Do you travel frequently and need the best travel credit card? Whether traveling for work, leisure, or other reasons, it costs money to travel. The exciting news is that there are travel hacks that can save you money while globetrotting. With a travel credit card, you can receive rewards that you can redeem to free trips and hotel stays. Also, some travel cards can offer emergency support like travel insurance and may not charge you to make overseas transactions.
Today’s article looks at the best travel credits to make your next trip less costly and fun.
What To Consider In A Travel Credit Card?
Consider several things if you’re looking to get a travel credit card. There’s no one size fits for these cards, and knowing what to consider can help you reap more card benefits.
The first thing to consider is the card type. Are you looking for a company-branded or general travel credit card? These two types of cards have their pros and cons. The co-branded travel credit cards are often associated with an airline or a hotel and can offer exclusive perks. For instance, you can get a free check for your bags or extra hotel amenities. An example is the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature card which offers a free checked bag and annual companion fare starting at $121. You can only redeem the rewards with that particular company which is one of the downsides of co-branded cards.
The general travel credit cards, on the other hand, offer plenty of spending options. You can use your rewards to pay travel expenses or redeem them for a statement credit.
Another thing to look for in a travel credit card is the APR (Annual Percentage Rate). The APR is the borrowing cost on your card, and it can depend on your credit score. Some credit cards like Discover It Miles have 0% intro APR which means you enjoy interest-free balance transfers and purchases, and other cards may not have this intro offer.
Do you travel overseas? You might want to consider the card’s international use and charges. Visa and Master Card, for example, are widely used worldwide, while others may not work in all destinations around the globe. Some travel credit cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees, while others do. With a zero-foreign-fee card, you can make overseas purchases without any transaction costs.
Travel perks are also things to look for when shopping for a travel credit card. These cards come with travel benefits like travel insurance and airport lounge access. You can get reimbursement for lost or delayed baggage, trip delay, interruption or cancellation, and car rental damage.
Another variable to look for is the annual card fee. Discover It Miles, for instance, charges zero annual fees, while Chase Saphire Reserve charges a $550 annual fee.
How Do Travel Credit Cards Work?
A travel credit card helps you get travel points for every eligible purchase. Once you hit the redeemable limit, you can convert your travel credit card points to cash for your statement credit or use them to pay for your next flight or hotel stay.
For example, with Chase Saphire Reserve, you can get 5X points on flight purchases and 10X points on Chase Dining purchases. You can then convert them for travel purchases or statement credit and get 50% more.
Some travel credit cards have annual fees, while others require zero fees. Travel credit cards with annual fees offer more travel rewards and perks. Also, options to redeem your travel credit card points vary depending on your credit card company.
Best Travel Credit Cards To Save Money On Your Next Trip
The best time to get your travel credit card is now. We understand that picking the right travel credit card can be exciting and confusing, and we’ve analyzed and compiled a list of the nine best travel credit cards for you.
Discover it® Miles Credit Card
Why we like it:
- The Discover it® Miles card earns our recommendation for the 9 Best Credit Cards for Summer Travel for several reasons.
- First and foremost, the $0 annual fee makes it a cost-effective option for individuals who want to enjoy travel rewards without the burden of additional charges.
- The 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers is a valuable feature, especially for those planning significant travel expenses.
- Additionally, the card's ability to help reduce exposure of personal information online by assisting in removing it from select people-search sites is a unique and valuable security feature.
- The free access to FICO scores and Social Security number monitoring further enhances the overall value of the card. Furthermore, the wide acceptance of Discover cards nationwide ensures that cardholders can use it confidently during their summer travels.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Discover it® Miles card earns our recommendation for the 9 Best Credit Cards for Summer Travel for several reasons.
- First and foremost, the $0 annual fee makes it a cost-effective option for individuals who want to enjoy travel rewards without the burden of additional charges.
- The 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers is a valuable feature, especially for those planning significant travel expenses.
- Additionally, the card's ability to help reduce exposure of personal information online by assisting in removing it from select people-search sites is a unique and valuable security feature.
- The free access to FICO scores and Social Security number monitoring further enhances the overall value of the card. Furthermore, the wide acceptance of Discover cards nationwide ensures that cardholders can use it confidently during their summer travels.
- Discover it® Miles offers instant account freezing, Dark Web monitoring, and assistance in removing personal information, ensuring robust protection against potential security threats.
- Accepted nationwide by 99% of credit card-accepting locations, this card provides seamless and widespread usability for your summer travel needs.
- Enjoy a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, providing a valuable period of interest-free flexibility for managing expenses during your travels.
- No annual fee
- Unlimited 1.5x Miles on every purchase
- 0% intro APR for 15 months
- Discover Match® doubles Miles in the first year
- Flexible redemption options with no minimum amount
- Security features like account freeze, Dark Web monitoring, and personal information removal
- Access to FICO scores
- Rewards rate may be lower compared to travel cards with an annual fee
- Foreign acceptance may not be as widespread as Visa or Mastercard
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Credit Card
Why we like it:
- For travelers seeking a premium experience, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a top contender. The $300 Annual Travel Credit significantly offsets the annual fee, making the effective cost more manageable.
- The versatility of earning 3x points on dining and other travel, in addition to the elevated rewards for Chase Ultimate Rewards® travel portal bookings, caters to a broad range of spending habits.
- The card's complimentary airport lounge access, covering over 1,300 lounges worldwide, and the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS Fee Credit add an extra layer of convenience for frequent flyers.
- Furthermore, the 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs amplifies the card's value, allowing for strategic redemptions.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- For travelers seeking a premium experience, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a top contender. The $300 Annual Travel Credit significantly offsets the annual fee, making the effective cost more manageable.
- The versatility of earning 3x points on dining and other travel, in addition to the elevated rewards for Chase Ultimate Rewards® travel portal bookings, caters to a broad range of spending habits.
- The card's complimentary airport lounge access, covering over 1,300 lounges worldwide, and the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS Fee Credit add an extra layer of convenience for frequent flyers.
- Furthermore, the 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs amplifies the card's value, allowing for strategic redemptions.
- Enjoy 50% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase, maximizing the overall value of each point.
- Synergy with other Ultimate Rewards® cards allows users to consolidate points on the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, unlocking enhanced redemption opportunities.
- Receive a complimentary two-year membership and discounted third-year membership for Lyft Pink All Access, adding unique value beyond traditional travel benefits.
- A powerful card for travel enthusiasts with a winning combination of bonus categories and elevated redemption rates.
- From airport lounge access to travel credits, the card offers a comprehensive suite of perks for a premium travel experience.
- Transfer points to leading loyalty programs, enhancing flexibility and maximizing point value.
- While beneficial for frequent travelers, the $550 annual fee may be a deterrent for those with lower spending on travel and dining.
- The highest rewards are linked to Chase Ultimate Rewards® bookings, potentially restricting earning potential for those preferring alternative travel arrangements.
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Why we like it:
- The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card stands out as an excellent choice for summer travel. The combination of a valuable welcome offer, bonus rewards on everyday spending, and travel perks like a free checked bag and priority boarding make it a compelling option.
- The ongoing rewards structure ensures that cardholders can continue to accumulate miles beyond the initial bonus, enhancing the long-term value of the card.
- Additionally, the $100 Delta flight credit and the 20% savings on eligible in-flight purchases further contribute to the overall appeal of this card for frequent Delta travelers.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card stands out as an excellent choice for summer travel. The combination of a valuable welcome offer, bonus rewards on everyday spending, and travel perks like a free checked bag and priority boarding make it a compelling option.
- The ongoing rewards structure ensures that cardholders can continue to accumulate miles beyond the initial bonus, enhancing the long-term value of the card.
- Additionally, the $100 Delta flight credit and the 20% savings on eligible in-flight purchases further contribute to the overall appeal of this card for frequent Delta travelers.
- Earn a credit for future travel after reaching $10,000 in purchases in a calendar year, enhancing the card's ongoing value.
- Ideal for international travelers, the card eliminates foreign transaction fees, saving money on purchases made abroad.
- The innovative Send & Split® feature enables users to send money and split card purchases with Venmo or PayPal users directly from the Amex App, enhancing financial transaction convenience.
- Multipliers on various spending categories make the card versatile for everyday and travel expenses.
- Free checked bags, priority boarding, and in-flight purchase savings enhance the travel experience for Delta loyalists.
- Competitive, but may be considered a drawback, particularly after the first-year introductory period.
American Express® Gold Card
Why we like it:
- For those who frequently indulge in dining out and travel, the American Express® Gold Card stands out as a premier choice.
- The rewards structure is tailored to match the spending habits of foodies, and the annual credits help offset the card's fee.
- The ability to transfer points to various loyalty programs enhances the card's versatility, making it a well-rounded option for those seeking both luxury and practicality in their credit card.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- For those who frequently indulge in dining out and travel, the American Express® Gold Card stands out as a premier choice.
- The rewards structure is tailored to match the spending habits of foodies, and the annual credits help offset the card's fee.
- The ability to transfer points to various loyalty programs enhances the card's versatility, making it a well-rounded option for those seeking both luxury and practicality in their credit card.
- The metal card adds a touch of elegance.
- No foreign transaction fees make it an excellent companion for international travel.
- The $100 experience credit with a two-night stay through The Hotel Collection enhances the overall travel experience.
- Rich rewards for dining and travel-related expenses.
- Valuable annual credits that can significantly offset the annual fee.
- Points transferable to various loyalty programs.
- Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
- High annual fee, which may not be justified for those who don’t heavily spend on dining and travel.
- The dining and Uber credits might not be fully utilized by everyone.
- Limited introductory APR options.
Citi Premier® Credit Card
Why we like it:
- The Citi Premier® Card's $95 annual fee is justified by its versatile rewards program, making it a great fit for summer travel.
- The triple points on essential categories ensure that cardholders can maximize their rewards, especially during vacation season. The sign-up bonus and additional points for specific travel-related expenses provide a significant boost to the card's overall value.
- Moreover, the flexibility in redemption options, including the ability to transfer ThankYou® Points to participating airline loyalty programs, adds an extra layer of value.
- The absence of foreign transaction fees and $0 liability on unauthorized charges make it a reliable companion for international travel. While it may not outshine some competitors in every aspect, the Citi Premier® Card holds its ground as a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded travel credit card.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Citi Premier® Card's $95 annual fee is justified by its versatile rewards program, making it a great fit for summer travel.
- The triple points on essential categories ensure that cardholders can maximize their rewards, especially during vacation season. The sign-up bonus and additional points for specific travel-related expenses provide a significant boost to the card's overall value.
- Moreover, the flexibility in redemption options, including the ability to transfer ThankYou® Points to participating airline loyalty programs, adds an extra layer of value.
- The absence of foreign transaction fees and $0 liability on unauthorized charges make it a reliable companion for international travel. While it may not outshine some competitors in every aspect, the Citi Premier® Card holds its ground as a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded travel credit card.
- Ideal for globetrotters, the card ensures that you won't incur extra charges when using it abroad.
- The ability to transfer ThankYou® Points to participating airline loyalty programs opens up opportunities for maximizing the value of points.
- The annual hotel savings benefit adds extra value, helping offset the annual fee.
- Strong bonus points and additional points for specific travel expenses.
- Triple points on essential spending categories.
- No foreign transaction fees and flexible redemption options.
- Faces tough competition from other travel credit cards at a similar annual fee.
- Points may not offer as much value as some competitors, especially for travel redemptions.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
Why we like it:
- The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card is a great fit for those who prioritize flexibility and want to maximize their rewards without the burden of an annual fee.
- The ability to earn points on everyday purchases and redeem them for a variety of travel-related expenses makes it a versatile companion for summer adventures.
- The 0% intro APR adds another layer of appeal, providing financial flexibility for the initial 15 billing cycles.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card is a great fit for those who prioritize flexibility and want to maximize their rewards without the burden of an annual fee.
- The ability to earn points on everyday purchases and redeem them for a variety of travel-related expenses makes it a versatile companion for summer adventures.
- The 0% intro APR adds another layer of appeal, providing financial flexibility for the initial 15 billing cycles.
- Members can enjoy a 25%-75% boost in points, potentially earning up to 2.62 points for every $1 spent, further enhancing the card's value.
- The inclusion of contactless payment options ensures both security and convenience, making transactions a breeze, especially when on the go.
- No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
- 0% intro APR for the first 15 billing cycles.
- Flexible redemption options for travel and dining.
- Contactless payment for added convenience.
- Preferred Rewards bonus for enhanced point earning.
- Points for cash redemption have a lower value.
- Travel and dining redemptions are limited to the most recent 2,500 qualifying purchases.
Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan Credit Card
Why we like it:
- The Alaska Airlines Credit Card stands out as an exceptional choice for summer travel enthusiasts. The $0 introductory annual fee for the first year is a welcoming feature, allowing cardholders to explore its benefits without an immediate financial commitment.
- The variable APR is competitive, ensuring that responsible spenders can enjoy the perks without breaking the bank.
- What truly sets this card apart is its Mileage Plan rewards program. The ability to earn miles not only through Alaska Airlines but also with partner airlines significantly broadens the scope of travel possibilities.
- The versatility in redemption options, from seat upgrades to hotel stays, aligns perfectly with the needs of those planning exciting summer getaways. With award travel starting at just 5,000 miles, the Alaska Airlines Credit Card provides a pathway to fulfilling your travel bucket list without the usual constraints.
Annual Fees
$75
Regular APR
16.24%-24.24%
Credit Required
Good/Excellent
Annual Fees
$75
Regular APR
16.24%-24.24%
Credit Required
Good/Excellent
Why we like it:
- The Alaska Airlines Credit Card stands out as an exceptional choice for summer travel enthusiasts. The $0 introductory annual fee for the first year is a welcoming feature, allowing cardholders to explore its benefits without an immediate financial commitment.
- The variable APR is competitive, ensuring that responsible spenders can enjoy the perks without breaking the bank.
- What truly sets this card apart is its Mileage Plan rewards program. The ability to earn miles not only through Alaska Airlines but also with partner airlines significantly broadens the scope of travel possibilities.
- The versatility in redemption options, from seat upgrades to hotel stays, aligns perfectly with the needs of those planning exciting summer getaways. With award travel starting at just 5,000 miles, the Alaska Airlines Credit Card provides a pathway to fulfilling your travel bucket list without the usual constraints.
- Book stays at over 400,000 locations using your miles.
- Upgrade to First Class and experience luxury travel.
- No foreign transaction fees, making it an ideal companion for international adventures.
- Enjoy a 20% discount on Alaska Airlines in-flight purchases.
- Generous Mileage Plan rewards program with a wide network of partner airlines.
- Versatile redemption options, including low-mileage award travel.
- No foreign transaction fees for hassle-free international travel.
- First-year annual fee waiver.
- The $75 annual fee after the first year might be a deterrent for some budget-conscious travelers.
- The variable APR could be higher for those with lower credit scores.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Why we like it:
- The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card distinguishes itself as a top choice for summer travel for several reasons. Its high rewards rate on all purchases, not just travel-related ones, sets it apart from many competitors.
- The card's versatility in redeeming miles without restrictions on airlines or hotels aligns with the spontaneity often associated with summer travel. Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- The flexibility in redeeming miles, whether as a statement credit, for travel bookings through Capital One, or transferring to partner programs, provides cardholders with various options to maximize the value of their rewards.
- Travel-friendly perks like lounge access, a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, and no foreign transaction fees further enhance the overall travel experience.
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Annual Fees
Regular APR
Credit Required
Why we like it:
- The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card distinguishes itself as a top choice for summer travel for several reasons. Its high rewards rate on all purchases, not just travel-related ones, sets it apart from many competitors.
- The card's versatility in redeeming miles without restrictions on airlines or hotels aligns with the spontaneity often associated with summer travel. Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- The flexibility in redeeming miles, whether as a statement credit, for travel bookings through Capital One, or transferring to partner programs, provides cardholders with various options to maximize the value of their rewards.
- Travel-friendly perks like lounge access, a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, and no foreign transaction fees further enhance the overall travel experience.
- Miles with no expiration date and no earning limit.
- Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
- Two complimentary lounge visits per year.
- Transfer miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs.
Is It Worth Getting A Travel Credit Card?
The right travel credit card is worth it because you can use the reward points to cover your travel expenses. Travel credit card points can accumulate quickly, especially if you travel frequently. These credit cards’ extra travel perks can help you save time and guarantee coverage in unexpected emergencies.
Additionally, you can redeem travel points for statement credits or use them for your everyday shopping. A free checked bag offer can help you save several hundred dollars on your travels. Additionally, free passes to airport lounges and other amenities offered by credit cards can make your trip enjoyable.
Do you want to learn more about rewards credit cards? Here at Penny Calling Penny, we focus on helping you figure out the best credit card that fits your needs. Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest accurate and valuable information on credit cards sent straight to your inbox.