Best Credit Card for Traveling To Europe in 2024

  • Credit Cards

Are you going to travel to Europe in 2024?

Having the right rewards credit card in your wallet can both earn you cash back and save you money on transaction fees. The net positive from a card that does both can be worth hundreds of dollars on your trip!

So how do you know which card is right for your trip?

In this article, we’ll help you find your answer by addressing some important questions like:

  • Will the card I pick be accepted by European businesses?
  • How do I get the most credit card rewards for purchasing my travel to Europe?
  • Which card will earn me the most rewards on my spending while I’m in Europe?
  • Why is prioritizing a card with no foreign transaction fees so important?
  • Are there other junk fees attached to international credit card transactions?

We’ll also provide some recommendations for what we’ve deemed the “best” credit card options for traveling to Europe. You can read more about our full methodology here .

Best Credit Card for Traveling To Europe Right Now

5 things to consider when picking a credit card for european travel.

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article, there are several factors that can differentiate a good and bad choice for the credit card you use for traveling abroad.

Those factors are a little different for each consumer, but there are a few non-negotiables. And making the right decision could be worth hundreds of dollars!

Here are five things to consider before you apply:

  • Card acceptance in Europe: Mastercard and Visa are the most widely accepted credit card processors in Europe. So, while American Express and Discover have great card options that are widely accepted in the United States, it’s going to be best to avoid counting on them as your primary spender in Europe.
  • Foreign transaction fees are a big deal: You’re going to want a card that promises “no foreign transaction fees” for your trip to Europe. Many credit cards have a foreign transaction fee that is tacked onto every purchase you make outside of the United States. This can cost you 3% or more on each non-U.S. purchase. That can add up quickly!
  • Rewards program structure: This will be a substantial part of the potential cash back you could earn from your trip to Europe. Look for a card that offers at least 2% back all purchases. But know that some cards may offer 5% back or more on certain spending categories. Dining and travel may be bonus categories worth paying special attention to for this trip.
  • Maximize the rewards you can earn on your travel purchases: While you’re going to want to earn solid rewards on your spending while in Europe, it’s also important to ensure you’re getting good rewards on your airfare and hotel bookings. You may want to consider a travel credit card for these bookings. You may also be able to earn $500 or more by using a credit card with a strong welcome bonus .
  • Make sure you’re avoiding conversion fees at the point of purchase: This isn’t necessarily impacted by the credit card that you choose, but it’s something money expert Clark Howard wants everyone to know about spending while you travel. Oftentimes point-of-sale terminals will default to converting your purchase to U.S. dollars rather than using local currencies. That could result in an additional 10% or more being tacked onto your purchase. Double-check when you swipe to ensure that the transaction will be processed in the local currency.

Clark’s Favorite for Travel: Capital One Venture X Rewards Card

Why this card could work for traveling to europe.

This card is one of Clark’s favorites for travel .

You’ll earn at least 2% back in miles on all purchases and as much as 10% back in miles on travel that is booked through Capital One’s portal.

It will also net you lounge access in 2024, help you avoid foreign transaction fees and will cover the cost of your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership.

You may be concerned by the $395 annual fee, but there is an easy-to-redeem annual $300 travel credit available that effectively makes it a $95 per year card.

This card is in Clark Howard’s wallet , and it is his favorite travel credit card for a reason.

“I think it’s absolutely great,” Clark says. “How could I say that you should spend $395 per year on a card? They give you $300 of it back as travel credits for travel you purchase through their travel portal. So the net annual fee is $95. And on top of some travel benefits, you get free airport lounge access … Plus, you get 2x miles on all of your purchases, just like a 2% cash back card.”

Best for High-Volume Travel and Lounge Access: Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card

If you’re the type of person who is constantly on the go, you may benefit from having one of the “Cadillac” travel credit cards.

This card has a steep annual fee, but it provides some premium travel benefits that frequent flyers may consider worth the cost. And you get a chance to effectively slash that fee by earning a $300 travel credit each year.

You’ll get a membership to Priority Pass, which includes access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. In total, Chase boasts that it has more than $1,200 worth of partner benefits included with this card.

You can maximize the value of your travel purchases by booking through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.

Best for Welcome Bonus Offer: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

If you’re looking to earn a bonus for booking your travel to Europe, this card has an offer that could really add up. Chase makes the welcome bonus worth even more if you’re willing to redeem it for more travel within their Chase Ultimate Rewards ecosystem.

This card also offers point multipliers for spending on travel and dining, which are likely to be two key categories for your trip.

This card isn’t in Clark’s wallet, but it is another of his favorite travel card selections .

Best for Bonus Spending Categories: Citi Premier® Card

This is another travel card that offers a nice welcome bonus offer without a massive annual fee.

And you’ll earn 3 points per dollar spent on spending categories like gas, dining, hotels and air travel that could mesh well with your spending on the European trip.

Best for No Annual Fee: Wells Fargo Autograph Card

If you’re looking for a rewards credit card that has no annual fee, this could be the right choice for your upcoming trip.

Not only will you avoid an annual fee, but you’ll also avoid foreign transaction fees and have a chance to earn some nice rewards along the way.

You’ll have a welcome bonus opportunity, and you’ll get 3x points on purchases like dining, airfare, hotels, car rentals, public transit, gas and more. Those are likely to be some of your most-used spending categories during a trip to Europe.

Best for Everyday Cash Back Rewards: Alliant Visa Signature Card

This card could serve both as your go-to credit card for the European trip and as an everyday spender when you get back home.

You’ll have to sign up for a membership to this credit union to apply for the card and satisfy the account requirements to be considered a Tier 1 rewards member, but doing so will earn you 2.5% cash back on every purchase you make up to $10,000 per billing cycle.

Combining the 2.5% back with no foreign transaction fee and no annual fee could make this a really smart add to your wallet for spending while traveling abroad.

Methodology for Credit Card Analysis

For the purposes of determining which credit cards are “best,” we got input from Clark Howard and sought to find cards that fit his credit card strategy best.

Team Clark spent many hours reviewing the rewards credit cards on the market, assessing them for several factors including:

  • Annual fees
  • Rewards programs
  • Welcome offers
  • Length of introductory APR periods
  • Balance transfer introductory periods
  • Additional fees (transaction or otherwise)
  • Perks offered to cardholders
  • Reputation of the financial institution issuing the card

We did not factor in non-introductory APR as a part of the evaluation, because interest rates are going to vary based on your financial circumstances. Clark recommends never carrying a balance on credit cards, so the non-introductory interest rate shouldn’t matter for your card anyway.

We also did not include offerings from local or regional banks or credit unions because they’re not available to everyone. Often, local institutions will have desirable cards, so we recommend that you compare your local bank or credit union’s cash back credit cards to the ones that made this list.

Are you going to travel to Europe soon? Have experience using a credit card in Europe? What credit card is your choice? We’d love to hear from you in the Clark.com community .

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The 6 Best Travel Cards for Europe in 2024

If you’re traveling to Europe, a travel money card can make spending and withdrawing cash when you’re away cheaper and more convenient. Different types of travel money cards, including travel debit cards, prepaid travel cards and travel credit cards, are available to support different customer needs. The right one for you will depend on your personal preference and how you like to manage your money. 

Read on for all you need to know, including a closer look at travel money card types, some great options to consider, and the sorts of fees you need to think about when you choose. 

Wise – good value debit card for Europe

Before we get into details about different travel money card options, let’s start with the Wise card as a good all-round option that allows you to hold and spend euros, as well as a diverse range of other European and world currencies.

Wise accounts have the flexibility to hold and exchange more than 40 currencies, plus you can get a linked Wise card for a one-time delivery fee. You can either top up your account in dollars and switch to EUR, RON, HUF, NOK, DKK, SEK or any of the other supported European currencies before you travel, or you can let the card automatically switch currencies as required. All currency conversion uses the mid-market exchange rate, with fees from as low as 0.43%. 

You can also get EUR , RON and HUF bank account details, as well as local account details for up to 7 other currencies, to receive payments easily to your Wise account . 

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using the Wise travel money debit card , to help you decide if it's suitable for you.

What is a travel money card?

A travel money card can be used for payments online and in stores, and for cash withdrawals, just like your regular bank card can be. However, with a travel money card you’ll find the features and fees have been optimized for international use. That might mean you get a better exchange rate compared to using your normal card overseas, or that you run into fewer fees. Some travel cards also have options to earn cashback and rewards when you use your card internationally.

6 travel money cards for Europe compared

We’ll look at each of these card options in a little more detail in just a moment, but let’s start with an overview of how 6 top travel money cards for Europe line up side by side:

As you can see, the features of different travel money cards can vary pretty widely. In general travel debit cards can be convenient and often fairly cheap to use, while travel credit cards can offer some nice perks like cashback or rewards - but do mean you might run into interest and late payment charges, depending on how you choose to pay.

Travel debit cards often let you top up a linked account online or through an app, so you can set your budget and can’t spend more than you intend. Travel credit cards on the other hand let you spend to your card limit, and then repay the amount over a few months if you’d prefer to. Which is best for you will come down to how you like to manage your money - we’ll dive into a few more details about each card type, next.

What are different types of travel cards?

Broadly speaking, US customers are able to select a travel money card from either a regular bank or a specialist provider, which may be a travel debit card, travel prepaid card or a travel credit card. We’ll walk through what each travel money card type is, and pick out a couple of good card options, so you can compare and choose.

  • Travel debit cards
  • Travel prepaid cards
  • Travel credit cards

1. Travel Debit Cards for Europe

Travel debit cards are usually offered by specialist providers, with linked digital accounts you can use to hold and convert a currency balance. While different cards have their own features, travel debit cards can usually be topped up easily online and through an app, with the option to see your balance and get transaction notifications through your phone too. That makes it easier to keep on top of your money, no matter where in the world you are.

Travel debit card Option 1: Wise

Wise is a good value travel money debit card for Europe. There’s no fee to open a Wise account , and just a small delivery fee for your Wise card, with no minimum balance and no monthly charge. You just pay low Wise fees from 0.43% when you convert currencies, and transparent ATM fees when you exhaust the monthly free transactions available with your account.

  • No fee to open a Wise account, no minimum balance requirement
  • 9 USD one time fee to get your Wise card
  • 2 withdrawals, to 100 USD value per month for free, then 1.5 USD + 2%
  • Hold EUR and 40+ other currencies, convert between them with the mid-market rate
  • Get local account details to receive EUR and 8 other currencies

Travel debit card Option 2: Revolut

Revolut has a selection of different account tiers, so you can simply pick the account you prefer - from no-fee Standard plans to the 16.99 USD/month Metal plan. All Revolut accounts have linked cards, although exactly what type of card you get depends on your account tier. You can hold around 25 currencies including EUR, and convert currencies with the mid-market rate to your plan’s allowance. 

  • No fee to open a Standard Revolut account, or upgrade for up to 16.99 USD/month 
  • Card delivery fees may apply depending on your account tier
  • All accounts have some no-fee applied currency conversion with 0.5% fair usage fees after that
  • Standard plan holders can withdraw 400 USD overseas per month without paying fees
  • Hold EUR and around 25 other currencies

Pros and cons of using debit travel cards in Europe

How to choose the best travel debit card for europe.

The best travel debit card for Europe really depends on your personal preferences and how you like to manage your money. If you’ll be traveling widely it makes sense to look for an account with mid-market currency exchange and a large selection of supported currencies as well as EUR, like Wise . Other providers like Revolut can also be a good pick, particularly if you’ll use your account very frequently and would prefer to pay a monthly fee to unlock lots of no fee transactions and extra perks.

Is there a spending limit with a travel debit card in Europe?

Different providers set their own limits for card use. Limits may apply daily, weekly or monthly, and can apply to different types of transactions. You might find you have a limit to the amount of ATM withdrawals you can make per day, for example, or the value of contactless payments - these limits are set for security and can sometimes be managed and changed in the provider’s app.

2. Prepaid Travel Cards for Europe

With a prepaid travel card you’ll need to order a card and add funds, to pay merchants and make cash withdrawals. While prepaid travel cards are usually issued on large global networks - and can therefore be used pretty widely - not all cards are accepted globally, so you’ll need to check network coverage in your destination country.

Prepaid travel card option 1: Bluebird American Express prepaid debit card

You can order a Bluebird prepaid debit card for free online. You’ll then be able to top up in cash or from a bank account. You can also add checks or have funds deposited by others - fees apply for some top up methods. While this card doesn’t allow you to hold foreign currencies, you won’t pay a foreign transaction fee to spend your USD balance abroad, which makes it a good choice when you’re away from home.

  • Get a card for free by ordering online
  • Top up in a range of ways in USD
  • No foreign transaction fee when spending overseas
  • ATM withdrawal fees of 2.5 USD or the equivalent when overseas
  • American Express cards are not always accepted internationally - check coverage before you travel
  • No interest to pay 

Prepaid travel card option 2: Discover it Secured

Discover it Secured is a credit card, but we’ve included it in our roundup of prepaid cards because it’s a secured card, which means you’ll need to pay an upfront deposit, and can then spend to that deposit level every month. Clear off your bill in full to avoid interest, and you could build a credit score, earn cashback and get no foreign transaction fees when you spend overseas, too.

  • No annual card fee, although interest charges and late payment fees do apply
  • No foreign transaction fees for spending overseas
  • ATM withdrawal fees may apply including a 10 USD cash advance fee
  • Earn cashback on spending and build credit as you do so
  • Discover network is not always internationally supported - check your destination before you travel

Pros and cons of using prepaid travel cards in Europe

How to choose the best travel prepaid card for europe.

There’s no single best travel prepaid card for Europe - it’ll come down to your personal preference. If you’re looking specifically for a prepaid debit card you can use in Europe with no foreign transaction fee, try the Bluebird card option. However, if a credit card suits you, the Discover it Secured can be a strong pick thanks to the cash back options available.    

Is there a spending limit with a prepaid card in Europe?

Different prepaid travel cards set their own limits for spending and withdrawals, which can  vary between currencies. You’ll need to check your card’s terms and conditions carefully to make sure you pick a provider which suits your needs.

3. Travel Credit Cards for Europe

Travel credit cards typically offer some extra international features compared to regular credit cards, such as low or no foreign transaction fees or extra option to earn rewards when you’re abroad. In general, travel credit cards are safe and convenient but can be more expensive compared to using a debit card option. Before you select the right card for you it’s important to check the fees, rates, eligibility rules and interest rates which apply, so you can make sure it’s a good fit for you.

Travel credit card option 1: Capital One Venture Rewards

The Capital One Venture Rewards card has no foreign transaction fees when you spend overseas. There’s also a comparatively low cash advance fee when you use an ATM, at 3 USD or 3% whichever is higher. You’ll need to repay your bill in full every month to avoid fees and interest, but can earn travel rewards and miles on your day to day spending.

  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Earn travel rewards on spending 
  • Get extras like lounge access and free travel insurance
  • International spending uses the network exchange rate 
  • Variable interest rates which apply if you don’t pay off your bill in full

Travel credit card option 2: Chase Sapphire Preferred

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card has a variable interest rate with no foreign transaction fee to pay. However, you’ll need to pay a 95 USD annual card charge to get your card in the first place. Currency conversion uses the network exchange rate - plus there are benefits and rewards available for cardholders.

  • Variable interest rates and a 95 USD annual fee
  • Check your eligibility and order a card online easily
  • Network exchange rates apply

Pros and cons of using credit cards in Europe

How to choose the best travel credit card for europe.

The best travel credit card for Europe will depend on your personal preferences. If you’re interested in earning rewards and cash back on your overseas spending, a travel rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred could be a good bet as it has no foreign transaction fee and offers rewards on all spending. Whichever card you’re considering you’ll want to weigh up the potential fees you’ll need to pay against the rewards you can earn to make sure it’s worthwhile.

If you are looking to get more information about the country that you're travelling to, you can check out our travel card guides:

  • Best travel cards for Spain
  • Best travel cards for Italy
  • Best travel cards for France
  • Best travel cards for Turkey
  • Best travel cards for Canada

Which cards are accepted in Europe?

It’s important to know that you may find that different card networks are more popular in one country than they may be in another. For example, while Visa and Mastercard are pretty widely accepted globally, other popular US card networks, like American Express and Discover cards are less likely to be accepted in some countries and regions. In most cases it’s best to carry more than one means of payment when you travel - for example a credit card and a specialist travel money card which has been issued on a different network - so that you always have a plan B if your preferred payment method isn’t available.

Related:  How to buy Euro in the US

Conclusion: Which travel money card is best for Europe?

If you’ve planned travel to Europe you might want to pick a travel money card for EUR spending, or to spend in any of the other currencies used in European countries, like Polish zloty or Bulgarian lev. Travel money cards have different features, and can be picked up via regular banks or online specialists. 

You could opt for a low cost travel debit card which comes with a linked account to hold a selection of currencies - like the Wise account. Or you might prefer a prepaid travel money card like the Bluebird American Express debit card which can be linked to a fee free account. Finally, another option is to get a travel credit card either to earn cashback and rewards, or to avoid foreign transaction fees. 

Use this guide to start your research and pick the right option for your specific needs.

Go to Wise Go to Revolut

FAQ - Best travel cards for Europe 2024

1. Which card is best to use in Europe?

There’s no single best card to use in Europe. Which is right for you will depend on your preferences and where exactly you’re headed to. While many countries in Europe use euros, there are also quite a lot of other currencies - so having a multi-currency account from a provider like Wise or Revolut can be a good bet as you’ll be able to hold and exchange EUR alongside dozens of other major currencies for convenience.

Related: Best Euro cards

2. What is the best way to pay when traveling in Europe?

Spending with your card is convenient when traveling in Europe, but you’ll be best off having several different payment methods just in case your first choice isn’t supported. For example, you could choose 2 different debit or credit cards, issued on different networks, and you could also get euros in advance so you have some cash on you for those times when cards aren’t available.

3. Can you withdraw cash with a credit card in Europe?

You can usually make cash withdrawals with a credit card in Europe at any ATM that supports your card network. You’ll often find that a fee applies, and you may start to accumulate interest on the withdrawn amount immediately. Travel money debit cards from providers like Wise and Revolut can be a lower cost option for cash withdrawals in EUR.

4. Can I use a US card in Europe?

You can use your US card anywhere you see the card network’s logo displayed. Visa and Mastercard networks are very well supported globally, including in Europe, making these good options to look out for when you pick your travel debit card for Europe.

5. Are prepaid cards safe?

Prepaid cards from reputable providers are safe to use at home and abroad. They aren’t linked to your main bank account which can offer extra peace of mind, and may also make it easier to manage your travel budget. However, you’ll need to check the card features and fees carefully to make sure you're getting the best match for your needs.

6. What are the main fees for travel cards when traveling?

The fees applied for travel cards can vary widely depending on the provider and the card type. With debit cards you may find ATM fees, and costs for converting currencies, although specialist providers like Wise and Revolut have linked multi-currency accounts which can bring down the costs of currency conversion. Credit card fees include cash advance charges, foreign transaction fees and interest.

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Top Credit Cards For Travel In Europe

Bio photo for Jason Steele

A trip to Europe is often on the list of would-be travelers. With a long list of attractive destinations, the cost of a European trip can skyrocket.

That's why the right travel  credit card is one of the most important items that you can bring on your trip. Not only can it help you save money, it can also provide a more comfortable travel experience.

Here are four of the top credit cards to consider signing up for before your next trip to Europe:

Chase Sapphire Preferred

Chase Sapphire Preferred offers a rewards program fit for those who travel and dine out regularly. Each point can be redeemed for 1.25 cents worth of travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program.

The points can also be converted to airline miles or hotel points with 11 different travel partners.

The card also offers travel benefits such as trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, lost and delayed luggage reimbursement, and travel and emergency assistance services.

There is a $95 annual fee for this card and no foreign transaction fees. Usually, the sign-up bonus is worth hundreds of dollars in free travel.

Citi Prestige

Citi Prestige offers numerous advantages for European travelers.

For example, you and a guest receive access to the airport lounges of the American Airlines Admiral's Club and the Priority Pass Select network, which has extensive locations in European airports.

You also receive a $100 fee credit towards an application in the Global Entry program, which offers you access to both the TSA PreCheck expedited domestic security screening program and fast-track kiosks when entering the United States from abroad.

This card also features a $250 annual Air Travel credit that you can apply towards airline tickets, baggage fees, and in-flight purchases, as well as receiving a statement credit, up to $100 every 5 years, as reimbursement for your application fee for Global Entry or TSA Pre Check.

Another benefit is a complimentary fourth night for any hotel stay hotels booked through Citi Prestige Concierge.

This card also has numerous benefits including trip cancellation and interruption coverage, lost and delayed baggage protection, and worldwide rental car insurance that covers you in every country without restrictions.

Rewards include 3x points for airfare and hotel purchases, 2x points for dining and entertainment, and one point per dollar spent elsewhere.

Citi ThankYou points can be redeemed for travel reservations, gift cards, and merchandise, or transferred to airline miles or hotel points. There is a $450 annual fee for this card and no foreign transaction fees.

Discover it Miles

The Discover it Miles card is ideal for budget travelers as it has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.

With this card, you earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases, with no limits on the amount of rewards you can earn and no expiration date.

Reward points can be redeemed redeem for 1 cent each as statement credits towards travel reservations.

Choosing a credit card for European travel

Credit cards work largely the same in Europe as they do in the United States, but there are a few important differences that go into picking the right one for your trip.

Shop safer in Europe with EMV chip security

European merchants tend to use credit cards with microchips embedded on the front, rather than swiping the old magnetic stripes on the back.

In fact, these chips are often called EMV smart chips, and that stands for Europay, MasterCard, and Visa, the companies that created this standard.

The American credit card industry started deploying chip-enabled credit cards and terminals in 2015, and nearly all U.S. credit cards are offered with an EMV smart chip.

If for some reason your card doesn't have one, simply contact your card issuer and ask to have it replaced with a chip card, which they should do at no additional cost.

Nevertheless, there are two different implementations of smart chip credit cards called chip-and-signature and chip-and-PIN.

Most credit cards issued to Americans will only work with the chip-and-signature method, and most European merchants will accept it.

However, there are some unattended kiosks at train stations, gas stations and toll booths that may still require chip-and-PIN, so it can be helpful to have a card that is compatible with both kinds of terminals.

Avoid expensive foreign transaction fees

Another vital factor in choosing a credit card for overseas travel is avoiding foreign transaction fees. Many credit cards impose a 3% foreign transaction fee on all charges processed outside of the United States.

These charges provide no value to cardholders and generate pure profit for card issuers, but fortunately, there are an increasing number of credit cards that no longer add this costly and unnecessary fee.

Travel perks for more comfortable travel in Europe

Finally, you may want a card that offers valuable travel benefits that you can use on your trip.

For example, trip cancellation, interruption, and delay policies can reimburse you for out of pocket costs when your travel plans go awry .

Insurance for lost and delayed baggage can also be useful when you have to be without your luggage for several days while the airlines attempt to find and deliver it.

Most credit cards come with automobile rental insurance, but some don't cover popular European tourist destinations like Italy and Ireland.

Finally, there are other premium travel benefits that can be enjoyable such as access to airport lounges and fee credits for expedited access to domestic security screening upon departure and U.S. Customs and Immigration upon arrival.

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Key takeaways

  • Make sure your credit card will be widely accepted at your destination, with capabilities for chip-and-PIN transactions.
  • Save money by going with cards that don't charge foreign transaction fees and offer travel insurance protection.
  • Some cards also offer welcome bonuses that could offset your costs and credits for the Global Entry program that can expedite your entry into the U.S. when you return from your trip.

Europe continues to be a top travel destination for 2024, but even though inflation in the U.S. is slowing , it’s still a factor when it comes to European travel expenses . That’s why it’s all the more important to remember that your dollars (and points) can often go a lot further abroad.

Whether traveling during the high season or snagging off-peak discounts, you can enjoy all the best that Europe offers without breaking the bank. But why just lean on a strong dollar when you can tack on additional savings with your credit card? From covering airfare and hotels to protecting your biggest travel expenses, the right credit card can make your trip cheaper and more convenient.

But with so many card options, it’s easier said than done. Luckily, we have you covered with questions you should ask and the features you should look for as you choose a card for traveling to Europe.

How to choose the best credit card for European travel

The right travel credit card will save you money while making it easy to accumulate and redeem rewards. The following steps can help you narrow down your choices and find the best travel card to add to your wallet before you head to Europe:

1. Compare cards that are widely accepted

First, make sure any credit card you take to Europe is widely accepted. The Visa and Mastercard networks, for example, offer wider acceptance abroad than Discover and American Express.

While you can certainly bring your Amex and Discover cards, it’s best to pack a backup. That way, you won’t get stuck in a stressful situation where you can’t pay for something because your card isn’t accepted.

Does your card have chip-and-PIN capability?

If you use your credit card in Europe, you might be surprised when the cashier asks for a PIN. Chip-and-PIN credit cards are more common in Europe and considered more secure than the chip-and-signature cards we have in the U.S. But not to worry — lots of popular U.S. credit cards are equipped with this technology. They include the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , Citi Premier® Card and Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card .

To find out if your credit card is chip-and-PIN enabled, call your issuer and ask if you can set up a PIN. Many rewards credit cards allow you to set a PIN on activation. The last thing you want during your trip to Europe is for your card to be rejected because you don’t have PIN capability. Find out ahead of your trip and set it up, if possible.

2. Prioritize cards with substantial welcome bonuses

If you’re headed to Europe, consider picking up a new credit card offering a lucrative welcome bonus. Whether you want to cover some of your travel expenses or use your travel spending to meet credit card spending requirements , the timing could work out to your advantage.

A hotel credit card in particular can help you cover a few hotel nights. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card * is an excellent pick, because it comes with an intro offer of up to 250,000 bonus points for five free night awards (valued at up to 50,000 points each night) after you spend $5,000 on purchases in your first three months from your account opening. The card’s $95 annual fee is reasonable, especially if you’re saving hundreds of dollars on hotel bookings.

An airline credit card welcome bonus can save you even more money by covering the cost of airfare to Europe. For example, the United℠ Explorer Card * offers 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 within the first three months of account opening. This bonus could cover one or more round-trip tickets to Europe depending on fare class and travel dates.

Transferable rewards earned with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Citi Premier can provide even more flexibility, allowing you to transfer your points to frequent flyer programs with the issuer’s partners. According to Bankrate’s latest valuations , transferring points to high-value partners is one of the most lucrative ways to get the most out of your points.

The Citi Premier bonus is among the highest for transferable points, offering 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 within the first three months of account opening. You can use those points for flights to Europe through transfer partners like:

  • Avianca for LifeMiles
  • Air France/ KLM for Flying Blue miles
  • Turkish Airlines for Miles&Smiles
  • Virgin Atlantic Flying Club for Virgin Points

Virgin Atlantic has one of the cheapest award tickets to Europe, starting at just 10,000 miles each way in economy class.

3. Make sure the card’s rewards structure offers bonus points on travel and dining

Like most people who travel abroad for vacation, you might be tempted to splurge a little during your trip to Europe. You’ll want a credit card that will reward you generously for these purchases. Your biggest expenses will likely be travel and dining, which is why a card like the American Express® Gold Card would be ideal to bring along. The card earns 4X points on dining worldwide and 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or through the Amex Travel portal.

If you’re looking for even higher rewards potential, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers 10X miles on hotel and rental car bookings through Capital One Travel. You’ll also earn 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel and 2X miles on all other purchases. So whether you’re planning to shop till you drop or splurge on hotels, you’ll earn generous rewards with this card.

4. Avoid cards with foreign transaction fees

Earning lots of points during your Europe adventure should be a priority, but not if you have to pay 3 percent or more in foreign transaction fees . You can avoid these pesky fees by opting for a credit card with no foreign transaction fees .

Most travel rewards cards, like the popular Sapphire Preferred Card and the Venture Rewards Credit Card, waive these fees, allowing you to earn points and protect your purchases without an added cost.

But you don’t need to commit to a travel rewards card with a high annual fee to get this perk. Some of the best no-annual-fee cards — like the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card — also offer no foreign transaction fees when you use your card abroad.

Most importantly, you’ll want to be aware of popular credit cards that don’t waive this fee, like the Citi Double Cash® Card and Chase Freedom Unlimited® *. Avoid the penalty for using your credit card abroad by skipping these cards in favor of ones that waive the fees.

5. Get a card that improves your travel experience

Your credit card should be helpful not just when you’re shopping in Europe, but also while you’re dealing with the hassles and headaches that come from navigating airports, public transportation and more. The following questions can help you prioritize a card that makes traveling less stressful :

What kind of travel protections does this card offer?

Many people who travel internationally, including to Europe, buy travel insurance to protect their trip. And it’s a good idea: If your trip is canceled or interrupted due to illness or other covered reasons, insurance will reimburse any non-refundable travel expenses. This layer of protection can save you thousands of dollars in an emergency.

But you don’t have to pay for this safety net if you have the right credit card in your wallet. Quite a few credit cards include travel protection such as trip interruption or cancellation coverage, trip delay reimbursement, travel accident insurance, lost luggage reimbursement and primary rental coverage.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers some of the most comprehensive coverage available if you charge your travel expenses to the card, including:

  • Emergency evacuation and transportation coverage of up to $100,000 per trip
  • Primary auto rental collision damage waiver of up to $75,000 for theft or collision damage
  • Trip cancellation/interruption insurance of up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip
  • Lost luggage reimbursement of up to $3,000 per person
  • Trip delay reimbursement of up to $500 per ticket

By choosing a card with robust, built-in travel protections, you can at least have peace of mind that you’ll be covered if not everything goes smoothly during your trip.

Will you get a Global Entry fee credit from this card?

Having Global Entry can make your return home from Europe much more pleasant. This trusted traveler program gets you expedited entry into the U.S. While everyone else stands in a long line at passport control, you can skip to the Global Entry kiosk, scan your passport and get waved through in a matter of minutes. If you have Global Entry, you’ll also be enrolled in TSA PreCheck, which gets you into an expedited line for security screening in the U.S. where you keep your shoes and light jacket on.

The Global Entry application fee is a downright bargain at just $100 for five years. However, you can get this fee reimbursed with certain credit cards . They include the Capital One Venture, Chase Sapphire Reserve and United Explorer Card. The Global Entry application fee credit alone offsets the first year’s annual fee on a couple of these cards. While it’s not the only benefit you should consider when choosing a travel credit card for European sightseeing, enough credit cards offer it that it’s worth being mindful of.

Will this card make airport travel easier?

Navigating new airports is often one of the most stressful parts of vacationing abroad, especially if you’re visiting large hubs like those in Paris, Madrid, Istanbul and London. Many premium travel credit cards offer airport lounge access that can make it easier to relax at an airport while you’re waiting on your next flight. These airport lounges can include everything from free food and kids rooms to shower amenities and full-service bars.

The best cards for airport lounge access when it comes to European travel will typically include airline-specific lounge access or access to a broader program like Priority Pass . With Priority Pass Select, you’ll have access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide as opposed to those just tied to one airline.

The Platinum Card® from American Express is widely considered a top choice for luxury travel benefits, and its robust international airport lounge access is one of the main reasons why. With this card, you’ll get access to:

  • The Centurion Network, which includes Amex Centurion Lounges and Escape Lounges
  • Delta Sky Club lounges, when flying Delta
  • Lufthansa lounges, when flying Lufthansa
  • Priority Pass Select, which is the credit card-specific version of Priority Pass

Keep in mind that while the Amex Platinum beats out plenty of other cards when it comes to airport lounge access, it also comes with a hefty annual fee of $695. This fee likely won’t be worth it unless you plan on traveling frequently and have the annual spending to offset the fee.

The bottom line

Europe is becoming increasingly cashless, and traveling with a credit card is practically mandatory these days. While you can get by with any credit card, choosing the right one will make traveling much easier for you. You won’t have to worry about your card not being accepted, you’ll earn points as you spend and you won’t incur additional fees in the process. If you take it a step further, you can even improve your travel experience and offset the cost entirely. Best of all, you’ll have peace of mind and can focus on enjoying your trip.

Issuer-required disclosure statement *Information about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card, United℠ Explorer Card has been collected independently by Bankrate. Card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.

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Travel Cards for Europe – The Best Options for Travellers! 

Wallet with Euros and Travel Cards for Europe

Choosing the right travel card for Europe can be complicated. There are a lot of factors to consider: exchange rates, fees for spending or withdrawing, type of card, payment processors, plus travel rewards and perks. 

Get it right and you’ll be a budgeting ninja – you’ll know exactly how much you’ve spent and how you’re going to pay for everything you need. Get it wrong and you’ll be more clumsy clown than ninja! Hefty bank fees, poor exchange rates and potentially being unable to access your hard-earned money are all risks you take when you pick the wrong bank card for European travel. 

We’ve trawled the internet for information about travel money cards, so you don’t have to. This research, combined with our own experiences and recommendations from our backpacking community on the ground, has helped us put together this shortlist of the best travel money cards for Europe.

Top Three European Travel Cards 

Revolut

  • Available to European Economic Area residents.
  • Limited fee-free withdrawals.
  • Use the interbank exchange rate.

Starling

  • Only available to UK residents. 
  • Unlimited fee-free withdrawals
  • Use the Mastercard exchange rate.

Wise

  • Fee-free withdrawals depending on the country the card was issued in.
  • Multi-currency accounts.
  • Low fees when transferring money. 

Related: (links open in a new tab)

  • Cheapest Cities in Europe
  • Cheapest Countries in Europe
  • Europe Budget Guide

Types of Travel Card for Europe

Debit cards for travel .

You’re bound to be familiar with debit cards. They’re provided with almost every current account as standard. The idea is that money is taken from your account as soon as it’s spent, making it easy to keep track and avoid spending more than you can afford. But not all debit cards are created equal. 

Many traditional banks charge ridiculous fees for using your card abroad or withdrawing money from foreign ATMs. On top of this, they often deliver a poor exchange rate, meaning the bank profits from you swapping your money into a foreign currency. 

Revolut Debit Card

Travel debit cards from digital or challenger banks tend to be much better for use in Europe. There are very few charges and you can usually withdraw at least some cash without paying foreign withdrawal fees. The exchange rate at challenger banks tends to be better too, often sticking to the official Mastercard or interbank rate. This means you can be sure the bank isn’t profiting from you needing some euros! 

Prepaid Travel Cards for Europe 

A prepaid travel card is essentially a debit card that needs to be topped up from your bank account. You can top them up using online banking, via an app or in certain stores and establishments. When the funds are loaded, you can use the card as a regular debit card. 

Until the relatively recent rise of digital banks, prepaid euro cards were an excellent choice for anyone travelling the continent. While they still have plenty of fees attached, they’re cheaper than traditional banks. However, with the swell of challenger banks offering excellent debit cards for travel, there’s no real need to use a prepaid card anymore.

iPhone and Credit/Debit/Prepaid Card

If you do opt for a prepaid euro card, ensure you understand the fees and exchange rates. Prepaid cards that take multiple currencies may offer a fantastic exchange rate if you convert the money to euros straight away. But, if you load the card with your home currency, the exchange rate for each foreign transaction is generally much worse. It’s also worth noting that some even charge you to a small fee to top up! 

Credit Cards for Travel in Europe

Travel credit cards are an excellent way to save money in Europe – but only if you’re careful! Make sure you pay off the balance each month. If you don’t, the interest you’ll need to pay will negate any savings you’d otherwise make. 

Most credit cards for travel offer fee-free transactions, no matter where you are in Europe. However, very few offer fee-free cash withdrawals – and even if they do, there is usually a higher interest rate attached to withdrawing cash on a credit card.

American Express Credit Card for Europe

As well as fee-free transactions, travel credit cards tend to offer points for every pound, dollar or euro you spend. These points add up over time and can be redeemed for air miles, hotel stays and a range of other incentives, including cold hard cash! Exactly what is on offer will depend on your credit card provider, so shop around to make sure you get the best deal! 

Direct Debit Travel Card 

Direct debit travel cards offer a unique way to save money in Europe: simpler than opening a new bank account, easier than getting a new credit card and far less faff than choosing a good prepaid euro card, direct debit travel cards are changing the game. 

They connect to your normal bank account and you use them as a traditional debit card. The only difference is that the transaction goes through the travel card provider who act as an intermediary between your bank and the card machine you’re using. This step means your bank won’t charge you foreign transaction fees, saving you a small fortune! 

The Best Money Cards for Europe!

  • Available to customers from the European Economic Area as well as many more countries!
  • Multi-currency accounts on offer
  • Limited free foreign withdrawals

Available to customers from many countries – As well as being available to anyone with an address in the European Economic Area , Revolut offer accounts to anyone from Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, UK, USA, Japan and Brazil. Revolut also offer ‘lite’ accounts to customers from other countries too! 

Visa or Mastercard – Whether you get a Mastercard or Visa Revolut debit card will depend on where you live and where your account is registered. Both Visa and Mastercard work across Europe, so you won’t have an issue with either! 

Spending and Withdrawals – Revolut allow you to withdraw £200GBP ( the exact amount may be slightly different in your local currency ), or make five withdrawals per month fee-free. After this, a 2% cash withdrawal fee kicks in. You also get limited fee-free card transactions each month. The first £1000GBP spent on your card (not including cash withdrawals) comes with no additional fees. After the first £1000GBP, a 0.5-1% fee applies to every transaction. With Revolut’s paid accounts, the withdrawal and spending limits are higher. 

App-Based – Revolt offer full control of your account through the app. You can open a current account, multi-currency account, invest, lock the card and create single-use digital debit cards all from the comfort of your sofa – no more needing to queue up at the bank to tell them you’re going travelling! 

Accommodation Bookings – Revolut Stays allows you to book accommodation through the Revolut app and get 3-10% cashback!

  • Free foreign withdrawals
  • Deluxe accounts available for an additional fee
  • Uses the interbank exchange rate
  • Free withdrawals are limited to a certain amount of money each month
  • Exchange rate changes at the weekend
  • Fee-free foreign spending is limited

Starling Bank

Starling Bank

  • Fee-free foreign withdrawals and transactions
  • Uses the Mastercard exchange rate 
  • Account set-up is quick and easy

Withdrawals – Starling allow you to withdraw up to £300GBP or make six withdrawals per day . There are no foreign withdrawal fees and Starling uses the Mastercard exchange rate with no markup. There are also no fees for using your card to pay directly when in Europe!

Ethical Banking – Starling seem determined to do things differently. They have clear ethical and environmental goals laid out on their website . While your typical high street bank is investing your money in firearms, tobacco, alcohol and fossil fuels, Starling opt for ethical investing! 

Works Across Europe – Starling Bank provide a Mastercard with their accounts. This works almost everywhere in Europe! 

Helps You Budget – Thanks to spending notifications, spending categories, saving spaces and goals, Starling helps you accurately budget before and during your trip. You can create a virtual debit card for each saving space, allowing you to closely monitor your spending while you travel in Europe!

  • No fees on foreign spending or withdrawals
  • Easily replaces your traditional bank
  • Full control from your phone
  • Only available to those with a UK address

Wise

  • No fee for foreign transactions
  • Multi-currency account – hold up to 50 currencies at once
  • Some free foreign withdrawals – the exact amount depends on where you live and where the account is registered

Perfect for Digital Nomads – If your work involves clients in multiple countries, Wise has you covered. A Wise account allows you to be paid in and store multiple currencies. 

Visa or Mastercard – Wise provide either a Visa or Mastercard depending on where you live and where your account is registered. However, not all Wise customers are eligible for a debit card with their account, this also depends where you live. See the full list of card-eligible countries here . 

Fees for Withdrawing Cash – Wise offer some free cash withdrawals each month. The exact amount you can withdraw before incurring fees depends on where you live and where the account the registered. 

Fees for Foreign Transactions – Wise allow you to spend money on your card fee-free but only if you have the correct currencies stored in your account. If not, they charge a small conversion fee for each transaction. 

  • Available to residents of almost every country
  • Can store and spend multiple currencies with one account
  • Low international transfer fees
  • Not all accounts come with a debit card (it depends on where you live)
  • The card doesn’t work in every country

Chime

  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Uses Visa’s live exchange rate
  • Works in all European countries

Fees – Although you can access a network of over 60,000 ATMs fee-free in the USA, you’ll need to pay a $2.50USD fee to withdraw money abroad with your Chime debit card. However, there are no international transaction fees with Chime, so you can pay for things on your card without having to stump up for an additional fee. 

Exchange Rate – When spending abroad with your Chime debit card, you’ll get the live Visa exchange rate. While fractionally worse than the Mastercard exchange rate, it’s still much better than using a money changer or letting traditional banks dictate the exchange rate. Remember to always pay in the local currency if you see the option on an ATM or card terminal! 

App and Website – Both Chime’s smartphone app and website give you an excellent level of control of your account. Make sure you enable international spending either through the app or website, so you can use the card abroad! Failure to do so will prevent the card from working and could see Chime block the card due to suspicious activity! 

Withdrawal Limit – Chime offer a generous $500USD daily withdrawal limit. If you’re withdrawing money abroad, you should withdraw the maximum possible to reduce the frequency you’ll be paying the $2.50USD foreign withdrawal fee!

  • No rolling monthly fee
  • High daily withdrawal limits
  • Easy to control your account through the app or website
  • Only available to customers in the USA
  • No contactless card payments possible (does work with Apple and Google Pay though)
  • Not all online payments are supported by Chime

Currensea

  • Connects with your traditional bank account
  • Use the Currensea card as you would a normal debit card
  • Removes foreign transaction fees usually levied from your bank

Easy to Use – While getting another travel card or opening a new bank account can feel like a hassle, Currensea making spending money in Europe easy! Thanks to open banking laws, a Currensea direct debit travel card hooks straight into your bank account, allowing you to spend money with reduced fees while abroad. Simply use the card as you would your normal debit card and Currensea handle the rest!

Different Plans – Currensea offer three different plans. The free plan offers everything you need for a shorter trip but if you travel a lot, getting either the Premium or Elite plan gives you access to better exchange rates, larger fee-free withdrawals and a range of other perks such as hire car discounts, hotel bonuses and even airport lounge access with the Elite card! 

Mastercard – The Currensea direct debit travel card is powered by Mastercard. This means you can use it anywhere that accepts Mastercard (almost everywhere in Europe)!

  • No need to set up a new account
  • Up to £500GBP fee-free withdrawal each month
  • Different plans available depending on your needs
  • Small fees for foreign withdrawals after the £500GBP limit is reached
  • 0.5% foreign transaction fee with the free account (no transaction fee with paid accounts)
  • Still leaves you reliant on your major high street bank

Prepaid Euro Cards 

While not necessary in the age of digital banks and FinTech companies, prepaid euro cards are still relatively popular – more popular than they deserve to be, honestly. 

Prepaid travel cards tend to have lower fees than your traditional high street bank but the costs are higher than opting for a digital bank or even a direct debit travel card. Some prepaid cards also have nasty hidden fees, such as a fee for loading money onto the card, or a fee for getting any leftover money back after your trip. 

We don’t like to recommend prepaid travel cards because they serve little purpose in today’s digital world but in case you’ve already made up your mind, these are the most popular options among travellers to Europe! 

  • Travelex – Best for Travellers from the USA
  • Monese – Top Choice for Travellers from the UK
  • Fair FX – Top Choice for Travellers from the EU
  • PayPal Prepaid Mastercard – Another Good Option for Travellers from The USA

Travel Money Cards for Europe – Your Questions Answered! 

Which cards are accepted in europe.

Mastercard and Visa cards are widely accepted throughout Europe and the rest of the world. You may have a hard time using an American Express card in Europe, although they’re more common than they used to be. Discover cards are less accepted than American Express. If you only have a Discover or American Express card, we recommend supplementing your wallet with a Mastercard or Visa as well! 

What is a Travel Card?

Travel cards allow you to access your money, either via card transactions or an ATM, abroad, without incurring high fees from your traditional bank. They come in different forms:

– Travel Credit Cards – Usually just regular credit cards with low or no foreign use fees and often include travel-based incentives like air miles or discounts on hotel stays.  – Travel Debit Cards – Can be used like a normal debit card. Often travel debit cards are supplied by a travel-friendly bank but you can also get prepaid travel debit cards that you top up from your traditional bank. You can also get direct debit travel cards which connect to your traditional bank and allow you to bypass your bank’s fees.

Travel Cards for Europe – A Round-Up

Getting the right travel card for Europe won’t make or break your trip but it can mean the difference of a few hundred dollars, even over a couple of weeks of travelling! For a longer adventure, the savings you’ll make will allow you to upgrade your accommodation choices or treat yourself to good restaurants while you travel!

It really is a no-brainer! Grab your travel card, book your flight and head to Europe for a backpacking trip to remember!  Have we missed your favourite travel card from our list? Let us know in the comments below!

Tim's Author Image

Tim Ashdown | Writer and Gear Specialist

After a life-changing motorcycle accident, Tim decided life was too short to stay cooped up in his home county of Norfolk, UK. Since then, he has travelled Southeast Asia, walked the Camino de Santiago and backpacked South America. His first book,  From Paralysis to Santiago,  chronicles his struggle to recover from the motorcycle accident and will be released later this year.

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The best travel debit and credit cards to use abroad, avoid hefty fees when you spend abroad with a top travel card.

Updated March 7, 2024

In this guide

best credit cards to use abroad

If you’re heading overseas on holiday or on a business trip, getting a travel credit or debit card could be one of the cheapest ways to spend while abroad.

Often, a regular bank account debit card will charge you hefty fees and a poor exchange rate if you use it abroad for a transaction or cash withdrawal. However, there are lots of cards out there that do away with these fees.

In this article, we outline the best payment cards to use when you’re abroad plus whether it is better to use a credit card or debit card, plus the top prepaid travel money cards.

We explain:

  • Best debit cards to use abroad

Best credit cards to use abroad

  • Top prepaid travel cards to use abroad
  • Should I use a credit or debit card abroad?
  • Is it a good idea to withdraw cash on a credit card abroad?

Read more: Best rewards credit cards

This article may contain affiliate links that can earn us revenue*

What exchange rates are used?

When you pay on most debit and credit cards, the Visa or Mastercard exchange rate is used.

This is very close to the market rate – so you should not be caught out inadvertently paying extra because you have been given a poor exchange rate.

However, there are a small number of cards that set their own exchange rate – like Revolut* . So you need to be careful to ensure you understand the true cost if you use a card like this.

All the cards in this guide use the Visa or Mastercard exchange rate.

Read more: What’s the best way to transfer money internationally?

Book your next hotel with Times Travel

best europe travel credit card

If you’re planning your next staycation make sure to use Times Travel to find the perfect trip. Not only can you read hundreds of hotel reviews by experienced journalists for free, but you can also use their handy search tool to help whittle down your options.

Visit Times Travel

The best travel debit cards

Here we list two banks which offer debit cards that might be worth considering if you’re travelling abroad.

Chase

Chase current account

Best debit card to use abroad

First Direct

First Direct current account

A great current account, plus a £175 switching bonus

Starling Bank

Starling Bank current account*

Another good travel debit card

Below we list a number of credit card providers that might be worth considering if you’re heading abroad.

Halifax

Halifax Clarity

Best if you are only using it abroad

Barclaycard

Barclaycard Rewards

Best overall travel credit card and good for rewards

Metro Bank

Metro Bank Credit Card (in Europe)

Best for use in Europe

Zopa

Zopa Credit Card

Best app-based card

Best prepaid travel cards

A prepaid travel card lets you load money and exchange for different currencies before you go away. You can then use this card to spend or withdraw cash while abroad.

You can’t spend more than you have loaded onto the card. It effectively works like a debit card that doesn’t have an overdraft.

Below we list a provider that offers a prepaid travel card that might be worth considering if you’re heading abroad.

Wise

Another good option for people looking for a prepaid travel card

Is it better to use a credit card or debit card abroad?

As long as you find the best – and cheapest – credit card or debit card to use abroad, it’s often a matter of personal preference. It’s worth bearing in mind that using a credit card abroad does give you Section 75 protection, which can get you your money back when things go wrong.

However, you’ll need to go through a ‘hard’ credit check when you apply for any credit card, which could affect your credit worthiness.

Lots of current accounts, including Chase’s, only carry out a ‘soft’ check which does not affect your credit score. So if you have a poorer credit history, it could be worth opting for a debit card.

The costs when using a typical debit or credit card abroad, and not a specialist travel card, can add up. According to Moneyfacts:

  • A debit card, can charge £1.38
  • A credit card, can charge £1.50
  • A debit card, £11.88
  • A credit card, £14.95 (before interest is applied)

If your current account comes with a great debit card for use abroad, then you may want to use that.

  • No fees for spending or withdrawing cash abroad
  • A competitive exchange rate

However, if using your bank account looks like it would be quite expensive and you don’t fancy switching, it may be easier to apply for a specialist travel credit card than to open another account.

Read more: Best premium bank accounts

Watch out for credit cards and ATMs

Unless you opt for a bank that offers fee-free current accounts that do not charge for using a debit card in Europe, which include Chase Bank and Starling Bank* , you need to be wary when using an ATM with a debit card.

You can expect even bigger charges when withdrawing cash from a machine using a credit card and that is before interest is applied. Some will charge interest from the day the money leaves your account – even if they may boast of fee-free withdrawals.

Other cards, like Barclaycard Rewards, offer a grace period without charging interest, meaning that you shouldn’t pay any cash withdrawal fees or interest if you clear your balance in full each month. 

Safety abroad

Credit cards also tend to be safer to use abroad. If your debit card is hacked or stolen while away, then the money in your account is at risk. This is not the case with a credit card as only the money up to your credit limit is at risk.

There is also something called Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. If you have a problem with a purchase of between £100 and £30,000, at home or abroad, the credit provider is jointly liable with the retailer. So if your claim is approved, you should get your money back.

You may be able to use a scheme called chargeback if you paid with a debit card or a credit card for purchases of any amount, not just over £100. Here your bank can claw back the money from the retailer’s bank, although the retailer can dispute the claims.

Read more: Best travel insurance providers

You have fewer rights than under Section 75 because that is enshrined in law and chargeback is not. 

The advice if you are traveling is always to have a back-up card with you. A prepaid travel card could be a good option too. 

If you are planning a trip away, you might want to make sure you are covered. Find out what you can expect from a good travel insurance policy.

Exchange your money for foreign cash

Sometimes you’ll need cash for your trip abroad. Not all merchants accept card payments and cash can offer a degree of flexibility. That’s why you might want to consider exchanging some of your holiday budget into foreign currency.

Leaving this to the last minute is often a mistake, especially if you use the bureau de change in the airport. These providers typically hike their fees and charge a premium because your options are limited at this point, so give yourself time beforehand to research the best currency exchange offers around.

* All products, brands or properties mentioned in this article are selected by our writers and editors based on first-hand experience or customer feedback, and are of a standard that we believe our readers expect. This article contains links from which we can earn revenue. This revenue helps us to support the content of this website and to continue to invest in our award-winning journalism. For more, see  How we make our money  and  Editorial promise

Important information

Some of the products promoted are from our affiliate partners from whom we receive compensation. While we aim to feature some of the best products available, we cannot review every product on the market.

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14 best travel credit cards of March 2024

Nick Ewen

The best travel credit cards offer an array of premium perks and benefits. For both occasional travelers and frequent flyers, adding a travel credit card to your wallet is a great way to earn rewards and save money on every trip you take. At The Points Guy, our team has done the legwork and curated a selection of the best travel credit cards for any globe-trotter, whether you prefer to backpack through mountains or settle into a luxury villa for some relaxation. From generous travel credits to premium lounge access, we’ve chosen the cards packed with the best benefits to elevate your next travel experience.

Check out our list below and discover which travel credit card from our partners makes the best addition to your wallet for all of your adventures.

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for lounge access
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for earning miles
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for beginner travelers
  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for premium travel
  • American Express® Gold Card : Best for dining at restaurants
  • Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for maximizing business purchases
  • Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card : Best for Alaska Airlines miles
  • Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best for no annual fee
  • Citi Premier® Card : Best for starter travel
  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for business travel
  • Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for variety of bonus categories
  • American Express® Business Gold Card : Best for flexible rewards earning
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for travel credits
  • Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for travel rewards beginners

Browse by card categories

  • Airport Lounge Access
  • Global Entry
  • No Foreign Fee
  • Best Overall
  • Find your CardMatch™

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full  review of the Platinum Card from American Express .

  • The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
  • This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and more than $1,400 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. (enrollment required)
  • The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.
  • The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
  • Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
  • The annual airline fee credit and other monthly statement credits can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • 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.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card®. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
  • $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card®. Learn more.
  • $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card®. An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn earns 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

  • This flexible rewards card delivers a solid sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, worth $1,388 based on TPG valuations and not provided by the issuer.
  • You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories.
  • Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for any hotel or airline purchase for a statement credit or transferred to 15+ travel partners.
  • A couple of partners' transfer ratios are mediocre at a less than 1:1 ratio.
  • Capital One airline partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
  • 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
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

  • You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases, 2 points per dollar on all other travel and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
  • Annual $50 hotel statement credit when booked through Ultimate Rewards
  • Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.
  • The card comes with a $95 annual fee.
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
  • Member FDIC

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

If you can maximize the  $300 credit toward Capital One Travel, the Venture X’s annual fee effectively comes down to $95, the same annual fee pegged to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ). Add in a 10,000-mile bonus every account anniversary (worth $185, according to TPG valuations ) and lounge access, and the card may become the strongest option out there for a lot of travelers. Read our full  review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

  • 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
  • 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
  • $395 annual fee
  • $300 credit annually, only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

American Express® Gold Card

American Express® Gold Card

This isn’t just a card that’s nice to look at. It packs a real punch, offering 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar). There’s also an up to $120 annual dining credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com ,  Milk Bar, and select Shake Shack locations, plus it added an up to $120 annually ($10 per month) in Uber Cash, which can be used on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. All this make it a very strong contender for all food purchases, which has become a popular spending category. Enrollment is required for select benefits. Read our full review of the Amex Gold .

  • 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
  • 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel.
  • Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months of account opening.
  • Weak on travel and everyday spending bonus categories.
  • Not as effective for those living outside the U.S.
  • Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits.
  • Few travel perks and protections.
  • 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.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
  • Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
  • Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $250.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full  review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card .

  • One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening.
  • Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption.
  • Reasonable $95 annual fee.
  • Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners; primary car insurance.
  • Perks including cellphone and purchase protection; extended warranty; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement.
  • Yearly cap on bonus categories.
  • No travel perks.
  • Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications.
  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card

Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card

There’s a lot to love about the Alaska Airlines credit card, in part due to its highly valuable loyalty program: Alaska Airlines MileagePlan. Whether you’re a loyal Alaska flyer or a points maximizer looking to diversify your rewards portfolio, this card has a lot to offer. For starters, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Pass each year from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year, free checked bags for you and up to six guests on your itinerary, 20% back on in-flight purchases and more. Plus, Alaska has joined the oneworld alliance, opening up endless redemption opportunities. Read our  full review of the Alaska Airline credit card.

  • Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on your reservation.
  • Alaska discounts, including 20% back on in-flight purchases.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • $95 annual fee.
  • Limited Time Online Offer – 70,000 Bonus Miles!
  • Get 70,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
  • Get Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
  • Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don't expire on active accounts.
  • Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
  • Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card - Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
  • With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska's Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
  • Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
  • This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of travel rewards, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great way to get started. With no annual fee and a simple 1.25 miles per dollar on all your purchases, you won’t have to keep up with multiple bonus categories — just earn rewards on everything you purchase! Coupled with the 20,000-mile sign-up bonus, you can use your rewards to book travel, transfer to Capital One’s loyalty partners and more. Read our full review of the  Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

  • No annual fee.
  • Earn a bonus of 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.
  • Use your miles to book or pay for travel at a 1-cent value, or transfer your miles to loyalty programs to gain potentially even greater value for your rewards.
  • Earn 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases.
  • Other credit cards can offer you higher rewards for your common purchase categories.
  • Capital One airline transfer partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Citi Premier® Card

Citi Premier® Card

The Citi Premier is a solid travel card choice with a plethora of travel partners and solid earning rates. Since the card earns the same number of points at gas stations, restaurants, supermarkets, airlines and hotels, it’s a great pick for beginner travel cardholders who want a simplified point system. Read our  full review of the Citi Premier .

  • For a limited time earn 10 points per $1 dollar spent on hotels, car rentals, attractions (excluding air travel) when book through Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024
  • Earns 3 points per dollar on restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel and other hotels.
  • $100 annual hotel savings benefit (on single hotel stay bookings of $500 or more, excluding taxes and fees, booked through thankyou.com)
  • $95 annual fee
  • Lacks travel protections that other travel rewards cards come with
  • Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
  • Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
  • 60,000 ThankYou® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
  • No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more. Read our full  review on The Business Platinum Card from American Express .

  • Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years or $85 TSA PreCheck credit every 4.5 years (enrollment is required)
  • Up to $400 annual statement credit for U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
  • Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels; access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection (enrollment required)
  • Steep $695 annual fee.
  • Difficulty meeting $15,000 minimum spend for smaller businesses.
  • Limited high bonus categories outside of travel.
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that's an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline to your Card.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Business Platinum Card®.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
  • $695 Annual Fee.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph card packs a punch for a no-annual-fee product, with an array of bonus categories plus solid perks and straightforward redemption options. Read our  full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph here .

  • This card offers 3 points per dollar on various everyday purchases with no annual fee. It also comes with a 20,000-point welcome bonus and an introductory APR offer on purchases. Plus, you'll enjoy up to $600 in cellphone protection when you pay your monthly bill with the card. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Despite the lucrative earning structure, Wells Fargo doesn't offer any ways to maximize your redemptions — you're limited to fixed-value rewards like gift cards and statement credits.
  • Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
  • Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
  • Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
  • $0 annual fee.
  • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
  • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
  • Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
  • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

American Express® Business Gold Card

American Express® Business Gold Card

The Amex Business Gold card is a solid choice for high-spending small businesses with the flexibility to earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories where you spend the most. The card is ideal for businesses who value simplicity above all. Read our full  review of the American Express Business Gold Card .

  • You'll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in the top 2 spending categories each month (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year).
  • Hefty $375 annual fee.
  • There may be better options for small businesses who don't spend a lot.
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
  • Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
  • Get $12.95 back in statement credits each month when you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. $12.95 plus applicable taxes.
  • Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
  • *Terms Apply

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, bonus points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card .

  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards hotel and airline travel partners.
  • 10 points per dollar on hotels, car rentals and Chase Dining purchases through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining, 1 point per dollar on everything else
  • 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Ultimate Reward.
  • Steep initial $550 annual fee.
  • May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently.
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® 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
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is a great starter card thanks to its no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees when you travel internationally. Earning and redeeming is effortless, with no confusing bonus categories to keep track of and the ability to redeem your points for all of your travel needs. Read our  full review of the Bank of America Travel Rewards  card.

  • 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
  • No annual fee
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Bank of America does not offer airline or hotel transfer partners like other banks such as American Express, Chase or Capital One.
  • No travel and purchase protections.
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
  • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
  • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.24% - 28.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
  • Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Comparing the best travel cards

More details on the best credit cards.

The Amex Platinum is a stellar premium travel card that can provide amazing redemptions . Besides the welcome offer, it comes with more than $1,400 in credits each year and various lounge access options. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Anyone looking for luxury travel benefits will find that the ton of annual statement credits make the annual fee worth it. Plus, you’ll get unparalleled lounge access , automatic Gold status with Hilton and Marriott, and extra perks with Avis Preferred , Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Car Rental Emerald Club . Enrollment is required for select benefits.

“While this card has a high annual fee, it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all of my flights on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent and trip protection insurance. I make sure to take full advantage of the Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, Hulu/Disney+ and Clear credits (enrollment is required). And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  can be a great alternative to the Amex Platinum, with a notably lower annual fee, similar perks and a more rewarding earning rate on everyday purchases.

With the Capital One Venture, you’re earning 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which makes it easy to rack up rewards without having to juggle different bonus categories or spending caps. And with flexible redemption options and a manageable annual fee, this card is an excellent choice if you’re looking to keep just one credit card in your wallet for all spending.

Those looking to earn flexible rewards should use the Capital One Venture card as it allows you to redeem miles for a fixed value or transfer the miles you earn to 15+ airline and hotel transfer partners , including Avianca, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines and Singapore Airlines.

“The Capital One Venture is a great card that can add value to pretty much anyone’s wallet. I use it to earn 2 miles per dollar on the purchases that fall outside of my other cards’ bonus categories. The annual fee is low, Capital One miles are easy to redeem and the card does come with a few nice perks — including TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

Even if you’re a casual traveler, consider jumping to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  (see  rates and fees ). The card’s up to $300 annual credit for purchases made with Capital One Travel immediately covers the higher annual fee — and that’s not even considering the added perks you’ll enjoy.

You’ll earn a solid return on dining and travel (6% back and 4% back, respectively, based on TPG valuations ) on top of your generous sign-up bonus, and you also have access to some of the best travel protections offered by any travel rewards credit card.

We’ve long suggested the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card   as an excellent option for those who are new to earning travel rewards because it lets you earn valuable, transferable Chase Ultimate Rewards points  with strong bonus categories and a reasonable annual fee.

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has remained a top card in my wallet for years. Between the consistently strong sign-up bonus, low annual fee and continual improvements that have been made over the years, it’s hard for any other mid-tier rewards card to compare. I love that I can earn bonus rewards on travel, dining, streaming and online grocery purchases — all with just one card. Plus, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable and easy to use whether you’re new to points and miles or an expert.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

To add more luxury to your travel experience, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve . Though it comes with a higher annual fee, you’ll enjoy Priority Pass lounge access plus a $300 annual travel credit.

At $395 per year (see rates and fees ), this premium card is cheaper than all of its competitors without sacrificing the breadth of valuable perks it includes. Cardholders will get unlimited visits to Capital One’s premium network of lounges and 1,300-plus Priority Pass lounges worldwide  and able to bring up to two guests for no additional charge.

For frequent travelers, the Capital One Venture X is a must-have and is well worth the $395 annual fee. If you travel frequently with your significant other, family or friends, you can even add some authorized users for no additional cost. This will grant them their own lounge access (and the ability to bring up to two guests for no fee), among many other benefits, making this a huge cost-saver for those who travel in groups.

“With an annual fee that is $300 less than The Platinum Card® from American Express (see Amex Platinum rates and fees ), the Capital One Venture X card is my favorite travel credit card. The card comes with an annual $300 Capital One Travel credit, which I use to book flights. That effectively brings the annual fee down to $95 per year (see rates and fees ). Cardholders enjoy a Priority Pass Select membership. Authorized users — you geta number of them at no cost — also enjoy their own Priority Pass Select membership. I use my Venture X card to earn 2 miles per dollar (a 3.7% return at TPG’s valuations ) in spending categories where most cards would only accrue 1 mile — like auto maintenance, pharmacies and medical bills.” — Kyle Olsen , former points and miles reporter

Those turned off by the Venture X’s annual fee could opt for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , which has a $95 annual fee (see rates and fees ), identical sign-up bonus and similar earning and redemption options.

The Amex Gold earns 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants, with no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ), meaning you’ll get an 8% return on purchases (based on TPG’s valuations ). While a few other cards temporarily offer higher return rates on dining, this is the best option for long-term spending, making it one of the best dining cards and best rewards cards .

Those looking for a great return on dining and purchases at U.S. supermarkets will get a lot of value from this card.

“Groceries and dining at restaurants are two of my top spending categories, and I love that the Amex Gold rewards those purchases with 4 points per dollar. When you factor in the $10 dining credit and $10 in Uber Cash each month, the $250 annual fee is a net cost of $10.” — Senitra Horbrook , former credit cards editor

For those who dine out a lot and also want additional bonus categories and other valuable perks for a lower annual fee, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

The Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 in combined travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services and advertising purchases made on social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. TPG’s most recent valuations  peg the value of Chase Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents apiece, so you’ll get a fantastic return of 6% on purchases in these categories.

If you spend a lot on business travel or social media advertising, you’ll be able to earn significant points using the Ink Business Preferred card .

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I’ve found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.” — Katie Genter , senior writer

If you don’t want to worry about maximizing specific purchases and are looking for a lower spending requirement to earn a sign-up bonus, consider the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card , which offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases and carries no annual fee.

The Alaska Airlines Visa earns 3 miles per dollar on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases; 2 miles per dollar on eligible gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services and transit (including local ride share purchases); and 1 mile per dollar on everything else. You get a free checked bag on Alaska flights for you and up to six guests on your reservation, an annual Companion Fare on your account anniversary and 20% back on all inflight purchases.

Whether you live on the West Coast or not, the Alaska Airlines Visa is a good cobranded airline card to consider adding to your wallet. The Seattle-based airline is mostly limited to North American routes, but international destinations through Oneworld partners make this card valuable for all travelers.

“With new benefits, this card is even more valuable to me — even with its higher annual fee. It provides a free first checked bag, discounts on inflight purchases and priority boarding. My favorite feature, however, is the annual Companion Fare. I get hundreds of dollars in annual value from this perk.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re not looking to collect airline-specific miles, a general travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card might be a better option.

The no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card (see  rates and fees ) has the same redemption options as its sibling card (the Venture Rewards card) but with a lower rewards rate and fewer perks. The miles earned on the card can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners, a benefit not usually seen with a no-annual-fee card.

The VentureOne is a strong card to have in your arsenal and great if you are budgeting. After all, there aren’t many no-annual-fee cards with the ability to transfer points and miles directly to travel partners, so it’s a big bonus that this card offers that (see rates and fees ).

“I wanted a credit card that earns Capital One miles without an annual fee, and this is a winner (see rates and fees ). It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some other cards, but I’m happy earning 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases without paying a fee to keep this card year after year. I’ll never cancel this card.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For a small annual fee, many travelers could benefit from the Capital One Venture Rewards card . You’ll earn at least 2 miles per dollar on all purchases and receive a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership.

The Citi Premier is a great all-around card that earns 3 points per dollar on multiple categories. Citi ThankYou points can be redeemed as statement credits or transferred to any of Citi’s partners.

Travel credit card users who are getting into the transferable point world but do not want to commit to a high annual fee should consider the Citi Premier card.

“Out of all of my credit cards, the Citi Premier Card is often my everyday card and a card I typically recommend to friends and family. Earning 3 points per dollar for gas, groceries and restaurants allows you to rack up points even when you're not on the road. Being able to transfer Citi ThankYou points to valuable partners like Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles and Avianca LifeMiles is also a key reason this card stands out, all while having a modest annual fee of $95.” — Danyal Ahmed , credit cards writer

If you’re looking for a similar card but prefer Chase Ultimate Rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card could be a great alternative. The card offers multiple bonus categories, travel and shopping protection and a fair annual fee of $95.

There are certain ways to earn bonus points for spending on the Amex Business Platinum Card, but it’s the array of perks on the card that make it a great option. Beyond airport lounge access and automatic hotel elite status, there are a number of statement credits that are specifically targeted to common business expenses.

If you travel for business frequently, this card could help you upgrade your experience in the air and on the ground while saving you money on select business-related services. And the current welcome bonus is just the icing on the cake.

“I find that the annual perks and credits vastly outweigh the large annual fee. And that’s even without using some of them. By using the benefits with Priority Pass and Amex lounges, the airline incidental credits, plus the statement credits for Clear, our cellphone plan and restocking my home printer with ink and paper from Dell (enrollment required), I get more value out of the card than it costs to keep it. Plus, it earns my favorite points — American Express Membership Rewards — earning 5 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked with Amex Travel.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For less-frequent travelers, consider the American Express®  Business Gold Card , which offers 4 points per dollar spent on your top two spending categories each month on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter).

The Wells Fargo Autograph is a great no-annual-fee card that offers quality earning categories and travel and shopping protection.

Travel card beginners who are looking to get into points earning should consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which offers a welcome bonus, 3 points per dollar on a variety of everyday spending categories and cellphone protection.

If you’re just getting into the travel credit card world and are not sure travel cards are for you, consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which will allow you to earn bonus points on travel spending without the commitment of an annual fee.

If you’re looking to earn transferable reward points but still maintain a similar earning structure, consider the Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ), which offers 3 points per dollar on various travel and food categories. In addition, you can transfer ThankYou Rewards points to any of Citi’s travel partners.

The American Express Business Gold card comes packed with perks and benefits, but its most unique feature is the ability to shift your monthly bonus categories. Cardholders will automatically earn 4 points per dollar in their top two spending categories on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter), so if your business spending varies month to month, you won’t have to commit to a bonus category.

The American Express Business Gold card is an excellent choice for business owners who are looking for a premium business card with premium business perks like monthly office supply statement credits, travel and shopping protection and access to The Hotel Collection.

The American Express Business Gold is an excellent choice for small businesses that have changing bonus categories but still want more premium business perks and benefits.

If you still want to earn Membership Rewards points without paying an annual fee, consider The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (see rates and fees ), which earns 2 Membership Rewards points on all business purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).

The Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with an annual $300 travel credit to offset a variety of expenses — such as airfare, hotels, rental cars, transit and more. You’re also getting an up-to-$100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit  once every four years along with Priority Pass Select membership. And Chase’s slate of transfer partners allows plenty of opportunity to get the maximum value from your points.

Those looking for elevated earning rates and extensive travel protections should have this card in their wallet. The 50% redemption bonus when you use your points to pay for travel through the Chase portal  is also a nice perk.

“I’ve had the Sapphire Reserve for years, and it’s going to stay in my wallet for the near future. I get $300 off travel every year along with great earning rates on travel and dining (3 points per dollar) and various trip protections that can reimburse me when things go wrong. And by leveraging other cards in the Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, I’m able to maximize the earnings across all of my purchases.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you just can’t stomach the Sapphire Reserve’s $550 annual fee, go for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card  instead. It has similar perks, redemption options and travel protections — for a much lower $95 per year.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card operates similarly to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’re earning flat-rate rewards across all spending, and then you can use those rewards as a statement credit to cover eligible travel purchases.

It’s perfect for low-budget beginner travelers  who want a card with no annual fee and a simple way to earn and redeem points.

“I’m happy earning 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases on a card without an annual fee. I can’t pay for everything in life with transferable points, and it’s nice to have a card with fixed-value points for those situations. I use this card for travel purchases where I need to pay in cash, then I can reimburse myself with the points.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re interested in a card with transferable miles that still has no annual fee (see  rates and fees ), consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

Credit pointers with Brian Kelly

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How to maximize travel credit cards

Earn the welcome bonus.

One of the best ways to maximize your travel credit cards is to earn the welcome bonus . Most travel credit cards will offer a welcome or sign-up bonus that allows cardmembers to earn points or miles that would otherwise require a very high spend. Welcome bonuses are a crucial part of a card’s value, so before you apply for your next travel card, be sure to plan for how you will meet the spending requirement. Ideally, you would align large purchases with your card opening so that you don’t need to spend frivolously to earn that lucrative welcome bonus.

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Use a travel card that matches your travel style

There is a travel credit card for everyone, but not every travel card is the best fit for your wallet . Consider what type of traveler you are, whether you have any brand loyalty and what perks you are looking for from your next credit card. If you travel often and in luxury, consider premium cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve . These cards are loaded with tons of luxury perks like lounge access and automatic elite status . 

Alternatively, if you’re a more thrifty traveler who likes to maximize your travel earnings, consider a mid-tier travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . These cards allow you to earn points on your travel, and while they don’t come with a long list of luxury perks, they’re much more cost effective for an everyday traveler.

And even beginners don’t have to veer away from travel cards, since many products out there offer an introduction to the travel rewards world without incurring an annual fee.

Knowing what your travel style is like will help you determine what type of travel card you need.

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Use loyalty programs to stack your rewards

You don’t have to limit your earnings to just travel credit cards . Many airlines and hotel chains have loyalty programs that can be used in conjunction with your travel card to unlock added perks when doing business with a specific brand. In addition, many travel credit cards allow you to transfer points from your card to your eligible loyalty programs . This can open up nearly endless redemption options.

How we rate cards

What is a travel credit card.

Travel rewards credit cards earn points, miles or cash back that are redeemable for travel expenses or are geared toward travel spending. The cards on this list are some of the best credit cards to book flights , hotels and more with their many perks and rewards . 

Travel credit cards offer rewards on different purchases that can help you book flights, hotels and more for little to no out-of-pocket expenses. Some cards also provide valuable perks and benefits that upgrade the overall travel experience — from Global Entry application fee credits to lounge access to complimentary elite status . If you have the right card (or cards) in your wallet, the sky is the limit on where your travels can take you — literally.

Are you new to travel rewards? Check out our beginner’s guide to all things points and miles . You’ll learn about top loyalty programs, how to maximize your credit card strategy to reach your travel goals and so much more.

Related: The complete history of credit cards, from antiquity to today

We have researched various types of travel credit cards to help you figure out which one is best for you.

Travel vs cash back credit cards

A travel credit card is a card that is geared toward travel spending and a cash-back credit card is a card that earns cash back on purchases made with the card.

Generally, when we are talking about travel credit cards we refer to cards that earn points and miles like the Platinum Card from American Express or the Hilton Honors Aspire card. The Platinum Amex earns transferable points which can be used with any of Amex's travel partners while the Hilton Honors Aspire card only earns Hilton points which can be redeemed at Hilton properties. These cards do not earn cash back on any purchases.

Cash back cards generally offer cash back as a flat rate or feature bonus categories that earn an elevated cash back rate. Select cash-back cards can also be a great travel card such as the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express which offers 3% cash back on transit including rideshare, trains, buses, and more. Even though it is a cash-back card, the Blue Cash Preferred offers an elevated return on select transportation which potentially makes it a solid travel card option.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards work like other reward credit cards: They help you earn rewards, primarily points and miles, on your purchases. This section will primarily focus on transferable rewards credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express, as they are what are typically considered travel credit cards.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

How to earn transferable points

Transferable points credit cards earn points or miles when you make a purchase on the cards. These points and miles can then be transferred to travel partners for rewards like flights, hotel stays and more. Different cards will have different currencies, but they are generally called either “points” or “miles” (depending on the issuer). All transferable reward credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards will have their own currency that is redeemable for travel rewards. 

Travel cards have varying rates for different purchase categories. For example, the American Express® Gold Card card earns 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants but only 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or Amex Travel. While the Amex Platinum may be a better card for travel as it earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights (booked directly with airline or Amex Travel and up to $500,000 per calendar year), the Amex Gold can be a good addition for Platinum holders who spend a lot of money on dining out.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards for maximum value

How to redeem points and miles  

Once you’ve decided on a travel credit card and earned a welcome bonus, it’s time to put those points or miles toward free travel. There are many ways to redeem your rewards with travel credit cards. Many cards feature an online booking portal through which you can use your rewards to book things like flights, hotels and car rentals. Before booking your flight, you should consider doing a  flight portal comparison to ensure you're getting the best redemption. Others allow you to transfer your points or miles to individual loyalty programs. Depending on the redemption, this could unlock even more value.

Related: Tips and tricks to get maximum value from your Capital One miles

It’s up to you to decide whether a specific trip is worth spending your rewards. You can use TPG’s monthly valuations to help you determine if the price of your flight or hotel room is worth your points and miles. Some travels are more affordable in cash, but you can always save your points to splurge on a business-class flight to Europe or an overwater bungalow at a luxury resort. 

How to use travel credit card portals  

In the world of travel credit cards, the four major players are American Express, Capital One, Chase and Citi. These issuers also have their own travel portals which can be used to earn and redeem points for travel. 

Some issuers, like Capital One and Chase , offer an incentive to book travel through the bank’s portal but it is not always worth booking through a portal. 

We do not recommend booking hotel travel through card portals as it typically does not honor elite-status benefits or elite-qualifying stay credits. 

Luckily, flights typically allow you to earn bonus points through a card issuer’s portal and with the airline. Keep in mind that this does not apply to all cards. When purchasing in cash, there generally is little variance in booking through a portal or on the airline’s website so if your travel credit card offers incentives to book through the portal , it can be a great way to earn extra points. 

Related: Ultimate guide to the Citi travel portal

Points and miles redemptions will have a fair variance, especially if there are incentives to book through the travel portals. Overall, travel portals can be a great addition to your points redemption journey if properly used. Always remember to compare the price or redemption value of booking through a portal or directly with an airline. 

Booking through a portal may make matters complicated if you ever need to change or cancel your flight. 

Related: Battle of the credit card travel portals: Which is the best for booking flights?

Types of travel credit cards

Travel credit cards are cards that are geared towards travel spending. Luckily, there are many types of travel credit cards which means there is a good option for any traveler. Typically, when talking about travel credit cards, we are referring to transfer rewards credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards. There are additional types of travel credit cards that are less popular but can still be a good option for the right traveler.

Transferable rewards credit cards earn points and miles that can be redeemed through a card’s rewards program directly or by transferring them to a travel partner . Many of our best travel credit cards fall under this category because they are the most valuable type of points you can earn. Transferable rewards give you the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a way that will be most beneficial to you. Examples of top transferable rewards cards are the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Airline cobranded cards earn a specific type of airline miles. These cards also generally come with perks specific to that airline. For example, an airline card may offer free checked bags , a certain number of elite-qualifying miles to help you reach status, priority boarding privileges, inflight discounts and more.

Hotel cobranded cards work like airline cards. You’ll earn rewards that are redeemable for a particular hotel program, such as Hilton or Marriott. Hotel cards come with their own benefits, such as complimentary elite status or free award-night stays. In addition, hotel cards can help you stack your earnings on hotel stays with the hotel’s program.

For example, if you have a Marriott credit card , you’ll earn bonus points for every dollar spent at participating Marriott properties on top of the 10 base points you get as a member of the Bonvoy program. This can really amplify the rewards you can earn when you use your hotel card to pay for your booking.

The points and miles world can be confusing for new credit card users but it doesn’t have to be. While transferable rewards cards are arguably the best way to earn points and miles for travel, they can also be incredibly confusing. Fixed-value credit cards and cash-back credit cards are good alternatives for beginners who are looking to get into the travel credit card world.

Fixed-value cards earn points or miles that are always redeemed for the same value. For example, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card earns points worth 1 cent each. These cards are great for beginners who haven’t quite gotten the hang of maximizing transferable points or casual travelers who are looking for their first travel credit card . Fixed-value credit cards are often the best travel credit cards for beginners. 

As more hotels and airlines move to a dynamic pricing model where award pricing shifts dramatically, fixed-value rewards programs are becoming more popular.

Another great credit card option for casual travelers or credit card beginners is cash-back credit cards. You don’t have to worry about points, transfer partners or maximizing your rewards with these cards. Cash-back cards provide a percentage of cash back on your spending and provide a simple way to save on your upcoming travels. 

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) is a great option for beginners to travel rewards. It earns unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and has no annual fee.

Travel credit card benefits

Some travel cards offer automatic elite status with various programs when you sign up and can also accelerate the journey to elite airline status by converting points to air miles. If you are loyal to a particular hotel brand, status with that brand will be valuable. You’ll be entitled to room upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, late checkout and more. If you’re not loyal, it won’t. The same goes for elite status with an airline — you’ll get lounge access, upgrades, increased baggage allowance, etc. When comparing the perks of various cards like elite status, be realistic about which ones you will and won’t use.

One of the coveted perks of premium travel credit cards is complimentary airport lounge access. Many premium travel credit cards come with Priority Pass lounge access , a membership that allows access to airport lounges across the world. These lounges are a great place to relax before your flight or have a snack during a long layover. Amenities will vary between lounges but most lounges provide wifi, private seating and refreshments. Be sure to check the priority pass guest policy as many lounges allow you to bring a complimentary guest (or guests).

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both expedited screening programs for travelers. TSA PreCheck is reserved for expedited security screening for domestic flights and Global Entry provides expedited customs screening for international travelers when entering the United States. 

The application fee for TSA PreCheck is up to $85 and $100 for Global Entry. If you are approved for the program, the membership is valid for 5 years. Many travel credit cards will offer statement credit for the application . 

How to choose the best travel credit card

  • 1 Sign-up bonus Choosing a card with a healthy sign-up bonus will help jumpstart the possibility of unlocking elite status across different areas, including airline and hotel loyalty programs.
  • 2 Annual fee Premium travel credit cards typically feature higher annual fees. Double-check that the card you choose suits your spending habits and travel needs before applying.
  • 3 Bonus categories It also helps to check which bonus categories a card offers to ensure that they align with your spending, whether it’s at restaurants, at grocery stores or on streaming subscriptions.

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Ask our experts

What's your favorite travel credit card — and why.

Brian Kelly

Pros + cons of travel credit cards

  • Using credit cards responsibly can help build your credit score
  • Travel credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend.
  • Travel credit cards can provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
  • Travel credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and more.
  • Credit cards can encourage overspending.
  • Carrying a balance and using your card irresponsibly can damage your credit score
  • The cost of borrowing on credit cards is higher than traditional loans
  • Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score
  • Travel credit cards may be too complicated (or expensive) for those who aren’t frequent travelers.

Frequently asked questions

Generally speaking, you need at least a very good credit score in order to get many popular travel credit cards. According to FICO, the scoring model used by most lenders, this is a score of at least 740. However, there’s no hard-and-fast rule, as each individual credit card issuer looks at a variety of factors in addition to your credit score when deciding whether to approve or decline your application.

Thankfully, there are a number of ways to check your credit score for free , so you can get an idea of where you stand before wasting an application (and a hard inquiry on your credit report) for a card for which you’re unlikely to qualify.

Points and miles are simply two different ways to describe the same thing: the rewards you earn on a credit card. As an example, many popular Capital One credit cards earn miles, whereas cards that participate in Chase Ultimate Rewards accrue points. There’s no appreciable difference between the two words.

This gets a little more complicated when you begin discussing cash-back credit cards. Some of these show earnings with a dollar amount, while others show cash-back rewards in points. However, here too there’s no significant difference. It’s simply how the card issuer chooses to describe the rewards you’re earning.

It depends entirely on your typical travel habits. Many popular travel credit cards feature rewards, benefits and redemption options that only come into play when you’re actually on the road. This includes perks like airport lounge access or statement credits for certain travel purchases. Ultimately, you should look at how much value you expect to get out of a given travel card in one year. Then, compare that to the card’s annual fee to make sure you’re getting at least that much value.

It depends. Generally speaking, you should aim to use your rewards from travel credit cards for travel-related purchases – like flights or hotel rooms. However, everyone has a different version of what “value” looks like here. Some travelers are perfectly content redeeming 25,000 miles for a $250 economy flight. Others would rather save up and use 100,000 miles for a $5,000 business-class ticket. The important thing is to avoid redemptions like gift cards or merchandise, since those typically offer poor value for your points and miles.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether you want to keep cash in your pocket by using rewards for a particular purchase instead.

Many of the luxury travel cards on this list offer hundreds of dollars in annual travel statement credits. However, not all annual travel statements are created equal. While some cards feature easy redemptions, other cards feature redemptions that come with more restrictions. 

Out of the various cards that offer annual travel credits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has the easiest redemption process for travel credits . The Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel credit covers a broad selection of charges, including flights, hotels, campgrounds and more. Additionally, the travel does not have to be booked through Chase’s travel portal, and the statement credit will automatically post when you make an eligible purchase. 

Forbes

How To Find The Best Credit Card For Travel To Europe

I f you've been in planning mode for a trip to Europe, you've likely thought about which places to visit, how to get there, where to stay and what to eat. But one of the major considerations for any trip, especially one to a foreign country, is which credit card to use on your trip.

Having the right credit card for travel to Europe can not only save you hundreds on foreign exchange fees but also provide you with large rewards to use on your next trip. We'll go over how you can find the best credit card before you head on your trip and what to do once you're on foreign soil.

How To Choose the Best Credit Cards for Travel to Europe

If you haven't booked your trip yet, now's the perfect time to set your strategy in motion. You'll probably be booking flights, hotels, trains, rental cars and more in the coming weeks and months. Maximizing your earnings in each of these categories can net you plenty of bonus points and miles.

Also, hidden in the DNA of many credit cards are extra benefits that can improve your experience, save you money or give you more peace of mind while you're on your trip. Here are some of the key factors you'll want to consider when comparing cards for Europe travel.

Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees

Since nearly everything you spend in Europe will be processed in a foreign currency, not being charged a fee for every purchase you make could potentially save you hundreds of dollars. Thankfully, many of the best travel credit cards don't charge foreign transaction fees.

Earn Bonus Rewards

You might as well pick up extra rewards while you're traveling overseas. Dining is a frequent bonus category of many rewards credit cards. Both the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earn 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards® points per dollar on dining. And with the Sapphire Reserve, that can jump up all the way to 10 points per dollar on Chase Dining purchases.

In addition to airplane tickets, think about all the travel expenses you'll incur when you arrive. Hotels, rental cars, taxis, cruises, buses and even parking decks are likely to come up in your travels. In addition to the aforementioned Chase cards, several rewards cards offer bonus points on travel purchases with some offering up to 10 points per dollar when you book through their respective travel portals.

Improve Your Airport Experience

In addition to bonus earning opportunities, some credit cards offer airport perks that can make your experience more comfortable or hassle-free. First up is airport lounge access. Priority Pass , for example, is a membership program with 1,300 lounges worldwide. A few credit cards will allow you into these lounges, and often a guest or two as well, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of the crowded airport terminals.

Apart from the Priority Pass lounge program, some card issuers offer access to their own lounges such as Capital One Lounges or the American Express Centurion Lounges as well as other partner lounge networks such as Plaza Premium lounges, Delta SkyClubs and Lufthansa Lounges.

If your flight lands back in the United States at a time when many other flights arrive, you could face long lines to pass through immigration. Two great programs that help you speed through the airport are CLEAR® Plus and Global Entry . CLEAR® Plus lets you breeze past security in the U.S. on your way to Europe by using biometric data to allow you to skip the line in airports.

Utilizing Global Entry allows for an expedited screening and short lines upon your return home. Many credit cards offer a credit to offset the $100 cost of the Global Entry application fee. When you sign up for and get approved for Global Entry, you'll get TSA PreCheck as well, allowing you a speedy pass through security in the U.S. You can combine this with CLEAR in eligible airports to get through even faster.

Unlock Statement Credits

Many credit cards also help you offset travel charges by using statement credits. The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees ) leads the way with two travel credits. First, it offers a $200 airline incidental credit for fees like baggage and in-flight food purchases on a qualifying airline. Then, it also offers a $200 credit each year on prepaid bookings at Fine Hotels and Resorts properties.

Hotel credits don't stop with American Express. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card card throws in a $50 credit each anniversary year for hotels booked through Ultimate Rewards while the Citi Premier® Card doubles that to $100 a year for hotel stays of at least $500.

Step up from the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card to the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and your first $300 in travel charges will be credited back to you, offering a solid offset to the card's annual fee. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a similar travel credit, but the $300 can only be applied to Capital One travel portal bookings.

Receive Valuable Protections

Having the right credit card is also important for when things go sideways during your travels. Many premium credit cards come with travel insurances such as baggage insurance, travel interruption insurance and even trip delay insurances. These policies have the potential to save you hundreds and thousands of dollars when things don't go according to plan.

What Are the Most Popular Credit Cards for Europe Travel?

Chase sapphire reserveâ®.

Chase's premier travel rewards credit card checks many of the boxes mentioned above. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers a generous welcome bonus of . And while the $550 annual fee may seem steep, the benefits of the card add up quickly.

The first $300 you spend each year on eligible travel purchases is given back to you as a statement credit. Also, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® comes with free Priority Pass Select membership, offers a statement credit of up to $100 every four years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS and charges no foreign transaction fees.

In terms of ongoing rewards, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® earns . Without a doubt, the Sapphire Reserve is one of the most popular and best credit cards for travel to Europe or other countries around the globe.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Another one of Chase's top travel credit cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offer a lower annual fee than its sibling while still offering a solid welcome bonus of .

It also offers strong earnings potential in everyday spending categories. The card earns .

Foreign transaction fees are waived with the , but cardholders don't receive any lounge benefits or credits for Trusted Traveler programs. There's also no general travel credit available, but the card does offer a hotel credit of up to $50 per year for stays purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card earns . The flat earning rate on non-travel purchases provides an uncomplicated way to earn rewards on whatever you buy during your Europe trip.

You'll also get access to multiple lounges including the Priority Pass network, waived foreign transaction fees, an up to $300 travel credit, and a Global Entry credit as well.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The premium card offering from American Express offers not only a solid welcome bonus, but also a large suite of travel benefits and coverages all packed into one card.

The Platinum Card® from American Express earns . You'll also get a $200 statement credit each year to cover airline incidental fees for the airline of your choice. This can help offset your baggage fees, inflight refreshments, or even seat selection fees.

In the airports you'll gain entrance to the famed Centurion Lounges by American Express, other lounges in the Global Lounge Collection, and a Priority Pass Select membership. Combine that with a guide suite of travel insurances like trip delay and interruption insurance¹, car rental loss and damage coverage², and even cell phone protection¹, it's hard to beat all these benefits packed into one card.

Europe Travel: ATM vs. Credit Card

It may seem tempting to simply use your ATM card when you arrive in Europe and take out cash, but that might not be your best option.

Most places in Europe use Tap to Pay with credit cards, so you will more than likely find the need for cash is limited. It is always recommended to have a little bit of currency, so you could always take out a smaller amount of euros just in case. Your hotel should be able to break larger bills into smaller ones or even coins in order to leave tips.

When you take money out of an ATM, your bank may not only charge you a foreign transaction fee, you may also incur a foreign ATM fee and non-bank ATM fee. Those fees add up quickly if you need to take out money more than once.

The right credit card on the other hand can help avoid not only those pesky foreign transaction fees but also earn rewards. Also, if you happen to lose your ATM or debit card or there's fraud on the account, the money from your checking account could be at risk. Most credit cards, on the other hand, offer zero liability protection if your card is lost or stolen.

Europe Travel: Credit Card Fees

Every time you make a purchase outside of the United States, your credit card will process that foreign charge and convert it to US dollars. Typically banks will charge a fee for this service, called a Foreign Transaction Fee.

You can call your bank to ask if your current credit card charges a foreign transaction fee. By applying for the cards mentioned in this article, you'll avoid those foreign purchase fees.

Bottom Line

Choosing the right travel credit card can not only earn you more rewards but could also help you avoid a lot of unnecessary fees. Consider applying for one of the cards mentioned above to steer clear of unnecessary charges and gain protections and comforts that could make your European trip even more enjoyable.

To view rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page .

¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

²Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

How To Find The Best Credit Card For Travel To Europe

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4 Best Credit Cards for International Travel

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Most products on this page are from partners who may compensate us. This may influence which products we write about and where and how they appear on the page. However, opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain.

Traveling internationally can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but traveling with the wrong credit card can be costly in more ways than one. The right international credit card should offer a range of features and benefits that make it easier and more affordable to use your card while abroad. Some cards not only help you earn rewards and save money overall, but can also enhance your experience abroad through access to unique travel perks. From cards with travel insurance to free lounge access, we've compiled some of the best credit cards to consider if you're preparing and planning for a trip overseas.

Chase Sapphire Preferred®

best europe travel credit card

Secure application on issuer’s website

  • Our Rating 5/5 How our ratings work Read the review
  • APR 21.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
  • Annual Fee $95

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Dollar Equivalent : $1,380 (60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points * 0.023 base)

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of the gold standards for earning travel rewards. It has a generous sign-up bonus and you can earn points on travel and dining expenses. The card does have an annual fee, but you can continue earning points through bonus categories and an anniversary points boost.

  • Pros & Cons

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is pretty flexible as it lets you transfer rewards points into miles or points several airlines and hotel programs. You can take advantage of strong transfer partners such as United, Southwest, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and Hyatt. Similarly, you can book any reservation you want through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal. Although the card might not be ideal for the most frequent travelers, it has a built-in upgrade path, so when it’s time to level up your travel rewards game, you won’t have to start from scratch.

  • Points are easily transferable to airlines and hotel partners
  • Accelerated earnings on dining, travel & household purchases
  • Excellent travel and purchase protections
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Not ideal for the highest spenders
  • $95 annual fee

Best for Overall Travel Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is best for travelers seeking a card that checks all the boxes (generous rewards, travel protections, perks) at a reasonable annual fee.

International Travel Benefits

  • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance (up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip)
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver (up to the cash value of the car)
  • Baggage delay insurance (up to $100 for five days)
  • Trip delay reimbursement (up to $500 per ticket)
  • $50 annual statement credit towards hotels booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards®

Why We Like It

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is the best overall card for international travel, thanks to numerous factors. The card earns generous rewards on travel and dining purchases — two major spending categories for international travel. It also includes a generous suite of travel protections, providing peace of mind when visiting abroad. The card's $95 annual fee is partially offset by an annual $50 hotel credit through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. All in all, it provides the most value for jetsetters who want to level up their rewards potential.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

best europe travel credit card

  • Our Rating 4.5/5 How our ratings work Read the review
  • APR 22.49% - 29.49% (Variable)
  • Annual Fee $550

Earn 60,000 bonus points after using your card to spend $4,000 within three months of account opening. Dollar Equivalent : $1,380 (60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points * 0.023 base)

This card features an annual credit for travel purchases, which can offset the annual fee, plus bonus points when you sign up. You'll also get free access to tons of Priority Pass lounges and restaurant options around the world, along with access to the upcoming Chase Sapphire Lounge network.

If you’re looking to elevate your travel experience, look no further than the Chase Sapphire Reserve. When you first get approved, you’ll earn a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months—that’s worth at least $900 in travel-related spending booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards® and potentially more if you transfer your rewards to one of Chase’s airline or hotel partners.

  • An array of premium travel perks including access to Priority Pass lounges
  • Easy-to-use $300 travel credit that helps offset card's annual fee
  • Generous rewards rates for spending
  • High annual fee may be a deterrent for some
  • Perks are starting to get stale relative to newer competition

Best for Travel Protections

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is perfect for those seeking a premium travel credit card with best-in-class travel insurance and ongoing card benefits that largely offset the $550 annual fee.

  • Travel accident insurance (up to $1 million)
  • Trip delay reimbursement ($500 per ticket)
  • Travel and emergency assistance services
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver (up to $75,000 in coverage)
  • Lost luggage reimbursement (up to $3,000 per passenger)
  • Baggage delay insurance (up to $100 per day for five days)
  • Emergency evacuation and transportation services (up to $100,000)
  • Emergency medical and dental benefits (up to $2,500)
  • $300 annual travel credit
  • Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership includes access to participating airport lounges, restaurants, cafes and markets
  • Exclusive perks and discounts at hotels booked through the Luxury Hotels & Resorts Collection
  • Up to $100 TSA Precheck or Global Entry application fee credit every four years

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers top-of-the-line travel protections and luxury perks, making it ideal for international travel. Cardholders get a comprehensive suite of protections, including emergency medical and dental coverage — a rarity among credit cards. Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership will make traveling abroad more comfortable too, as you'll get access to over 1,300 VIP lounges worldwide.

The Sapphire Reserve also earns 10x points on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase, 10x on Chase Dining, 5x on air travel booked through Chase Travel and 3x points on travel and dining purchases worldwide. These elevated reward rates make the card an exceptional choice for those who want to earn more points for international travel and protect their travel bookings.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

best europe travel credit card

  • APR 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% (Variable)
  • Annual Fee $0

Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value. Dollar Equivalent : $200 (20,000 Points * 0.01 base)

The Wells Fargo Autograph Card can easily become your go-to card as most American households spend a bulk of their budget on restaurants, gas and travel costs. Not to mention, you likely subscribe to a streaming service (or two) and pay a monthly cellphone bill, which can cost hundreds if you have a family plan. Simply put: With this card, you can earn points on all of these day-to-day expenses, all with no annual fee.

The Wells Fargo Autograph SM Card offers an impressive 3x point rewards rate across six bonus categories: restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and cell phone plans, easily ranking it as one of the most robust earning cards out there.

  • Wide array of category bonuses: Unlimited 3x points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit and commuting, popular streaming services and phone plans
  • Get up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with your eligible Wells Fargo card (subject to a $25 deductible).
  • No annual fee
  • Rewards are worth up to 1 cent each

Best for Cash Back Equivalent Rewards

Travelers who want a cash-back-equivalent credit card with basic travel protections and elevated rewards on common everyday categories will benefit from the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card.

  • Auto rental collision damage waiver (secondary coverage)
  • Travel and emergency services assistance
  • Premium benefits on Visa Signature Hotel stays

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is one of the most underrated travel rewards credit cards for international travel. Earning rewards at home and abroad is effortless with the card's unlimited 3x points on popular spending categories like restaurants, travel, transit, streaming services, gas and phone plans. The card also has no foreign transaction fees and provides useful protections when traveling internationally. Points are redeemable for travel purchases at a flat one cent each, making this akin to a cash-back credit card .

Wells Fargo Autograph card on a wallet

Why the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card Is Better Than Most Cards in Your Wallet

Ink business preferred® credit card.

best europe travel credit card

  • APR 21.24% - 26.24% (Variable)

This fee includes extra cards for authorized users, such as employees, at no additional charge.

Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 in the first three months Dollar Equivalent : $2,300 (100,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points * 0.023 base)

Those with travel and advertising expenses will like the high earning rates in these categories, plus cardholders can eke out even more value with fully transferable rewards through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. One drawback is the modest annual fee, though many can offset this with the card’s earning potential.

This card offers a whopping 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 in the first three months — with the card’s 25% bonus on travel booked through Chase, that’s worth $1,250. But you could potentially get more through one of the bank’s transfer partners. The rewards you earn from the Ink Business Preferred Card can be transferred to 10 different airline partners including United, Southwest, Virgin Atlantic, Singapore and British Airways, as well as hotel partners Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott.

Unlike the other two Ink Business cards, you can use this card to transfer your rewards directly to airline miles and hotel points. Travelers may also like this card’s cellphone protection policy that will cover up to $600 per claim.

  • 3x points on 5 different categories (up to $150,000)
  • Robust travel, purchase and cellphone protections
  • Ability to earn transferable points to use on travel partners
  • No additional charge for extra cards for additional authorized users
  • Businesses that don't spend on the category bonuses won't benefit

Best for Business Travelers

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card offers business travelers a rewarding card for international travel, along with practical card benefits at a reasonable annual fee.

  • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance (up to $5,000 per person and $10,000 per trip)
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver when traveling for business
  • Cell phone protection (up to $1,000 per claim)
  • Employee cards at no additional costs help you earn rewards faster

With the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card , you can redeem points for international travel through the Chase portal, where they're worth 25% more. You'll get valuable travel protections for your trip too, including trip cancellation insurance and travel and emergency assistance services. Employee cards are offered at no additional cost, so you can earn points even faster.

Cardholders can also earn 3x points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases across common business categories like advertising, telecommunications and shipping purchases. If your business spends heavily in these areas, you can easily make up the $95 annual fee through rewards earned.

Don't overlook the generous sign-up bonus. New cardholders can score a whopping 100,000 points after spending $8,000 within three months of account opening.

How to Choose the Best Travel Card for International Trips

two women at restaurant

Getting the right credit card in place before you travel can save you a lot of hassle and even some money. Here are some factors to consider as you research the best travel credit card for your trip abroad:

  • No foreign transaction fees: These fees can add up quickly, especially if you use your card frequently while traveling. Many cards charge a 3% foreign transaction fee per transaction, so look for one without this fee so you aren't hit with extra charges while overseas. 
  • Bonus rewards on travel purchases: A lucrative rewards program can help you earn points or miles on purchases. Rewards can be redeemed for travel, hotel stays or other perks to help you save money and get more out of your trip. Look for credit cards that offer bonus rewards on purchases like flights, hotels and rental cars. Some even offer lounge access and free checked bags.
  • Travel insurance: Travel insurance is a safety net. This benefit varies per issuer but often provides trip cancellation, lost luggage and medical expense coverages, which can help protect you from unexpected costs and disruptions. Some cards offer more comprehensive insurance than others, so read the fine print to learn what's covered.
  • International acceptance: No one wants to find out their card isn’t accepted once they reach their destination, so it’s worth taking a few minutes to check. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most places around the world, but American Express and Discover have more limited acceptance in some countries.
  • Emergency assistance: It's better to have this benefit and not use it than to need it and not have it. The best cards for international travel offer 24/7 customer service and emergency assistance, including lost or stolen card replacement and emergency cash advances, which can be invaluable if you run into issues while traveling. 
  • Currency conversion rates: Some cards offer better conversion rates than others, which can save you money when using your card to make purchases in foreign currency. Check exchange rates before you travel so you know what to expect when using your card abroad.

Clear/Global Entry Fee Credit

CLEAR at airport

CLEAR and Global Entry are programs that help travelers get through airport security more quickly and efficiently. If you’re looking to save time and hassle when traveling internationally, you’ll want these perks:

  • Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and enables expedited customs clearance when returning to the United States. 
  • CLEAR is a separate program that lets members bypass the standard security screening process at select airports and stadiums in the U.S. 

Some credit cards offer credits to cover the application fees for these programs in the form of a statement reimbursement, making them even more valuable.

woman going through immigration

Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Reimbursement

Quick tips when using your credit card abroad.

The right credit card can help make your next trip even more enjoyable, as long as you do a little advance planning. Here are some steps to take to set yourself up for headache-free spending abroad:

  • Notify your issuer ahead of time: Let your card issuer know about your trip in advance so they don’t suspect fraud when you pay with your card. The last thing you want to deal with is a card getting declined or frozen when you’re in a foreign country.
  • Avoid cash withdrawals: You’ll likely face high fees if you have to withdraw cash with your credit card when traveling, so it’s often better to stick to plastic or carry a small amount of cash if you need it.
  • Make a back-up plan: If your card is lost or stolen, or you find it’s not as widely accepted as you thought, having some cash or another card on hand could be invaluable to help you get through our trip.
  • Check your card's expiration date: It only takes a second to double-check your expiration date to ensure your preferred card will be active the whole time you’re traveling, preventing the potential financial pinch of an inactive card.
  • Bring and use the right cards: Do your research into factors like foreign transaction fees and travel rewards so you can save the most money and even benefit from rewards and other perks while you travel.
  • Avoid dynamic currency conversion: Be on the lookout for dynamic currency conversion services. Some vendors offer this as a way for customers to both see prices and pay in their home currency, but they’ll often charge you a much higher rate for the convenience.
  • Check your travel protections: Many travel credit cards come with some level of travel coverage, like trip cancellation insurance and baggage protections. It’s worth refreshing yourself on what your cards cover in case you need these services while traveling.
  • Review your travel perks: It’s not all about preparing for a crisis when you travel. Also look into what benefits your travel cards offer. You might be able to take advantage of lounge access or other perks during your travels to make your trip a little more comfortable.

woman traveling on tropical getaway

The Bottom Line

Preparation is key when planning an international trip and choosing the right credit card can be just as important as booking flights and accommodations. By considering factors such as foreign transaction fees, rewards programs, travel insurance and more, you can find a credit card that offers the features and benefits you need to make your trip more enjoyable and affordable.

With the right credit card in hand, you can have peace of mind and take advantage of travel-related perks and rewards, saving you money and making your travel experience memorable. Happy travels!

Ariana Arghandewal

Ariana Arghandewal is a rewards travel expert and founder of Pointchaser , an online publication dedicated to rewards travel topics. She brings over a decade of experience writing about travel, points, miles and credit cards. Her expertise includes her roles as an editor for distinguished travel and finance publications such as NerdWallet , The Points Guy and FlyerTalk. She has also authored many articles featured in major financial news & travel channels like Forbes , U.S. News Weekly , Business Insider & Fodor’s Travel.

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Introduction to Citi Transfer Partners

List of citi transfer partners, how to transfer citi points.

  • How to earn Citi ThankYou points

Citi Transfer Partners: Airlines, Hotels, and More

Our experts answer readers' credit card questions and write unbiased product reviews ( here's how we assess credit cards ). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners ; however, our opinions are our own. Terms apply to offers listed on this page.

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Citi Premier® Card, Citi Prestige® Card, Citi Rewards+® Card, Citi® Double Cash Card, Citi Custom Cash℠ Card, AT&T Points Plus® Card. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

  • Citi ThankYou points are valuable because the program partners with 14 airlines and 3 hotel chains.
  • Citi's hotel partner programs are Choice Privileges, Wyndham Rewards, and Accor Live Limitless.
  • Other partners include JetBlue, Air France-KLM, Singapore Airlines, and Cathay Pacific.

Overview of Citi Points Transfer

Earning transferable points with rewards credit cards is one of the best strategies you can use to maximize returns on your spending. Programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards ® and Amex Membership Rewards are popular with award travelers, in part because their transfer partners include numerous domestic airlines and popular hotel chains. 

The Citi ThankYou Rewards program is a bit of an underdog in this regard, with just one domestic carrier (JetBlue) among airline transfer options. 

Benefits of Transferring Citi Points

Despite having few domestic airline options, you can still squeeze excellent value from the program — in fact, some of Citi's international airline transfer partners offer lucrative sweet spots that allow you to book award flights for far less than other frequent flyer programs charge.

In addition, the program added Choice Privileges, Wyndham Rewards, and most recently Accor Live Limitless (ALL) to its partner roster, marking the first hotel transfer options since Hilton left the program several years ago.

That's on top of the numerous other ways to use your rewards points, like booking travel directly through the Citi ThankYou Travel Portal or cashing in rewards for gift cards and merchandise. These options are available to any ThankYou Rewards cardholder, but to unlock the ability to transfer points to all of Citi's airline partners, you'll need to have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card (no longer available to new applicants) in your wallet.

Best Airline Transfer Partners

As with most transferable points programs, there are definitely some partners that are better than others. Depending on the partner and how you redeem your points, the value you get from your transfer can vary significantly.

Here's a look at the best Citi airline transfer partners.

Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles

It may seem strange that one of the best uses of Citi ThankYou points is transferring to a European airline that most people are likely never to fly. But the real value of Turkish Airlines miles lies in using the Miles & Smiles frequent flyer program to book award flights on its Star Alliance partners.

For example, the Miles & Smiles partner award chart requires only 10,500 Turkish miles for an economy-class flight anywhere within the US, including Hawaii, on Star Alliance partner United Airlines. If you booked the exact same flight through the United MileagePlus frequently flyer program, you'd pay 25,000 United miles.

Using the Miles & Smiles program does take a bit of patience as its online booking site can be hard to navigate, but cheap award prices like these can make it worth the extra effort. 

Air France-KLM Flying Blue

Air France and KLM share the Flying Blue frequent flyer program, and one of the best uses of Flying Blue miles is its recurring promo rewards. Each month, Flying Blue publishes a list of routes with a 25 to 50% discount on mileage costs. This can be a great way to stretch the value of your ThankYou points.

Rates for a one-way economy flight from the US to Europe range from about 15,000 to 30,000 Flying Blue miles. The number of miles required varies quite a bit depending on the date and if the route is on a monthly promo award. Keep in mind Flying Blue adds more taxes and fees than other programs, so you'll have to weigh the savings in miles and the increased cash cost.

Because it's a transfer partner of all of the major transferable rewards currencies, Flying Blue is a great place to combine points balances from different programs.

Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer

Singapore Airlines is also a member of the Star Alliance, which means that you can use KrisFlyer miles to book travel on partner airlines like United, Air Canada, and Lufthansa.

In fact, using Singapore Airlines is also cheaper than using United's own miles for flights anywhere in the continental US to Hawaii. Singapore also has a non-alliance partnership with Alaska Airlines, and you can use as few as 11,500 KrisFlyer miles to get to Hawaii as well. 

For luxury aficionados, Singapore Airlines also flies the ultra-premium Singapore Suites first class on certain routes. Singapore rarely opens up award seats in Suites Class to partner airlines, so transferring to KrisFlyer is often the only way to book these bucket-list awards.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Although Virgin Atlantic is headquartered in the UK, its mileage program offers a fair amount of value for US travelers. You'll often get the best deal from Virgin Atlantic miles when you book award flights on its SkyTeam partners, like Delta.

Because Delta no longer publishes an award chart, the cost of a flight in Delta SkyMiles can vary wildly depending on the route, date, and number of stops. Before you book an award flight using your Delta miles, it pays to check with Virgin Atlantic. It is quite common that the exact same Delta flight will cost fewer miles if you book with Flying Club miles.

Avianca LifeMiles

Avianca is also a member of the Star Alliance, which means that you can use its miles to book partners like United, Lufthansa, and Ethiopian Airlines. Avianca's award chart divides the US into three separate regions, with flights within a region requiring only 7,500 Avianca Lifemiles to book. Some US airline frequent flyer programs would charge 12,500 miles or more for the exact same flights.

Avianca also offers regular promotions that offer huge (150% or more) bonuses on buying or transferring LifeMiles. This can make it easy to top off your balance if you just need a few more miles to book your next trip.

Good Citi Airline Transfer Partners

Some Citi airline transfer partners can provide decent value, but only in certain situations.

Etihad Guest

Etihad is not a member of any airline alliance but has a number of non-alliance partnerships that can provide good value for your Citi ThankYou points. These include Czech Airways (Prague to Seoul in business class for 25,610 Etihad Guest miles) and Royal Air Maroc (New York-JFK to Casablanca for 22,000 miles in economy or 44,000 miles in business class).

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles

Cathay Pacific is a member of the Oneworld alliance and has a distance-based award chart. The number of miles you need will depend on whether you are flying only Cathay Pacific or if you are flying one of its Oneworld partners, like American Airlines or British Airways. A flight from Los Angeles to Hong Kong on Cathay Pacific is only 27,000 miles in economy or 84,000 miles in business class.

Qantas Frequent Flyer

Like Cathay Pacific, Qantas is also a member of the Oneworld alliance and also has a distance-based award chart. The best value for using Qantas miles is on short flights under 600 flown miles on either Qantas or Oneworld partners like American Airlines. These short flights can be had for only 8,000 Qantas miles.

JetBlue TrueBlue

The number of points required for a JetBlue award flight is directly tied to the cash price of a ticket, so it's hard to get outsized value from your TrueBlue points. Still, it is possible to save points by transferring your Citi ThankYou points to JetBlue instead of using them directly to book a paid flight through the Citi portal.

Remember that JetBlue is the only Citi airline transfer partner that you can use without having the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card (though at a lesser ratio of 1,000 ThankYou points to 800 JetBlue points).

Citi Airline Transfer Partners That Aren't Great Value

The rest of the Citi ThankYou airline transfer partners are generally not worth considering, except for extremely niche redemptions.

Aeromexico Club Premier

Aeromexico uses kilometers instead of miles, so its award chart is generally inflated by 1.6x compared to other programs. While other bank program points, such as Amex Membership Rewards , transfer to Aeromexico at a rate of 1:1.6, Citi transfers at only 1:1. 

Eva Air Infinity MileageLands

The award chart for Eva Air Infinity MileageLands is not spectacular when compared to most other airline programs, and you'll generally find better value elsewhere. Eva Air does have some generous stopover allowances, though you can't book stopovers online — instead, you'll need to call the airline directly.

Emirates Skywards

While Emirates first-class cabins are among the best in the world, it's best to use partner miles to book these awards. While Emirates recently reduced the astronomical fuel surcharges they charge on Skywards award tickets, there are other mileage programs that offer better value.

Qatar Airways Privilege Club

Like fellow Gulf carrier Emirates, Qatar has a great premium cabin flight experience that is best booked with partner miles. In Qatar's case, rather than transferring Citi ThankYou points to Qatar Airways Privilege Club, it's better to use American Airlines AAdvantage miles to fly on Qatar Airways.

Thai Airways Royal Orchid Plus

Thai Airways is currently in the middle of bankruptcy, spurred on at least in part by the limited travel demand due to the pandemic. And while bankruptcy does not mean that your Royal Orchid Plus miles would all of a sudden become worthless, it does give you one more reason to avoid transferring your ThankYou points here.

Hotel Partners

It's possible to get decent value from Citi's hotel partners, Choice, Wyndham, and Accor, but because many of their brands are budget-friendly, you might be better off saving your points and paying cash instead. It's also possible to redeem Citi ThankYou points at a rate of 1 cent apiece for stays at these chains by booking through the Citi Travel Portal.

Accor Live Limitless (ALL)

Citi's newest transfer partner is Accor Live Limitless (ALL), which comprises 45 brands across over 5,000 properties worldwide. Accor hotels include Fairmont, Raffles, Sofitel, SLS, and Swisshotel, but most of its properties are located outside the US, making this a better deal for international travelers.

This transfer option is only available to Citi Premier and Prestige cardholders, with a transfer ratio of 2:1 (2 Citi points equals 1 Accor point). Accor doesn't have an award chart; instead, you can redeem points in 2,000-point increments toward a stay discount, where 2,000 points equal 40 euros off your bill. That makes Accor points worth just over 2 cents each, but since there's a 2:1 transfer ratio from Citi, you'll only get a value of just over 1 cent per Citi point (depending on the current exchange rate).

Choice Privileges

The loyalty program of Choice Hotels, Choice Privileges includes brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Clarion, Cambria, and Ascend Collection hotels. Award prices start at 8,000 points per night and go up to 35,000 points per night, with a few exceptions. Rates also vary depending on the season and even the day of the week you stay.

If you have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card, the transfer ratio is 1:2 (1 ThankYou point equals 2 Choice points), with transfers in 1,000-point increments. The no-annual-fee Citi Rewards+® Card and Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card have a transfer ratio of 1:1.5 (1 ThankYou points equals 1.5 Choice points), with transfers also in 1,000-point increments. And if you have the Citi® Double Cash Card , you also have the ability to transfer to Choice at a 1:1.5 ratio.

Wyndham Rewards

Wyndham Rewards includes familiar brands like Super 8, Days Inn, Howard Johnson, and Travelodge — as well as over 40,000 vacation rentals through its partnership with Vacasa.

With the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card, you'll get a 1:1 transfer ratio to Wyndham. Otherwise, with the Citi Rewards+® Card, Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card, and Citi® Double Cash Card, the ratio is 5:4 (1,000 Citi ThankYou points = 800 Wyndham points). 

Wyndham's award structure is simple — you'll pay 7,500, 15,000, or 30,000 points for an award night, depending on the property. With Vacasa vacation rentals, you'll pay these fixed points rates per listed bedroom. 

Other Rewards Programs

In addition to airline and hotel transfer partners, Citi ThankYou has one retail transfer partner. 

Sears Shop Your Way

You can transfer your Citi ThankYou points to Sears Shop Your Way points at a rate of 1:10. Shop Your Way points are worth 0.1 cents each, and Sears does sell some third-party gift cards that you can buy with Shop Your Way points.

This would allow you to effectively redeem your Citi ThankYou points for 1 cent per point for gift cards (or other merchandise) available for purchase at Sears. Unless you already have Sears Shop Your Way points and need to top off your account for a redemption, it's easier to redeem Citi ThankYou points directly for gift cards through the ThankYou portal.

Transferring your Citi ThankYou points is a fairly straightforward process. Once you log into your account at thankyou.com, find "More Ways To Redeem" in the top header, then choose "Points Transfer." Or, select "Transfer & Share" in the main menu under "See everything that can be done with ThankYou Points."

After you've selected "Points Transfer," you'll then see a list of Citi transfer partner options available to you. It's important to note that the first and last names on your ThankYou account and the account you're transferring to must match in order to be able to transfer.

Citi Citi Premier® Card

Earn 10x ThankYou® Points per dollar on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2024. Earn 3x ThankYou® points on restaurant, supermarket, gas station, air travel, and hotel purchases. Earn 1x ThankYou® points on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% Variable

Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® points

Good to Excellent

  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong bonus
  • Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous bonus categories
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer much in the way of statement credits or other perks
  • con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Citi ThankYou Rewards may not be as convenient as other points for US-based travelers

If you're looking for an all-purpose travel credit card with strong rewards, many ways to use your points, and an annual fee under $100, the Citi Premier should be on your shortlist. Beyond the welcome bonus offer, the Citi Premier® Card offers great 3x earning categories that just about anyone can take advantage of — and the rewards it earns are incredibly flexible.

For most of these partners, the transfer ratio is 1:1, with transfers in 1,000-point increments. The only exception for Citi Premier and Prestige cardholders is Accor (2:1). For other cardholders, JetBlue, Choice, and Wyndham, which are the only transfer partners available (along with Sears Shop Your Way rewards) if you don't have a Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card have transfer ratios and availability that vary depending on the card you have.

It's important to note that ThankYou points transfers are one-way and nonrefundable — once you move ThankYou points to a partner, you can not transfer them back to ThankYou Rewards.

How to Earn Citi ThankYou points

You can earn Citi ThankYou points through welcome bonuses and spending on a variety of different Citi credit cards , including:

Remember, you can only access all of Citi's transfer partners if you have the Citi Premier® Card or Citi Prestige® Card. If you have multiple Citi ThankYou credit cards, you can combine your points into one ThankYou account.

Citi points can be transferred to a variety of airline and hotel partners, but not all airlines or hotels are partners. It's important to check the current list of Citi transfer partners for available options.

Transfer times vary by partner. While some transfers are instant, others may take several days to process. It's advisable to plan ahead if you need to use transferred points for specific bookings.

Once transferred, points are subject to the expiration policies of the partner program. This means they could expire if not used within the timeframe set by the partner.

Generally, there are no fees for transferring points from Citi to its partners, but it's always best to confirm any potential costs directly with Citi before making a transfer.

The best use of transferred points varies depending on personal travel preferences, the specific transfer partner, and the value of flights or hotel stays. Comparing redemption options can help maximize value.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

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Best Credit Cards for Unique Airline Benefits

Craig Joseph

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Airline credit cards earn frequent-flyer program miles every time you use the card, but some cards come with valuable perks that can be just as exciting as earning miles for flying. The right credit card can make your journey cheaper and less stressful through benefits like free checked bags , a credit for TSA PreCheck and priority boarding.

But a range of lesser-known card benefits can also enhance your travel experience. Here are our favorite unique benefits offered by airline credit cards:

Discounted award flights .

Increased award availability .

Free in-flight Wi-Fi .

Annual companion fare .

Rebates on award flights .

Bonus miles for credit card spending .

Free premium drink .

» MORE: Best airline credit cards

best europe travel credit card

Delta Airlines cards from American Express

Benefit we love: discounted award flights.

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

on American Express' website

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

Terms Apply.

Key benefits:

Eligible Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees. Terms apply.

Why we like it

You’ll use 15% fewer miles for award flights if you hold a Delta Airlines credit card that carries an annual fee (both consumer and business cards). Simply use your card to pay for the taxes and fees on the award booking and the discount will automatically apply. The discount only applies to award booking on Delta-operated flights; partner bookings won’t qualify.

The Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card , Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card and the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card also qualify for the 15% discount on Delta-operated award flights.

» MORE: Is a Delta SkyMiles credit card worth it?

United Airlines cards from Chase

Benefit we love: increased award availability.

Chase United Airlines Mileage Plus Credit Card

on Chase's website

Chase United Quest Credit Card

Access increased award availability when you hold a qualifying United Airlines credit card.

Being an eligible United Airlines cardholder is the easiest way to gain increased access to saver awards on United-operated flights (only the $0 -annual-fee United Gateway℠ Card is ineligible). This perk can mean you pay significantly less for award space than non-cardholding MileagePlus members, which could easily justify your annual fee. United cardholders also won’t deal with blackout dates or capacity controls when using miles to book a United-operated flight.

The United℠ Business Card and United Club℠ Business Card also provide increased access to award space on United-operated flights.

» MORE: Is a United Credit Card worth it?

Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

New! Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card

Benefit we love: Free in-flight Wi-Fi

Annual fee: $199

Receive an $8 Wi-Fi credit on Southwest Airlines flights, up to 365 times per year. 

For business travelers, staying connected can mean the difference between a productive and a wasted day. Fortunately, the Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card can help you stay connected in the air with free Wi-Fi. When you charge it to your card, you'll get reimbursed for the $8 Wi-Fi charge on Southwest flights. Cardholders can receive up to 365 credits per year, allowing you to keep costs down while you stay plugged-in, no matter how frequently you travel.

» MORE: Is the Southwest Performance Business Card worth the annual fee?

Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card

Bank of America Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card

Benefit we love: Annual companion fare

Annual fee: $95

Get a Companion Fare from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Terms apply.

The Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card offers a best-in-class companion fare . By spending only $6,000 throughout your cardholder anniversary year (not calendar year), you’ll earn a companion fare that allows you to buy one regularly-priced ticket on Alaska Airlines and have a friend or loved one join you for only $122. Other cards that offer a companion fare can require up to $30,000 in spending to qualify (like the British Airways Visa Signature® Card , making the Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card companion fare the clear winner.

» MORE: Is the Alaska Airlines Visa Card worth its annual fee?

JetBlue Plus Card

Barclays JetBlue Plus Credit Card

Benefit we love: Rebates on award flights

Annual fee: $99

10% points rebate when you redeem rewards for JetBlue flights. 

As a JetBlue Plus Card holder, you’ll get 10% back every time you redeem your TrueBlue points for a JetBlue-operated flight. You’ll receive the miles back into your JetBlue TrueBlue account within four to six weeks after your flight, and there’s no cap on the number of miles you can receive back as a rebate. Depending on your frequency of award bookings, those rebated miles could more than make up for the card’s annual fee.

» MORE: Is the JetBlue Plus Card worth its annual fee?

Aeroplan® Credit Card

Aeroplan Credit Card

Benefit we love: Bonus miles for credit card spending

500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month - up to 1,500 points per month.

The Aeroplan® Credit Card lets big spenders rack up points fast. Cardholders can earn 500 bonus points for every $2,000 in spending per calendar month, up to a maximum bonus of 1,500 miles per month. The card already earns 3 points per $1 spent on grocery, dining and Air Canada purchases, so if your spending is concentrated in those categories, you can earn bonus miles for booking award flights in no time.

» MORE: Is the Chase Aeroplan Card worth its annual fee?

SunCountry Credit Card from FNBO

Benefit we love: free premium drink.

Annual fee: $69

One free premium drink per flight.

If you’re looking to start your vacation early, the SunCountry Credit Card can help. Cardholders will receive one free premium drink per flight by showing their card to the flight attendant, including an assortment of beer, wine, spirits and even cold brew coffee. As of this writing, these beverages cost up to $9 each. This benefit along with discounted seat-selection and baggage fees could make the card a great travel companion for frequent SunCountry fliers.

» MORE: When to fly on low-cost carriers vs. full-service airlines

On a similar note...

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Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

best europe travel credit card

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    It will also net you lounge access in 2024, help you avoid foreign transaction fees and will cover the cost of your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership. You may be concerned by the $395 annual fee, but there is an easy-to-redeem annual $300 travel credit available that effectively makes it a $95 per year card.

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    Prepaid travel card option 1: Bluebird American Express prepaid debit card. You can order a Bluebird prepaid debit card for free online. You'll then be able to top up in cash or from a bank account. You can also add checks or have funds deposited by others - fees apply for some top up methods.

  7. The 4 Best Credit Cards To Use in Europe in 2024

    There are a few travel credit cards that check all these boxes — here are our top four picks. Best for travelers who want flexibility: Chase Sapphire Reserve®. Best for wining and dining: Capital One® Savor® Cash Rewards Credit Card. Best for college students: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students.

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    Chase Sapphire Reserve - at least 3 points per dollar on travel. Ink Business Preferred Credit Card - 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases in multiple categories, including travel each account anniversary year. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card - at least 2 points per dollar on travel.

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