Travel credit cards can help you earn points, miles, and cash back while providing valuable perks like lounge access, travel insurance, and no foreign transaction fees. Here are some of the best travel credit cards in the United States for different types of travelers.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Annual Fee: $95
Rewards:
- 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
- 3x points on dining, streaming services, and online groceries
- 2x points on other travel purchases
Welcome Bonus: 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
Additional Benefits:
- Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Comprehensive travel insurance and purchase protection
Best for travelers looking for flexible rewards and solid travel protections.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Annual Fee: $95
Rewards:
- 2x miles on every purchase
Welcome Bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
Additional Benefits:
- Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
- No foreign transaction fees
Great for travelers who prefer a simple, flat-rate rewards system.
3. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Annual Fee: $695
Rewards:
- 5x Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel
- 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
Welcome Bonus: 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months
Additional Benefits:
- Access to Centurion Lounges and other premium airport lounges
- Up to $200 in annual airline fee credits
- Up to $200 in Uber Cash annually
Best for frequent travelers who value luxury perks and airport lounge access.
4. American Express® Gold Card
Annual Fee: $250
Rewards:
- 4x Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery
- 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases)
- 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on Amex Travel
Welcome Bonus: 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $4,000 in the first 6 months
Additional Benefits:
- Up to $120 in annual dining credits at select restaurants
- No foreign transaction fees
Ideal for travelers who spend heavily on dining and groceries.
5. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Annual Fee: $395
Rewards:
- 2x miles on every purchase
- 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
Welcome Bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
Additional Benefits:
- $300 annual travel credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
- Unlimited access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass lounges
- 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
Best for travelers seeking premium benefits at a lower annual fee than The Platinum Card® from American Express.
6. Bilt Rewards Card
Annual Fee: $0
Rewards:
- 1x point on rent payments without a fee (up to 100,000 points annually)
- 2x points on travel
- 3x points on dining
- 1x point on other purchases
Welcome Bonus: Varies based on promotions
Additional Benefits:
- Points can be transferred to travel partners, including major airlines and hotel chains
- No foreign transaction fees
Great for renters who want to earn travel rewards without paying an annual fee.
Conclusion
The best travel credit card for you depends on your spending habits, travel goals, and willingness to pay an annual fee. If you prefer flexible rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® is a solid choice. Frequent flyers may benefit from premium perks with The Platinum Card® from American Express or Capital One Venture X. Those looking for simple rewards will appreciate the Capital One Venture Rewards card, while renters can take advantage of the Bilt Rewards Card.
Choose the card that aligns with your travel style and enjoy the perks of earning rewards while exploring the world.
