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Best travel credit cards of May 2024

Updated May 10, 2024

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Travel credit cards help you earn valuable points and miles on your purchases. For maximum value, some cards earn rewards not only on travel, but also everyday purchases like dining, groceries and gas. You can redeem these rewards for free or discounted flights, hotel stays or to cover other travel-related expenses.

The best travel cards also come with additional features. Even no-annual-fee travel cards are likely to offer perks like sign-up bonuses, intro APR offers and travel insurance. But for top-of-the-line benefits like airport lounge access, elite status and travel credits, expect to pay an annual fee.

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loaded with features<\/a> that can make it easy even for occasional travelers to offset the modest $95 annual fee without eating into hard-earned rewards. Plus, its rewards program is one of the best, giving you some of the most valuable travel redemptions \u2014 through both Chase and transfer partners \u2014 and Chase card pairing opportunities if you want to build your card portfolio eventually.<br><br><strong>Learn more:<\/strong> <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//why-i-love-chase-sapphire-preferred///">Why expert Margaret Weck loves using the Chase Sapphire Preferred<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong>&nbsp; If you\u2019re looking for an even simpler travel card, the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//capital-one-venture-rewards-credit-card///">Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card<\/a> is a terrific option. Its flat rewards rate makes it easy to know exactly how much you\u2019ll earn with every purchase and though it can\u2019t match the Sapphire Preferred\u2019s redemption flexibility, it offers more redemption options than the typical travel rewards card.&nbsp;<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["You earn Ultimate Rewards points with this card \u2014 some of the most valuable and flexible rewards around, especially if you pair it with Chase\u2019s cash back cards in the future.","The card touts significant long-term benefits like anniversary bonus points and travel credits, as well as travel protections like trip cancellation insurance and a car rental collision damage waiver."],"cons":["Doesn\u2019t offer airline- or hotel-specific perks like free checked bags, elite status or free night stays.","The sign-up bonus is decent, but the card has previously offered higher, chart-topping bonus points."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":43,"name":"Chase Ultimate Rewards (Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred cards)","active_rate":{"id":44,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.02000"}},"tags":[{"id":"07815698-c8da-4f40-8736-81d0c76fa353","name":"Airline","type":"tag","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"3ddfa259-d134-49b8-a012-ca914ead5348","name":"Auto Rental Insurance","type":"tag","image":"d6ec79897b86788fd06161de100bae33.png","value":null},{"id":"359b3d84-5159-4735-a230-3003f76f4d78","name":"Concierge Service","type":"tag","image":"9a88b402c09f511d28190e3d832d539f.png","value":null},{"id":"23a4c35d-7528-4051-b373-fd0d352ed37e","name":"Dining","type":"tag","image":"a5b97e80-e7dc-11ea-b568-e36303e248dc.svg","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"00bbe7db-3636-476a-ba54-abc0f930f4e2","name":"Extended Warranty Program","type":"tag","image":"9cebe165fee20278a857330672d7df78.png","value":null},{"id":"c87194e5-dc35-490b-843f-cf5e05e83ac6","name":"Hotel","type":"tag","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"d866baf3-4ea8-40a9-ad12-482dce578f36","name":"Lost Luggage Reimbursement","type":"tag","image":"231ad48ab7e885376229897f37b65348.png","value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"29a9ea46-95f9-4d3a-a5d0-7c41fe94c220","name":"Popular","type":"tag","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"9db6dcfd-43cf-4b86-a585-dc7a8aff7530","name":"Primary Auto Rental Insurance","type":"tag","image":"9fb1075bfc14ead7984202901ff13e5d.png","value":null},{"id":"08393e8c-655e-47b5-b126-43b3810d5643","name":"Purchase Protection","type":"tag","image":"9524b9f2b1d3c84068061b9c0f720bcd.png","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"7ca4bcc6-e617-49b6-a406-f74ab23d6ae7","name":"Roadside Assistance","type":"tag","image":"aa9e23720be9c22177565be427797d94.png","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"d8cff18e-7d0a-4a25-b61e-c3a21ec2dc2d","name":"Travel Accident Insurance","type":"tag","image":"9148b97046b15a99a3744622d7b3b285.png","value":null},{"id":"bd4bb535-dc9a-4a0b-99a0-2cfca3ce6bfd","name":"Travel Assistance","type":"tag","image":"26421ca115c6cf8f5b77f401ccc2b7e3.png","value":null},{"id":"eeacadab-3e97-4936-bf24-99367f6b9376","name":"Trip Cancellation Insurance","type":"tag","image":"a1b8370a910a1d34fa62103b4eb338fe.png","value":null},{"id":"217f7b22-d808-447a-a401-743919cb8bc1","name":"Unsecured credit card","type":"tag","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"0e80c37a-09c1-44c8-8d2f-bff14a2dc81a","name":"Visa","type":"tag","image":"aef17b2f1dfc88c2fe6534963ae586cd.png","value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : 'See your approval odds'" >
Info
Best starter travel card
Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
4.8
Info
Apply now Lock
on Chase's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit
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Intro offer

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$1500

Offer valuation

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1x - 5x

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Reasons to get the VentureOne Rewards Card<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> A general-purpose <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//best-flat-rate-cash-back-credit-cards///">flat-rate credit card<\/a> that offers 2X points or 2 percent cash back on all purchases may bring more value if you don\u2019t travel often and aren\u2019t ready to upgrade to a travel rewards credit card with an annual fee. However, the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//discover-it-miles///">Discover it\u00ae Miles<\/a> earns a flat-rate 1.5X miles that can also be redeemed for cash back at 1-cent per mile, which is unusual for travel rewards.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["The welcome offer is generous for a no-annual-fee travel credit card.","Booking hotel stays and rental cars through Capital One Travel nets you an impressive 5X miles."],"cons":["Unlike several no-annual-fee travel cards, redeeming for non-travel purchases waters down your rewards\u2019 value.","Capital One has no major U.S. carrier in its line-up of travel partners."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":42,"name":"Capital One miles","active_rate":{"id":43,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01700"}},"tags":[{"id":"41fdfa2c-aed3-4c7f-90d7-c4da2d319a6a","name":"0% Introductory APR","type":"tag","image":"c12c6fbd562a494517625a65bbb1e71e.png","value":null},{"id":"07815698-c8da-4f40-8736-81d0c76fa353","name":"Airline","type":"tag","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"71fc3028-f969-4277-bfe4-1ceb9856c34c","name":"Capital One","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"b16b2629-0cdf-4d2e-80f8-96f7ec369a19","name":"Good Credit","type":"tag","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"c87194e5-dc35-490b-843f-cf5e05e83ac6","name":"Hotel","type":"tag","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"45b84c8f-0754-4102-82c6-458d5707196d","name":"Low Interest","type":"tag","image":"85a8ad80-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"95e029c6-4c8b-4978-bdd5-60960fb10868","name":"Miles","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"b522eccc-8c34-4c78-9b8e-1948bb8c8617","name":"No Annual Fee","type":"tag","image":"4226595fe40f1186714c2263039b7df0.png","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best for no annual fee
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
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Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

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$340

Offer valuation

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1.25 Miles - 5 Miles

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

Regular APR

Why expert Jacqueline DeMarco loves the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> The <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//chase-sapphire-preferred-card///">Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card<\/a> offers a higher rewards rate in some everyday spending categories and potentially more valuable points. Chase points are worth 1.25 cents each if you redeem for travel through Chase, while Capital One miles are only worth 1 cent each when you redeem for travel. Plus, Chase rewards are more helpful for occasional travelers since you can redeem as cash back at 1-cent-per-point value.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["Carries solid perks given its low annual fee, including expedited airport purchase security and hotel experience credits, lost luggage reimbursement and more.","Zero foreign transaction fees make this an excellent choice for international travelers."],"cons":["You can\u2019t offset the annual fee with annual travel credits or bonuses alone as you can with some rival cards.","The card\u2019s sign-up bonus carries a high spending requirement, so it may be tough to earn if you don\u2019t have large purchases on the horizon."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":42,"name":"Capital One miles","active_rate":{"id":43,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01700"}},"tags":[{"id":"07815698-c8da-4f40-8736-81d0c76fa353","name":"Airline","type":"tag","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"71fc3028-f969-4277-bfe4-1ceb9856c34c","name":"Capital One","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"23a4c35d-7528-4051-b373-fd0d352ed37e","name":"Dining","type":"tag","image":"a5b97e80-e7dc-11ea-b568-e36303e248dc.svg","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"b16b2629-0cdf-4d2e-80f8-96f7ec369a19","name":"Good Credit","type":"tag","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"c87194e5-dc35-490b-843f-cf5e05e83ac6","name":"Hotel","type":"tag","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"95e029c6-4c8b-4978-bdd5-60960fb10868","name":"Miles","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best for flat-rate rewards
Rating: 4.9 stars out of 5
4.9
Info
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

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$1275

Offer valuation

Info

2 Miles - 5 Miles

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Is the Bank of America Travel Rewards card worth it?<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> The <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//capital-one-ventureone-rewards-credit-card///">Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card<\/a> is another great starter travel card, but, unlike many cards in this category, it lets you transfer your miles to airline and hotel partners, potentially for a higher redemption value.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["Its easy-to-earn sign-up bonus and intro APR offers give this card good short-term value.","No annual fees or foreign transaction fees sweeten this offer."],"cons":["It only offers 1.5X points on purchases, and you can\u2019t transfer points can\u2019t to airline partners for more rewards value, so it may not be as lucrative as competing cards.","The top tiers of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards\u00ae program may be out of reach for many cardholders."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":40,"name":"Bank of America Travel Rewards","active_rate":{"id":41,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01000"}},"tags":[{"id":"41fdfa2c-aed3-4c7f-90d7-c4da2d319a6a","name":"0% Introductory APR","type":"tag","image":"c12c6fbd562a494517625a65bbb1e71e.png","value":null},{"id":"07815698-c8da-4f40-8736-81d0c76fa353","name":"Airline","type":"tag","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"23a4c35d-7528-4051-b373-fd0d352ed37e","name":"Dining","type":"tag","image":"a5b97e80-e7dc-11ea-b568-e36303e248dc.svg","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"8c8699fd-249c-40b4-8392-2d498e581540","name":"FICO Score","type":"tag","image":"3c51fb9d53203e43288b4d33bc8ffb99.png","value":null},{"id":"8ac0aaae-3b07-47b8-9ea2-9947cfa47fdf","name":"Flat Rate Rewards","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"c87194e5-dc35-490b-843f-cf5e05e83ac6","name":"Hotel","type":"tag","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"45b84c8f-0754-4102-82c6-458d5707196d","name":"Low Interest","type":"tag","image":"85a8ad80-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"b522eccc-8c34-4c78-9b8e-1948bb8c8617","name":"No Annual Fee","type":"tag","image":"4226595fe40f1186714c2263039b7df0.png","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"8e7a96a9-4b0a-4933-9068-15eaaf9cf8ec","name":"Personal","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"217f7b22-d808-447a-a401-743919cb8bc1","name":"Unsecured credit card","type":"tag","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"0e80c37a-09c1-44c8-8d2f-bff14a2dc81a","name":"Visa","type":"tag","image":"aef17b2f1dfc88c2fe6534963ae586cd.png","value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best for intro APR
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
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Apply now Lock
on Bank of America's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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Recommended Credit

Intro offer

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$250

Offer valuation

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1.5X

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

Regular APR

practical benefits<\/a> from luxury travel cards without dealing with bloated features and an annual fee upwards of $500. It offers complimentary lounge access, high-earning bonus rewards categories, anniversary credits and bonus miles, which can easily make the card worth it for frequent travelers.<br><br><strong>Learn more:<\/strong> <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//venture-x-benefits-guide///">Capital One Venture X Benefits Guide<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> If a higher annual fee is no issue, consider The Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express. It\u2019s a top choice for frequent travelers thanks to its impressive welcome offer and luxury perks like annual travel credits, lounge access and hotel elite status. However, the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//chase-sapphire-reserve///">Chase Sapphire Reserve\u00ae<\/a> may be better if your luxury travel experience calls for racking up more rewards.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["Offers anniversary bonus miles and a chance to earn credits worth hundreds of dollars starting at your first account anniversary.","Comes with complimentary lounge access at over 1,300 lounges for you and two guests per visit."],"cons":["To earn the anniversary credit, travel must be booked through the Capital One Travel portal. That\u2019s not as flexible as some other cards, which offer credits that cover any travel purchases, regardless of how you book.","Lacks some perks found on other premium travel cards like airline or hotel elite status, which can get you benefits like free checked bags or room upgrades."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":42,"name":"Capital One miles","active_rate":{"id":43,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01700"}},"tags":[{"id":"71fc3028-f969-4277-bfe4-1ceb9856c34c","name":"Capital One","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best for practical perks
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
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Excellent (740 – 850)
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$1275

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2 Miles - 10 Miles

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BEST FOR HOTEL BOOKINGS
Rating: 3.9 stars out of 5
3.9
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Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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$600

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1X - 5X

Rewards rate

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Regular APR

Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers some of the same key perks as the Sapphire Reserve at a much lower cost. Along with a generous rewards rate on both Capital One Travel and general purchases, the card boasts valuable, practical benefits like <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//capital-one-venture-x-vs-chase-sapphire-reserve///">competitive airport lounge access<\/a>, up to $300 in annual Capital One Travel credits and 10,000 bonus miles every year on your account anniversary.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["You can kickstart your rewards bank with one of the most valuable sign-up bonuses on the market.","Its <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//chase-sapphire-reserve-benefits-guide///">top-tier benefits<\/a> include up to $300 in annual travel statement credits, Priority Pass airport lounge access, exhaustive travel protections and stand-out partner perks."],"cons":["The card\u2019s cost could be a deterrent for some new cardholders, especially if they plan on encountering adding multiple authorized users.","You won\u2019t get as many luxury hotel and airport lounge perks with this card as you would with some of its rivals."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":44,"name":"Chase Ultimate Rewards (Sapphire Reserve card)","active_rate":{"id":45,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.02000"}},"tags":[{"id":"11587252-99f5-43da-8281-7f2b0dfac7b7","name":"Airport Lounge Access","type":"tag","image":"0a7bb0c9d2441e79b34993203e8d1f86.png","value":null},{"id":"82e34145-c70a-4c3d-9b48-7e0f130975c2","name":"Annual Travel Credit","type":"tag","image":"3f500bac6b57606be541be2d7aa59aa9.png","value":null},{"id":"3ddfa259-d134-49b8-a012-ca914ead5348","name":"Auto Rental 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'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : 'See your approval odds'" >
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Best for point values
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
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Excellent (740 – 850)
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$1500

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1x - 10x

Rewards rate

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Why I love the Chase Freedom Unlimited<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> If you want to take advantage of even more rewarding cash back categories and remain in the Chase family, consider the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//chase-freedom///">Chase Freedom Flex\u2120<\/a>.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["You can pool rewards with other Chase cards to maximize your earnings.","The additional rewards rate offer can add even more cash back to your pocket for the first year."],"cons":["The welcome offer isn\u2019t as competitive as other cards\u2019 offers.","Maximizing rewards with this and other Chase cards can get complicated for people who like simple rewards programs."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":null,"tags":[{"id":"41fdfa2c-aed3-4c7f-90d7-c4da2d319a6a","name":"0% Introductory APR","type":"tag","image":"c12c6fbd562a494517625a65bbb1e71e.png","value":null},{"id":"6821b5a8-c8ae-4ea8-939a-700d52107ab1","name":"Cash Back","type":"tag","image":"0fcfc350-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"359b3d84-5159-4735-a230-3003f76f4d78","name":"Concierge Service","type":"tag","image":"9a88b402c09f511d28190e3d832d539f.png","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"00bbe7db-3636-476a-ba54-abc0f930f4e2","name":"Extended Warranty Program","type":"tag","image":"9cebe165fee20278a857330672d7df78.png","value":null},{"id":"b16b2629-0cdf-4d2e-80f8-96f7ec369a19","name":"Good Credit","type":"tag","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"d87d39e2-fea5-40fc-aa9e-6375c17ff8de","name":"Grocery","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"45b84c8f-0754-4102-82c6-458d5707196d","name":"Low Interest","type":"tag","image":"85a8ad80-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"b522eccc-8c34-4c78-9b8e-1948bb8c8617","name":"No Annual Fee","type":"tag","image":"4226595fe40f1186714c2263039b7df0.png","value":null},{"id":"29a9ea46-95f9-4d3a-a5d0-7c41fe94c220","name":"Popular","type":"tag","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"08393e8c-655e-47b5-b126-43b3810d5643","name":"Purchase Protection","type":"tag","image":"9524b9f2b1d3c84068061b9c0f720bcd.png","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"d8cff18e-7d0a-4a25-b61e-c3a21ec2dc2d","name":"Travel Accident Insurance","type":"tag","image":"9148b97046b15a99a3744622d7b3b285.png","value":null},{"id":"217f7b22-d808-447a-a401-743919cb8bc1","name":"Unsecured credit card","type":"tag","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
BEST FOR PAIRING
Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
4.8
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Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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N/A

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1.5% - 5%

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Annual fee

Regular APR

Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Platinum Card\u00ae from American Express<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> The <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//capital-one-venture-x///">Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card<\/a> offers a taste of luxury at a lower cost than many premium travel cards. You can unlock a generous rewards rate on both travel and general purchases, complimentary access to popular airport lounge memberships and valuable annual travel credits and anniversary miles.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["Comes with a generous welcome offer and a longer time period to earn it compared to most rewards cards.","A robust line-up of airline and hotel partners and related perks make this card truly valuable for travelers."],"cons":["The $695 annual fee may not be worth it if you don\u2019t spend much on travel frequently or can\u2019t take full advantage of the card\u2019s luxury \u2014 and often niche \u2014 perks.","Redeeming and maximizing the card\u2019s credit and benefits requires some legwork and can be a bit confusing."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":39,"name":"American Express Membership Rewards","active_rate":{"id":40,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.02000"}},"tags":[{"id":"11587252-99f5-43da-8281-7f2b0dfac7b7","name":"Airport Lounge Access","type":"tag","image":"0a7bb0c9d2441e79b34993203e8d1f86.png","value":null},{"id":"59a59e5b-28b1-4f3e-9ac2-0d8dd783b520","name":"Annual Uber Credit","type":"tag","image":"57d3b70966ec41ae81d620b6c000eb39.png","value":null},{"id":"359b3d84-5159-4735-a230-3003f76f4d78","name":"Concierge Service","type":"tag","image":"9a88b402c09f511d28190e3d832d539f.png","value":null},{"id":"33ee6fb8-b86f-402e-ab1e-7aca2988aa32","name":"Elite Status","type":"tag","image":"9fa189a52338b4574699750e7a6e121d.png","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"a9517b73-c09d-467a-b5e7-079552895d0b","name":"Free Credit Score","type":"tag","image":"c921b548023dc6f855952e83fcfca848.png","value":null},{"id":"aa070ca4-ae86-422a-a1ac-7c8839bce5d0","name":"Free Wi-Fi Access","type":"tag","image":"b67ead4ff3cb0e57462c3dce8e876546.png","value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"29a9ea46-95f9-4d3a-a5d0-7c41fe94c220","name":"Popular","type":"tag","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"e3fc60c2-9da6-4962-a27d-e7d9488cbe18","name":"Presale Tickets","type":"tag","image":"bb284692903330764acc7c1350a85a42.png","value":null},{"id":"ebb379c8-0900-4c3d-be0c-1f1d02693483","name":"Private Jet Access","type":"tag","image":"2566a3a19d7cf57528d908d8d8163ce5.png","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"76ae659b-c3b1-40d7-be73-0fba2c2df732","name":"TSA\/Customs Reimbursement","type":"tag","image":"2c364fe0-bd24-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"1a95beb8-3a15-4a91-80d8-23fd5acdf357","name":"Ultra-Premium Card","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : 'See your approval odds'" >
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Best for luxury travel
Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
4.8
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See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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$1600

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5X - 5X

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Annual fee

APR

Why the Amex Gold is worth the annual fee<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> If the Amex Gold Card\u2019s annual fee sounds high, <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//amex-gold-vs-chase-sapphire-preferred///">consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card<\/a>. It carries key travel perks, high travel and dining rewards rates, and a much lower annual fee.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["This card features one of the best rewards return rates available on dining, groceries and food deliveries.","There is no preset spending limit, so you can enjoy extended purchasing power, and you also have the option to pay off purchases with Pay Over Time if necessary."],"cons":["Although the card touts a solid collection of travel perks, it doesn\u2019t include popular premium card perks like airport lounge access or trip cancellation\/interruption insurance.","Only eligible airfare earns more than 1X points, while rival cards often earn similar (or higher) reward rates on hotel stays and other travel purchases as well."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":39,"name":"American Express Membership Rewards","active_rate":{"id":40,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.02000"}},"tags":[{"id":"07815698-c8da-4f40-8736-81d0c76fa353","name":"Airline","type":"tag","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"23a4c35d-7528-4051-b373-fd0d352ed37e","name":"Dining","type":"tag","image":"a5b97e80-e7dc-11ea-b568-e36303e248dc.svg","value":null},{"id":"08288aab-66cb-4c27-8759-67bb4caefb07","name":"Editor's Pick","type":"tag","image":"7a8ac2d0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"a9517b73-c09d-467a-b5e7-079552895d0b","name":"Free Credit Score","type":"tag","image":"c921b548023dc6f855952e83fcfca848.png","value":null},{"id":"b16b2629-0cdf-4d2e-80f8-96f7ec369a19","name":"Good Credit","type":"tag","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"29a9ea46-95f9-4d3a-a5d0-7c41fe94c220","name":"Popular","type":"tag","image":"4b16a0f0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"e3fc60c2-9da6-4962-a27d-e7d9488cbe18","name":"Presale Tickets","type":"tag","image":"bb284692903330764acc7c1350a85a42.png","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : 'See your approval odds'" >
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Best for foodies
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
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Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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Intro offer

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$1200

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3X - 4X

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

APR

Hilton Honors benefits<\/a> like Silver status, it\u2019s also a great fit if you\u2019re new to hotel cards and want a single no-annual-fee option instead of juggling multiple rewards cards.<br><br><strong>Learn more:<\/strong> <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//why-i-love-hilton-honors-amex///">Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Hilton Honors American Express Card<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> The American Express\u00ae Green Card could be more flexible since it lets you earn and redeem rewards on a much wider variety of travel purchases, including airfare and bookings with several hotel brands, not just Hilton. You can transfer points to the Hilton Honors program as well, but the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//hilton-honors-american-express-ascend-card///">Hilton Honors American Express Surpass\u00ae Card<\/a> may be better if you prefer upgraded Hilton-specific rewards, loyalty status and other perks.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["Comes with automatic Silver Elite status, which includes a free fifth award night when you book at least four consecutive nights with points.","Earns rewards in three of the average person\u2019s biggest spending categories, making it a terrific standalone option for earning Hilton points."],"cons":["A higher-tier Hilton card would earn more on Hilton bookings and could be more lucrative for frequent guests, even with an annual fee.","You can only redeem points with Hilton and its partners, which limits the rewards value you earn on the everyday categories compared to a general-purpose cards\u2019 rewards."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":4,"name":"Hilton Honors","active_rate":{"id":5,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.00600"}},"tags":[{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best no-annual-fee hotel card
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
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Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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Intro offer

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$480

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3X - 7X

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

APR

Best Marriott credit cards<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> If you\u2019re looking for top-tier travel perks but want the flexibility to earn and redeem rewards for stays at any hotel chain, consider an <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//are-elite-credit-cards-worth-it///">elite travel card<\/a> from Chase or Amex, which can come with generous travel benefits, airport lounge access and the ability to transfer points to Marriott. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is another lucrative alternative.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["Outperforms other Marriott cards with its boosted rewards on travel-related categories and 21X points at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, thanks to the automatic Platinum Elite status.","It\u2019s one of the only hotel cards that includes complimentary Priority Pass lounge access, top travel protections and credits for expedited airport security screening."],"cons":["Unlocking some of the card\u2019s best perks \u2014 like Five Suite Night Awards \u2014 requires a $60,000 annual spend, which may be tough to reach even for frequent Marriott guests.","Unless luxury perks are at the top of your wishlist, the annual fee may not be worth it and a lower-tier hotel card may offer more value overall."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":7,"name":"Marriott Bonvoy","active_rate":{"id":8,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.00700"}},"tags":[{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"b16b2629-0cdf-4d2e-80f8-96f7ec369a19","name":"Good Credit","type":"tag","image":"88dfa120-bd19-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"c87194e5-dc35-490b-843f-cf5e05e83ac6","name":"Hotel","type":"tag","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
BEST LUXURY HOTEL CARD
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
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Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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$665

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2X - 6X

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

APR

American Express\u00ae Green Card<\/a> could be a great alternative since it charges a lower $150 annual fee, lets you earn and redeem rewards on travel with any eligible airline (not just Delta) and offers credits for Loungebuddy lounge access and Clear Plus. You can even transfer points to Delta at a 1:1 ratio.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["Boasts several valuable travel perks, including priority boarding, a free first checked bag and specialized annual credits for select rideshare services and reservations with Delta Stays and Resy.","Gets you closer to Medallion Status and discounts on in-flight purchases, complimentary upgrades, and more."],"cons":["Its rewards rate on non-travel purchases is lacking \u2014 a general-purpose travel card could potentially offer better rewards value and flexibility for rewards travel outside Delta.","No longer offers complimentary Delta Sky Club lounge access as of this year, although airport lounge access is a staple perk for premium travel cards."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":20,"name":"Delta SkyMiles","active_rate":{"id":21,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01200"}},"tags":[{"id":"07815698-c8da-4f40-8736-81d0c76fa353","name":"Airline","type":"tag","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"24c136a5-f74a-47b2-9541-9e7c45bd2707","name":"Free Checked Baggage","type":"tag","image":"d6a370249c41aa3b1fcd150254df3257.png","value":null},{"id":"a9517b73-c09d-467a-b5e7-079552895d0b","name":"Free Credit Score","type":"tag","image":"c921b548023dc6f855952e83fcfca848.png","value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"e3fc60c2-9da6-4962-a27d-e7d9488cbe18","name":"Presale Tickets","type":"tag","image":"bb284692903330764acc7c1350a85a42.png","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : 'See your approval odds'" >
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BEST FOR COMPANION TICKETS
Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
4.4
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Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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Recommended Credit
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Intro offer

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$600

Offer valuation

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1X - 3X

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

APR

Discover Match\u00ae<\/a>, this card combines solid flat-rate rewards with consumer-friendly terms, like minimal fees and an equal value for both travel and cash back redemptions. Travelers who value simplicity will appreciate this card\u2019s straightforward rewards and adaptability \u2014 even when you aren\u2019t traveling.<br><br><strong>Learn more:<\/strong> <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//why-i-love-discover-it-miles///">Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Discover it\u00ae Miles<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card carries a more straightforward and still easy-to-reach welcome bonus. The VentureOne card also gives you the option of transferring miles to more than a dozen airline and hotel partners, which could increase the redemption value of your rewards.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["All miles earned in your first year will be matched at the end of the year, which could make it one of the most valuable first-year offers for no annual fee.","Miles don\u2019t lose value when they\u2019re redeemed for cash back, which gives it a leg up over many travel rewards programs for occasional travelers."],"cons":["You\u2019ll miss out on pretty standard travel perks like travel insurance, and car rental damage protection.","The rewards structure lacks flexibility; you won\u2019t be able to transfer your miles or use them to book travel."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":4,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":48,"name":"Discover miles","active_rate":{"id":49,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01000"}},"tags":[{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"a9517b73-c09d-467a-b5e7-079552895d0b","name":"Free Credit Score","type":"tag","image":"c921b548023dc6f855952e83fcfca848.png","value":null},{"id":"95e029c6-4c8b-4978-bdd5-60960fb10868","name":"Miles","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"b522eccc-8c34-4c78-9b8e-1948bb8c8617","name":"No Annual Fee","type":"tag","image":"4226595fe40f1186714c2263039b7df0.png","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"0492fa1d-84a8-493e-a0b2-eebf18ffbefd","name":"Price Protection","type":"tag","image":"962b66cf9ebead0f099a67dad29bc23c.png","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"217f7b22-d808-447a-a401-743919cb8bc1","name":"Unsecured credit card","type":"tag","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best for first-year value
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
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Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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N/A

Offer valuation

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1.5X

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

Regular APR

See Rates &amp; Fees<\/a>"],"network":"Visa","customData":[],"collationId":"3320180d-aafe-4cee-a7d3-7434f300fb46","rewardRates":[{"note":"","rank":1,"unit":"X","value":10,"displayText":"10X","explanation":"Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site"},{"note":"","rank":2,"unit":"X","value":5,"displayText":"5X","explanation":"Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas"},{"note":"","rank":3,"unit":"X","value":1,"displayText":"1X","explanation":"Earn 1x points on all other purchases"}],"rewardRules":[{"name":"","rank":0,"unit":"X","value":1,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"spendLimit":null,"periodLimit":null,"earningLimit":null,"rewardRuleCategoryIds":[]},{"name":"","rank":1,"unit":"X","value":3,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"spendLimit":null,"periodLimit":null,"earningLimit":null,"rewardRuleCategoryIds":[1,137]},{"name":"","rank":2,"unit":"X","value":5,"startDate":null,"endDate":null,"spendLimit":null,"periodLimit":null,"earningLimit":null,"rewardRuleCategoryIds":[138]}],"cardBenefits":[],"introBonuses":[],"productTypeId":1,"bankrateScore":"3.3","cardholderRating":null,"cardholderRatingTooltipText":null,"subRatings":[{"subRatingType":"cost_of_membership","subRatingValue":"1"},{"subRatingType":"ease_of_building_credit","subRatingValue":"4"},{"subRatingType":"apr","subRatingValue":"2"},{"subRatingType":"features","subRatingValue":"5"}],"additionalData":{"premiumDescriptionLong":null,"rewardsDescriptionLong":null,"premiumDescriptionShort":null,"rewardsDescriptionShort":null},"benefitTermsUrl":"","annualRewardValue":null,"applyByPhoneNumber":null,"termsAndConditionsUrl":"https:\/\/www.creditonebank.com\/terms\/7ac?pc=WT29","annualRewardDisplayText":null,"creditNeededDisplayText":"Fair\/Good","issuer":"Credit One Bank","creditNeeded":[{"id":"2","name":"Fair","type":"creditNeeded","value":2},{"id":"3","name":"Good","type":"creditNeeded","value":3}],"additionalBonuses":[],"enabled":true,"inFeed":true,"hideCta":false,"awardsBadge":false,"aoEligible":true,"cmEligible":true,"pid":"7924","showApplyLink":true,"variation":{"id":2272,"name":"Best Travel Credit Cards for 2021 | Bankrate","pid":"7924","hide_cta":false,"superlative":"BEST FOR FAIR CREDIT","bankrates_view":"<div><strong>What we love: <\/strong>The Credit One Bank Wander\u00ae Card is a solid option if you want to earn points on travel but have trouble qualifying for mainstream travel cards. Not only is this card accessible with only fair credit, but its rewards program boasts generously high rewards rates in key travel categories.<br><br><strong>Learn more: <\/strong><a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//travel-credit-cards-bad-fair-credit///">Best travel cards for people with bad or fair credit<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> If you don\u2019t mind putting down a refundable security deposit, consider a no-annual-fee secured card like the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//bank-of-america-customized-cash-rewards-secured///">Bank of America\u00ae Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card<\/a>*. It\u2019s a unique secured card that lets you build credit while earning rewards in a category of your choice (with travel just one of many popular options) as well as grocery stores and wholesale clubs.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["It\u2019s one of the only travel rewards cards available with a fair credit score, making it a decent option if you want to earn travel rewards as you work on your score.","Provides 5X points in travel, dining and gas, plus 10X points on eligible hotel and rental car bookings through Credit One Bank \u2014 rare and impressive rates with only fair credit."],"cons":["Its annual fee is high compared to other <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//fair-credit///">cards you can get with a fair credit score<\/a>, so it may not be the best fit if you prioritize building credit over earning rewards.","Other travel cards may offer better perks, fewer redemption restrictions and more value, so it may be worth working on your score with a lower-cost card before committing to the costly annual fee."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":null,"tags":[{"id":"04e767ad-b41c-425f-a43f-e08f2063eab9","name":"Annual Fee","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"8e7a96a9-4b0a-4933-9068-15eaaf9cf8ec","name":"Personal","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"d607652e-254f-4c06-892c-861a1c20c2fa","name":"Tiered Rewards","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : 'See your approval odds'" >
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BEST FOR FAIR CREDIT
Rating: 3.3 stars out of 5
3.3
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Fair to Good (580 – 740)
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N/A

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N/A

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1X - 10X

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Annual fee

Regular APR

Is the Wells Fargo Autograph worth it?<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> If you\u2019re looking for ways to maximize the value of your rewards, you should consider a travel card that lets you transfer your points to airlines or hotels, like the <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//bilt-mastercard-review///">Bilt Mastercard\u00ae<\/a> or Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["While some issuers only reward travel purchases made directly with airlines or through issuer portals, this card lets you shop around for the best deal on third-party travel sites and still earn extra rewards.","Carries <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//wells-fargo-autograph-card-benefits-guide///">decent perks<\/a> such as rental car collision damage waiver coverage, roadside assistance and Visa Signature\u00ae Concierge benefits, like access to Visa\u2019s Luxury Hotel Collection (terms apply)."],"cons":["Unlike with traditional travel cards, you cannot transfer your points to airlines or hotels","The travel perks and intro APR are weak compared to competing travel-oriented cards\u2019 offers."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":50,"name":"Wells Fargo rewards","active_rate":{"id":51,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01000"}},"tags":[]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best for gas
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
Info
Apply now Lock
on Wells Fargo's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

Info

$200

Offer valuation

Info

1X - 3X

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

anniversary bonus<\/a> offers enough value to nearly offset the annual fee on its own, so it should be a terrific low-stakes option whether you\u2019re new to airline cards or a regular Southwest flyer looking for a low-maintenance card. Plus, its sign-up bonus value is on par with the value you\u2019ll get with much pricier airline and travel cards.<br><br><strong>Learn more: <\/strong><a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//southwest-rr-plus-benefits-guide///">Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus benefits guide<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> The <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//reviews//southwest-rapid-rewards-priority-credit-card-review///">Southwest Rapid Rewards\u00ae Priority Credit Card<\/a> could offer better value overall, despite its $149 annual fee. It carries an annual $75 Southwest travel credit and 7,500 bonus points each year on your account anniversary \u2014 more than enough value to justify the higher fee.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["You\u2019ll automatically earn 3,000 Rapid Rewards points each year after your account anniversary, which could offset much of the card\u2019s already-low annual fee.","Delivers the same hefty sign-up bonus as higher-tier Southwest cards."],"cons":["Unlike several travel cards, it doesn\u2019t carry rewards categories for popular everyday purchases like gas or dining.","It may not be the best Southwest value for frequent flyers since it poses a 3 percent foreign transaction fee and doesn\u2019t offer perks like upgraded boardings or elite status benefits."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":35,"name":"Southwest Airlines","active_rate":{"id":36,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01500"}},"tags":[{"id":"07815698-c8da-4f40-8736-81d0c76fa353","name":"Airline","type":"tag","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"3ddfa259-d134-49b8-a012-ca914ead5348","name":"Auto Rental Insurance","type":"tag","image":"d6ec79897b86788fd06161de100bae33.png","value":null},{"id":"359b3d84-5159-4735-a230-3003f76f4d78","name":"Concierge Service","type":"tag","image":"9a88b402c09f511d28190e3d832d539f.png","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"00bbe7db-3636-476a-ba54-abc0f930f4e2","name":"Extended Warranty Program","type":"tag","image":"9cebe165fee20278a857330672d7df78.png","value":null},{"id":"24c136a5-f74a-47b2-9541-9e7c45bd2707","name":"Free Checked Baggage","type":"tag","image":"d6a370249c41aa3b1fcd150254df3257.png","value":null},{"id":"d866baf3-4ea8-40a9-ad12-482dce578f36","name":"Lost Luggage Reimbursement","type":"tag","image":"231ad48ab7e885376229897f37b65348.png","value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"9e630a7c-8b76-4986-93dd-704cd2f03f9d","name":"No Change Fee","type":"tag","image":"4fdd29d02e8ce87dd893fca75c5dc3bc.png","value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"08393e8c-655e-47b5-b126-43b3810d5643","name":"Purchase Protection","type":"tag","image":"9524b9f2b1d3c84068061b9c0f720bcd.png","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"7ca4bcc6-e617-49b6-a406-f74ab23d6ae7","name":"Roadside Assistance","type":"tag","image":"aa9e23720be9c22177565be427797d94.png","value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"d8cff18e-7d0a-4a25-b61e-c3a21ec2dc2d","name":"Travel Accident Insurance","type":"tag","image":"9148b97046b15a99a3744622d7b3b285.png","value":null},{"id":"bd4bb535-dc9a-4a0b-99a0-2cfca3ce6bfd","name":"Travel Assistance","type":"tag","image":"26421ca115c6cf8f5b77f401ccc2b7e3.png","value":null},{"id":"217f7b22-d808-447a-a401-743919cb8bc1","name":"Unsecured credit card","type":"tag","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"0e80c37a-09c1-44c8-8d2f-bff14a2dc81a","name":"Visa","type":"tag","image":"aef17b2f1dfc88c2fe6534963ae586cd.png","value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best starter airline card
Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
4.5
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Apply now Lock
on Chase's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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Recommended Credit

Intro offer

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$750

Offer valuation

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1X - 2X

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

Regular APR

Why expert Sara Coleman loves the Bank of America Premium Rewards Card<\/a><br><br><strong>Alternatives:<\/strong> The similarly-priced Chase Sapphire Preferred\u00ae Card is <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//boa-premium-rewards-vs-chase-sapphire-preferred///">one of the best alternatives<\/a> thanks to its stellar travel protections, yearly bonus rewards and stronger rewards program. However, flat-rate cards like the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card or the Discover it\u00ae Miles card could be lucrative if you don\u2019t think the $95 annual fee is worth it.<\/div>","pros_and_cons_header":"What you should know","pros":["The $95 annual fee is relatively affordable for this card category thanks to the up to $100 in yearly airline incidental statement credits.","You can smooth out your travel experience with <a href=https://www.bankrate.com/"https:////www.bankrate.com//finance//credit-cards//bank-of-america-premium-rewards-benefits-guide///">great benefits<\/a> like credits toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and comprehensive travel insurance."],"cons":["Attaining the highest rewards rate is not an easy feat, since you\u2019ll need to hold significant funds in Bank of America accounts.","This card does not offer a few popular premium travel perks like lounge access."],"exclusive_offer_text":null,"creditCard":null,"isNewCard":0,"limitedTimeOfferText":null,"limitedTimeOfferTooltip":null,"callouts":"marketplace_travel","review_category_id":null,"review_category":null,"whyLikeThis":null},"program":{"id":40,"name":"Bank of America Travel Rewards","active_rate":{"id":41,"label":"2023","active":1,"unit_value":"0.01000"}},"tags":[{"id":"07815698-c8da-4f40-8736-81d0c76fa353","name":"Airline","type":"tag","image":"c4f0c810-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"04e767ad-b41c-425f-a43f-e08f2063eab9","name":"Annual Fee","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"82e34145-c70a-4c3d-9b48-7e0f130975c2","name":"Annual Travel Credit","type":"tag","image":"3f500bac6b57606be541be2d7aa59aa9.png","value":null},{"id":"dff204cc-afde-4766-b5c6-3b9f661693e2","name":"EMV","type":"tag","image":"ff2a1eb82a6a9498d1f0f73bc974e2a3.png","value":null},{"id":"a368943f-a98c-4725-abfc-0d21b861fcd2","name":"Excellent Credit","type":"tag","image":"a1203ba0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"8c8699fd-249c-40b4-8392-2d498e581540","name":"FICO Score","type":"tag","image":"3c51fb9d53203e43288b4d33bc8ffb99.png","value":null},{"id":"c87194e5-dc35-490b-843f-cf5e05e83ac6","name":"Hotel","type":"tag","image":"bd6727b0-bd23-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"d866baf3-4ea8-40a9-ad12-482dce578f36","name":"Lost Luggage Reimbursement","type":"tag","image":"231ad48ab7e885376229897f37b65348.png","value":null},{"id":"92d8b110-c8fb-4ee5-95d4-1c5ad80a215b","name":"Mobile Pay Ready","type":"tag","image":"c9a039a1830fa29723ae3591721396ec.png","value":null},{"id":"167696ba-0a88-4d07-890f-426a2a59ee88","name":"No Foreign Transaction Fees","type":"tag","image":"eaaf459ad1ed2e1825d59f0c908ffa44.png","value":null},{"id":"8e7a96a9-4b0a-4933-9068-15eaaf9cf8ec","name":"Personal","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"b17b1bcc-ec4b-4a1c-a85f-2dbd94992429","name":"Points","type":"tag","image":"9a953c00-bd22-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"164993e7-9b76-4d68-bc3c-061c23dfb47d","name":"Rewards","type":"tag","image":"b47fb820-bd3b-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"d607652e-254f-4c06-892c-861a1c20c2fa","name":"Tiered Rewards","type":"tag","image":null,"value":null},{"id":"c626562a-8a8e-40ba-ad4a-4100ab24002d","name":"Travel","type":"tag","image":"b3d5f780-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"d8cff18e-7d0a-4a25-b61e-c3a21ec2dc2d","name":"Travel Accident Insurance","type":"tag","image":"9148b97046b15a99a3744622d7b3b285.png","value":null},{"id":"eeacadab-3e97-4936-bf24-99367f6b9376","name":"Trip Cancellation Insurance","type":"tag","image":"a1b8370a910a1d34fa62103b4eb338fe.png","value":null},{"id":"76ae659b-c3b1-40d7-be73-0fba2c2df732","name":"TSA\/Customs Reimbursement","type":"tag","image":"2c364fe0-bd24-11e9-a841-3728becc33ed.svg","value":null},{"id":"217f7b22-d808-447a-a401-743919cb8bc1","name":"Unsecured credit card","type":"tag","image":"1c40e1f0-bd23-11e9-8c33-b96e508849bb.svg","value":null},{"id":"0e80c37a-09c1-44c8-8d2f-bff14a2dc81a","name":"Visa","type":"tag","image":"aef17b2f1dfc88c2fe6534963ae586cd.png","value":null},{"id":"586170e7-c9a9-4720-9961-acfa39d119c3","name":"Zero Fraud Liability","type":"tag","image":"7f303633e8c906a4a36c040425d50a31.png","value":null}]})" x-show="selectedCategory === 'travel' || selectedCategory === 'all'" :class="aoProduct.isAoOffer ? 'CCProductTile--hasFlagPrequal' : ''" :data-format-type="aoProduct.odd ? aoProduct.odd : ''" >
Best for savers
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
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on Bank of America's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

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$600

Offer valuation

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1.5X - 2X

Rewards rate

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Annual fee

Regular APR

Best for transfer partners
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
4.0
Info
Apply now Lock
on Wells Fargo's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
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Recommended Credit

N/A

Intro offer

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N/A

Offer valuation

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1X Points - 3X Points

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit AmericanExpress.com/benefitsguide for 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 points on travel purchased through Chase TravelSM
 

3X points on dining and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs)

2X points on other travel purchases

25% more value per point toward Ultimate Rewards travel redemption

 
Intro Offer: 75,000 bonus points
Info
$95

4.8 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Chase's secure site
Earn 5X miles on on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
 
1.25X miles on other purchases
Intro Offer: 20,000 miles
Info
$0

4.1 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel 

2X miles on other purchases

Intro Offer: Earn 75,000 miles
Info
$95

4.9 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

Earn 1.5X points on all purchases (1.87X to 2.62X points, if a Preferred Rewards member)

 
Intro Offer: 25,000 points
Info
$0

4.1 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Bank of America'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
Info
$395

5.0 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

5X points on hotels purchases

4X points on airline purchases

3X points on restaurant and other travel purchases

 

 

Intro Offer: 60,000 bonus points
Info
$95

3.9 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Wells Fargo's secure site

10X total points on hotel, car rental and Chase Dining bookings through Chase Travel℠.

5X total points on air travel through Chase Travel℠.

3X points on other travel and dining.

50% more value per point toward Chase Travel℠ redemption.

 
Intro Offer: 75,000 bonus points
Info
$550

5.0 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Chase'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
Info
$0

4.8 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
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
Info
$695

4.8 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply

4X points at restaurants (including Uber Eats and other eligible U.S. delivery services) and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1X points)

3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or via the American Express Travel portal

 
Intro Offer: 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points
Info
$250

5.0 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply

7X points on direct Hilton hotel and resort bookings

5X points at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and U.S. restaurants

3X points on all other purchases

 
Intro Offer: Earn 80,000 points
Info
$0

4.3 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
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 points at restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines 

2X points on all other purchases

 
Intro Offer: Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points
Info
$650

4.3 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply

3X miles on Delta flights and transactions made directly with hotels;

2X miles at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants

 
Intro Offer: Earn 50,000 miles
Info
$350

4.4 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply

1.5X miles on all purchases

Intro Offer: Discover Match®
Info
$0

4.1 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Discover's secure site

10X points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked using the Credit One Bank travel site 

5X points on eligible travel including flights, dining, and gas purchases

 
Intro Offer: N/A
$95

3.3 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Credit One Bank'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
Info
$0

4.1 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Wells Fargo's secure site

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
Info
$69

4.5 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Chase's secure site

Earn 2X points on travel and dining (2.5X to 3.5X points, if a Preferred Rewards member)

Earn 1.5X points on all other purchases (1.87X to 2.62X points, if a Preferred Rewards member)

 
Intro Offer: 60,000 points
Info
$95

4.3 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
on Bank of America's secure site

3X points on dining

2X points on travel

1X points 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
None

4.0 / 5

Info
(Read card review)
Apply now Lock
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Image of American Express&reg; Green Card
American Express® Green Card
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
Info
$150

What are travel credit cards?

Travel credit cards allow cardholders to earn points or miles on a variety of purchases (typically travel-related), which are redeemable 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 — travel cards 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.

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

Although a well-chosen travel card can pay huge dividends, it might not be the right move for every traveler. Before you apply, take time to weigh the benefits versus the drawbacks of travel credit cards.

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 the steps to choosing the best travel card.

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 offer more flexible reward opportunities. 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 a wide variety of 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 the potential value of general-purpose 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 wider 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. 

Who should get a travel credit card?

A travel credit card is almost always worth it for frequent travelers or anyone who wants to earn rewards toward their next vacation.

If you can save up airline miles, rack up points for free nights at hotels or get discounted travel through your credit card issuer, you’re on your way to significant travel savings. However, the right travel card for you will depend on your travel habits.

Still unsure if a travel credit card is right for you? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.

Travel credit 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?

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 to make the most of them.

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 get a sense of 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 estimated how much each program’s rewards are worth on average.

Caret Down

The table below shows Bankrate’s estimated reward redemption value for a variety of popular airline loyalty programs. 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
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles 2.9 cents $1,490
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club 2.6 cents $1,300
Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer 1.6 cents $796
Emirates Skywards 1.2 cents $600
Etihad Guest Miles 0.9 cents $450
Qatar Airways (Avios) 1.4 cents $700
Garuda Indonesia GarudaMiles 1.4 cents $700
Southwest Rapid Rewards 1.5 cents $750
JetBlue TrueBlue 1.3 cents $650
Air France (FlyingBlue) 1.5 cents $750
Delta SkyMiles 1.2 cents $600
Flying Blue (average) 1.3 cents $650
Frontier Miles 1.3 cents $650
Aer Lingus (Avios) 1.8 cents $900
Air Canada Aeroplan 1.6 cents $800
Avios (average) 1.1 cents $555
Finnair Plus 1.2 cents $600
KLM (FlyingBlue) 1.1 cents $550
Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan 1.1 cents $550
United Airlines MileagePlus 0.9 cents $450
American Airlines AAdvantage 1.0 cents $500
Hawaiian Airlines HawaiianMiles 0.7 cents $350
Iberia Airlines (Avios) 0.9 cents $450
Spirit Airlines Free Spirit 1.0 cents $500
Avianca Airlines LifeMiles 0.9 cents $450
Malaysia Airlines Enrich Miles 0.6 cents $300
British Airways (Avios) 0.7 cents $350
Aeromexico Club Premier 0.8 cents $400
Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles 1.0 cents $500

*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 carrying 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
Best Western Rewards 0.6 cents $300
Hilton Honors 0.6 cents $300
Radisson Rewards Americas 0.4 cents $200

*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 a Bankrate’s Value, 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 $1,060
American Express Membership Rewards 1 cent 2.0 cents $1,000
Capital One Miles 1 cent 1.7 cents $850
Chase Ultimate Rewards (Chase Sapphire Preferred and Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card) 1.25 cents 2.0 cents $1,000
Chase Ultimate Rewards (Chase Sapphire Reserve) 1.5 cents 2.0 cents $1,000
Citi ThankYou Points 1 cent 1.6 cents $800
U.S Bank FlexPerks 1.5 cents 1.5 cents $750
Bank of America Travel Rewards 1 cent 1.0 cents $500
Chase Ultimate Rewards (other Ultimate Rewards cards) 1 cent 1.0 cents $500
Citi ThankYou Points (basic ThankYou points) 1 cent 1.0 cents $500
Discover miles 1 cent 1.0 cents $500
Wells Fargo Rewards 1 cent 1.0 cents $500

*Based on an average of the issuer’s five highest-value transfer partners (if available).

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: 

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 above benefits are 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

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150+
cards rated
Congrats
50+
rewards programs valued
Search
1800
data points analyzed
Credit Card Reviews
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 are some of the key factors that we considered:

More information on travel credit cards

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Frequently asked questions about travel credit cards

Ask the experts: Is it a good idea to have multiple travel credit cards?


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.

Contributor, Personal Finance

If you’re up for managing multiple cards and their benefits, then there are definitely big reward payouts to be had. But if the thought of multiple cards is overwhelming, it’s also a good strategy to have one or two more flexible cards and focus on maximizing your earnings and redemptions until it becomes second nature.

Contributor, Credit Cards

Definitely! I currently have two travel credit cards. In addition to the Chase card that I use for my United Airlines purchases, I have the Capital One Venture card for all other airlines. I earn a solid amount of miles on everything I buy with it, so it's an easy go-to for non-travel related expenses.