%21.24%–29.24%40,000 Membership Rewards points after $3,000 spent in 6 monthsOffers flexibility in redeeming rewards across various travel categories and appreciate environmentally conscious brands while managing a moderate annual fee.

Methodology

Choosing the right travel credit card can enhance your journeys with rewards, perks, and cost savings. This analysis evaluates top cards based on travel benefits, fees, and additional features to help frequent travelers, professionals, and small business owners find the best option for their needs.

Selection Criteria for Travel Credit Cards:

  • Evaluation is based on features, benefits, and rewards programs tailored for travelers.
  • Factors considered include travel rewards (points/miles), perks, annual fees, APR, and sign-up bonuses.
  • Additional benefits like lounge access, airline credits, and free checked bags are taken into account.
  • The goal is to identify cards that provide the most value and convenience for frequent travelers.

Types of Travelers Considered:

  • Cards are assessed based on suitability for professionals, frequent flyers, small business owners, etc.

Popular Airline-Specific Credit Cards:

  • Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Card®
  • Chase United GatewaySM Credit Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
  • Other airline-specific cards are also considered.

Evaluation Factors for Each Card:

  • Credit score requirements.
  • Pros and cons of each card.
  • International transaction fees.
  • Purchase protection benefits.
  • Additional perks like hotel elite status and rideshare credits.

Purpose of the Analysis:

  • Provide a well-rounded recommendation for travelers.
  • Help individuals select the best credit card to maximize travel experience and rewards.

What are Travel Credit Cards?

Travel credit cards are financial tools that offer rewards and benefits tailored to travelers. They allow users to accumulate points or miles on purchases, particularly on travel-related expenses like flights and hotels, which can then be redeemed for future travel. These cards often come with perks such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, statement credits, and elite status with hotel chains or rental car companies. Examples from the provided text include the Chase Sapphire Reserve® with its complimentary lounge access and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which offers a $300 annual travel credit and a substantial sign-up bonus.

These cards also provide financial advantages for travelers. Many cards do not charge international transaction fees, which saves users money on international purchases, as highlighted with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the American Express® Gold Card. Additionally, they offer flexible redemption options and can provide a safety net for unexpected expenses. However, it’s important to consider the annual fees and interest rates associated with these cards to ensure the benefits outweigh the costs, as some cards such as the American Express Platinum Card® charge high annual fees.

Does Credit Cards are Useful for Travelers in USA?

Yes, credit cards are highly useful for travelers in the USA as it offers convenience, rewards, and financial protection.

There are various why travelers should consider having credit card:

  • Earning Rewards: Credit cards allow travelers to earn points or miles on purchases, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers “3x points on travel and dining,” and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers “unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase.”
  • Travel Perks: Many travel credit cards come with valuable perks such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, and statement credits. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is “Known For Complimentary Lounge Access,” while the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has a “$300 Annual Capital One Travel Credit.”
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees: Many credit cards such as Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the American Express® Gold Card waive foreign transaction fees which saves travelers’ money on international purchases.
  • Flexibility and Convenience: Credit cards provide a convenient payment method accepted widely across the USA which makes it easier to manage expenses.
  • Building Credit: For travelers planning to stay longer or even immigrate, using a credit card responsibly helps build a credit history, which is essential for renting apartments, securing loans, and other financial activities.
  • Emergency Funds: Credit cards provide a safety net in case of unexpected expenses or emergencies during travel.

Choosing the Best Credit Card for Travelers (Criteria for Selection)

Choosing the right travel credit card can maximize rewards, save money, and enhance your travel experience. Key factors include earning potential, sign-up bonuses, perks like lounge access, foreign transaction fees, and annual costs.

This guide will help you find the best card based on your travel habits and spending patterns:

  • Travel Rewards (Earning Points/Miles): People get travel cards to maximize their spending, transforming everyday purchases into travel opportunities.The ability to earn points or miles on purchases, especially travel and dining, allows travelers to accumulate rewards for future trips. The higher the rewards rate, the faster you can earn free travel.
  • Sign-up Bonus: A large sign-up bonus provides a significant upfront boost to your rewards balance. The text mentions bonuses such as “60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months” (Chase Sapphire Reserve®) and “75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months” (Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card).
  • Credit Score Needed: Most cards require a credit score of Good to Excellent. It’s important to know if you are eligible to apply for that card or not. 
  • Travel Perks (Lounge Access, Credits, Status): These benefits enhance the travel experience and can save money. Airport lounge access (Chase Sapphire Reserve®, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card) offers comfort and amenities during travel. Travel credits (Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card) offset the annual fee. Elite status (American Express Platinum Card®) provides upgrades and benefits with hotels and rental car companies.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees: When traveling internationally, these fees (typically around 3%) can add up quickly. Cards such as the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the American Express® Gold Card eliminate these fees.
  • Annual Fee: Many travel cards have annual fees, ranging from $95 (Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Citi Premier® Card) to $695 (American Express Platinum Card®). The key is to assess whether the rewards and benefits outweigh the annual fee.
  • Reward Redemption Flexibility: The ability to redeem points or miles for various travel expenses (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) provides flexibility. Some cards also offer the option to transfer points to airline or hotel partners for potentially higher value.
  • Regular APR: While it’s best to pay your balance in full each month, the APR is important if you occasionally carry a balance. Most of these cards have variable APRs ranging from the low 20s to high 20s.
  • Other Perks: Things such as Rental Car insurance coverage, Global Entry/TSA Precheck credits, travel insurance and no preset spending limits are things to consider as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which credit card is best for frequent travelers? 

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is excellent due to its lounge access, high rewards on travel and dining, and travel credit. Other top contenders include the American Express Platinum Card® and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

Is it a good idea to use a credit card when traveling?

Yes, it’s generally a good idea. Credit cards offer rewards, travel insurance, and protection against fraud. Many also waive foreign transaction fees, saving you money.

Which credit card has the best benefits for travel?

The American Express Platinum Card® stands out due to its extensive travel benefits such as lounge access, hotel upgrades, and elite status with Hilton and Marriott. However, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card also offer excellent benefits.

What is the most accepted credit card for international travel?

Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted credit cards internationally. In the US, both Discover and American Express are also widely accepted.