The 7 Best Travel Credit Cards of 2025

Planning a trip? The best travel credit cards offer consumers rewards points or miles toward purchases like airfare, hotels and rental cars. Though some carry steep fees, the right card not only saves you money on foreign transaction fees but also offers rewards and perks that enhance your travel experience. And they might also come with unique perks like travel insurance, free baggage check and late check-out at hotels.

But with confusing terminology like points vs. miles and an oversaturated market full of general travel cards, airline cards and hotel cards, how can you determine which card offers the right mix of rewards and perks at the right annual fee for you? To help, we’ve compiled a list of the best travel credit cards currently available.

Best Travel Credit Cards:

• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Chase Sapphire Preferred®
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• American Express® Gold Card
• Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card

What Is a Travel Credit Card?

A travel credit card earns rewards that cardholders can apply toward travel purchases, like hotels and airfare. These rewards usually come in the form of points, miles or cash back. The best travel credit cards offer competitive rewards and, usually, a welcome bonus equivalent to several tens of thousands of bonus points.

Though many of the best travel credit cards come with an annual fee (the highest on our list is nearly $700), they can easily pay for themselves if you are a frequent traveler who knows how to take advantage of the perks. In addition to rewards, travel cards typically offer trip insurance. Co-branded travel cards, like airline credit cards and hotel credit cards, may even offer additional perks like lounge access, free checked bags, concierge services, free breakfast and early check-in and late checkout.

What to Look for in a Travel Credit Card

When choosing a travel-friendly credit card, it’s important to look for features that make traveling easier and more rewarding. Here are the key elements to consider:

• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Many credit cards charge a 3% fee on every purchase made outside the U.S. A travel-friendly card should waive these fees, saving you money on international transactions.
• Travel Rewards: Look for a card that offers points, miles, or cashback for travel-related purchases such as flights, hotels, and rental cars. Some cards even offer bonus rewards for dining, which can come in handy while you’re abroad.
• Global Acceptance: Make sure the card is widely accepted in the countries you plan to visit. Visa and Mastercard are more commonly accepted worldwide compared to American Express and Discover, though acceptance can vary by region.
• Travel Perks: Many travel credit cards offer additional perks like travel insurance, airport lounge access, and concierge services. These extras can elevate your travel experience and provide added peace of mind.

Choosing a card that aligns with your travel habits will ensure that you get the most value from it, both during your trip and when you return home.

Comparing Travel-Friendly Credit Cards

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the most popular travel-friendly credit cards:

1. The Platinum Card® from American Express

Frequent flyers who appreciate a touch of luxury will love The Platinum Card® from American Express. Packed with premium travel perks like airport lounge access, hotel credits, and travel protections, this card caters to those who want to travel in style (terms apply).

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Premium Travel Perks: Enjoy access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, up to $200 airline fee credits (enrollment is required for select benefits), and up to $200 hotel credits annually when booked through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card® (the Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay).
• Big Rewards on Travel: Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• Exclusive Credits: Take advantage of credits for Uber, digital entertainment, Walmart+, and more (enrollment is required).
• Global Entry and TSA PreCheck: Receive either a $120 statement credit every four years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck(R) (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Membership Rewards: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• High Annual Fee: The $695 annual fee is steep, but the value of perks and credits can easily offset the cost. ^{(See Rates & Fees)}
• Limited Bonus Categories: The bonus points only apply to flights and prepaid hotels, so you earn 1x points on other eligible purchases.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re a frequent traveler who loves luxury perks and can take full advantage of the card’s many credits, The The Platinum Card® from American Express delivers premium value.

Enrollment is required for select benefits.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, please visit here.

2. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

If you want a versatile travel rewards card with excellent redemption options, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a top choice. With transferable points and travel perks, it’s ideal for frequent travelers who value variety.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Flexible Rewards: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Robust Rewards Structure: Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Annual Fee: The $95 fee requires frequent use to maximize value.
• Spending Threshold for Bonus: Earning the welcome bonus may be challenging for light spenders.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re a traveler seeking a flexible rewards card that isn’t tied to a single airline or hotel brand, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card provides exceptional value for its cost.

3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a favorite among frequent travelers for its straightforward rewards structure and ability to earn 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day. Plus, it comes with valuable travel perks like Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credits and no blackout dates.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Unlimited Miles: Earn 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day. 5 Miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
• Big Sign-Up Bonus: Get 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening, plus receive a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit to use in your first cardholder year – that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
• Transfer to Travel Partners: Move your miles to over 15 travel loyalty programs to maximize value.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Annual Fee: There’s a $95 annual fee, which might be a drawback for occasional travelers.
• Transfer Ratios: When transferring miles to partners, you might not always get a 1:1 ratio, so more miles may be needed to get full value.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re a frequent traveler who wants a simple, flat-rate rewards structure without worrying about rotating categories, this card is a great choice.

Explore the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

4. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is packed with premium travel perks without the steep annual fee of other high-end cards. With unlimited miles, lounge access, and credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, this card is perfect for the frequent traveler looking for value.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Unlimited Miles: Earn 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day. Also, get 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
• Generous Credits: Enjoy a $300 annual travel credit for bookings through Capital One Travel and 10,000 bonus miles on your card anniversary.
• Lounge Access: Enjoy complimentary access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and the Partner Lounge Network.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• High Spending Threshold: You Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Annual Fee: There’s a $395 annual fee, but it’s reasonable compared to other premium travel cards.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re a frequent traveler looking for a premium card with valuable travel perks and a lower annual fee than other luxury cards, the Venture X is a perfect fit.

Explore the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

4. Chase Sapphire Reserve®

For those seeking a premium travel rewards card packed with luxury perks, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® delivers unmatched value. While the annual fee is higher, its exceptional rewards and benefits make it worthwhile for frequent travelers.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Enhanced Rewards Value: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Premium Earning Rates: Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Travel Benefits: Includes a Priority Pass Select membership with access to 1,300+ airport lounges, and reimbursement for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• High Annual Fee: At $550, the fee is substantial but can be offset by the travel credit and perks.
• Additional User Fees: Adding authorized users comes with an additional cost.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re a frequent traveler looking for premium rewards and perks like lounge access, travel credits, and elevated points redemption, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is an excellent choice.

5. American Express® Gold Card

The American Express® Gold Card is a good pick for dining enthusiasts, offering high rewards rates for meals and flights and lots of extra perks. 

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Dining Reward Rates: Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Welcome Bonus: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Travel Benefits: Includes trip delay insurance, baggage insurance, dining credits and more. 

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Annual Fee: There’s a 325 annual fee. ^{(See Rates & Fees)}
• Not as Widely Accepted: This card is not as widely accepted internationally as Visa or Mastercard.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re a frequent diner and traveler, the American Express® Gold Card offers robust rewards on meals and travel expenses, making it ideal for foodies abroad.

Explore the American Express® Gold Card

6. Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card

Best for Diverse Spending Categories

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card offers excellent travel perks and flexible rewards, making it a strong choice for frequent travelers—especially those who are Bank of America clients.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Generous Points on Common Purchases: Earn 60,000 online bonus points (a $600 value) after spending $4,000 in the first 90 days.
• Flexible Rewards: Earn unlimited 2 points per $1 on travel and dining and 1.5 points per $1 on all other purchases.
• Travel-Friendly Perks: Enjoy up to $100 in airline incidental credits annually and up to $100 for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every four years.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Bank Member Benefits: Preferred Rewards clients can earn 25%-75% more points, but non-Bank of America customers may miss out on these additional earnings.
• Annual Fee: The $95 annual fee is reasonable but should be weighed against your spending habits and travel frequency.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re a frequent traveler, particularly one with ties to Bank of America, this card’s rewards, credits, and perks make it a compelling option for both domestic and international use.

Explore the Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card

7. Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card

With the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card, you can earn unlimited points on all purchases, with higher rewards rates on hotels, travel and restaurants. These perks make this card a great pick for frequent travelers.

Why It’s a Great Pick:

• Bonus Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
• Unlimited Cash Back: Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Enjoy all the perks of this travel card with no foreign transaction fees.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Limited Premium Travel Perks: This card doesn’t offer premium perks like airport lounge access or travel credits.
• Balance Transfer Fee: If you’re planning to transfer a balance, you’ll pay 3% for 120 days from account opening, then up to 5%, min: $5
• Has Annual Fee: There’s a $95 annual fee.

Real-Life Scenario: If you’re looking for a flexible rewards card that offers straightforward points on every purchase, the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card lets you earn without worrying about foreign transaction fees or complicated redemption options.

Explore the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card

Each card has different strengths, so the best choice depends on whether you prioritize rewards, perks, or no foreign transaction fees.

Types of Travel Credit Cards

Broadly, there are two types of travel cards: general travel credit cards and co-branded travel cards. Co-branded cards include airline credit cards and hotel credit cards.

General Travel Credit Cards

General travel credit card issuers include banks like Capital One, Chase and Citi. Such cards offer rewards that you can redeem more broadly for travel expenses, like a flight, rental car or hotel stay. Airline credit cards and hotel credit cards, on the other hand, require you to redeem your points or miles specifically with their brand.

Because you can more widely use the points accrued on a general travel card, the rewards might not be as competitive as they are with co-branded cards. You may also miss out on brand-specific perks, like free checked bags or room upgrades, that co-branded cards sometimes offer.

General travel cards often come with huge welcome bonuses (also called sign-up bonuses) if you spend a certain amount of money within a set timeframe from account opening. These cards can run the gamut; travel cards with no annual fees typically offer basic travel rewards while those with steeper fees offer higher reward amounts and may come with additional perks.

You can usually redeem these travel credit card points when booking through the card issuer’s website or platform. Alternatively, you can book a flight or hotel directly (or via another third-party application), then use your points as a statement credit after the purchase has gone through.

Some travel card issuers allow you to transfer points to airline and hotel loyalty programs — but this transfer may lower the value of each point. Similarly, you might be able to claim your rewards points as general cash back, but the value of each point will typically be lower when redeemed this way.

Airline Credit Cards

Airline credit cards are a type of co-branded travel credit card. Airlines like Delta, United and American Airlines partner with credit card issuers like American Express to offer these travel cards, which let you earn miles for every dollar spent. Airline credit cards make sense if you are loyal to a specific airline.

Once you’ve accrued enough miles, you can redeem them for future travel with that airline (or other airlines in the same airline alliance). Higher-tier airline credit cards, which fetch a higher annual fee, may come with perks like free baggage check, lounge access, priority boarding and TSA Precheck or Global Entry fee reimbursement.

Delta, United and American all have credit cards, but you can also find credit cards from smaller airlines like JetBlue and Southwest.

Hotel Credit Cards

Hotel credit cards are another form of co-branded travel credit card that instead allow you to earn points toward free nights at a specific hotel chain. That makes these cards most attractive to travelers who are loyal to a specific chain.

In addition to rewards points toward the hotel chain, a hotel credit card might include perks like early check-in and late checkout, free breakfast or even a free night every year. Three of the largest hotel chains to consider are Marriott, Hilton and Wyndham.

Additional Perks for International Travelers

Beyond rewards and no foreign transaction fees, travel-friendly credit cards offer several perks that can enhance your travel experience:

• Travel Insurance: Many travel credit cards provide insurance coverage for trip cancellations, delays, or lost luggage. This can help protect you from unexpected travel mishaps.
• Airport Lounge Access: Premium cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer access to airport lounges, giving you a quiet place to relax before your flight.
• Concierge Services: Some cards come with concierge services to help with tasks like booking reservations or securing event tickets while you’re traveling.
• Global Assistance: Many travel cards provide 24/7 customer service for emergencies, such as lost luggage or medical issues, while you’re abroad.

These benefits can add significant value to your travel experiences and provide peace of mind during your trips.

Pros and Cons of Travel Credit Cards

If you have a strong enough credit score to qualify and travel enough to justify the annual fee, a travel card carries a number of advantages. But these cards can have their downsides, too. Weigh the pros and cons before signing on the dotted line:

How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Your Travel Needs

Selecting the right travel credit card depends on your personal travel habits and financial goals. Here are a few things to consider:

• Spending Habits: If you spend heavily on dining and travel, a card like the American Express® Gold Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve® will help you maximize rewards in those categories.
• Preferred Rewards: If you prefer earning miles that you can transfer to airline loyalty programs, the Capital One Venture Rewards Card is a solid option. If you value flexible points, cards that offer rewards through Chase Ultimate Rewards® or Amex Membership Rewards® may be better.
• Travel Frequency: Frequent travelers may benefit more from premium cards with lounge access and travel credits, while occasional travelers might prioritize cards with no foreign transaction fees and lower annual fees.

Evaluate your current credit card to see if it meets your travel needs. If not, consider switching to a travel-friendly card that can help you save money and earn rewards on your next trip.