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A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
Showing 18 results
Best for sign-up bonus
Bankrate score
4.9
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Capital One
's secure site
Intro offer
75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
75,000 miles
Rewards rate
5 Miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
2 Miles - 5 Miles
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Why you'll like this: Its current sign-up bonus is easily one of the most valuable you can get on a mid-tier travel card.
Best starter travel card
Bankrate score
4.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Chase
's secure site
Intro offer
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
60,000 bonus points
Rewards rate
5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. 2x on all other travel purchases. 1x on all other purchases.
1x - 5x
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Why you'll like this: It carries solid travel perks and protections, a great mix of bonus categories, valuable points and flexible redemption.
Best for luxury travel
Bankrate score
4.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
American Express
's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Intro offer
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 80,000 points
Rewards rate
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
5X - 5X
Annual fee
$695
APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Why you'll like this: No other card offers so many annual credits, such comprehensive airport lounge access and such valuable travel protections and hotel privileges.
Best for low cost
Bankrate score
4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Capital One
's secure site
Intro offer
Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
20,000 miles
Rewards rate
5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
1.25 Miles - 5 Miles
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Why you'll like this: It’s one of the only no-annual-fee travel cards that lets you transfer miles to airline and hotel partners.
Best for foodies
Bankrate score
4.9
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
American Express
's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Intro offer
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
60,000 points + earn up to $100 back
Rewards rate
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
1X - 4X
Annual fee
$325
APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Why you'll like this: Food-related perks are the core of this card — from its annual dining and food delivery credits to its competitive dining rewards rates.
Best for everyday spending
Bankrate score
4.5
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Citi
's secure site
Intro offer
Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
70,000 bonus points
Rewards rate
Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com. Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations. Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
1X - 10X
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)
Why you'll like this: It’s a great option for occasional travelers thanks to its everyday rewards, practical perks and pairing potential.
Best for intro APR
Bankrate score
4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Bank of America
's secure site
Intro offer
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
25,000 points
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
1.5X
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Why you'll like this: It boasts a more valuable welcome offer than most no-annual-fee travel cards and is one of the few that offers an intro APR.
Best for point values
Bankrate score
5.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(740 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Chase
's secure site
Intro offer
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
60,000 bonus points
Rewards rate
Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠. Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining. Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
1x - 10x
Annual fee
$550
Regular APR
22.49% - 29.49% Variable
Why you'll like this: Points are worth 50 percent more when you redeem via Chase Travel — the best value you can get on a general travel card without transferring points.
Best for practical perks
Bankrate score
5.0
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(740 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Capital One
's secure site
Intro offer
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
75,000 miles
Rewards rate
10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5 Miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel, 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
2 Miles - 10 Miles
Annual fee
$395
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Why you'll like this: It’s likely your most cost-effective path to top-tier perks like airport lounge access, and annual travel credits.
Best for pairing
Bankrate score
4.8
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Chase
's secure site
Intro offer
Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.
Up to $300 cash back
Rewards rate
Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service. 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
1.5% - 5%
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.49% - 29.24% Variable
Why you'll like this: Its high base rewards rate and everyday bonus categories make it an excellent foundation for any Chase card stack.
Best for hotel bookings
Bankrate score
3.9
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Wells Fargo
's secure site
Intro offer
Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
60,000 bonus points
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines, Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants, Earn 1X points on other purchases
1X - 5X
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
Best no-annual-fee hotel card
Bankrate score
4.3
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
American Express
's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Intro offer
Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 80,000 points
Rewards rate
Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio. Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
3X - 7X
Annual fee
$0
APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Why you'll like this: It’s remarkably well-rounded thanks to its everyday reward categories, which make it a lucrative card even if you only travel occasionally.
Best for luxury hotel perks
Bankrate score
4.4
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
American Express
's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Intro offer
Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points
Rewards rate
Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
2X - 6X
Annual fee
$650
APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Why you'll like this: It offers terrific value via its luxury perks, including Platinum Elite status, annual reward nights and a $300 Marriott dining credit.
Best for transfer partners
Bankrate score
3.9
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Bilt
's secure site
Intro offer
Intro offer is not available for this Bilt credit card.
N/A
Rewards rate
3x points on dining, 2x points on travel, 1x points on other purchases, Earn 1x points on rent without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points in a calendar year. When you use the card 5 times each statement period using your Bilt Mastercard, you'll earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases.
1X Points - 3X Points
Annual fee
None
Regular APR
See Terms
Best for gas
Bankrate score
4.1
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Wells Fargo
's secure site
Intro offer
Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
20,000 bonus points
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Earn 1X points on other purchases
1X - 3X
Annual fee
$0
Regular APR
20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR
Best for companion tickets
Bankrate score
4.7
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
American Express
's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Intro offer
Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles
Rewards rate
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels. Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S. and at U.S. supermarkets. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
1X - 3X
Annual fee
$350
APR
20.99%-29.99% Variable
Why you'll like this: The annual companion certificate is easy to earn and carries enough value to offset the annual fee on its own.
Best for savers
Bankrate score
4.3
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(670 - 850)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Bank of America
's secure site
Intro offer
Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
60,000 points
Rewards rate
Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases. Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
1.5X - 2X
Annual fee
$95
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Why you'll like this: The Preferred Rewards program can give this card the highest flat travel rewards rate out there.
Best for fair credit
Bankrate score
3.3
Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.
Recommended credit score:(580 - 740)
A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.
on
Credit One Bank
's secure site
See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply
Intro offer
Intro offer is not available for this Credit One Bank credit card.
N/A
Rewards rate
10X points on eligible hotel and car rentals booked using the Credit One Bank travel partner. 5X points on eligible travel including flights, dining, and gas purchases. 1X points on all other purchases.
1X - 10X
Annual fee
$95
APR
29.99%* Variable
Why you'll like this: It boasts perhaps the highest travel rewards rate you can get with a fair credit score.
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Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visitAmericanExpress.com/benefitsguidefor more details. Underwritten by Amex assurance company.
The information about the American Express® Green Card and Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuers.
Compare Bankrate's best travel credit cards of 2024
| Card name | Rewards highlights | Welcome offer | Annual fee | Bankrate review score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel 2X miles on other purchases | Intro Offer: 75,000 miles 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening | 4.9 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site | |
 | 5X points on travel purchased through Chase TravelSM 3Xpointson dining and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs) 2Xpoints on other travel purchases 25% more value per point toward Ultimate Rewards travel redemption | Intro Offer: 60,000 bonus points Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠. | 4.8 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Chase's secure site | |
 | 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year), and on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel | Intro Offer: Earn 80,000 points Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. | 4.8 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply | |
 | 5X miles on on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel 1.25X miles on other purchases | Intro Offer: 20,000 miles Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel | 4.1 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site | |
 | 4Xpoints at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1X points) and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1X points) 3Xpoints on flights booked directly with airlines or via the Amex Travel portal 2X points on prepaid hotels and other eligible travel purchases via the American Express Travel portal | Intro Offer: 60,000 points + earn up to $100 back Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24. | 4.9 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply | |
 | 10X points on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked on CitiTravel.com 3X points on air travel and other hotel purchases, at restaurants, supermarkets, and gas and EV charging stations. | Intro Offer: 70,000 bonus points Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com | 4.5 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Citi's secure site | |
 | 1.5X points on all purchases (1.87X to 2.62X points, if a Preferred Rewards member) | Intro Offer: 25,000 points 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases. | 4.1 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Bank of America's secure site | |
 | 10X pointson hotel, car rental and Chase Dining bookings throughChase Travel℠. 5X pointson air travel throughChase Travel℠. 3X pointson other travel and dining. 50% more value per point toward Chase Travel℠ redemption. | Intro Offer: 60,000 bonus points Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠. | 5.0 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Chase's secure site | |
 | 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel. 2X miles on other purchases | Intro Offer: 75,000 miles Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel | 5.0 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Capital One's secure site | |
 | 5% cash back on Lyft purchases (through March 2025) and Chase Travel℠ 3% cash back on drugstores and dining at restaurants 1.5% cash back on all other purchases | Intro Offer: Up to $300 cash back Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases. | 4.8 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Chase's secure site | |
 | Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants Earn 1x points on other purchases | Intro Offer: 60,000 bonus points Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip. | 3.9 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Wells Fargo's secure site | |
 | 7X pointson direct Hilton hotel and resort bookings 5X pointsat U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and U.S. restaurants 3X pointson all other purchases | Intro Offer: Earn 80,000 points Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. | 4.3 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply | |
 | 6X points for eligible purchases at Marriott Bonvoy properties(up to 21X points through the Bonvoy loyalty program with Platinum Elite status) 3X pointsat restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines 2X pointson all other purchases | Intro Offer: Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points Earn 185,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership. | 4.4 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply | |
 | 3Xpoints on dining 2Xpoints on travel 1Xpoints on rent payments (up to a maximum 100,000 points per year) (Must make five posted transactions each statement to earn points) | Intro Offer: N/A | 3.9 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Bilt's secure site | |
 | 3X points on purchases at restaurants, gas stations and electric vehicle charging stations, as well on travel, transit, select streaming services and phone plans | Intro Offer: 20,000 bonus points Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value. | 4.1 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Wells Fargo's secure site | |
 | 3X mileson Delta flights and transactions made directly with hotels; 2X milesat U.S. supermarkets and restaurants | Intro Offer: Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles Earn 90,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. | 4.7 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on American Express's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply | |
 | 2X points on Southwest purchases, local transit and commuting (including ride-shares) and internet, cable, phone and select streaming services | Intro Offer: Earn 50,000 points Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | ||
 | 2X points on travel and dining (2.5X to 3.5X points, if a Preferred Rewards member) 1.5X points on all other purchases (1.87X to 2.62X points, if a Preferred Rewards member) | Intro Offer: 60,000 points Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. | 4.3 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Bank of America's secure site | |
 | 10X pointson eligible hotels and car rentals booked using the Credit One Bank travel site 5X pointson eligible travel including flights, dining, and gas purchases | Intro Offer: N/A | 3.3 / 5 Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards. on Credit One Bank's secure site See Rates & Fees, Terms Apply | |
 | 3X points on eligible dining, transit and travel purchases (including airfare, hotels, cruises, tours, car rentals, campgrounds, vacation rentals and travel purchases through third-party travel websites and the American Express Travel portal) | Intro Offer: Earn 40,000 points Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® Pointsafter you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your American Express Green Card® within the first 6 months of Card Membership. |
What are travel credit cards?
Travel credit cards allow cardholders to earn points or miles on a variety of purchases (typically travel-related), which they can redeem for travel bookings, statement credits, gift cards and more.
The best travel credit cards do more than help you foot the bill for your next flight — they also offer perks to upgrade your entire travel experience. Trip insurance, annual travel credits, concierge services and lounge access are all common benefits. Airline and hotel co-branded credit cards sometimes offer specific discounts and perks for loyalty program members.
Dig Deeper:How do travel credit cards work?
Is a travel card right for you?
The pros and cons of travel credit cards
Co-branded travel cards vs. general travel cards
Experts typically divide travel credit cards into two categories: co-branded travel cards and general travel cards. Co-branded cards are linked to a particular airline or hotel, while general travel cards aren’t affiliated with a specific travel brand. Here’s why and when you might want one or the other.
Co-branded travel cards tend to offer higher rewards rates on eligible travel purchases in exchange for limiting your reward redemption options to just one airline or hotel program. These cards may also feature more specific perks associated with the respective hotel or airline, such as free award nights, complimentary airline elite status or priority boarding — which general-purpose travel cards don’t often carry.
However, you won’t be able to use your rewards with different hotels and airlines like general-purpose cards allow. Plus, despite co-branded travel cards’ typically higher rewards rates, many brand-specific rewards tend to be worth less than general travel cards’ points and miles.
When to get a co-branded travel card: When you often fly or stay with a specific airline or hotel and want to maximize your benefits with that brand.
General travel cards earn rewards on various travel categories and aren’t limited to a particular airline or hotel. Such cards may lack some of the dedicated perks you’ll find on a co-branded travel card, such as in-flight discounts, but make up for it with rewards flexibility and broader perks like general travel credits, expedited security screening and comprehensive airport lounge access.
The top travel cards even let you transfer your points or miles to airline and hotel loyalty programs, often at a 1:1 rate. Redeeming with some airlines and hotels can even make your rewards more valuable than they would be if you redeemed with the card issuer.
When to get a general travel card: When you have no preferred airline or hotel and want the additional flexibility a general travel card offers.
Tips on choosing the best travel credit card for you
The right travel credit card for you will carry features and benefits that give you the best value. To help you narrow down your choices, here are thesteps to choosing the best travel card.
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Know how you prefer to travel
Knowing whether your travel expenses are primarily airfare, hotel stays or a mix of other travel will help you decide whether you should get an airline card, hotel card or general-purpose travel card. A co-branded airline or hotel credit card may be a good fit if you mainly travel with a certain brand and want exclusive privileges to enhance your experience. A general-purpose travel card is better if you prefer to keep your travel options open.
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Weigh redemption value versus redemption options
Many travel cards offer a standard point or mile redemption value of 1 cent when you redeem toward travel through the issuer portal, but some cards can get you a higher redemption value when you transfer rewards to airline or hotel partners. However, it's common for many travel reward programs to reduce the redemption value toward non-travel options or limit these redemption options altogether. If you prefer simplicity over maximizing rewards,you may want to consider travel points or mile programs that allow you to redeem at an equal 1-cent value toward general travel purchase credits, cash back or other non-travel options.
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Find a card that matches your spending habits
Take a look at your typical spending and find which travel categories and non-travel categories you spend the most in to help you choose a card that offers a high rewards rate for your regular spending. Just make sure you factor in rewards spending caps.
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Calculate whether the rewards and perks are worth the annual fee
High rewards rates and valuable travel perks are the biggest reasons to get a travel card, but many of the best cards carry a high annual fee. You could stick with a no-annual-fee travel card (or at least one with around a $99 fee) if you're mainly focused on earning rewards, but you may have to pay up to $500 or more for luxurious perks like airport lounge access, comprehensive travel insurance and hundreds of dollars in annual travel credits.
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Consider where you may travel abroad
If you travel overseas, check to see if the card you're considering charges a foreign transaction fee. And since some credit cards aren't as widely accepted as others, you'll also want to make sure your credit card will work when traveling overseas. For example, merchants may not accept Discover and American Express cards as widely as Visa and Mastercard. If you also have a trip coming up in the next three to six months, keep an eye out for the big sign-up bonuses travel cards are known for. As a rule of thumb, the higher the annual fee, the higher the sign-up bonus should be.
Here’s how a Bankrate editor chose his travel card
With all of this advice in mind, let’s see how a credit card expert made their pick. Here’s Bankrate editor Nouri Zarrugh on how he chose his travel card:
When it comes to earning rewards, I’ve always stuck with cash back cards, preferring the simplicity of knowing exactly how much my rewards are worth and the ease of redeeming for statement credits. Recently, though, I decided I wanted to travel a bit more frequently, and I figured a new travel rewards card could be a great tool to help me earn free trips.
When choosing the right card for me, a few major points of consideration stood out:
- Cost: I didn’t feel like I traveled enough to justify a huge annual fee.
- Simplicity: I wanted to stick with a single, streamlined travel card and not worry about juggling multiple rewards programs or rewards rates.
- Perks: While I didn’t need anything too fancy, I thought it might be nice to have a perk like TSA Precheck included, since I hate waiting in long airport security lines.
To my surprise, the card that stood out most was the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Though it carried an intimidating annual fee of $395 (See Rates & Fees), I found this cost was more than worth it once I dug into the details. In fact, its benefits were so valuable, I barely needed to worry about offsetting the cost.
Two of its annual perks — a $300 Capital One travel credit and 10,000 bonus miles every year on my account anniversary — are valuable enough to offset the fee on their own. This means as long as I take one flight a year, I can basically break even on the card. Any rewards or perks I get beyond that feel like pure upside.
It’s a huge bonus, then, that the card also includes practical benefits like Priority Pass lounge access and a credit of up to $120 toward the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. While I’ve never frequented airport lounges, I see these privileges as essentially free considering the value of the annual travel credit and bonus miles. So, I figure, why not take advantage?
For me, the Venture X strikes the perfect balance: A flat rewards rate that makes it easy to earn miles on everything I buy; flexible redemption through Capital One or via transfer to airlines and hotels, and practical perks I know I’ll use when I travel.
I never imagined I’d have a $395 travel card in my wallet, but for me, it’s at worst a coupon for a flight every year, which can nudge me to take that next trip.
— Nouri Zarrugh, Editor, Bankrate
Bankrate experts share their advice on using travel credit cards
It’s important to know how to maximize your rewards and perks. Otherwise, a travel card could end up being a money pit. Here are a few pointers from our experts for making the most of your travel card:
How do credit card points and miles work?
Credit card points and miles are two of the key types of credit card rewards, along with cash back. You’ll earn points and miles by making purchases with your credit card, but you can typically redeem these rewards for travel, gift cards and more — not just statement credits.
Points and miles tend to be more flexible than cash back, but since their value depends on how you redeem them — and, in the case of travel redemptions, where you’re going, when you book, your fare class and more — it may take a bit more effort tomake the most of your travel rewards.
What are your points and miles worth?
Since many airlines and hotels use dynamic pricing models that continually optimize airfare and room prices, it can be hard to know exactly how much your rewards are worth without doing a little math.
Luckily, you don’t need to be a travel hacker to understand this idea. Before you redeem, you can check your reward redemption value by dividing the cost of a plane or hotel booking in cash by its cost in points or miles. This calculation will result in the cash value of your points or miles.
You can also compare this value to Bankrate’s latest points and miles valuations to determine if you’re getting a good deal on your redemptions. Bankrate collected data on hundreds of bookings across dozens of airline, hotel and credit card rewards programs and estimatedhow much each program’s rewards are worth on average.
The table below shows Bankrate’s estimated reward redemption value for the loyalty programs of the most popular airlines (in terms of passengers carried). You’ll notice how widely the value varies between airlines, with some offering close to 3 cents per point in average redemption value and others struggling to meet a 1-cent-per-point value.
Keep in mind, however, that these values are averages based on a variety of fare classes, destinations, booking periods and more. For example, while Bankrate estimates Delta SkyMiles carry an average redemption value of around 1.2 cents per mile, they could be worth more or less depending on the details of your booking.
| Rewards program | Bankrate value* | Estimated value of 50,000 points/miles |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines AAdvantage | 1.0 cents | $500 |
| Delta SkyMiles | 1.2 cents | $600 |
| United Airlines MileagePlus | 0.9 cents | $450 |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards | 1.5 cents | $750 |
*Based on weighted average of median point/mile values across economy and first/business class fares.
Like airline miles, hotel points fluctuate in value. The table below shows Bankrate’s estimated point values for some of the most popular hotel brands.
As you can see, hotel points tend to be worth less than airline and credit card rewards on average, often worth less than 1 cent per point in redemption value. That said, hotel loyalty programs sometimes offer more favorable exchange rates when you transfer rewards from a credit card rewards program. For example, you may be able to turn 1,000 credit card points into 2,000 hotel points (a 2:1 transfer ratio).
| Rewards program | Bankrate value* | Estimated value of 50,000 points/miles |
|---|---|---|
| World of Hyatt | 2.3 cents | $1,150 |
| Wyndham Rewards | 0.9 cents | $450 |
| IHG One Rewards | 0.7 cents | $350 |
| Marriott Bonvoy | 0.7 cents | $350 |
*Based on median point values across budget, mid-tier and luxury hotel bookings.
Unlike hotel and airline rewards programs, credit card reward programs typically earn points or miles that offer a consistent redemption value when you use them with the issuer. Though the redemption value of your rewards may vary based on how you redeem, each redemption method should offer a consistent baseline value.
Some credit card rewards programs may also allow you to transfer your points or miles to airline and hotel loyalty programs, which could boost their value considerably. For each major credit card rewards program, we estimate a baseline redemption value (assuming you book for travel with the issuer) and our valuation, which averages the program’s best-value transfer partners.
| Rewards program | Baseline value | Bankrate value* | Estimated value of 50,000 points/miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bilt Rewards | 1.25 cents | 2.1 cents | $1,050 |
| Chase Ultimate Rewards (Chase Sapphire Reserve) | 1.5 cents | 2.0 cents | $1,000 |
| Chase Ultimate Rewards (Chase Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card) | 1.25 cents | 2.0 cents | $1,000 |
| American Express Membership Rewards | 1 cent | 2.0 cents | $1,000 |
| Capital One Miles | 1 cent | 1.7 cents | $850 |
*Based on an average of the issuer’s five highest-value transfer partners (if available).
Check how much your rewards are worth
Bankrate’s latest point and mile valuations
What are the most important travel card perks?
Travel benefits may differ from card to card, but some of the most popular travel cards available often feature a few key perks.
If you want to add a credit card to your portfolio for your travel needs, knowing what cards are popular and why people like them can help steer your decision. We regularly stay abreast of these conversations online and noticed two travel cards come up regularly: the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card from American Express.
These cards shine because they offer some of the best rates on travel purchases and the most comprehensive set of benefits and perks. Despite their annual fees, what you get in return can far outweigh your costs. And the conversation around these two cards isn’t new: Is the effort of maximizing their perks worth it?
Ask the experts: Is it a good idea to have multiple travel credit cards?
Thomas Nitzsche
Financial Educator, Debt and Credit
Whether you should have multiple travel credit cards depends on several factors, including your brand affinity, frequency of travel and ability to pay off your cards in full each month. As a credit counselor, I see many people carrying credit card debt at high interest rates while continuing to make charges to the account for the sake of earning rewards. They lose far more than they earn each month. Having more than one travel credit card could make sense for you if you’re able to maximize your earnings by strategizing spending across each card. Just take into account annual fees and actual interest paid.
Our data: What credit score do you need for the best travel cards?
It’s no secret that your credit score heavily influences which cards you’re likely to get approval for. But how good does your credit need to be to get the best credit cards for travel? We analyzed our data of Bankrate readers who applied for credit cards on our pages in 2023 and compared the approval rates of readers’ different credit tiers.
We found that, on average, 61.9 percent of users with excellent credit were approved for travel cards on our site. Then, an average of 39.5 percent and 19.5 percent of users with good and fair credit, respectively, got approval for travel credit cards they applied to.
If you have fair or bad credit, you still have options for travel credit cards. For example, the Credit One Bank Wander Card caters to people with fair credit — 57 percent of people with fair credit who applied on our site in 2023 were approved for this card, according to our data.
Obviously, the better your credit, the more likely you are to get the card you apply for, but other factors can affect your application. Issuers may also consider your income, recent credit applications, homeownership status and monthly rental or mortgage payment. Keep these other factors in mind with your credit score when you apply for credit cards.
Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email, find us on Facebook, or Tweet us @Bankrate.
*For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
How we assess the best travel credit cards
150+
cards rated
50+
rewards programs valued
1800
data points analyzed
40+
perks evaluated
When evaluating the best travel cards, we consider a mix of factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether cards offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards in popular categories to scoring a large sign-up bonus or high-value perks. Whenever possible, we also feature cards that are available at various credit levels and price points.
We analyzed over 150 of the most popular cards and scored each based on its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, welcome bonus value, APR, fees, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup of the best travel cards.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the key factors in our rewards card scoring methodology — our primary scoring category for travel cards — and details we considered when putting together our list of the best travel cards.
5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Overall Score
Value65%
Flexibility15%
Perks 15%
Customer experience5%
More information on travel credit cards
Frequently asked questions about travel credit cards
Garrett YarbroughWriter, Credit Cards
Bankrate expert Garrett Yarbrough strives to make navigating credit cards and credit building smooth sailing for his readers. After regularly featuring his credit card,…
Nouri ZarrughSenior Editor, Credit Cards
Nouri Zarrugh is a writer and editor for CreditCards.com and Bankrate, focusing on product news, guides and reviews. His areas of expertise include credit card strategy, rewards…
* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.
Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.
