best travel card for everyday spending

Best credit cards for everyday spending in March 2024

Possibly the easiest way to earn rewards is to use one of the best credit cards for everyday spending instead of using your debit card or cash as your go-to form of payment. 

With so many options available, settling on one or two credit cards that will provide you with decent returns in the form of cash back, points or miles can be tough. Luckily, TPG’s expert editors have compiled this list of the best credit cards from our partners for everyday spending — including those with generous sign-up bonuses, simple cash-back structures and lucrative travel perks to enhance your next trip.

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for airline miles
• Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express : Best for U.S. supermarkets and gas in the U.S.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for beginners
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Best for cash-back beginners
• Citi Double Cash® Card : Best for no-frills cash-back rewards
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best for entertainment
• The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express : Best for everyday business expenses
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best for drugstores
• Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best for flat-rate cash-back
• Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card : Best for business cash back
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card : Best for travel

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Comparing the best credit cards for everyday spending, more details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly, maximizing credit cards for everyday spending, how we rate cards, what is an everyday spending credit card, how to choose the best everyday spending credit card, ask our experts, frequently asked questions.

• No Annual Fee

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 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 review of the  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

• Simple earning structure.
• Multiple transfer partners.
• Flexible redemption options.
• Lower transfer ratios for select partners.
• Limited bonus categories.
• No U.S. airline transfer partner.
• 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

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred Card is one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. You’ll get a great return across a wide range of bonus categories, a solid welcome bonus and a low annual fee. Read our review of the  Amex Blue Cash Preferred .

• Multiple bonus categories. earning for bonus category.
• High earning rates on bonus categories.
• Capped earning for bonus category.
• Annual fee.
• Foreign transaction fees.
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.
• Terms Apply.
• See Rates & Fees

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 .

• Multiple bonus categories.
• Valuable transfer partners.
• Annual hotel statement credit.
• Premium travel protection benefits.
• Subject to Chase’s 5/24 policy.
• 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 Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. 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

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Everyday card is a good option for people who want a simple cash back structure with no annual fee. You’ll earn bonus cash back rewards on popular bonus categories, including U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. Read our full review of the Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express .

• 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets
• No annual fee.
• 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases
• Amex Offers, which earn you statement credits or extra points on purchases with a wide variety of merchants. (Enrollment required)
• There is a $6,000 spending cap on the U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may not work for those with larger annual grocery spend.
• You’ll have to pay a foreign transaction fee on purchases abroad, so it’s not a great choice to take with you when traveling outside of the U.S.
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.

Citi Double Cash® Card

The Citi Double Cash Card caters to beginners establishing good credit habits, since users will earn 2% cash back; 1% when they buy and 1% when they pay their statement. The Citi Double Cash is a great pick for those looking for the utmost simplicity and want cash back in their pocket. Read our full review of the  Citi Double Cash here .

• Earning 2% back on every purchase is an industry-leading return on everyday spending for a no-annual-fee credit card.
• Now that you have the ability to convert rewards to ThankYou points with an eligible card, your redemption options are even more flexible.
• It’s great for those looking to consolidate debt, since it offers new cardmembers 18 months of 0% intro APR on balance transfers made. After that, the variable APR of 19.24% - 29.24% applies.
• Those looking to make a balance transfer will have to pay 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
• Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
• Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
• If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One SavorOne is a great cash-back credit card for beginners looking for a solid cash back structure and no annual fee. Dining, entertainment and groceries are high-value bonus categories, and it’s rare for a card to hit all three. Read our  full review of the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card.

• Unlimited bonus cash back.
• Long period for introductory 0% APR. You’ll get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after, there's a 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months or 4% at a promotional APR offered at any other time.).
• Small sign-up bonus.
• Low cash-back on non-bonus earning categories.
• Bonus rates on travel only apply through the Capital One portal.
• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
• Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• No foreign transaction fee
• No annual fee

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express

The Blue Business Plus is a great card for small business owners who want to earn lucrative Membership Rewards points on everyday business spending. It was created specifically for sole proprietorships and start-ups with limited revenue who would appreciate a card with an introductory interest rate and expanded buying power. Read our review of the  Amex Blue Business Plus .

• Travel and shopping protections.
• Cap on bonus earning.
• Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
• You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
• *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
• Terms Apply

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a surprisingly powerful card that earns at least 1.5% back on everything. However, it becomes a standout card if you pair it with a card that earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points, doubling their potential value. Read our full review of the Chase Freedom Unlimited .

• Incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.
• Limited card perks and benefits.
• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a decent option for those in need of a straightforward cash back card. However, there are other options that offer more flexibility to redeem your rewards. Read our full review of the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card .

• Unlimited cash back on all purchases.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Lack of bonus categories can limit earning potential.
• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited’ sign-up gives you $750 cash back spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening plus unlimited 1.5% cash back on every business purchase. It fills in rewards gaps not covered by the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card and the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card. You can maximize this card by pairing it with cards including the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Ink Business Preferred. Read our review of the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card .

• Unlimited cash back.
• High sign-up bonus.
• No bonus categories.
• High spend needed for sign-up bonus.
• No travel protection.
• Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
• Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
• 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.
• 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card is great for using the points earned for rewards that normal airline miles or credit card points can’t cover. Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members get a 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase. New cardmembers earn a 60,000-point sign-up bonus after spending $4,000 in the first 90 days of account opening. Read our review of the  Bank of America Premium Rewards card .

• Annual airline incidental credit.
• Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit.
• Travel protections.
• Few bonus categories.
• More valuable if you are a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member.
• Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
• Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
• Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
• Low $95 annual fee.
• 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.

With a simple earning structure and flexible redemption options, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent choice for anyone looking to earn rewards on everyday purchases. The card earns 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, making it an easy option for anyone looking for straightforward rewards without the need to track bonus categories.

Anyone with a busy lifestyle looking for a solid card that earns rewards on every purchase without the hassle of tracking bonus categories. Beginner and experienced travelers, newcomers to points and miles and seasoned pros alike will appreciate the multiple redemption options available with Capital One Venture miles . 

“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 a TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” – Madison Blancaflor , senior editor

If you’re looking for more perks, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card includes $300 in annual credits for bookings through Capital One Travel and a Priority Pass lounge membership. These additional benefits help offset the higher annual fee.

If you prefer earning cash back and find yourself spending more often in categories such as U.S. supermarkets, transit, U.S. gas stations and select U.S. streaming, the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express is an excellent choice. The Blue Cash Preferred offers high-value rewards for common purchases, making it a useful card for everyday spending. You’ll enjoy a $0 introductory annual fee for the card in the first year (then $95; see rates and fees ). Thanks to its decent earning structure, especially in the supermarket category, many people find that the card pays for itself – sometimes, several times over.

The Blue Cash Preferred is great for those who frequently spend on groceries, streaming services, transit and gas, offering lucrative benefits within these bonus categories. Infrequent travelers and those more interested in spending rewards in multiple ways are excellent fits for this card.

“I've been an Amex Blue Cash Preferred cardholder for nearly a decade and it's one of my favorite — and one of the most valuable — cards that I carry. I love the solid earning structure that gives me a generous 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 annually, then 1% thereafter) and an annual fee that pays for itself several times over since my yearly cash-back total is always over $500. The Blue Cash Preferred also has great offers you can redeem across several different areas, including hotels, beauty, a rotating roster of retailers and more. This is especially useful during the holiday season when I'm shopping for Christmas gifts.” — Daisy Hernandez , credit cards editor

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express has no annual fee (see rates and fees ) and similar benefits, making it a great alternative option (especially for those who may be newer to the rewards-earning game).

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers solid returns on dining and travel and is a popular choice for those working to maximize travel rewards on everyday spending. As a midlevel rewards card, it offers impressive returns in the form of Chase Ultimate Rewards points , which hold exceptional value per TPG’s latest valuations . 

Travel rewards beginners and seasoned points and miles pros both can find value in using the Chase Sapphire Preferred for everyday purchases. The $95 annual fee is easily offset by its strong point returns, including 5 points per dollar on travel booked through the Chase Travel℠ portal and Lyft purchases, and 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs).

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has been in my wallet for 5-plus years and is the go-to midlevel rewards credit card that I recommend to people. It usually has a pretty solid sign-up bonus, with points that can be transferred to some of my favorite loyalty programs, like British Airways Executive Club and World of Hyatt. The strong earning rate on dining and travel, as well as streaming services, makes it a good choice for a millennial like me. Finally, I like using this card when renting cars, as it provides primary car insurance and a little more peace of mind.” – Matt Moffitt , senior editor 

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is the premium accompaniment to the mid-tier Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. The Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with a $550 annual fee, higher than that of the Chase Sapphire Preferred, but offers higher returns and luxurious benefits with Ultimate Rewards points that make it a good premium option as a card for everyday spending. 

The Blue Cash Everyday Amex offers valuable bonus categories, including 3% cash back on the first $6,000 you spend each calendar year at U.S. supermarkets (then 1% thereafter), 3% cash back on the first $6,000 you spend each calendar year at U.S. gas stations (then 1% thereafter), 3% cash back on the first $6,000 you spend each calendar year at U.S. online retailers (then 1% thereafter), and 1% on all other eligible purchases — all with no annual fee (see rates and fees ). Cash back is received in the form of reward dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

If you find yourself often spending on gas, groceries or online retailers, the Blue Cash Everyday Card’s 3% cash-back return on the first $6,000 spent each calendar year makes the card a sensible option as a card for everyday purchases. With no annual fee, it’s a strong option to maximize cash back in these categories.

Using the Blue Cash Everyday card is a great way to ensure you’re earning rewards in two categories that are necessities for so many of us — groceries and gas — with no annual fee. The simple earning structure is bolstered by the fact that Amex Reward Dollars are easy to redeem.

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a premium version of the Blue Cash Everyday Card. The Blue Cash Preferred offers higher earning rates with a similar structure for a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year (then $95; see rates and fees ). 

With no annual fee, the Citi Double Cash Card (see rates and fees ) is a simple and rewarding cash-back card to use on everyday purchases. The card comes with a simple rewards structure, earning up to 2% cash back on all purchases – 1% when you make a purchase and another 1% when you pay it off – making it an easy option for anyone looking to earn rewards without worrying about bonus categories. 

Anyone looking for ways to maximize their rewards on all everyday spending outside of bonus categories would benefit from the no-annual-fee Citi Double Cash Card. Those who hold other Citi cards, such as a Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ), can also unlock higher-value redemption options when you convert your rewards from your Citi Double Cash to fully transferable ThankYou Rewards points .

“The Citi Double Cash Card is a simple yet valuable cash-back rewards card that I find myself frequently recommending to family and friends. It's a great everyday spending card with its 2% cash back, offered as 1% when you buy and 1% when you pay. And since it has no annual fee, it's earned a long-term place in my wallet.” – Katie Genter , senior writer

If you already have a Chase Ultimate Rewards card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is worth considering. Similar to the Citi Double Cash Card but in the Chase family, the Chase Freedom Unlimited offers a generous cash-back value and has rewards that can be converted into Ultimate Rewards points.

The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for anyone looking to earn cash back on everyday purchases with a simple but decent earning structure. The card earns unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment and groceries with no annual fee (see rates and fees ). 

The Capital One SavorOne is a good fit for anyone who regularly spends on dining and entertainment, offering 3% cash back in these two categories plus 3% cash back on streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases, and 1% on all other purchases. If those categories align with your regular spending habits, it makes sense to opt for this card as your go-to for everyday purchases. 

If you’re looking to maximize earning cash back and often spend on dining, groceries and entertainment, the Capital One SavorOne should be in strong consideration for everyday purchases. While spending outside of its bonus categories isn’t as lucrative, it pays off to have this card for making purchases in the areas with high rewards.

If you’re looking for a higher-end version with better rewards in some of the same bonus categories (dining, entertainment and popular streaming services), the Capital One Savor Rewards Credit Card could be a better fit for you. The card comes with a $95 annual fee but offers 4% cash back on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, 3% cash back at grocery stores, and 1% cash back on all other purchases, along with 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 

The information for the Capital One Savor card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

The Blue Business Plus Credit Card from American Express is a valuable option for small businesses looking to earn Amex Membership Rewards points on everyday purchases, with a flat rate of 2 points per dollar on the first $50,000 in purchases each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar). The card does not charge an annual fee (see rates and fees ) and pairs well with other Amex cards, such as The Business Platinum Card® from American Express or the American Express® Gold Card. 

Those who are looking to earn rewards on everyday spending without having to keep track of bonus categories will enjoy the Blue Business Plus’ straightforward rate of 2 points per dollar on up to $50,000 spent annually (then 1 point per dollar). Anyone who already has Amex cards in their wallet will want to opt for the Blue Business Plus, as it earns American Express Membership Rewards points that can be transferred to several loyalty program partners. 

“There are very few no-annual-fee cards that award fully transferable points, but the Amex Blue Business Plus is one of them. Not only that, you'll earn 2 Membership Rewards points for every dollar you spend (on up to $50,000 each year). That's a fantastic return of 4% back based on TPG's valuations , making this a great option for your small-business needs.” – Nick Ewen , director of content

If you prefer a Capital One card for everyday spending and may exceed the Blue Business Plus card’s annual spending cap, the Capital One Spark Miles for Business (see rates and fees ) earns 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, like the Blue Business Plus, but it carries a $95 annual fee (waived the first year) and doesn’t have the $50,000 cap for double earnings like the Blue Business Plus.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a versatile cash-back card with multiple bonus categories, a 1.5% cash-back rate on all other purchases and no annual fee, making it a strong option for everyday spending. The card earns 5% back on travel booked through the Chase Travel portal Ultimate Rewards , 3% back on dining (including takeout and eligible delivery services) and 3% at drugstores. However, when paired with a higher-end Chase card (such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve®), its cash-back earnings can be converted into Ultimate Rewards points, which hold substantial value per TPG’s valuations .

Points and miles beginners and travel rewards experts will enjoy the perks of the Chase Freedom Unlimited, which provides substantial value as a card for everyday purchases with valuable cash-back returns that can be converted into Ultimate Rewards points. 

“The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a great option, especially for anyone with a card like the Sapphire Preferred or Sapphire Reserve. It has solid bonus categories but also gives 1.5% back on all other purchases. And, if you have a higher-end Chase card, you can effectively convert these cash-back earnings into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points.” – Nick Ewen , director of content

If you’re interested in earning more back on everyday purchases by capitalizing on rotating categories, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ earns 5% back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in quarterly bonus categories after you activate. These points can also be converted into Ultimate Rewards points and transferred to Chase’s partners with the right card pairing, like the Chase Freedom Unlimited.

If you’re looking for simplicity in a cash-back card for everyday purchases and don’t want to worry about bonus categories, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a strong option. With no annual fee, the Quicksilver earns a flat 1.5% cash back on purchases with no limit on how much you can earn, no rotating categories and a respectable sign-up bonus (see rates and fees ). 

Anyone looking for an everyday spending card that doesn’t require paying attention to bonus categories and earns cash back on every purchase. The Quicksilver Cash Rewards credit card is also good for those looking for a sign-up bonus that’s easy to achieve, as you’ll earn $200 after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

The Quicksilver is a simple option for anyone looking to earn cash back without thinking too much about maximizing certain bonus categories or spending a lot to earn a welcome bonus. For everyday purchases, the card rewards those who often spend outside of typical bonus categories or aren’t looking to swap out multiple cards. 

If you’re interested in trying out bonus categories within the Capital One family, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card earns 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and grocery stores (excluding stores like Walmart® and Target®), which could offer more rewards on everyday spending if you find yourself making purchases in those categories. 

The Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card is a solid option for small businesses as it earns 1.5% cash back on every purchase with no annual fee. With a generous introductory bonus ($750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening) and a simple rewards structure, this card offers solid value. Its value can be maximized in the form of Chase Ultimate Rewards points when paired with other Chase cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card®.

Business owners looking to earn cash back on everyday spending with a simple rewards structure would be pleased with this card. The Ink Business Unlimited is an excellent choice for those with other Chase cards in their wallet, as it can also add value in the form of Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Its 1.5% cash-back perk is optimal for those not interested in managing bonus categories. 

This card is great for filling in any gaps in your earning strategy thanks to its 1.5% back on all purchases. It’s also a good way to accrue transferable points you can use within Chase portals.

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express is a similar fixed-rate card that offers 2 points per dollar on all eligible business purchases, on up to $50,000 per calendar year (then 1 point per dollar). It also carries no annual fee (see rates and fees ). 

With a simple earning structure and a $95 annual fee, the Bank of America Premium Rewards card is a solid option for anyone who is a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member. It also offers a strong sign-up bonus, solid bonus categories and a few value-added perks. 

If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, this card is an excellent option for you. Preferred Rewards members earn a 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase, making it a strong option for an everyday spending card. It’s also a solid option for those looking for simplicity, as you won’t have to worry about spending within bonus categories since you’ll earn a flat rate on every purchase.

Points and miles novices and experts who utilize Preferred Rewards will find value in this card’s rewards currency and simplistic structure. You can redeem points as a statement credit against big purchases that aren’t covered by points, making the card a versatile option that mimics cash-back rewards. 

If you’re looking for stronger earning rates on a cash-back card or don’t participate in Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards program, consider the Citi Double Cash® Card . It earns 2% cash back on everyday purchases (1% when you buy and 1% when you pay your statement) and has a simple rewards structure with no annual fee (see rates and fees ).

Choose the best card for your regular spending habits

When thinking about the best credit card to choose for everyday use, it makes sense to consider how you’re regularly spending money. For instance, if you often find yourself picking up groceries or refilling your gas tank , a card that offers generous perks at supermarkets or gas stations would be a smart choice. 

If you find that your regular purchases don’t fit into specific bonus categories, a card with a simpler earnings structure could be a better option. There’s no one-size-fits-all card for every person and spending pattern, so thinking about where you regularly find yourself spending money will help you make the most of a card used for everyday purchases.

Related: The best rewards credit cards for each bonus category

Consider the rewards you want to earn

On top of considering your regular spending habits, it’s also a good idea to think about what card offers the type of rewards you want to earn. The best card for everyday spending for you could be one that offers lucrative cash back , or it could be a card that earns a generous number of points and miles for travel . Whichever strategy you choose should align with the card you select for everyday purchases.

Related : Cash back vs. travel rewards: How to choose a credit card 

Pay your balance off every month

Regardless of your reward goal or financial strategy, we at TPG always recommend that you avoid carrying a balance from month to month. Rapidly compounding interest charges you accrue when carrying a balance on everyday purchases will likely wipe away any gains you earn toward valuable rewards. It’s best to keep your everyday spending on a credit card within your personal budgeting strategy to truly maximize your rewards. 

Related: Common credit card mistakes and how to avoid them

An everyday spending credit card is the card that you’d find yourself swiping for the type of purchases you make with regular frequency — not just groceries, gas and dining but also those categories that don’t fall into a common bonus category. This can include utility services, insurance renewals or even healthcare bills. 

Using a credit card instead of cash or a debit card for go-to purchases is advantageous for those looking to earn rewards on the purchases they regularly make.

Should you use a credit card for everyday purchases?

If you want to maximize rewards and earn from your spending, using a credit card for everyday purchases is the way to go. You won’t earn rewards on purchases made with cash or debit cards, so deciding to make a credit card your go-to option for transactions you’d be making anyway is a smart decision. 

Remember to avoid carrying a balance so that you don’t accrue interest and fall into credit card debt. TPG recommends paying off balances in full every month to maximize the value of rewards. 

• 1 Annual fee Select cards feature an annual fee but often feature an elevated earning rate. If you spending will earn more from the elevated rate than the card’s annual fee, then the card may be worth its annual fee for you.
• 2 Welcome bonus Welcome bonuses are a major contributor to a card’s value but larger bonuses typically require larger spending. Choose a credit card that you can meet the spending limit for to earn the card’s welcome bonus.
• 3 Bonus categories For an everyday credit card, you want to look for cards that feature bonus categories that best align with your spending. Whether it is travel or groceries, choosing an everyday credit card that offers elevated earnings on your main spending category will help you reap the most rewards out of your spending.

What’s your favorite everyday credit card — and why?

There is no single best card for everyday spending — just the best one for your situation.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a great starter card to begin accruing valuable Ultimate Rewards points. Meanwhile, the Blue Business Plus offers an impressive return on general spending. In comparison, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a valuable sign-up bonus paired with a return of more than 2 miles per dollar on everyday spending long-term.

The Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees ) earns 2% cash back (1% when you buy, plus 1% as you pay), which can be converted to ThankYou points via a linked ThankYou Rewards account. And the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card is a superb option if you have a high-balance relationship with Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards program.

Ultimately, all the cards on this list are valuable for everyday spending. Which one you choose will be determined by your spending habits and goals.

Using your credit card for everyday purchases is a great way to earn rewards and build your credit . With responsible usage, having a credit card for everyday spending can help you save money by earning cash back or reward points on money you already spend. 

Credit cards do not have to be reserved for an emergency or an unexpected expense. Using a credit card for the spending you already do and paying it off every month — at TPG, we always recommend that you avoid carrying a balance whenever possible — is a great way to increase your credit score and improve your financial health. 

The answer depends on your spending habits, financial goals and how many cards you’re comfortable managing at once for everyday spending. Some TPG staffers have over 20 credit cards, while others only hold a few. Many beginners start with just a single credit card , but if you’re considering more, be sure you’re comfortable juggling them all — especially when it comes to making on-time payments on everyday and recurring purchases.

A goal for many experts is to never earn just 1% on any given purchase. Generally, this means having cards that earn bonus rewards in the categories you spend the most in each month and at least one card that earns a decent reward rate on non-bonus spending. 

If a slim wallet of two or three cards helps you hit your goals, then that’s the number of cards you should have. If a wallet filled with 20 or more helps you maximize spending and travel plans, then that’s valid, too. It’s all about your specific needs, wants and spending habits.

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Best Credit Cards for Everyday Spending

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Using a credit card to pay for almost everything can help you track spending, build credit and earn rewards, so long as it doesn't tempt you to overspend. That advice is especially relevant when it comes to everyday expenses.

By picking the right credit card, you’ll earn anywhere from 2%-6% back on purchases that you make on a regular basis. What counts as everyday expenses varies across households, but in general, it includes essentials such as food , gas and utilities .

Here are some of the best credit cards for everyday spending.

Top cards for everyday spending

Our pick for gas: citi custom cash® card, our pick for dining: u.s. bank altitude® go visa signature® card, our pick for groceries: blue cash preferred® card from american express, our pick for transit: bank of america® customized cash rewards credit card, our pick for utilities: u.s. bank cash+® visa signature® card, our pick for entertainment: capital one savorone cash rewards credit card, our pick for big-spending optimizers: u.s. bank shopper cash rewards™ visa signature® card.

Our pick for Costco: Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Our pick for Target: Target REDcard™ Credit Card

Our pick for Amazon: Prime Visa

Our pick for Sam's Club: Sam's Club® Mastercard®

Annual fee: $0 .

Sign-up bonus: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

5% cash back in your highest spend category on up to $500 spent per billing cycle (from a list of 10 preset categories).

1% back on all other purchases.

Why we like it for gas:

The Citi Custom Cash® Card is like a genie in a lamp who promises riches to its cardholder. The catch: This genie only gives one wish, so it must be used wisely. The Citi Custom Cash® Card offers a 5% rewards rate in one spending category every billing cycle. So if you designate the Citi Custom Cash® Card as the only card you use at gas stations, you’ll guarantee yourself an industry-best 5% cash-back rate on gas. (Earnings are capped after $500.)

Over gas-powered cars? Check out our roundup of best credit cards for electric vehicle owners .

» MORE: Full review of the Citi Custom Cash® Card

Sign-up bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.

4 points per $1 spent on dining, including takeout and delivery.

2 points per $1 spent at grocery stores (including grocery delivery), gas stations, EV charging stations and on eligible streaming services.

1 point per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.

U.S. Bank points are worth a penny each when redeemed for options like cash back, travel, gift cards or merchandise, although minimum redemption requirements apply. (You need at least 2,500 points for cash back or gift cards; 1,000 points for travel or merchandise.)

Why we like it for dining:

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card should fit the bill for most diners. First, the 4X points rate on dining is excellent and equal to what you'd get with a card like the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card . But it and other cards that offer 4X points on dining charge an annual fee, while you won't pay anything for the U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card .

Takeout and delivery qualify as dining with the U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card , so this card will turn a profit whether you're at a sit-down restaurant or parked on your couch. And sign that check with confidence: Points earned on dining have no cap and never expire.

» MORE: Full review of the U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card

Annual fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Welcome bonus: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months. Terms Apply.

6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $6,000 in spending per year.

6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.

3% cash back at U.S. gas stations.

3% cash back on transit.

1% cash back on other purchases.

Terms apply.

Why we like it for groceries:

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is a perennial favorite of households that rack up high grocery bills, and for good reason. The 6% return at U.S. supermarkets is virtually unbeatable and will more than make up for the card's annual fee (currently $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. Terms apply.) However, American Express does not classify superstores like Target or Walmart, or warehouse clubs like Costco, as supermarkets. If you do most of your grocery shopping at those merchants, you'll find more value in another card like the Target REDcard™ Credit Card .

Cash back earned at U.S. supermarkets is capped at $6,000 per year; after that, the rate drops precipitously to 1%. Many families will blow through that $6,000 before the year is up, and earning 1% can be a hard swallow for those who were used to getting 6%. In the event that you hit the $6,000 limit, you could switch to the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express , the little sibling of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express . With the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express , you'll get 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in annual spending, and the annual fee is $0. (Terms apply.)

» MORE: Full review of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

Sign-up bonus: $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.

Why we like it for transit:

Other credit cards offer higher rewards rates for transit, but it's unlikely that their definition of transit is as generous as the one you'll find with the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card . Cardholders get 3% cash back in one category out of six. To make the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card your go-to card for commuting costs, select the "travel" category to start earning 3% on parking garages, ferries, taxis, subways, EZPass, tolls and bridge fees, ridesharing services like Uber, and plenty more.

Unlike with some other credit cards, Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card holders only have to opt in to the 3% category once to activate it.

» MORE: Full review of the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

Sign-up bonus: $200 bonus after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.

5% cash back on the first $2,000 in combined eligible purchases each quarter in two categories you choose, from a list of 12. (See list below).

2% cash back in one "everyday" category that you choose.

5% cash back on prepaid air, hotel and car reservations booked directly in U.S. Bank's Rewards Center.

1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.

Home utilities.

TV, internet and streaming.

Department stores.

Cell phone providers.

Electronics stores.

Sporting goods stores.

Movie theaters.

Gyms/fitness centers.

Furniture stores.

Ground transportation.

Select clothing stores.

Why we like it for utilities:

Utilities may be the epitome of everyday spending: Many of us can’t survive a day without the electricity that keeps our AC running and our phones charged. The U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card is one of the few cards on the market that earns rewards on utility bills, and the 5% rate is impressive. To lock in that rate, you'll have to remember to select "utilities" as a bonus category every quarter. Cardholders can choose up to two bonus categories that will earn 5% cash back, but rewards are capped at $2,000 in combined spending across the two bonus categories.

The "utilities" category is fairly broad and includes water, gas and electric companies, but not internet, cable or cell phone providers.

» MORE: Full review of the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card

Sign-up bonus: Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.

8% back on Capital One Entertainment purchases.

5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

3% back on dining, eligible streaming services, entertainment and purchases at grocery stores.

1% cash back on all other purchases.

Why we like it for entertainment:

The card's 3% rate should be easy to take advantage of, considering that the "entertainment" category is so inclusive. You'll get unlimited cash back from the purchase of, among other things, movie tickets, tickets to professional sporting events, and outings to zoos and amusement parks.

The 8% return on Capital One Entertainment purchases might be the true headliner, though. As long as you book through Capital One and use your Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card to buy tickets, you'll secure that 8% rate. Past events available through Capital One include March Madness, Taylor Swift's "Lover" concert and the iHeartRadio Music Festival. Some of these experiences are surely once-in-a-lifetime purchases due to their hefty price tags — but all the more reason to use the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card for an 8% discount.

» MORE: Full review of the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $95 .

Sign-up bonus: Get a $250 bonus after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 120 days of account opening.

6% cash back on your first $1,500 in combined eligible purchases each quarter at two retailers you choose, from a list of 24 (see below for full list). 

3% back on your first $1,500 in eligible purchases each quarter in your choice of one everyday category.

1.5% back on all other eligible purchases.

5.5% back on prepaid car and hotel reservations booked directly in the Rewards Center.  

Ace Hardware.

Amazon.com.

Anthropologie.

Bed, Bath, & Beyond.

Crate & Barrel.

Home Depot.

Kohl's.

Lowe's.

Macy's.

Pottery Barn.

Restoration Hardware.

Wayfair.com.

Williams Sonoma.

Why we like it for big-spending optimizers: 

The U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card features a lengthy list of merchants where you can earn up to 6% back — and while not all of those retailers will be suitable for “everyday” expenses (see: Anthropologie, Disney, Lululemon, etc.), some certainly could be. After all, Amazon, Target and Walmart sell practically everything. The catch? Maintenance and a fee. That 6% rate is capped each quarter, so you'll have to track your spending. You also must select your two merchants before the beginning of each quarter. And about that annual fee: After the first year, you'll need to spend at least $1,583.33 at the 6% merchants throughout the year to make up for it.

» MORE: Full review of the U.S. Bank Shopper Cash Rewards™ Visa Signature® Card

Merchant-specific cards

A number of people prefer the convenience of big-box stores like Walmart and Costco where it's possible to buy many items you need in one stop. After all, you can pick up groceries, clothing basics and a full tank of gas in one trip to Costco. For those who consolidate their everyday shopping into one or two stores, a store card may be the best option.

Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Sign-up bonus: None .

4% cash back on gas and EV charging purchases (both at Costco and other gas stations) on up to $7,000 of spending a year, then 1% back.

3% cash back on restaurants and most travel purchases.

2% cash back at Costco and Costco.com.

» MORE: Full review of the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

Target REDcard™ Credit Card

Sign-up bonus: N/A .

5% discount on all eligible Target purchases.

» MORE: Full review of the Target REDcard™ Credit Card

Sign-up bonus: Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members.

5% back at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market.

2% back at restaurants and gas stations.

2% back on local transit and commuting (including rideshare).

» MORE: Full review of the Prime Visa

Sam's Club® Mastercard®

Sign-up bonus: Get a $30 statement credit when you open a new account and use it to make $30 in Sam’s Club purchases within 30 days.

5% cash back (on up to $6,000 spent per year, then 1%) at EV charging stations and eligible gas stations worldwide, including stations at Sam's Club.

3% back on dining.

For Sam's Club Plus members only: Up to 5% back on eligible Sam's Club purchases (3% back with the card, plus up to 2% back from the membership tier.)

» MORE: Full review of Sam's Club® Mastercard®

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Find the best credit card for you

The 11 best travel credit cards of april 2024, the best travel credit cards could earn over $2,000 in rewards over the next five years based on our calculations..

The best travel credit cards offer more than just great  cash-back , points or miles incentives — they also come with a range of perks that can take your next trip from basic to bougie without spending extra money.

Some travel card features are nearly standard across the board:  no foreign transaction fees ,  travel insurance  and various travel credits. More  premium cards  take things up a notch by offering  lounge access  and credits for expedited airport security.

To help you choose the best travel rewards card for your needs, CNBC Select analyzed dozens of popular travel cards using an average American's annual spending budget and dug into each card's perks and drawbacks to find the best of the best based on consumer habits. (See our methodology for more information on how we choose the best travel credit cards.)

Best travel credit cards

• Editor's choice: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees )
• Best for no annual fee: Discover it® Miles
• Best for dining when traveling: American Express® Gold Card
• Best welcome bonus:   Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• Best for earning points on rent: Bilt Mastercard®
• Best for luxury travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• Best for fair credit : Discover it® Secured Credit Card
• Best for low annual fee: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees)
• Best for lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Best for students: Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students
• Best for low interest: First Tech Credit Union Choice Rewards World Mastercard®

Editor's Choice

Capital one venture x rewards credit card.

Unlimited 2X miles on all eligible purchases, and 5 Miles per dollar on flights and 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars when booked via Capital One Travel portal

Welcome bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Balance transfer fee

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Foreign transaction fees

Credit needed.

See rates and fees , terms apply.

Read our Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card review.

• Large welcome bonus
• No foreign transaction fees
• Up to $100 statement credits for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• High annual fee
• No introductory 0% APR period

Who's this for? The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is an excellent choice for frequent travelers who want a premium credit card at a lower price point than other high-end cards with similar benefits.

Standout benefits:  This card is loaded with benefits, including a $300 Capital One Travel credit to use toward purchases made through Capital One Travel and a 10,000-mile bonus on each account anniversary (worth at least $100 for travel). Cardholders also receive an up to $100 statement credit for either  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® , complimentary  cell phone insurance , access to Capital One and partner airport lounges and more. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for more details.

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for no annual fee

Discover it® miles.

Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase.

Discover will match all the Miles earned for all new cardmembers at the end of your first year.

0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases

17.24% to 28.24% Variable

3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*

Foreign transaction fee

Good / Excellent

*See rates and fees , terms apply.

Read our Discover it® Miles review.

• Miles program
• Generous welcome bonus
• No blackout dates
• No limit to the amount of miles you can earn and miles never expire
• No Global Entry or TSA PreCheck statement credit offerings
• Travel spending does not receive additional rewards
• No airport lounge access

Who's this for?  The  Discover it Miles  card comes with a generous rewards program — all for zero annual fee — that makes it a standout among travel cards.

Standout benefits:  Discover has a welcome bonus that's hard to beat: It will do a mile-for-mile match of all miles earned the first year (for new card members in their first year only). If you rack up 35,000 miles within the first 12 months, Discover will match you with 35,000 miles. That's a total of 70,000 miles or $700 toward travel. (Based on our calculations, the average card user will earn around 32,777 miles in the first year.) Plus, the card has no foreign transaction fees.

Best for dining when traveling

American express® gold card.

4X Membership Rewards® points at Restaurants (plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.) and at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 1X points on all other purchases

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.

Not applicable

See Pay Over Time APR

Excellent/Good

Read our American Express® Gold Card review .

• Up to $120 dining credit annually ($10 a month) for purchases made with Grubhub, Goldbelly and other eligible restaurants (after a one-time enrollment)
• Up to $120 Uber Cash annually ($10 a month) for U.S. Uber Eats orders and U.S. Uber rides (card must be added to Uber app to receive the Uber Cash benefit)
• Strong rewards program with 4X points earned at restaurants and 3X points earned on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com
• Baggage insurance plan covers up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage that is damaged, lost or stolen
• No fee charged on purchases made outside the U.S.
• No introductory APR period
• $250 annual fee
• Estimated rewards earned after 1 year: $1,074
• Estimated rewards earned after 5 years: $2,969

Rewards totals incorporate the points earned from the welcome bonus

Who's this for? The American Express® Gold Card is a smart choice for consumers who love traveling and dining out due to its generous rewards rates. While the card comes with a $250 annual fee ( see rates and fees ), it offers premium rewards that help offset the cost.

Standout benefits:  Travelers will appreciate the Amex Gold card's various statement credits. Cardholders get up to $120 in annual dining credit (up to $10 per month at Grubhub , Goldbelly, The Cheesecake Factory and other participating restaurants; enrollment is required) and up to $120 in Uber Cash ($10 per month) to put toward rides in the U.S. and dining via Uber Eats (you must add your Amex Gold Card as a payment method in the Uber app to enroll).

Best welcome bonus

Chase sapphire preferred® card.

Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.

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 Travel℠.

21.49% - 28.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers

Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater

• Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review .

• Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel via Chase Travel℠
• Transfer points to leading frequent travel programs at a 1:1 rate, including: IHG® Rewards Club, Marriott Bonvoy™ and World of Hyatt®
• Travel protections include: auto rental collision damage waiver, baggage delay insurance and trip delay reimbursement
• $95 annual fee
• No introductory 0% APR

Who's this for? The Chase Sapphire Preferred has a loyal following among travelers looking for a travel-centric rewards program and a robust suite of perks. What makes this card shine the most is its generous welcome bonus offer.

Standout benefits:  This card comes with many helpful benefits, such as an up to $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, no foreign transaction fees, primary rental car insurance , trip cancellation and interruption insurance and baggage and trip delay insurance. Cardholders can also benefit from a 10% points boost on each card anniversary and complimentary DashPass membership for a minimum of one year through Dec. 31, 2024.

Best for earning points on rent

Bilt mastercard®.

Earn Bilt Points when you make 5 transactions that post each statement period - up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee (up to 100,000 points each calendar year), 3x points on dining, 2x points on travel, and 1x points on other purchases.

Introductory fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each balance transfer, whichever is greater, for 120 days from account opening. After that, up to 5% for each balance transfer ($5 minimum).

See rates/fees and rewards/benefits ; terms apply.

• No annual fee
• Solid rewards on broad spending categories
• Ability to pay your rent with no transaction fees
• Transfer points to leading frequent traveler programs at a 1:1 rate, including American Airlines, United and World of Hyatt®
• No welcome offer

Who's this for? If you rent your home and don't have the Bilt Mastercard® , you're leaving points on the table. The Bilt Mastercard is the only card that lets you earn travel rewards on rent payments with no fees .

Standout benefits:  Bilt makes it easy for even beginners to get maximum value from their points through a unique partnership with the award search engine point.me . With the BiltProtect feature, it also protects cardholders from using up their entire credit limit or risk going into debt by charging their rent every month. Other benefits include cell phone protection; Purchase Assurance Plus, which covers your purchases for 90 days; discounts with partner brands; and access to the Mastercard Luxury Hotels & Resorts portfolio, which offers amenities like upgrades, free breakfast and property credits.

Best for luxury travel

Chase sapphire reserve®.

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

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 Travel℠.

22.49% - 29.49% variable

5%, minimum $5

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

• $300 annual travel credit for travel purchases
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit up to $100 every four years
• Priority Pass™ Select lounge access at 1,000+ VIP lounges in over 500 cities worldwide
• Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel via Chase Travel℠
• Special benefits at The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection
• Complimentary year of Lyft Pink membership
• High annual fee, but it can be offset by taking advantage of all the card’s perks
• No introductory APR
• Estimated rewards earned after 1 year: $1,469
• Estimated rewards earned after 5 years: $3,346

Who's this for? The Chase Sapphire Reserve is enormously popular among frequent travelers for its luxe perks, including comprehensive travel protections, and a strong rewards program. While this card comes with a substantial annual fee of $550 , the many statement credits help to offset the costs.

Standout benefits:  This card provides an annual $300 travel credit, which can cover everything from airfare and hotels to parking and tolls. Cardholders   can also get a statement credit of up to $100 (every four years) to help cover Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS application fees as well as enroll in Priority Pass™ Select for airport lounge access . Other benefits include elite-like benefits when booking hotels through The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection; trip interruption/cancellation coverage; primary rental car coverage; lost luggage reimbursement; and trip delay reimbursement. 

Best for fair credit

Discover it® secured credit card.

Earn 2% cash back at Gas Stations and Restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, automatically. Plus earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Discover will match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year

N/A on purchases

28.24% Variable

New / Rebuilding

Read our Discover it® Secured Credit Card review.

• Cash-back program
• Starting at seven months from account opening, Discover will automatically review your credit card account to see if you can transition to an unsecured line of credit and return your deposit
• Cash-back program limits earnings: 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter, then 1%
• Low credit line prevents cardholders from charging high-cost items or many expenses

Who's this for? For anyone who is working to build their credit , the Discover it® Secured Credit Card offers an opportunity to earn rewards along the way.

Standout benefits: The Discover It Secured card earns cash back on every purchase and offers a generous cash-back matching welcome bonus. Plus, the card charges no foreign transaction fees.

Best for low annual fee

Capital one venture rewards credit card.

5 Miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

N/A for purchases and balance transfers

19.99% - 29.99% variable

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

• 5 miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit up to $100 every 4 years
• There’s a $95 annual fee

Who's this for? The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers an abundance of travel benefits. It's especially valuable for those who want a straightforward way of earning rewards without having to juggle bonus categories.

Standout benefits:  Travelers going overseas can take advantage of  no foreign transaction fees . Cardholders also get a credit of up to $100 to cover  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership .

Best for lounge access

The platinum card® from american express.

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, 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, 1X points on all other eligible purchases

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.

Credit Needed

Read our The Platinum Card® from American Express review .

• Up to $200 in annual airline fee credits
• $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. Terms Apply.
• Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
• $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, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) and receive a statement credit that covers the full cost each month. $12.95 plus applicable taxes. Plus Up Benefits not eligible.
• $695 annual fee
• No special financing offers on new purchases

Who's this for? The Platinum Card® from American Express is for road warriors who want to make their travels more comfortable. It grants access to more airport lounges than any other card on the market and is loaded with lots of other travel and lifestyle benefits that help justify its high annual fee (see rates and fees ).

Standout benefits:  Cardholders have an extensive list of opportunities to earn over $1,500 in statement credits each year and enjoy ongoing benefits like automatic hotel elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy and various travel and shopping protections. Even if you only take advantage of half of this card's perks, it's worth paying the annual fee (see rates and fees ).

Best for students

Bank of america® travel rewards for students credit card.

Unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all purchases

25,000 online bonus points after you spend at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening, which can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward qualifying travel and dining purchases

0% APR for the first 15 billing cycles on purchases, and for any balance transfers made within the first 60 days of opening your account

18.24% - 28.24% variable

3% of each transaction intro balance transfer fee for the first 60 days from account opening, then 4%

Good/Excellent

• Strong welcome bonus of 25,000 points if you spend $1,000 in the first 90 days
• Intro 0% APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers
• No student-centric benefits or incentives to practice responsible credit behavior
• Estimated rewards earned after 1 year: $466
• Estimated rewards earned after 5 years:   $1,528

Who's this for? The Bank of America Travel Rewards for Students is a great choice for students who plan on studying abroad or traveling during breaks. The rewards program is geared toward travel, and cardholders earn 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases.

Standout benefits: There are no foreign transaction fees, making it an ideal card for college students studying abroad. This card also comes with a longer-than-average special financing offer of no interest for 15 billing cycles (then 18.24% to 28.24% variable APR). A full year of no interest is a great way for you to pay off new purchases over time, without incurring interest charges, though we recommend you pay off your balance on time and in full each month.

Best for low interest

Choice rewards world mastercard®.

Earn 2X points on groceries, gas, electronics, medical, household goods and telecommunications, 1X points on all other purchases

Earn 20,000 points when you spend $3,000 in the first 60 days from account opening

13.50% - 18.00% variable

• Good rewards program for everyday purchases
• No balance transfer fee
• Balance must be transferred within 90 days of account opening date
• Estimated rewards earned after 1 year:  $344
• Estimated rewards earned after 5 years: $1,720

Who's this for? If you're looking for a card that also offers an introductory APR, you should consider the Choice Rewards World Mastercard® from First Tech Federal Credit Union. It made our list of the top travel cards for its unique rewards program and relatively low variable APR of 13.50% - 18.00%.

Standout benefits:  The 13.50% - 18.00% variable APR rate is significantly lower than many other competitor cards (though we recommend that you pay off your card in full and on time each month). There are also no foreign transaction fees, which is a huge plus when traveling abroad.

More on our top travel credit cards

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a luxury travel credit card with a straightforward rewards structure and a myriad of benefits that easily make its annual fee worth it.

• 10X miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel portal
• 5X miles per dollar on flights booked via Capital One Travel portal
• 2X miles on all other eligible purchases

Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

$395 (see rates and fees )

Notable perks

On top of the annual $300 Capital One Travel credit and 10,000 anniversary bonus miles, the Capital One Venture X card is loaded with other benefits. Cardmembers receive up to $100 statement credit for either  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® , complimentary  cell phone insurance , special perks on hotel stays booked through the Premier Collection** and Lifestyle Collection  and unlimited access to  Capital One Lounges  as well as the extensive network of Priority Pass and Plaza Premium airport lounges worldwide. 

You can add up to four authorized users for free and each additional cardholder also gets airport lounge access. If you value rental car perks, cardholders receive complimentary Hertz President's Circle status (enrollment required)***, which grants benefits such as guaranteed upgrades.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has the same redemption options as the Venture Rewards Card. You can use miles to offset eligible travel purchases or transfer them to various airline and hotel partners.

*Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for more details.

***Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.

[ Return to card summary ]

The Discover it Miles card is an exceptionally rewarding credit card for everyday purchases , especially when you consider that it has no annual fee.

• 1.5X miles per dollar on every purchase

Discover will match the miles you earn during the first year with no minimum spending requirement or limits on how much you can earn through the match.

The appeal of the Discover it Miles card is its simplicity of not having to worry about paying an annual fee or paying foreign transaction fees. The card also has an introductory 0% APR offer for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers , then a 17.24% to 28.24% variable APR (3% intro balance transfer fee, 5% balance transfer fee on future transfers, see terms ).

There are also no blackout dates when you pay for travel purchases using your card. And, you can easily redeem miles as a statement credit for travel,  restaurant or gas station  purchases, as well as a deposit to your bank account. The best part is, the miles you earn never expire even if your account is closed (Discover credits your account with your rewards balance if your account is closed).

The American Express Gold Card earns elevated rewards for several popular spending categories, including dining, groceries and airfare. To top it off, the Amex Membership Rewards points you earn are some of the most valuable travel points out there.

• 4X points per dollar spent at restaurants (plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.)
• 4X points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X)
• 3X points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com
• 1X point per dollar spent on all other purchases

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new card within the first 6 months of card membership.

$250 (see rates and fees )

In addition to the up to $240 in annual credits for dining and Uber Cash, the American Express Gold Card has a variety of other useful benefits. For example, cardmembers get a $100 experience credit and potential room upgrade when booking stays of at least two nights through The Hotel Collection. Experience credit varies by property.

Eligible purchases also qualify for the following insurance coverages*:

• Baggage insurance (Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.)
• Extended warranty (Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.)
• Purchase protection (Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.)
• Trip delay insurance (Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.)
• Car rental loss and damage insurance (secondary) (Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.)

You can use the American Express Membership Rewards points you earn with this card in a variety of ways, from redeeming for gift cards and statement credits to booking travel through the  Amex Travel Portal . To get a potentially bigger bang for your buck, transfer your Membership Rewards points to a variety of airline or hotel partners, including Delta SkyMiles, JetBlue TrueBlue, Hilton Honors,  Marriott Bonvoy , Choice Privileges and more. * Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

In addition to an excellent  welcome bonus , the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers lucrative bonus categories and other useful perks like travel and purchase protections, all for a modest annual fee.

• 5X points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
• 5X points per dollar on Lyft rides through Mar. 31, 2025
• 3X points per dollar on dining
• 3X points per dollar on online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs).
• 3X points per dollar on select streaming services.
• 2X points per dollar on all other travel purchases
• 1X points per dollar on all other purchases
• 10% anniversary points boost
• $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit

Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers travelers many important protections, including  primary rental car insurance , trip cancellation and interruption insurance and baggage and trip delay insurance. Travelers can also rack up rewards faster thanks to a 10% points boost on each card anniversary. That means if you spend $50,000 on purchases, you'll get a 5,000-point bonus (worth $75 in travel booked through Chase).

Cardholders can take advantage of various statement credits for specific purchases. For starters, the card offers up to $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit. Through July 31, 2024, you can register your Sapphire Preferred to receive six months of free Instacart+ membership and up to $15 back each quarter for Instacart purchases. You'll also receive a complimentary DashPass membership for a minimum of one year through Dec. 31, 2024.

One of the best benefits of the Sapphire Preferred is that it unlocks access to Chase's 14 airline and hotel transfer partners. You can transfer points to United Airlines MileagePlus,  Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards , Air Canada Aeroplan, World of Hyatt, IHG One Rewards,  Marriott Bonvoy and more. Otherwise,  your points are worth  1.25 cents each through Chase Travel℠ or one cent per point when redeemed for gift cards or cash back.

Normally it's not worth paying rent with a credit card because of the fees, but the Bilt Mastercard offers a path to earning points for paying rent without any fees.

When you make at least five transactions in a statement period, you'll earn points at the following rates:

• Up to 1X points per dollar on rent payments without the transaction fee (up to 100,000 points each calendar year)
• 2X points per dollar on travel
• 1X point per dollar on all other purchases

Thanks to the BiltProtect feature, Bilt Mastercard cardholders are protected from using up their entire credit limit or risk going into debt by charging their rent to their card every month. Other benefits include a $5 monthly Lyft credit after taking three Lyft rides in a month (through March 31, 2024), as well as a free ShopRunner membership (through March 31, 2024).

For a no-annual-fee card, the Bilt Mastercard has a surprising amount of built-in insurance perks, including:

• Trip delay reimbursement
• Rental car collision damage waiver
• Cell phone protection
• Purchase protection

Bilt Rewards points can be redeemed for travel either by transferring them to airline and hotel partners or by booking through the Bilt Travel Portal at a fixed rate of 1.25 cents per point. Other redemption options include using them to shop online, book fitness classes, pay rent and even make a down payment on a home.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve ® is a standout premium credit card with plenty of luxury perks and statement credits to justify its annual fee. Its travel insurance perks can add peace of mind to any adventure and the card's airport lounge access and credits for expedited airport security can help reduce airport stress.

• 10X total points per dollar on hotels and car rentals purchased through Chase Travel℠*
• 10X points per dollar on Lyft purchases through March 2025
• 5X total points per dollar on flights purchased through Chase Travel℠*
• 3X points per dollar on other travel*

*After the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually

Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Chase Sapphire Reserve ® card members get up to $300 in annual travel credits, which covers more than half of the card's annual fee. Additional benefits include an up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or NEXUS fee credit (every four years), elite-like perks when booking hotels through The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection, access to Sapphire airport lounges and a Priority Pass Select membership (valued at $469), which unlocks access to more than 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide.

Cardholders also have access to a wide range of limited-time benefits and credits, including:

• Two years of complimentary Lyft Pink All Access membership (worth $199 a year) when activated by Dec. 31, 2024
• At least 12 months of complimentary DashPass membership when activated by Dec. 31, 2024
• $5 in DoorDash credit each month through Dec. 31, 2024
• One year of free Instacart+ membership (activate by July 31, 2024)
• Up to $15 in Instacart credits each month (through July 31, 2024)

Some of the easiest benefits to overlook are this card's top-notch travel and purchase protections, such as purchase protection, extended warranty protection, return protection, primary rental car collision coverage, trip delay protection, trip interruption/cancellation insurance, baggage delay protection, travel accident insurance, emergency medical and dental insurance and more. Cardmembers traveling internationally also don't need to worry about foreign transaction fees.

The value of the points you earn depends on how you use them. If you redeem points for cash and gift cards, each point is worth one cent. However, the value of points increases to 1.5 cents apiece when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 travel. This is a great way to maximize the value of your rewards and makes this card stand out from the pack. Of course, transferring your points to Chase's airline and hotel partners is also an option.

The Discover it Secured Credit Card is ideal for anyone with no credit or poor credit because you don't need a credit score to apply. It has no annual fee and has a generous rewards structure for a secured credit card .

• 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter
• 1% cash back on all other purchases

Discover will match the cash back you earn during the first year with no minimum spending requirement or cap on the match.

The Discover it Secured card is designed for those who have no credit history or need to repair their credit score. You don't need a credit score to apply. Instead, you're required to make a refundable deposit of at least $200 to open the card. Whatever amount of money you deposit becomes your credit limit.

At seven months from account opening, Discover will automatically review your credit card account to see if they can transition you to an unsecured line of credit and return your deposit. The card also has no foreign transaction fees, so you won't be dinged for using it abroad.

Cashback earned with this card doesn't expire and you can redeem your rewards at any time for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise and more.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card stands out for earning versatile rewards that can be used for just about any travel expense while having a reasonable annual fee and convenient benefits for travelers.

• 5X miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

$95 (see rates and fees )

Capital One Venture Rewards cardholders receive a credit of up to $100 to cover  Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership and Hertz Five Star status, which unlocks car rental upgrades when available. Other perks include access to extended warranty protection*, purchase security, travel accident insurance *, roadside assistance* and car rental collision insurance*.

Travelers going overseas can take advantage of no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ). As an added plus, you can use your Venture Rewards card to get access to exclusive sporting and music events, plus premiere culinary experiences through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment .

You can use Capital One miles to book flights, hotels, rental cars and more through  Capital One Travel , or you can use them to offset recent travel purchases at a fixed value of one cent per point. Alternatively, you can transfer them to any of Capital One's hotel and airline partners including Accor Live Limitless, Air Canada Aeroplan, Etihad Guest and others to get even more value from your miles.

The Platinum Card from American Express has a high annual fee but also packs a punch in benefits. If you're able to take advantage of its numerous annual statement credits, entertainment benefits, extensive airport lounge access and elite status perks, you'll be sure to come out ahead.

• 5X points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year)
• 5X points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel

Earn 80,000 points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases within the first six months of card membership.

$695 (see rates and fees )

Cardholders can enjoy a long list of benefits, including:

• Up to $200 annual hotel credit (Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay)
• Up to $200 annual airline fee credit
• Up to $300 per calendar year Equinox credit (enrollment required)
• Up to $100 annual Saks Fifth Avenue credit (enrollment required)
• Up to $189 credit to enroll in CLEAR® Plus (subject to auto-renewal)
• Up to $240 annual digital entertainment credit (enrollment required)
• Up to $155 annual Walmart+ credit. (Plus Ups are not eligible. Subject to auto renewal)
• Worldwide airport lounge access, including Delta SkyClubs and Amex Centurion Lounges
• Up to $200 annual Uber credit. Benefit renews annually. (Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.)
• $100 fee credit for Global Entry or up to $85 for TSAPreCheck
• Automatic hotel elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy
• Comprehensive travel insurance
• Complimentary Amex concierge service

Membership Rewards points can also be exceptionally valuable. The best way to use Amex points is to transfer them to one of Amex's airline and hotel partners. They can also be redeemed for statement credits, gift cards and when  checking out at retailers like Amazon , though you'll usually get a lower value for your points.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students

The Bank of America Travel Rewards for Students card provides a strong return for everyday purchases that competes with many of the top non-student credit cards.

• 1.5X points per dollar on all purchases

Earn 25,000 bonus points after spending at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

In addition to having no annual fee, the Bank of America Travel Rewards for Students card charges no foreign transaction fees, which is useful when studying or traveling abroad.

You must be 18 or older and enrolled in school (college, vocational or trade school) to qualify for this card. Eligible students have access to a 0%-APR offer on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles, then a variable 18.24%-28.24% APR applies. Only balance transfers made in the first 60 days of account opening qualify for the 0%-APR offer and there is a 3% balance transfer fee.

Rewards can be redeemed as a statement credit to cover the cost of travel and dining purchases — a simple way to reduce the cost of taking a spring break vacation or buying a plane ticket home. You can redeem rewards at any time and any amount.

First Tech Credit Union Choice Rewards World Mastercard®

Although we always recommend aiming to pay off credit card debt , if you have the debt, the Choice Rewards World Mastercard has one of the lowest interest rates you can find on a credit card.

• 2X points per dollar on everyday purchases such as groceries, gas, electronics, household goods and telecommunications

Earn 20,000 points when you spend $3,000 in the first 60 days from account opening.

Not only does the Choice Rewards World Mastercard have a low APR, but it also has no foreign transaction fees, which is a huge plus when traveling abroad. It is a World Mastercard and as such, comes with purchase protection, Mastercard ID Theft Protection and 24-hour worldwide assistance for lost or stolen cards. It has an array of travel protections as well, including insurance for trip cancellations, travel accidents, baggage delays, lost luggage and rental cars (secondary).

Membership to First Tech Federal Credit Union is required to apply, but anyone can join through affiliation with select organizations or employers, a relationship with a current member, working or living in Lane County, Oregon, attending Cogswell Poly Technical College or by joining the Community History Museum (CHM) or Financial Fitness Association (FFA). First Tech pays the membership fee for the CHM and FFA on your behalf.

The rewards can be redeemed at a fixed rate toward cash-back, travel, merchandise, gift cards and experiences.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

How to choose a travel credit card

There is a variety of travel credit cards available, from general to airline - and hotel -specific, and all the choices can make it hard to settle on one. To choose the best card for your needs, you should consider several factors. Here are some tips on how to choose a credit card.

Consider whether you're willing to pay an annual fee. Some travel cards have steep annual fees of over $500, which can be worthwhile, but not for everyone. Make sure you do the math to see if an annual fee travel card is for you.

Another key factor to consider is the type of travel you do most. If you travel within the U.S., then it doesn't matter if a card charges foreign transaction fees. But if you're off to Mexico or Spain, then it's important to have a no foreign transaction fee card.

Rewards should also play a part in your decision. Do some research to determine which card offers a rewards program more geared toward your spending habits. If you dine out a lot when you travel, consider the American Express Gold Card with 4X points on dining at restaurants. But if you want a competitive rewards rate on all sorts of purchases, the Discover it Miles has no annual fee and unlimited 1.5X miles on every dollar of every purchase.

You can compare card benefits side by side to see if one card rates better than another. The  Chase Sapphire Reserve , for example, offers complimentary lounge access, while the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers cardholders a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck .

Find the best credit card for you by reviewing offers in our  credit card marketplace  or get personalized offers via  CardMatch™ .

Making the most of your travel card

To make the most of your travel card, you should familiarize yourself with the various credit card benefits and fees. Take note of any annual fees, foreign transaction fees and the APR associated with your account. Also, consider the rewards rates and added perks, such as annual statement credits.

Once you're familiar with the terms of your card, you can start optimizing them. That may include setting reminders to use the annual $300 travel credit provided by the Chase Sapphire Reserve or submitting a Global Entry application with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card to take advantage of the up to $100 credit.

If you have multiple credit cards , you might want to have a plan for the best time to use each card. Let's say you have the Discover it Miles and American Express Gold Card . Use the Amex Gold Card for dining expenses at restaurants to earn 4X points, then use the Discover card for all your other purchases to earn unlimited 1.5X miles.

Other types of credit cards to consider

Travel credit cards aren't for everyone. If you travel infrequently, you should consider alternative credit card options, such as cards with dining, grocery or gas rewards. Some cards provide up to 6% back in those categories, allowing foodies, meal-preppers and commuters to benefit.

Beyond rewards, you might benefit from a card that offers a 0% APR period . Some cards offer no interest for a year or more on new purchases and balance transfers, such as the Citi Simplicity® Card . The card has 0% intro APR for 21 months on balance transfers from the date of first transfer, plus 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases from date of account opening (after, 19.24% - 29.99% variable APR; balance transfers must be completed within four months of account opening.) There is an introductory balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer ($5 minimum) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your balance transfer fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5). When used responsibly, these cards can help you get out of debt without high interest charges.

Should you get a travel credit card?

If you travel often and pay for purchases with cash or a debit card , you're missing out on rewards and perks that can make travel more affordable. It can be in your best interest to get a travel credit card that awards high rewards rates on airfare, hotels, rideshares and other common travel expenses.

Who should apply for a travel card?

If you're interested in submitting a travel credit card application, keep in mind that card issuers usually require you to have good credit or excellent credit (scores above 670). Therefore, it's key to check your credit score before applying for a travel card.

Once you know your credit score and can check if you prequalify for a travel card, choose the best card for your needs and apply.

What's the difference between points and miles?

Unlike cash-back cards , travel credit cards generally earn points or miles. Traditionally, the term points referred to flexible rewards that could be redeemed directly through a bank's portal or transferred to a partner airline or hotel loyalty program. Meanwhile, the term miles has been associated with rewards earned through an airline's frequent flyer program. However, nowadays, points and miles are used interchangeably as there are flexible credit card rewards called miles and more restrictive airline rewards referred to as points.

How to compare travel credit cards

If you're having trouble narrowing down the best travel card for you, it can be helpful to compare credit cards. You should first list the benefits you're looking for and any deal breakers, such as an annual fee. Then consider cards that have those benefits.

For instance, if you want both travel and dining rewards, the Amex Gold Card is a better choice than the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card since the rewards rate is 4X versus 2X.

But if you don't want to pay a high annual fee, the Venture Card is only $95 (see rates and fees ) compared to the $250 you'll pay for a Gold Card (see rates and fees ).

Bottom line

The best travel credit cards earn rewards you can use to book flights, hotels , rental cars and much more. But the benefits of having a travel credit card go beyond the rewards you earn. Many travel cards offer additional perks, such as travel insurance that reimburses if a trip is delayed or your baggage is lost.

Before you sign up for a travel credit card, consider how you'll use it and how you can best optimize its  rewards program , especially if you're paying a steep  annual fee . It's also important to make sure you can pay off your balance on time and in full each month because many of these cards have  high interest rates .

The good news: If you choose a card from this list, you could earn over $2,000 in rewards over the next five years based on our calculations.

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every credit card review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of credit card products. While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See our methodology for more information on how we choose the best travel credit cards.

Our methodology

To determine which travel cards will put the most money back in your pocket, CNBC Select evaluated over dozens of popular travel credit cards offered by major banks, financial companies and credit unions that allow anyone to join. We compared each card on a range of features, including travel rewards (points and miles), annual fee, welcome bonus, introductory and standard APR, one-time perks, annual perks, redemption rates, as well as factors such as required credit and customer reviews when available.

CNBC Select teamed up with location intelligence firm Esri . The company's data development team provided the most up-to-date and comprehensive consumer spending data based on the 2019 Consumer Expenditure Surveys from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can read more about their methodology here .

Esri's data team created a sample annual budget of approximately $22,126 in retail spending. The budget includes six main categories: groceries ($5,174), gas ($2,218), dining out ($3,675), travel ($2,244), utilities ($4,862) and general purchases ($3,953). General purchases include items such as housekeeping supplies, clothing, personal care products, prescription drugs and vitamins, and other vehicle expenses.

We then estimated how much the average consumer would redeem over a year, two years and five years, assuming they would attempt to maximize their rewards potential by earning all welcome bonuses offered and using the card for all applicable purchases. All rewards total estimations are net the annual fee and assume that you are paying your credit card balance on time and in full each month so as not to incur interest charges.

It's important to note the value of a point or mile varies from card to card and based on how you redeem them. When we calculated the estimated returns, we assumed that cardholders are redeeming points/miles for a typical maximum value of 1 cent per point or mile. (Extreme optimizers might be able to achieve more value.)

Our final picks are weighted heavily toward the highest five-year returns, since it's generally wise to hold onto a credit card for years. This method also avoids giving an unfair advantage to cards with large welcome bonuses.

While the five-year estimates we've included are derived from a budget similar to the average American's spending, you may earn a higher or lower return depending on your travel habits.

The editor's choice card is independently chosen by CNBC Select's editorial team. While it may not have ranked as the number-one card in any given category, it consistently ranks highly across multiple categories and we believe offers some of the best value overall for a stand-alone card. Its rewards, welcome bonus, APR, fees, ease-of-use and ongoing benefits were all taken into consideration.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here .

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

For rates and fees of the Discover it® Miles, click  here .

For rates and fees of the Discover it® Secured Credit Card, click  here .

Information about the Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students, has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

• What are A.M. Best ratings for insurance? Liz Knueven
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Many companies featured on Money advertise with us. Opinions are our own, but compensation and in-depth research may determine where and how companies appear. Learn more about how we make money.

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Best Travel Cards Main Takeaways

• Money has evaluated hundreds of credit cards, comparing their fees, benefits, welcome offers, travel insurance policies and more.
• The best travel cards offer high rewards on travel purchases, which can be redeemed for airfare, hotel nights, cash back, statement credits or more.
• Our picks feature the best travel cards for every budget and include no-annual-fee , low-annual-fee , premium and business cards .

Why Trust Us?

Our editorial team has spent well over a thousand hours analyzing, evaluating and comparing the top credit card offers in the market. We carefully vet each card’s fine print in order to understand their features, limitations and potential benefits for consumers. We review cards independently, ensuring our content is accurate and guided by editorial integrity. Read our full methodology to learn more.

• 46 travel credit cards evaluated
• 10+ data points used, including ongoing fees, reward programs and welcome offers
• 100+ sources reviewed

Our Top Picks for Best Travel Credit Cards

Get up to $120 every year in dining credits ($10 per month) for select restaurants and food delivery services. (Enrollment required. Terms apply.)

(Click here for rates and fees.)

4x points at restaurants worldwide (plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.), 3x on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

No yearly spending caps, does not charge any annual or foreign transaction fees, includes travel accident insurance.

5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 3% cash back on dining and entertainment

Offers a statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, includes travel accident and car rental insurance and allows you to transfer your miles to more than 15 airline and hotel partners.

5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One's travel portal, 2x miles per dollar on all eligible purchases

Each account anniversary year, you’ll earn a point bonus equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.

5x total points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 2x on other travel purchases

Receive up to $300 back as statement credits for travel-related purchases

10x points on hotel bookings and 5x points on flights purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x points on dining and other travel purchases (after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually)

Includes access to over a thousand airport lounges worldwide and several annual credits, like up to $200 in statement credits to cover incidental travel fees. (Terms apply.)

5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel and 5x points on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com.

Money.com has partnered with CardRatings.com for our coverage of credit card products. Money and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. This site does not include all card companies or all available card offers. O ur top picks are listed strictly in alphabetical order.

Best no-annual-fee travel credit cards

• Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card - Ideal for Bank of America customers
• Bilt World Elite Mastercard® - Earn rewards for rent payments and more
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card - High rewards on dining and entertainment
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card - High flat-rate rewards and travel partners
• Chase Freedom Flex® - Rotating cash back categories
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® - High flat-rate rewards and popular bonus categories
• Discover it® Miles - Simple travel rewards structure
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card - High rewards on popular everyday categories

Best low-annual-fee travel credit cards

• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card - Ideal for Bank of America customers
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card - High flat-rate rewards
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card - High rewards earning potential with flexible redemption options

Best premium travel credit cards

• American Express® Gold Card - High rewards for foodies
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card - Low cost premium travel card with high-end perks
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® - High reward earning potential and premium travel perks
• The Platinum Card® from American Express - Airport lounge access and luxury perks

Best business travel credit cards

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express - Airport lounge access and luxury perks

Best Travel Credit Cards Reviews

Our top picks are listed in alphabetical order.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

Ideal for bank of america customers: bank of america® travel rewards credit card.

• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Earns 1.5x points on all purchases
• No bonus category for travel
• Few benefits compared to other cards
• Limited redemption options
• 1.5x miles on all eligible purchases

Why we chose it: The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is an easy-to-use card best suited for travel reward beginners or those who are already Bank of America customers.

Some cardholders can earn up to 75% more points if they are Bank of America Preferred Rewards members — that's up to 2.62 points for every dollar spent.

However, the card doesn't offer hotel and airline point transfer partners, travel insurance or extended warranty and purchase protection. Additionally, you can only redeem your points as statement credit to cover travel and dining purchases.

All information about Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card has been collected independently by Money.com

Earn Rewards for Rent Payments and More: Bilt World Elite Mastercard®

• No annual or foreign currency conversion fee (Click here for rates and fees)
• Use it to pay your rent and earn rewards without incurring any processing fees
• You can earn double points on all purchase categories (except rent payments) on the first of every month (up to 10,000 points)
• Earn 2x points on travel (when booked directly through an airline, hotels, car rental agencies and cruise lines)
• No welcome bonus or introductory APR period
• Points redeemed for statement credits are worth 0.55 cents each
• You must make at least five transactions in a statement period to earn points
• Rent payments can only be made to one rental property per month

With the Bilt World Elite Mastercard®, you'll earn 1x Bilt Points on rent payments (up to 100,000 points in a calendar year). Additionally, you’ll earn:

• 5x points on Lyft rideshare (when you link your Bilt and Lyft accounts, set Bilt as the active loyalty partner and pay with your card)
• 3x points on dining
• 2x points on travel (when booked directly through an airline, hotels, car rental agencies and cruise lines)
• 1x points on other purchases

You must use the card at least five times each statement period to earn points. (See Rewards & Benefits Terms )

Why we chose it: The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® lets you earn travel rewards on rent payments without incurring any processing fees — unlike most credit cards that typically charge around 2.5% to 2.9% per rent payment.

You can use the card to pay rent without worrying about surcharges. Once you get approved for the card, all you have to do is set up an account through the Bilt app or website and use your assigned routing and account number to pay rent through your usual payment portal. You can also use your card even if your landlord only accepts checks, and Bilt will send a check on your behalf.

Additionally, Bilt doubles the card’s rewards rates on the first of every month, which means you can earn 6x points on dining, 4x points on travel and 2x points on other purchases (up to 10,000 points per month). However, this bonus doesn't apply to rent rewards.

On the downside, the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® doesn't offer a welcome bonus, and points redeemed for statement credits are only worth 0.55 cents each.

All information about the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® has been collected independently by Money.com.

High Rewards on Dining and Entertainment: Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

• Unlimited 3% back on dining, entertainment, grocery stores (excluding Target® and Walmart®) and select streaming services
• No annual or foreign transaction fees
• Includes travel accident insurance
• Complimentary concierge service available 24/7 to offer personalized assistance in dining, entertainment and travel
• 5% cash-back rate for travel only applies to hotels and rental cars, not flights
• 10% back on Uber and Uber Eats purchases plus statement credits to cover the costs of an Uber One membership through November 14, 2024
• 8% back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• 5% back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 3% back on dining, eligible streaming services, entertainment and grocery stores (excluding Target® and Walmart®)
• 1% back on all other eligible purchases

Why we chose it: The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is the ideal card to take when you’re sightseeing or on nights out since it offers high rewards on dining, entertainment and more.

With this no-annual-fee travel card, you can earn cash back at restaurants, tourist attractions, concerts, theme parks and more while traveling — all without worrying about the foreign transaction fees many competitors charge.

Note that the card's travel bonus only applies to hotel and rental car bookings made through the Capital One Travel portal. This means you won't get any cash back for flights, which other travel credit cards do offer.

However, you can earn cash back at restaurants and other establishments worldwide, giving you excellent reward-earning potential while traveling abroad.

High Flat-Rate Reward and Travel Partners: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Can transfer your miles to 16 travel partners
• Earns 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Doesn’t earn bonus points on airfare
• No domestic travel partners
• 1.25x miles per dollar on eligible purchases
• 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

Why we chose it: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great option if you’re looking for a no-annual fee travel credit card with a simple rewards structure.

You can use your miles to book travel through the Capital One Travel portal or as a statement credit to cover travel purchases made from airlines, hotels, rail lines, car rental agencies and more.

You can also transfer your points to one of Capital One's 16 travel partners, which include international airlines such as Avianca and British Airways. This option is notable since travel credit cards with no annual fee don't typically offer the option to transfer your reward to airline and hotel partners.

However, the card's list of bonus categories is limited compared to some other no-annual-fee credit cards, and Capital One doesn't offer bonus points on airfare booked through Capital One Travel.

Rotating Cash Back Categories: Chase Freedom Flex®

• Includes trip cancellation/interruption and car rental insurance
• Includes cell phone protection when you pay your monthly bill with the card
• Earn 5% cash back in quarterly categories, on up to the first $1,500 spent
• 3% foreign transaction fee
• 5% back on flights, hotels, car rentals and more on purchases made through Chase Travel℠
• 5% back on up to $1,500 spent per quarter in rotating categories
• 5% cash back on Lyft rides through March 31, 2025
• 3% back on dining at restaurants (including eligible delivery services and takeout)
• 3% back on drugstore purchase

Why we chose it: The Chase Freedom Flex® offers popular rotating bonus categories and a high reward rate on certain travel purchases.

The card’s rotating categories change each quarter and usually feature popular options, like Amazon, grocery stores and gas stations.

The Chase Freedom Flex® offers several noteworthy benefits, including rental car coverage and trip cancellation/interruption insurance. You also get cell phone protection for theft or damages when you pay your phone's bill using the card.

However, this card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee so it’s best to use it while traveling within the U.S., not internationally.

All information about the Chase Freedom Flex® has been collected independently by Money.com.

High Flat-Rate Rewards and Popular Bonus Categories: Chase Freedom Unlimited®

• Features a high flat cash back rate combined and popular bonus categories
• 5% back on travel booked through Chase Travel℠
• 3% back on dining purchases, including delivery and takeout
• 3% back at drugstores
• 1.5% back on all other eligible purchases

Why we chose it: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a high flat cash back rate on most purchases plus several appealing bonus categories, including travel and dining.

And keep in mind that, during the first year of card membership (or up to the first $20,000 spent), you’ll earn an additional 1.5% on each category.

It's also worth noting that this card is one of the few no-annual-fee credit cards with both trip cancellation/interruption and rental car insurance. You can also redeem your rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and or even transfer them to other cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points.

However, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® Credit Card charges a 3% fee on foreign transactions, making it a poor option for international travel.

Simple Travel Rewards Structure: Discover it® Miles

• Discover matches the total miles you earned at the end of the first year
• Earns 1.5x miles on all purchases
• See your FICO score on the Discover mobile app, online and on statements
• Few benefits compared to other travel cards
• Doesn’t include extended warranty or purchase protection

Why we chose it: The Discover it® Miles is a no-frills card ideal for travelers who don’t want to keep track of bonus categories, earning caps or redemption values.

You can redeem your miles for statement credits and account deposits at a rate of 1 cent per mile. You can also use your rewards through Amazon and PayPal checkout with the same value.

Also, the card’s welcome bonus is easily one of the best in the market: Discover matches every mile you've earned at the end of your first membership year — without any spending requirements.

However, while the Discover it® Miles is a great starter travel card, its lack of bonus categories could hinder your reward-earning potential in the long run. Additionally, Discover cards aren’t as widely accepted internationally as Visa Signature and World Mastercard, for example.

All information about the Discover it® Miles has been collected independently by Money.com.

High Rewards on Popular Everyday Categories: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

• Earn 3x points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, select streaming services and cell phone plans
• Includes cell phone protection plan
• No airline or hotel transfer partners
• Doesn’t include travel insurance
• Netflix and HBO are not eligible for streaming bonus
• 3x points on travel (flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises and more)
• 3x points on transit, including subways, parkings, tolls, ridesharing services and more
• 3x points on dining, gas, select streaming services and cell phone and
• landline providers
• 1X points on other eligible purchases

Why we chose it: The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card has no annual or foreign transaction fees and earns high rewards for popular spending categories, including travel, dining, gas, streaming services and cell phone plans.

Its travel bonus category is particularly noteworthy because you can earn points regardless of where you make your reservations, whether it’s directly with an airline or through a third-party travel site like Booking.com. (Most travel credit cards limit travel rewards to bookings made exclusively through the card issuer's travel portal.)

The card also includes rental car insurance and a cell phone protection plan when you use it to pay your monthly bill.

All information about the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card has been collected independently by Money.com.

Best Low-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

Ideal for bank of america customers: bank of america® premium rewards® credit card.

• Earn 2x points on travel and dining
• Earn 1.5x points on all other purchases
• Up to $100 credit for airline incidental fees
• Up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA Precheck® every four years
• $95 annual fee
• Lower travel bonus rate than other cards
• Doesn’t provide car rental insurance
• 2x points on travel and dining
• 1.5x points on all other eligible purchases.

Why we chose it: The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card has a simple earning structure and can offer substantial rewards for Bank of America customers.

Bank of America customers who are Preferred Rewards members can earn up to 75% more points on every purchase — that's up to 3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 2.62 points on all other purchases for every dollar you spend.

The card includes some worthwhile travel perks, such as up to $100 for incidental airline fees to cover seat upgrades, baggage fees and more. You also get a $100 statement credit every four years to cover Global Entry or TSA Precheck® fees and insurance for lost luggage, baggage delays and trip delays, interruptions, and cancellations.

However, note that other similarly priced cards feature a higher reward rate (sometimes of up to 5x points) for some travel purchases.

All information about the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card has been collected independently by Money.com.

High Flat-Rate Rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Earn 2x miles per dollar on most purchases
• Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Includes travel accident and car rental insurance
• Fewer bonus categories than other cards with a similar annual fee ($95)
• Doesn’t offer travel rewards for flights
• Car rental insurance is secondary
• 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One's travel portal
• 2x miles per dollar on all eligible purchases

Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent card for everyday spending, offering a higher base reward than most travel credit cards.

The Capital One Venture Rewards is ideal for those who want to get the most out of their spending without worrying about tracking bonus categories and spending caps.

You can redeem your miles on the Capital One travel portal and as statement credits to cover travel purchases at a value of one cent per mile. Additionally, you may transfer your miles to more than 15 airline and hotel partners. However, keep in mind that Capital One doesn’t have domestic travel partners, which can be a drawback if you mainly travel within the U.S.

High Rewards Earning Potential with Flexible Redemption Options: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

• Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
• Receive a point bonus each account anniversary
• Includes primary rental car insurance
• Earn 3x per $1 on dining, including eligible delivery and takeout meals, select streaming services and grocery purchases
• Doesn't offer a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® application fee credit
• 5x points for travel bookings made through Chase Travel℠
• 2x on all other travel purchases
• 3x on dining, including eligible delivery and takeout
• 3x on select streaming services
• 3x on online grocery purchases (excluding Target®, Walmart® and wholesale clubs)
• 1x on all other eligible purchases

Why we chose this card: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent option for frequent travelers who want to earn valuable rewards while paying a low annual fee.

The card features six reward categories that offer outstanding rewards on flights, hotels, restaurants and more. You can redeem your points for statement credits, account deposits, gift cards and more. But you can get the most bang for your buck by redeeming them for travel purchases through the Chase Travel℠ portal, which increases your point’s usual one-cent value by 25%.

You can redeem your points for statement credits, account deposits, gift cards and more. But you can get the most bang for your buck by redeeming them for travel purchases through Chase Travel℠ , which increases your point’s usual one-cent value by 25%.

You can also transfer your points to one of Chase's 14 travel partners at a 1:1 ratio (one Chase point equals one hotel point or airline mile). These include popular airlines and hotels like JetBlue, Southwest, United, Marriott and Hyatt.

Best Premium Travel Credit Cards

High rewards for foodies: american express® gold card.

• Earns 4x points on restaurants worldwide, takeout and food delivery within the U.S.
• Up to $120 in annual dining credits, issued as a $10 statement credit per month for select restaurants (enrollment required)
• Up to $120 as Uber Cash annually ($10 per month) for food delivery orders and rides in the U.S. after you add the American Express® Gold Card to your Uber account
• Earn 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x)
• High annual fee ($250)
• Includes few travel perks and insurance policies compared to similarly priced cards

Terms apply. Please click here for applicable rates and fees.

With the American Express® Gold Card, you can earn:

• 4x points at restaurants worldwide
• 4x points on takeout and delivery in the U.S.
• 4x points at supermarkets within the U.S. (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x)
• 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amextravel.com
• 1x on other eligible purchases
• Terms apply

Why we chose it: The American Express® Gold Card is ideal for foodies, offering a high reward rate at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, takeout and food delivery. (Terms apply.)

The American Express® Gold Card also offers statement credits worth up to $240 combined — almost enough to offset the card's $250 annual fee. These include:

• Up to $120 every year in dining credits ($10 per month) for select restaurants and food delivery services. The list includes Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and Shake Shack (Enrollment required)
• Automatically get $10 monthly in Uber Cash to use on Uber Eats or Uber rides in the U.S. (after you add the American Express® Gold Card to your account)
• $100 credit for dining, spa services and other activities when you book a two-night minimum stay at a hotel from The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel

However, note that the American Express® Gold Card offers fewer travel perks than some other premium cards — for instance, it doesn’t offer trip cancellation and interruption insurance or TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR® Plus fee credits.

Low Cost Premium Travel Card with High-End Perks: Capital One Venture X Rewards

• 10,000 bonus miles every year
• Statement credit of up to $300 for bookings made through Capital One Travel
• Up to a $100 credit on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Skip the line and get car upgrades when renting a car with Hertz
• High annual fee ($395)
• Fewer bonus categories than other premium cards
• No domestic airline transfer partners
• 10x miles per dollar on hotels & rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 5x miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per dollar on all other eligible purchases

Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card features premium benefits like an annual travel credit and airport lounge access for a lower annual fee ($395) than other premium travel cards.

The Capital One Venture X also includes noteworthy perks such as:

• 10,000 bonus miles every year (starting on your first anniversary)
• $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
• Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges worldwide with Priority Pass™ and Plaza Premium Group
• Authorized users at no extra cost (many cards have an annual fee of $75 or more for each additional user)

All in all, the Venture X is a solid option that can easily compete with other premium travel cards, especially considering its more affordable annual fee.

High Reward Earning Potential and Premium Travel Perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• Up to $300 in statement credits each anniversary year to cover travel purchases
• Transfer your points to 14 travel partners (including United, Southwest, JetBlue and Marriott)
• Points worth 50% more when redeemed for travel expenses through Chase Travel℠
• Comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including emergency dental insurance
• High annual fee ($550)
• Doesn’t include a cell phone protection plan
• 10x points on hotels and rental cars purchased through Chase Travel℠
• 10x through the Chase Dining program
• 5x points on air travel booked through Chase Travel℠
• 3x points for all other travel-related purchases
• 3x points on restaurants, including takeout and delivery

Why we chose it: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers a high reward rate on travel and dining and additional benefits like comprehensive travel insurance and airport lounge access worldwide.

Your points are worth 50% more when you redeem them for travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal. This means each point is worth 1.5 cents per point instead of one cent, like most travel cards. Also, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® provides several high-end benefits such as:

• $300 annual travel credit to cover travel-related purchases like airfare, hotels, car rentals, rideshares, buses, trains, tolls and/or parking
• Access for you and two guests to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide (after a one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select)
• Statement credit of up to $100 every four years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or Nexus

The Sapphire Reserve does have a $550 annual fee. But if you take advantage of the $300 annual credit and other perks, the benefits can definitely outweigh its cost.

Airport Lounge Access and Luxury Perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

• Access to the widest network of airport lounges of any card
• Complimentary elite status in the Marriott and Hilton hotel loyalty programs
• Hundreds of dollars in annual statement credits for travel, dining and more
• High annual fee ($695)
• Doesn’t include baggage delay, travel accident and primary rental car insurance
• Limited bonus categories

Terms apply. Click here for rates and fees.

• 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 per calendar year)
• 5x points on prepaid hotels booked on the American Express travel portal
• One point per $1 on other eligible purchases

Why we chose this card: The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a list of premium benefits that no other travel card offers, including the widest network of airport lounges and room upgrades at Hilton and Marriott hotels. (Terms apply.)

The Platinum Card® from American Express features an impressive list of high-end travel benefits, including:

• Complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges, including Priority Pass, Delta SkyClub and Amex's own Centurion lounges (enrollment required)
• Gold status in the Marriott and Hilton loyalty programs, which makes you eligible for room upgrades, free breakfast and late checkouts (enrollment required)
• $200 back each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings made through American Express Travel and paid with your Platinum Card® (Hotel Collection bookings require a minimum two-night stay)
• Up to $200 per year when incidental fees, such as checked bags, are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card® (with one selected qualifying airline)
• Complimentary premium status in Avis Preferred®, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®, and/or National Car Rental® Emerald Club (must enroll through your Amex online account using your card)

The Platinum Card® from American Express does have a hefty $695 annual fee. However, for people who travel often and will take advantage of its annual credits and travel perks, it might almost pay for itself.

Best Business Travel Credit Cards

Airport lounge access and luxury perks: the business platinum card® from american express.

• 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• Around $1,000 in yearly statement credits for select business purchases
• Access to a wide network of airport lounges (terms apply)
• Around $600 in perks in Fine Hotels + Resorts® locations booked through American Express Travel (for stays of two nights)
• Secondary rental car coverage**
• 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through amextravel.com
• 1.5x points (up to $2 million per year) at U.S. construction material and hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, software and cloud system providers and shipping providers
• 1.5x points (up to $2 million per year) on purchases of $5,000 or more, regardless of the category

Why we chose it: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express features an extensive list of benefits that make it an ideal travel and business credit card.

With this card, you can access over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, comprehensive travel insurance and extra amenities at hundreds of hotels, like daily breakfast and free internet access. Additionally, you get a $200 credit to cover baggage fees, in-flight refreshments and more and up to $100 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck® every four or 4.5 years respectively. (Terms apply.) (Enrollment required.)

The card also offers several yearly statement credits for business-related purchases that include up to $400 per year ($200 between January and June and $200 between July and December) for U.S. purchases with Dell.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express does have one of the steepest annual fees ($695) among travel credit cards, but its extensive list of benefits makes it a no-brainer for business owners who travel frequently.

Compare The Best Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards guide.

The best credit cards for travel do more than offer high reward rates on flights and hotel stays. They also provide rewards for everyday spending and perks such as travel insurance , airport lounge access and annual statement credits.

Bear in mind, however, that premium travel credit cards often also feature high annual fees. And their rewards are often worth the most when redeemed through a card issuer's travel portal.

Here's a rundown of how these cards work:

What is a travel credit card?

Travel credit cards (or travel rewards credit cards) typically provide generous rewards for travel purchases and let cardmembers redeem points (or miles) for travel bookings. They may also let you redeem points for statement credits, cash back, gift cards and more.

Besides travel, these cards usually also offer other bonus reward categories, such dining, gas and drugstores. Many also include additional benefits, like airport lounge access, hotel discounts, travel accident insurance, no foreign transaction fees and more.

Bonus categories, redemption options and benefits vary widely across card issuers. However, you can generally expect cards with higher annual fees to offer more perks. For example, premium cards with annual fees over $400 often feature hundreds of dollars in statement credits (money credited to your card’s outstanding balance) to cover travel or food purchases.

How do travel credit cards work?

Like other reward cards, travel credit cards give you a certain number of points (or miles) per dollar on eligible purchases. However, what makes these cards different from others is their high reward rate for travel-related purchases.

Travel credit cards often offer around 5x points or more for airfare, hotel rooms, rental cars and more. Some cards may also count parking, bus fares, taxis, tolls and ferries as travel purchases.

Besides travel, you'll typically get bonus points on specific spending categories, like 3x per dollar on dining, groceries, drugstores or streaming services. All other eligible purchases get at least one point (1x) per dollar.

You can then redeem your points for flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises and more. Card issuers also usually let you redeem your points for non-travel options like statement credits, cash back or gift cards.

How much are credit card points worth?

In most cases, credit card points are worth one cent each. However, some issuers increase their value if you redeem them for travel. For example, points earned with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card have a 1.25-cent value when you book flights through the Chase Travel portal.

But point values may also decrease depending on how you choose to redeem them. For example, some cards let cardholders use points when shopping through Amazon or Paypal. While this might sound convenient, this option may bring down the value of points to around 0.8 cents.

How to use credit card points for travel

Travel credit cards have rewards programs through which members earn and redeem their points for travel, cash back, gift cards and more. Well-known point programs include Chase Travel, American Express Membership Rewards® and Citi ThankYou® Rewards.

Once you're ready to redeem your points, head to your travel card's reward program portal. The process may differ across credit card issuers, but you'll usually be able to access it through your online account on the website or app.

Most reward programs will let you book flights and hotel rooms. Some will also allow you to redeem your points for car rentals, cruises, tourist attractions and more.

Sometimes, you'll have the option to transfer your points to airline or hotel loyalty programs. Not all reward programs allow this, but if they do, it's usually at a 1:1 ratio — meaning 1,000 credit card points are worth 1,000 points in the travel partner program.

Note that, if you're missing some points to cover your trip, you'll often have the chance to pay the remainder with cash.

Difference between points and miles

Travel credit cards usually earn rewards as points. But some card issuers, like Capital One, call their rewards "miles" instead of "points" — even though they can be redeemed the same way as points.

Cards that earn miles are often (but not always) tied to a specific airline. Additionally, bear in mind that the term "mile" doesn't refer to miles traveled with the airline. One airline mile is usually the equivalent of one reward point, which you can redeem for free flights, seat upgrades and more.

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

• Some cards offer up to 10x points per dollar on travel purchases.
• Many have additional bonus categories for dining, grocery shopping and more.
• They may include travel benefits like priority boarding, airport lounge access and late hotel checkouts.
• Points or miles can also be redeemed for cash back, statement credits, gift cards and more.
• Highest reward rates are usually limited to purchases made through the card issuer's travel portal.
• They might not offer high rewards on spending outside of the travel category.
• Some of the best ones can have steep annual fees and require good to excellent credit
• Redeeming points or miles for anything other than travel can reduce their value to less than one cent per dollar.

Types of travel credit cards

Here’s a rundown of the differences between the three main types of travel credit cards:

Airline credit cards

Airline credit cards are ideal for people who fly with the same airline regularly. These cards earn miles that you can use with one specific airline, and their rewards (called frequent flyer miles) are redeemable for airfare. Some of the best airline travel credit cards include benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding and discounts on in-flight purchases.

Hotel credit cards

Hotel credit cards are similar to airline cards. Points earned can only be used with one particular hotel chain.

For example, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card earns points for Hilton's loyalty program. Points can be redeemed for free nights in the company’s properties, including Hilton Garden Inn and Waldorf Astoria hotels. The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, on the other hand, includes room upgrades and late checkouts on select locations.

Other benefits may include discount rates, late checkouts or free in-room Wi-Fi.

Hotel credit cards may also offer complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, late checkouts and bonus points for purchases made during your stay.

General travel credit card

General travel credit cards are much more flexible and convenient than airline or hotel cards. Since they aren't affiliated with a single airline or hotel chain, general travel card points can be redeemed for a wide variety of travel-related expenses.

These cards allow cardholders to book flights, hotel stays, rental cars and more from different companies using your card issuer's online travel portal. Other ways to use card points include statement credits, cash back or gift cards. Some issuers also let you transfer points to airline and hotel partners.

These cards may offer handy perks for frequent travelers, like airport lounge access. They can also cover the cost of a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership, which allows you to skip the long lines at airport security or customs.

How to choose a travel credit card

Picking the best travel rewards card boils down to how often you travel, which cardmember perks you'd benefit the most from and the categories you spend the most on.

Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing the best card for you:

Do you travel often? A travel rewards credit card offers high reward rates on most travel-related spending, and you’ll get the most bang for your buck when you use their points on flights, hotels and car rentals. If you don't take trips often but want to pile up rewards, a cash-back credit card might be a better fit.

Assess your everyday spending. Many travel cards have additional bonus categories other than travel, like dining, supermarkets, streaming services and drugstores. Consider your day-to-day spending habits and pick a card with bonus categories that fit your lifestyle.

Consider the card's annual fees. There are several no-annual-fee travel cards available, but they usually have few bonus categories and benefits. The best travel credit cards charge annual fees of at least $90 and can go as high as $700. However, these are often best for those that travel enough to take advantage of their benefits.

General travel card vs co-branded cards. General travel cards have more flexible redemption options, allowing you to redeem your rewards for bookings with multiple travel companies. On the other hand, co-branded cards are often tied to a specific airline or hotel, which can limit your options. However, they do provide valuable perks like free checked bags, in-flight discounts and hotel upgrades.

Compare extra travel perks. Some cards offer extras like annual statement credits for flights and hotels or upgrades when renting cars. Take the time to compare each card's roster of add-ons and pick one that will best suit your travel plans.

Compare insurance policies. Some cards offer insurance policies that cover travel accidents, rental cars, trip cancellations and more. They also include purchase protection and extended warranties for items bought using the card. These policies can vary widely based on the issuer and the card's annual-fee tier.

Beware foreign transaction fees. Most travel credit cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees. Some cash-back cards may offer outstanding rewards for travel purchases but charge around 3% fees on purchases outside the U.S.

A welcome bonus shouldn't be the end-all, be-all perk. A 100,000-point welcome bonus can be enticing. However, it shouldn't be your deciding factor, especially if you'll end up paying a high annual fee without getting your money's worth.

How get the most out of your travel credit card

To get the most out of your travel credit card, you need to use it as often and strategically as possible. This way, you can earn points or miles with each purchase, which you can then redeem for free or discounted flights, hotels and more.

Use your travel card to pay most of your purchases and bills and then pay your card off in full each month. This will help you earn points while avoiding interest charges and high credit card debt , which can impact your credit score.

Here are some other tips to maximize your rewards and benefits:

Consider adding an authorized user to your account. They’ll earn points with every purchase they make, and those will get added to your overall total. However, make sure to pick someone who will use the card responsibly since you'll be legally liable if they ever fail to pay their monthly bills.

Redeem your rewards for travel through the card issuer's website. This redemption option usually offers the highest value compared to gift cards or merchandise, for example.

If your card offers travel protections (like travel accident or luggage insurance), use it to pay for your passenger fares. This way, you could be reimbursed in the event of an accident or lost luggage, for example.

Use your airline or hotel card to sign up for the company's frequent flyer or frequent guest loyalty program. You'll often earn extra points or miles when you're a member and use your co-branded card to pay for flights, hotel stays and more.

If your travel card lets you combine points from multiple cards under one account, take advantage of the feature. For example, if you have a Chase Sapphire Preferred®, you can transfer points to it from other cards (if they also earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points). This way, you can accumulate extra points and increase their value to 1.25 cents apiece if you make travel reservations through the Chase Travel portal.

Best Travel Credit Cards FAQs

What is the best travel credit card, what is the best credit card for international travel, how to travel for free with credit cards, how many miles do you need for a free flight, what is a welcome bonus on a credit card, how we chose the best travel credit cards.

We ranked the best credit cards for travel based on their annual fees, benefits, reward rates and redemption flexibility.

Fees: We compared interest rates and foreign, cash advance and balance transfer fees for more than 50 credit cards. We also considered their annual fee, looking for those that offered the most for the money.

Ongoing benefits: Intro APR and bonus offers are attractive, but they can only get you so far. We focused on cards with year-round benefits such as travel insurance or cell phone protection plans.

Reward rates: We preferred cards that allow you to earn extra points from travel expenses, as well as those that provide significant bonus rewards in popular spending categories, like dining, supermarkets or streaming services.

Redemption flexibility: Our picks don’t limit your redemption options to just travel. Some let you use your points for Amazon purchases, for example. We also preferred issuers that allowed cardholders to transfer their points to airline and hotel partners.

Summary of Money’s Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024

Best low-fee-annual-fee travel credit cards.

Money.com has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Money.com and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

To see rates and fees for the American Express® Gold Card, visit this link . Terms apply.

To see rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express, visit this link . Terms apply.

To see rates and fees for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, visit this link . Terms apply.

* Insurance disclosures for American Express Cards on this page:

Trip Delay Insurance: Eligibility 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.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance: Eligibility 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.

Baggage Insurance Plan: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Global Assist Hotline: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

Extended Warranty, Purchase Protection, Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

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

** Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

*** Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $50,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

• Best Credit Cards
• Balance Transfer
• No Annual Fee

On this page

• Our top picks
• Travel credit card details
• How travel cards work

Types of travel cards

• Pros and cons
• How to make the most of a travel card
• Alternatives to travel cards
• Our methodology
• Frequently asked questions

The Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024

March 28, 2024

How we Choose

Whether you’re an occasional traveler looking to save on your next vacation or a frequent traveler looking for premium travel perks, there’s a travel rewards card for you. We’ll break down our top picks for the best travel rewards credit cards.

Best travel credit cards of March 2024

• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for occasional travelers
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best welcome bonus
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for luxury travel
• American Express® Gold Card : Best for foodies
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for flat-rate rewards
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best first travel card
• Citi Premier® Card : Best for everyday spending
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for annual credits
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best for pairing with Chase cards
• Discover it® Miles : Best for no annual fee
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for gas and transit
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card : Best for budget flyers
• Credit One Bank Wander® Card : Best for fair credit
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card : Best for travel credits
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for point value
• United Quest℠ Card : Best for United MileagePlus members

Additional Options:

• Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card: Best hotel credit card
• American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp®: Best no-annual-fee airline card

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Rewards rate

At a glance, overall rating, why we like this card.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is a great choice for infrequent travelers who want ultimate flexibility when it comes to earning and redeeming rewards. Cardholders can redeem points for statement credit to pay toward travel expenses, like flights, hotels, vacation packages, cruises, rental cars or baggage fees. Additionally, you can redeem for dining purchases.

You can also take advantage of its sign-up bonus — 25,000 online bonus points if you spend $1,000 in your first 90 days, redeemable for a $250 statement toward travel and dining made on your credit card within the last 12 months, including on third-party sites like Expedia or Travelocity.

• Ultraflexible redemption policy that can cover some purchases outside travel
• Can redeem rewards as a statement credit months after the initial travel or dining purchase
• Rewards rate for travel purchases not as lucrative as others in this category
• Not the most valuable sign-up offer

Bottom Line

Despite the fact that cardholders won’t be able to weigh spending toward a particular category to maximize their points, this card is a great fit for occasional travelers who still want to earn rewards but without having to pay an annual fee.

• 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.

Rates & Fees

Chase sapphire preferred® card.

This card has one of the highest sign-up bonuses you’ll find with a mid-level travel card. Plus, it offers generous rewards for your travel and dining purchases and additional benefits like a 25% boost in points value when you redeem your rewards through the Chase Travel℠ portal.

• You'll find more benefits with this card than with other mid-level travel cards, including an anniversary boost and a hotel credit.
• Instead of the typical 1-cent–per-point value you might find on rival travel cards, you can enjoy 25% more value when you book travel through Chase Travel℠.
• Bonus categories are limited to travel and dining, so you have little flexibility in how you earn rewards.
• The card lacks attractive travel perks like airport lounge access or security precheck credits.

If you are hoping to fast-track your way to your next trip, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers ample opportunities to earn rewards, along with a generous sign-up bonus.

• 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 Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. 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

The Platinum Card® from American Express

See if you’re pre-approved for this card using our CardMatch tool .

This popular premium card from American Express comes fully-loaded with travel benefits, including luxury lounge access, Hilton Honors gold status (enrollment required), no foreign transaction fees and an impressive list of travel benefits that will help offset the $695 annual fee.

This card currently touts a generous welcome offer: You can earn 80,000 points if you spend $8,000 in your first six months of card membership, which we estimate to be worth around $800 when you book through AmexTravel (where points are worth around 1 cent each).

• Extensive list of travel credits and premium perks
• Ability to transfer points to a host of airline partners, including Delta Airlines
• Limited amount of bonus categories
• Expensive annual fee

For frequent travelers or those looking to make their dream vacation a reality, the Amex Platinum checks every box and provides generous travel credits to offset its high annual fee.

• 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, 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. Terms Apply.
• $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.

American Express® Gold Card

The Amex Gold card offers an industry-leading 4X points at restaurants (including U.S. takeout and delivery) and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar) as well as 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com.

It also features dining benefits, such as an up to $120 in yearly statement credits on select restaurants, including Grubhub and The Cheesecake Factory, and up to $120 in Uber cash annually. In addition to the foodie-friendly rewards rate, this card offers a valuable introductory offer and travel perks like baggage and car rental insurance when you book with your Gold card.

• If you spend a lot on food and dining, its industry-leading rewards rate on restaurant and U.S. supermarket purchases is hard to beat.
• Like the Amex Green card, you can transfer points to multiple air travel partners, including Delta Airlines, and hotel partners, like Hilton Honors.
• Its annual fee is pricier than what’s on some travel credit cards.
• You must redeem travel rewards through amextravel.com.

The Amex Gold is one of the best cards on the market with its generous rewards rate and lucrative introductory offer. If food and travel account for a large portion of your spending, this card’s value more than covers the $250 annual fee.

• 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.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a great flat rate of 2X miles for all purchases and gives you ultimate flexibility for redemption, including for travel purchases booked outside of the Capital One portal non-travel rewards, such as gift cards (though you may get a lower value). You can also enjoy additional benefits, like an up to $100 credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, that can help offset the $95 annual fee.

• Simple earning structure and flexible redemption options
• Generous sign-up bonus
• Lack of large domestic travel transfer partners
• Low redemption value unless using select airlines

The Capital One Venture Card is a top-notch travel card that offers simplicity and valuable perks without the pricey annual fees associated with many premium cards in this category or skimping on rewards.

• 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

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

This card is ideal as a first travel card because you don’t have to strategize to offset an annual fee every year, but can still enjoy terrific travel benefits. You can redeem for various travel purchases like hotels, rental cars and flights either through Capital One’s travel portal or other travel websites. Plus, you can transfer your rewards to partner loyalty programs — adding more flexibility in your travel.

• No need to offset the cost of an annual fee
• Low minimum spend for sign-up bonus
• Lower rewards rate and less perks than cards with an annual fee
• Reduced value of your miles when you use the rewards for non-travel redemption options, such as statement credits or gift cards

This card offers a straightforward earning structure and an attainable sign-up bonus, allowing cardholders to rack up miles while not worrying about an annual fee.

• $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

If you can’t decide between a travel or general rewards credit card, the Citi Premier offers the best of both worlds with a rewards rate of 3X points for every $1 spent on air travel, hotels, restaurants, gas stations and supermarkets, as well as one point per dollar spent on all other purchases. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10X points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024.

The Citi Premier card is currently offering a valuable sign-up bonus of 60,000 points for spending $4,000 in the first three months in addition to its flexible redemption options and exclusive side benefits.

• Annual hotel credit when booked through thankyou.com or 1-800-THANKYOU
• Earn bonus rewards for select travel and everyday purchases
• Domestic airline transfer partner limited to JetBlue
• No travel insurance, which is typical for travel cards in this tier

The Citi Premier card is a smart choice for frequent travelers who want to use a single rewards card for the bulk of their everyday spending and offers premium perks for a reasonable annual fee.

• 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

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Venture X is an instant top contender in the premium card market with its fully-loaded annual benefits that can be worth over $400. Yearly perks like bonus miles on your account anniversary (equal to $100 in travel) and a $300 travel credit when you book travel through Capital One Travel, can help cover the annual fee. Compared with other high-end travel rewards credit cards, the $395 annual fee is modest, and many travelers will come out well ahead.

• You can enjoy a fairly simple rewards structure with unlimited 2X miles in all purchase categories, in addition to bonus rewards in Capital One travel categories.
• The card offers statement credit for Global Entry and TSA Precheck, which adds to your overall savings.
• The sign-up bonus is generous, but it requires a high spend.
• While not unusual, you'll need excellent credit to be eligible for this premium card.

Travel rewards cards packed with this many features typically come with sky-high annual fees, but the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card delivers with luxury benefits and a more down-to-earth annual fee.

• 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

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Its flat rate and bonus categories, especially for the first 12 months, make it a great companion for premium Chase cards. If you want to rack up as many Chase Ultimate Rewards points as possible and then use them toward your next trip, then this card can help you get there. Plus, its welcome offer can help boost rewards.

• Its bonus earnings for the first 12 months boost your rewards and this card’s upfront value.
• You can pool this card’s rewards with certain Chase travel cards to get more redemption and transfer flexibility.
• Other cards have better travel benefits or welcome offers if you want as many rewards and perks as possible.
• You won’t get the full potential of this card without pairing it with a premium Chase card, which comes with annual fees.

This card’s true potential lies in pairing it with certain Chase travel cards. Make sure you use it to pool your Ultimate Rewards points for more value when redeeming for travel.

• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.

Discover it® Miles

For a no-annual-fee card, Discover offers simplicity. You’ll be able to earn unlimited miles and have flexible redemption options like statement credits towards travel purchases or as cash deposits into your bank account. Plus, cardholders have a unique opportunity at the end of their first year when Discover will match every mile you earn.

• Appealing welcome offer that can essentially double all the miles earned at the end of the first year
• Competitive redemption value for cash back at 1 cent per mile
• Rewards earning potential takes a significant hit after your first year
• Can’t transfer miles to airline frequent-flyer programs

The Discover it® Miles card offers an impressive list of high-end travel perks and a generous first-year welcome offer for travel credit card newbies, but earning benefits drop off substantially after the first 12 months.

• Unlimited Bonus: Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers - only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. For example, if you earn 35,000 Miles, you get 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.
• Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase
• No annual fee
• Turn Miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.24% - 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

It offers one of the best rewards rates you can get on everyday travel – including airfare, hotels, gas stations and transit – without paying an annual fee. And since it also rewards dining (another key everyday spending category), it makes for a terrific standalone rewards card.

• It has no annual fee and a high rewards rate for everyday spending categories.
• It earns bonus rewards in common spending categories like gas stations and restaurants as well as in harder-to-find categories like phone plans, making it an especially versatile option.
• Though the card earns bonus rewards in a great mix of everyday categories, it offers a lackluster rate on grocery purchases, which could limit its standalone value.
• Unlike some competing no-annual-fee travel cards, the Autograph doesn’t let you transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs, limiting the potential value of your rewards.

This card could be a great fit for occasional travelers who want to earn rewards on everyday spending and have the flexibility to redeem for cash back.

• 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.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus credit card is ideally suited for entry-level travelers. Even if you only fly occasionally with Southwest airlines, you can easily boost rewards and receive a generous welcome offer. The perks for this card rival those found in higher-tier cards, such as getting the first two checked bags for free and two EarlyBird Check-In® each year.

• Can almost cover the annual fee with 3,000-point anniversary bonus
• Valuable perks on a domestic airline with a reputation for being customer-friendly
• Does not include certain perks often found with travel cards, such as priority boarding or a fast track to elite status
• Lacks airline partners and international travel options

For those already integrated into the Southwest ecosystem, this card offers generous bonus opportunities and access to unique, customer-friendly perks for a reasonable annual fee.

• Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 3,000 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
• Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year.
• Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Credit One Bank Wander® Card

This is one of the only travel cards accessible to people with fair credit. It also offers a high rewards rate on a great mix of travel spending, including gas, airfare, hotels, resorts and bookings made through travel agencies. This will be especially appealing if you prefer booking directly with airlines and hotels to maximize loyalty rewards and elite status.

• People with fair-to-excellent credit can earn high rewards on eligible travel and everyday purchases like dining and gas.
• Frequent travelers can earn generous rewards even while working toward elite status with airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• It offers fewer perks compared to other mid-level travel cards with a similar annual fee and high variable APR.
• Points aren’t transferable and remain fixed at a value of 1 cent each when redeemed for cash back, which could prove limiting for frequent travelers who know how to maximize points for greater value.

This could be a top pick for travelers who struggle to qualify for cards with more travel perks and transfer partners.

• Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site
• Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
• Earn 1x points on all other purchases
• Redeem your reward points for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, flights, hotels, and more
• With $0 Fraud Liability, you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
• Free Online Credit Score and Credit Report summary, terms apply
• If you are a Covered Borrower under the Military Lending Act, you may get a different offer
• See Rates & Fees

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

This card from Bank of America offers great value for a $95 annual fee card, especially if you already bank with them. If you are a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you’ll be rewarded with an additional 25 percent to 75 percent redemption bonus on all your earnings.

In addition, this card offers some of the strongest travel insurance benefits you can get, up to a $100 annual statement credit that you can use for airline incidental expenses, an application fee credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, and a points program that rewards spending in a variety of categories.

• The $100 annual statement credit you can use towards airline expenses and the application fee credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry more than offset the $95 annual fee.
• Preferred Rewards members receive some of the highest rewards rates among any travel or cash back credit cards.
• If you’re not a Preferred Rewards member, the benefits of the card are not as robust compared to other cards with similar annual fees.
• The $100 airline incidental credit only covers qualifying incidentals and not actual flight costs.

The Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card combines the benefits of a cash back card and premium travel card and is an especially good value for those with existing Bank of America accounts.

• Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
• Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
• Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Low $95 annual fee.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

For those looking for a premium credit card with generous travel perks and a top-tier sign-up bonus, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is considered to be one of the best options on the market. And with no blackout dates, expiration dates for points or point limits, the card offers major redemption flexibility.

The sign-up bonus is worth a whopping $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠ after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months, so you are getting more than a cent per mile value. With the $300 annual credit for travel purchases, generous earning structure and impressive list of additional perks, seasoned travelers have plenty of opportunity to offset the steep $550 annual fee.

• Wealth of travel perks and rewards categories
• Increase your point value by 50% by redeeming them for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Required spend of $300 on travel annually before travel category rewards rates apply
• Lower rewards value for merchandise

While the price of admission for Chase’s premium travel card is steep, the bonuses and wealth of luxury travel perks will be worth it in the long run for experienced travelers.

• 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 Travel℠.
• $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 Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. 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

United Quest℠ Card

If you like to regularly travel on United Airlines (or their partner airlines) then this card is worth a look. Not only do you earn enhanced bonus miles for United purchases, other travel and select everyday purchases, you also get an impressive amount of airline-specific perks. This includes anniversary credits and free first and second checked bags for you and one companion.

• Impressive sign-up bonus and anniversary credits
• Easy to earn miles with popular bonus categories like dining and select streaming purchases
• High annual fee for infrequent United flyers
• No airport lounge access

The United Quest Card is a terrific option for semi-frequent United travelers, but cardholders should plan to redeem United miles at least twice a year to take full advantage and offset the annual fee.

• Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after qualifying purchases
• Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and priority boarding
• Up to a $125 United® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
• Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)

The information about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, the American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Card and the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by CreditCards.com and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Comparing the best travel credit cards of 2024

Editor’s picks: best travel credit card details, best for occasional travelers: bank of america® travel rewards credit card.

• Best features : This card will appeal to infrequent travelers who don’t typically book through travel portals. Instead, you can redeem your points for any travel and dining purchases made on your credit card within the last 12 months. And if you’re a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn up to 25% to 75% more points on every purchase.
• Biggest drawbacks : The best rewards are reserved for Bank of America customers with savings or investment accounts. If that’s not you, you can likely find another card that rewards your travel purchases at a higher rate.
• Alternatives : The Capital One VentureOne also does not charge an annual fee or foreign transaction fee ( See Rates and Fees ), but even casual travelers can benefit from its valuable purchase and travel protections.
• Bottom line : The Bank of America Travel Rewards card is a solid choice for occasional travelers focused on earning some rewards and avoiding an annual fee.

Related : Is the Bank of America Travel Rewards card worth it?

Read our Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best welcome bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

• Best features : This card packs in plenty of value that is rare for only $95 a year. It comes with a high sign-up bonus, generous rewards program and competitive redemption values.
• Biggest drawbacks : You may need to look beyond the Chase Sapphire Preferred if you prefer luxury features like TSA PreCheck, priority boarding, travel credits and lounge access.
• Alternatives: The Citi Premier® Card has a similar annual fee and a generous welcome offer too. Travelers who want to book travel outside of credit card portals and who spend a lot on gas and in-store grocery purchases may get better value out of the Premier card.
• Bottom line : A modest annual fee, impressive sign-up bonus and ultra-flexible rewards redemption give this card great short- and long-term value for travelers who don’t need a ton of luxury perks.

Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for luxury travel: The Platinum Card® from American Express

• Best features : This premium card comes fully-loaded. You can enjoy luxury lounge access, elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy hotels (upon enrollment) and even travel consultants to help plan your trip. A laundry list of travel credits can also help offset the card’s annual fee.
• Biggest drawbacks : The card only earns bonus rewards on flights and prepaid hotels. You might earn more with cards that offer bonus points or miles on both travel and everyday essentials. Plus, some of the credits – like the card’s luxury fitness credit or Walmart+ credit – don’t have broad appeal, making it harder to offset the high $695 annual fee.
• Alternatives : Unlike the Platinum card, the American Express® Gold Card lets you earn high bonus rewards for purchases made in categories beyond travel, including restaurant and U.S. supermarket purchases. It also comes with a lot of the same benefits as the Platinum card, such as car rental insurance, purchase protection and Hotel Collection benefits, all for a much smaller $250 annual fee.
• Bottom line : If you can take advantage of its many perks, this card should tick all the right boxes for big spenders and frequent travelers looking for luxury travel perks, particularly complimentary airport lounge access.

Read our American Express Platinum Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for foodies: American Express® Gold Card

• Best features : Traveling foodies, rejoice – this card offers an industry-leading 4X points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. You’ll also earn 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then one point per dollar) and 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com. Trips with common carriers that are booked with your Gold card are covered for baggage insurance worth up to $1,250 for carry-on bags and $500 for checked bags.
• Biggest drawbacks : The annual fee is $250, pricier than other travel rewards cards with mid-level travel perks. And unless food is a significant portion of your spending, the card’s rewards rate and food delivery credits may not be the best fit.
• Alternatives : The Citi Premier® Card comes close to matching the Amex Gold with its rewards rates, but its annual fee is much lower (just $95).
• Bottom line : If you’re a frequent traveler who makes dining out a staple of their vacations and staycations, you’ll get a lot of value with this card.

Read our American Express Gold Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for flat-rate rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Best features : For a reasonable annual fee, this popular Capital One credit card offers standout rewards with an easy rewards structure and versatile redemption options. You can transfer miles to over 15 loyalty programs or redeem for statement credit toward travel.
• Biggest drawbacks : Capital One doesn’t have many domestic travel transfer partners. This can make it harder to maximize the value of your miles when booking domestic flights.
• Alternatives : If you’re looking to earn at a flat-rate but aren’t too pleased with the Venture card’s $95 annual fee ( See Rates and Fees ), the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a suitable alternative. Although cardholders only earn 1.25X miles on all purchases, the card still comes with a sign-up bonus of 20,000 miles for spending $500 in the first three months. This is a smaller bonus and a lower rewards rate than the Venture card, but it’ll also be easier to obtain, making this an ideal option for modest spenders.
• Bottom line : This card is a great option if you’re looking for an easy way to earn high travel rewards on all purchases. But if you’re after top-drawer travel perks, you may want to look elsewhere.

Read our Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best first travel card: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Best features : The VentureOne card is a basic travel card for beginners who want to earn flexible rewards but aren’t ready to commit to an annual fee ( See Rates and Fees ). VentureOne cardholders can earn bonus miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 1.25X miles on every other purchase. You can transfer these miles to numerous airline and hotel partners.
• Biggest drawbacks : Other no-annual-fee travel cards offer better perks and higher rewards rates than the VentureOne’s 1.25X miles.
• Alternatives : The Bilt Mastercard® is a unique no-annual-fee card that earns points on rent payments without the processing fees. But the card is also a great beginner travel card, offering bonus rewards on travel and dining (points are transferable too). Plus, if you wait until the first of the month, your patience will be rewarded with double points on all non-rent purchases for 24 hours (on up to 10,000 bonus points). That’s a whopping 6X points on dining, 4X points on travel and 2X points on all other non-rent purchases. You must use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points.
• Bottom line : Budget-friendly travelers can get a decent amount of value out of this starter travel card, but if transferring rewards to travel partners isn’t a priority for you, a flat-rate cash back card may be more lucrative.

Read our Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for everyday spending: Citi Premier® Card

• Best features : For a modest annual fee, cardholders earn 3X points, not only on air travel, hotels and dining but also supermarket and gas station purchases, two of the most popular everyday spending categories. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10X points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal through June 30, 2024. Its sign-up bonus is on par with competitor offers, and cardholders get an annual hotel credit, making it easier to offset the card’s annual fee.
• Biggest drawbacks : If you want to transfer your points to get more value out of your rewards, JetBlue is the only domestic carrier on Citi’s list of airline partners, which can make it harder to book domestic travel.
• Alternatives : The Chase Sapphire Preferred is similar but may be a more attractive option due to its travel protection coverage. Plus, Chase’s Travel℠ program includes a robust list of airlines and hotel partners.
• Bottom line : Someone looking to earn rewards on travel and everyday expenses will appreciate the versatility of the Citi Premier Card, not to mention its generous welcome bonus.

Read our Citi Premier Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for annual credits: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Best features : Cardholders can take advantage of this card’s yearly credits to help offset its annual fee and enjoy additional perks like lounge access. And when you book through Capital One Travel, you’ll earn some of the highest rewards available for hotels, rental cars and flights.
• Biggest drawbacks : You’ll have to book your travel through Capital One Travel instead of directly through an airline or hotel to get the best value out of this card.
• Alternatives: The Platinum Card® from American Express is one of the best travel cards for lounge access and other luxury perks. Frequent travelers who can take advantage of all those perks can easily offset the card’s high annual fee.
• Bottom line : The Venture X should appeal to both frequent travelers who want to earn more than just 1 mile per dollar on all non-travel purchases and luxury travelers who want to enjoy premium travel without paying the typical sky-high annual fees.

Read our Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for pairing with Chase cards: Chase Freedom Unlimited®

• Best features: Its 1.5% rate on general purchases makes it a great catch-all card as part of your overall travel rewards strategy. You can use this card with certain Chase cards to get more Chase Ultimate Rewards points, one of the most valuable credit card points.
• Biggest drawbacks: It has a 3% foreign transaction fee, so if you were planning to use this card abroad on your travels, it can be more costly.
• Alternative(s): The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of Chase’s premium travel cards, with solid earning rates on dining and travel. For a modest $95 annual fee, it comes with top-of-the-line travel benefits, increases points redemption value through the Chase travel portal and can transfer points to Chase travel partners.
• Bottom line: If you already have a Chase travel card — or are planning to get one in the future — this card is a must-have for maximizing travel rewards.

Read our full Chase Freedom Unlimited® review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for no annual fee: Discover it® Miles

• Best features : The Discover it® Miles offers simplicity and flexibility without the annual fee. All purchases earn a fairly average 1.5X miles. But Discover sweetens the deal by matching all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. Instead of travel, you can also redeem rewards online with Amazon or when you pay with PayPal (though redemption value might be lower).
• Alternatives : The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is another solid no-annual-fee travel card ( See Rates and Fees ). It not only offers a flat rate of 1.25X miles on every purchase, but also 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. That could make it easier for frequent travelers to earn rewards. It also has a number of travel and consumer protections that you won’t find with most entry-level travel cards, including the Discover it ® Miles.
• Bottom line : This card skips the annual fee and the generous first-year welcome offer is ideal for budget-friendly travelers or someone looking for their first travel credit card.

Read our Discover it ® Miles review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for gas and transit: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

• Best features: This card’s mix of bonus categories should be a terrific fit if you’re looking for a low-cost way to earn rewards on both everyday travel and big trips. You’ll earn rewards at a great rate on everything from gas and transit to airfare and hotels, without worrying about maximizing point values or offsetting an annual fee.
• Biggest drawbacks: Its list of perks is just okay, even for a no-annual-fee travel card. You’ll miss out not only on benefits like expedited security screening and lounge access, but also the ability to transfer points to airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• Alternatives: Though it may earn rewards at a lower rate, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card could be a great alternative. Its streamlined, flat-rate rewards program is a great fit if you’re new to earning miles, and the card gives you the flexibility to transfer miles to Capital One airline and hotel partners, which could boost their redemption value.
• Bottom line: The Autograph card is a great option if you want to earn rewards on everyday travel and need the flexibility to redeem for both travel and cash back.

Read our Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for budget flyers: Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

• Best features : This entry-level airline card has some of the same popular features as more expensive Southwest consumer travel cards, including a chance to earn the Southwest Companion Pass® – one of the most coveted perks in all of travel rewards. If you earn 135,000 points in a year, you can pick a companion to fly with you for free (except for taxes and fees) for up to two years on any Southwest flight that you purchase with cash or points.
• Biggest drawbacks : Unlike some other airline cards, this no-frills card doesn’t earn bonus points in popular everyday categories like gas or grocery stores. Plus, the card’s anniversary bonus of 3,000 points is lower than the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card’s bonus.
• Alternatives : The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card may be a better fit for budget travelers. It comes with a $0 intro annual fee for the first year (then $150) and a chance to earn bonus miles faster thanks to practical bonus categories including restaurants and U.S. supermarkets. It also has a number of convenient features like priority boarding and a chance to earn a $200 Delta flight credit. Plus, Delta and its partner network are much more extensive than Southwest.
• Bottom line : The Rapid Rewards Plus card is a decent choice for occasional Southwest flyers looking for a cheap rewards travel card. But if you fly Southwest frequently and want to double your anniversary points while avoiding foreign transaction fees, consider upgrading to the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card and its higher annual fee of $99.

Read our Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for fair credit: Credit One Bank Wander® Card

• Best features : Even people with fair credit can take advantage of the card’s bonus rewards in a variety of travel categories. Many travel cards only earn generous bonus rewards for airline or hotel purchases or for travel booked through the issuer’s travel portal. But the Wander card is more flexible, giving you more freedom to book travel the way you like.
• Biggest drawbacks : There are no transfer partners, so your points are worth a maximum of 1 cent each. Plus, the card has fewer perks compared to other mid-level cards with a similar annual fee.
• Alternatives : Your options are limited if you’re looking for another travel card open to people with fair credit. But many Capital One cards like the Capital One Walmart Rewards® Mastercard® or the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card could help you rack up a lot of rewards that you can use to help cover the cost of travel. You can also take advantage of convenient and cost-saving features found in the Capital One Travel Portal.
• Bottom line : This card is a solid pick for credit-builders who also want to earn travel rewards.

Read our Credit One Bank Wander® Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for travel credits: Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

• Best features : Along with perks like an annual credit up to $100 for airline incidentals, which includes seat upgrades and airline lounge fees, this card offers a credit of up to $100 to cover the cost of a TSA Precheck or Global Entry application. That perk isn’t always included on travel cards at the $95-annual-fee level. You can also redeem for cash back as a deposit into Bank of America® checking or savings accounts or for gift cards and purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Biggest drawbacks : Unlike many travel rewards cards with an annual fee, this card doesn’t let you transfer rewards to partner airline or hotel loyalty programs to squeeze more value out of your points. Plus, the card’s best rewards rates are reserved for people with large savings or investment accounts with Bank of America.
• Alternatives: The Chase Sapphire Preferred card has greater flexibility for travelers who want to transfer their points to airline or hotel travel partners. It also comes with better redemption value if you book travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal and travel protections.
• Bottom line : This card could be a good fit for heavy packers who can take advantage of the airline incidental fee credits or people who already have a Bank of America account. Those who are loyal to one airline or don’t bank with Bank of America may not find much value in this card.

Read our Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for point value: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• Best features : This top-of-the-line card comes with a wealth of travel perks, including a sign-up bonus worth $900 when redeemed through Chase Travel℠ (60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months). In addition to the $300 travel credit, you can try out services like Instacart+ and DashPass for free for one year.
• Biggest drawbacks : Despite the annual credit and elevated bonus categories, the card’s $550 annual fee might be challenging to offset every year.
• Alternatives : If you’re looking for a card with annual credits and luxury lounge access, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a wider network but carries a slightly higher annual fee of $695.
• Bottom line : Frequent travelers who can take full advantage of the Sapphire Reserve card’s perks and bonus categories can also enjoy the card’s boosted value on travel redemptions.

Related : Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Ch ase Sapphire Reserve

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for United MileagePlus members: United Quest℠ Card

• Best features : Even semi-frequent United flyers can come out ahead with this mid-tier airline credit card, thanks to all the ways the card’s perks can offset its $250 annual fee. That includes multiple anniversary credits, priority boarding, checked baggage fee waivers and the up to $100 credit for TSA Precheck or Global Entry application fee.
• Biggest drawbacks : Unlike other airline cards with a high annual fee, the United Quest doesn’t offer complimentary lounge access. Plus, the sign-up bonus has a high spend requirement: You’ll need to spend $4,000 in the first three months to earn the sign-up bonus of 60,000 miles plus   500 Premier Qualifying Points.
• Alternatives : If the annual fee doesn’t fit your budget, the United℠ Explorer Card is worth a look since it has a $0 intro annual fee (then $95 annually), but still carries a generous sign-up bonus, priority boarding, purchase and travel protections and an up to $100 credit for TSA Precheck or Global Entry application fee.
• Bottom line : The United Quest Card packs in a lot of perks and value, making it a solid pick for loyal United travelers looking for an enhanced travel experience.

Read our United Quest℠ Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best hotel credit card: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

• Best features : This card offers great long-term value for frequent travelers who stay at the world’s largest hotel chain a few nights or more per year. You get plenty of chances to offset the $95 annual fee, including a free night every year after your account anniversary (up to 35,000 points) and a high rewards rate in the popular, practical bonus categories of travel, grocery, gas and dining purchases, as well as a flat rate of 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• Biggest drawbacks : You can only use your rewards with Marriott hotels. So if you don’t frequent the brand, you’ll be better served by a different hotel credit card or a general-purpose travel rewards card, which offers greater flexibility in how you redeem your rewards.
• Alternatives : If you’re not loyal to one hotel chain, the Chase Sapphire Preferred should give you more redemption options. It earns bonus points on travel, dining and select online grocery purchases – points that can be redeemed in a variety of ways, including for travel, or transferred to one of Chase’s airline or hotel partners. And when you redeem for travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal, your points have 25% more value.
• Bottom line : Travelers who stay at Marriott frequently enough to offset the $95 annual fee will appreciate this card. But depending on your spending habits and the hotel features that matter most to you, you may get greater value with another Marriott card .

Read our Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card review .

Best no annual fee airline card: American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Card

• Best features : This no-annual-fee airline card gives households a chance to earn miles on more than just travel. You’ll earn 2X miles not only on eligible American Airlines purchases, but also at grocery stores, which increases the card’s earning potential for the average consumer. The MileUp card also has a low spend threshold for its sign-up bonus: Spend just $500 in your first three months and you’ll earn 10,000 miles and a $50 statement credit.
• Biggest drawbacks : This card lacks a number of cost-saving perks found with other airline cards, including a free first checked bag for you and additional passengers and a chance to earn travel credits for your spending. Depending on how often you fly and how many people you travel with, you could actually save more money with a travel card that charges an annual fee.
• Alternatives : The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card has a similar rewards rate and charges no annual fee for the first year, then $150 thereafter. That gives you time to test out perks you won’t find with the MileUp card, like priority boarding, a first checked bag free for you and eight additional passengers and a chance to earn a $200 flight credit after spending $10,000 in a calendar year.
• Bottom line : This card is worth a look if you’re loyal to American Airlines but only fly occasionally and are looking for a no-annual-fee credit card . But if you want the flexibility to fly with different carriers while still earning high rewards, you may get better value out of a general-purpose travel rewards card.

Read our American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp review .

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel rewards credit cards let you earn points or miles you can redeem for travel purchases. Some offer a flat rate on general purchases, but many offer bonus rewards for typical travel purchases or everyday spending categories, like restaurants, gas or even groceries.

Earning points or miles is usually as easy as swiping your card, and some cards provide limited-time offers and sign-up bonuses to add more incentives. The basics of points and miles cards are pretty much the same. You earn and accumulate rewards by making purchases with your card, and redeem for a discount on your next trip.

Your redemption options will vary by card. Most require that you redeem points or miles for travel purchases. (Some let you redeem for gift cards or cash back, but it might be at a lower value.) You can typically redeem points or miles by booking future trips through a designated portal, like Amextravel.com or Chase Ultimate Rewards, or transferring rewards to an issuer’s travel partners to book flights or hotel stays. Some allow you to redeem for a statement credit on travel purchases made within a certain time frame.

Your redemption options will vary by card. Typical options include:

• Booking new travel
• Transferring points or miles to a travel partner
• Statement credit for past travel purchases

Redeeming for travel often yields the best value, while non-travel options like gift cards might have a lower redemption value. You can typically redeem points or miles by booking future trips through a designated portal, like Amextravel.com or Chase Ultimate Rewards, though some let you redeem directly with the airline or third-party travel agency.

General travel credit cards + –

General travel or general-purpose credit cards aren’t tied to or co-branded with a particular airline or hotel. They are best for any traveler who values flexibility in how they earn and redeem rewards.

Depending on the card, you can earn higher points not only on travel-related purchases, but also in popular categories like groceries, gas and dining. You can redeem the points you earn in many different ways, like statement credits and travel. A 1-cent-per-point value is typical, but points may be worth less when used for non-travel options or more if transferred to the right travel partner.

Transferring your points over to an airline or hotel loyalty program can help you strategize so you can get the most out of your points. However, average point values vary from program to program, so you’ll need to test out different routes and carriers to see how far your points can take you before you transfer points between loyalty programs.

Some of the most popular rewards programs for general travel credit cards include:

• American Express Membership Rewards
• Chase Ultimate Rewards
• Capital One Travel
• Citi ThankYou Points

Is a general travel credit card worth it?

Co-branded cards usually feature high-value airline or hotel perks. Examples like automatic hotel elite status, companion passes or free checked bags could be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

But general travel cards give you more flexibility to choose how you travel and where you stay. Plus, plenty of general travel cards come loaded with valuable benefits not tied to specific airlines and hotels — especially if you’re willing to pay an annual fee.

Most general travel cards carry higher rewards rates compared to airline cards with similar annual fees, which gives you a chance to earn more rewards faster. And you’ll have a number of redemption options that make each of your points worth at least 1 cent, which is worth more than the rewards you’ll earn with most hotel rewards programs and some airline rewards programs.

Here’s a look at some of the top features your general travel card may offer:

• Annual travel credits : Premium cards like the Capital One Venture X and Chase Sapphire Reserve reward cardmembers with annual travel credits worth hundreds of dollars, which you can use to offset previous travel costs or book new travel through the card’s travel portal.
• Airport lounge access : A number of mid-level and premium travel cards offer discounted or complimentary airport lounge access for you and your guests. Users can enjoy amenities like complimentary food and drinks, showers or even spa treatments. Popular airport lounge networks include Priority Pass lounges and the exclusive American Express Global Lounge Collection.
• Luxury hotel benefits : Your card issuer may offer Visa or Mastercard’s luxury hotel collection benefit. This perk can lead to room upgrades, free breakfast, food or beverage credits and late check-out. This is typically offered with credit cards with Visa Signature or Infinite benefits or cards with Mastercard World or World Elite benefits, though you’ll have to check with your card issuer to be certain.
• Car rental elite status : With the right general travel rewards card, you can not only rent a car but also get discounts and status upgrades that let you skip the lines when renting and returning, as well as vehicle upgrades based on availability and other exclusive perks.

Airline travel credit cards + –

Airline credit cards are co-branded cards that carry the name of the card issuer and a particular airline. They’re a great fit for travelers who regularly fly with a particular airline and can take advantage of the perks found within its rewards program.

Some of the most popular airline rewards programs include:

• Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan
• American Airlines Aadvantage
• Southwest Rapid Rewards
• Delta SkyMiles
• United MileagePlus

Like general travel cards, airline rewards cards can earn rewards on a variety of purchases, but your redemption options are more limited. To get the best value, you’ll typically want to redeem your rewards for flights with the airline or one of its partners.

Is an airline credit card worth it?

They offer less flexibility and might have an annual fee, but airline cards can make your travel experience easier and save you a lot of money, even after you factor in the cost of an annual fee.

Here’s a look at some of the top airline credit card benefits:

• Free checked bags :   Avoid paying a fee for your first checked bag and a travel companion’s bag. Many airlines charge $30 to $35 per checked bag, per trip, so the savings can add up, especially if you’re traveling with a large family.
• Fast track to elite airline status : Frequent flyers looking for an enhanced flying experience will have to spend thousands of dollars and spend a lot of time in the air to unlock the top-of-the-line perks that come with elite status. But the right airline credit card can cut down on the eligibility requirements and may even come with automatic elite status or welcome offers and additional credits that get you elite status faster.
• Travel companion pass : Earning an airline companion pass takes some work, but if you qualify you can bring a passenger along on a future flight for free (though you’ll still have to pay taxes and fees). Some airlines even offer companion passes that let you bring a guest with you on any flight you book for a year or more.
• Priority boarding : This perk helps you quickly board a plane and get your carry-on stowed away in an overhead bin before it fills up.
• In-flight discounts : This perk helps you save on drinks, snacks and other extras purchased on your flight. You’ll typically enjoy a discount of 20% to 25% off.

How to choose an airline

It’s best to select a card co-branded with an airline that you will use frequently, which typically means choosing an airline that flies out of an airport close to where you live, or one that you use the most. Smaller hubs may have limited options, but you should check to make sure that the airline you want has routes at your preferred airport. For example, Southwest does not fly out of Newark Airport, so if Newark is your primary airport another co-branded airline card might be a better fit.

Hotel travel credit cards + –

Hotel credit cards are co-branded cards that earn points you can redeem for stays with a specific hotel chain. Some of the most popular hotel rewards programs include:

• Marriott Bonvoy
• Hilton Honors
• IHG One Rewards Club
• World of Hyatt

Is a hotel credit card worth it?

Like airline credit cards, hotel credit cards can pack in a lot of brand-specific perks to reward your loyalty. Some cards offer supersized rewards rates, typically for hotel-related purchases. These earning rates can make it easier to quickly rack up points for future visits.

On top of the high-earning potential, hotel travel cards may also come with some of the following benefits:

• Free night : Many hotel cards automatically reward you with a free night at select properties every year on your anniversary. Others give you a chance to earn a free night after you spend a certain amount on the card.
• Room upgrades : Your card could automatically qualify you for room upgrades when available, giving you more space or better views.
• Elite hotel status : Some of the best hotel cards come with automatic elite status, making you eligible for exclusive perks, while others put you on a fast track to achieve higher levels of elite status.

How to choose a hotel

While you should pick an airline card based on frequency and availability, choosing a hotel card might come down to personal preference. You’ll find most hotel chains concentrated in mid-to large-size cities, so you can select a hotel group that works best for your needs. Hotel chains often include a price range from luxury to budget friendly. For example, Marriott includes both Fairfield Inn & Suites and the Ritz-Carlton in its suite of hotels. So, whether you splurge on one trip or save costs on another, you can still earn rewards.

However, if you happen to travel a lot to very remote cities, you might want to ensure that your preferred hotel chain has a location there.

Business travel credit cards + –

Business travel cards are a terrific option if you own a company or work as a freelancer and travel often for work. They can be co-branded or a general travel card.

Some of the more popular business cards include:

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express review
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Business Credit Card

Is a business travel card worth it?

Business travel cards offer a competitive rewards structure similar to other travel cards, but you can typically earn bonus rewards in business categories, like purchasing software and office supplies. Not only can business travel cards help keep your work and personal expenses separate, but they can also help you cut down on business costs.

You might see these benefits on a business travel card:

• Bonus rewards on large purchases : Some cards will offer an elevated rewards rate for big purchases, so you can earn miles or points for big-ticket items.
• No fee for employee cards : You can rack up even more points or miles when you add employees as authorized users at no additional cost. This action can also be a great way to track company spending.
• Account management tools: To help manage your company budget, business travel cards might come with apps or programs that could ease record keeping, like the ability to upload receipts quickly or link to a spreadsheet.
• Travel and hotel perks : Like other travel cards, you can often enjoy annual benefits, like a hotel reward night, lounge access or statement credits.

Co-branded travel cards versus general travel cards

The biggest difference between co-branded cards and general travel cards is flexibility. Co-branded cards are ideal for brand loyalists who prefer to commit to one particular airline or hotel group. They often come with perks that you might not find on general travel cards (like elite status or free checked bags), but how you earn and redeem rewards is limited to that specific brand.

For instance, you might feel locked in to book a pricier room with a co-branded hotel card even if there are more affordable options.

With general travel cards, you have more freedom to select flights or hotels that fit into your schedule and price range, but you might lose out on some perks. If you prefer flexibility, a general travel card might work better for you. If you enjoy more elite perks or are a fan of a particular brand, you might consider a co-branded card.

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

• Travel for less: Money-saving benefits, such as high travel reward rates, sign-up bonuses and travel credits, can help bring down the overall cost of travel.
• Generous perks: The best travel cards feature perks like room or seat upgrades, free hotel stays, statement credits and lounge access that might enhance your overall travel experience.
• Fast track to elite status: Elite status, which offers maximum program benefits for airlines or hotels, often takes time to earn. Some travel rewards cards help cut down on the qualification period, or they offer automatic elite status, which means you can start earning elite status benefits sooner.
• Earn points as a loyalty member along with rewards : If you are a loyalty member, then you can earn loyalty points with that hotel or airline brand as well as travel reward points when you book with a travel credit card.
• No foreign transaction fees : Most travel cards don’t charge a foreign transaction fee, which can help cut down costs when traveling abroad.
• Complex rewards programs: Keeping up with the travel rewards card program rules can be confusing, especially when redeeming or transferring points to a travel partner. It takes careful planning and calculation to ensure you are maximizing the value for your rewards.
• Limited redemption outside of travel: Travel cards typically provide the best value when redeeming for travel. While some cards offer redemptions for non-travel options, such as statement credits or gift cards, these are typically worth less.
• High annual fees: Determining whether an annual fee is worth it can be difficult, and many of the best travel credit cards have yearly costs starting from $95 to $100. Premier travel cards could have annual fees in the $200 to $700 range.
• Higher interest rates : Typically, travel cards carry a higher ongoing APR, so if you carry a balance every month, then a low-interest credit card or balance transfer card might be a better fit.
• Typically best only for frequent flyers : Since most travel cards offer the most elevated bonus rates for travel, such as flights, hotels and car rentals, you won’t reap its maximum benefits unless you fly often.

Who should get a travel credit card

• Frequent flyers . If you spend lots of time up in the air or staying at hotels, you can absolutely benefit from the rewards and perks that come with a travel credit card. But if you’re new to travel or only travel occasionally, look for no-annual-fee cards or ones with simple rewards categories. All globetrotters can appreciate the lack of foreign transaction fees many travel cards offer.
• Brand loyalists . Fans of particular airlines and hotel chains can reap some serious rewards with their go-to brands. Loyal customers can rack up an incredible amount of hotel points or flight miles using a card like the American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp or the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless.
• Luxury travelers . Vacationers looking for top-shelf travel perks may have to pay to carry their card, but The Platinum Card from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve offer benefits that can easily offset their annual fees. You’ll find high-end earnings rates on your purchases to back it up. Take advantage of exclusive add-ons, like access to airport lounges, free checked bags, specialty offers and more.
• Road trippers . Some travel cards earn rewards on purchases at gas stations and hotel stays, which can be valuable if you’re on the road a lot. A hotel credit card like one in the Hilton Honors program or Marriott Bonvoy may be a great choice if you regularly take cross-country trips and stay at hotels.

Who should skip a travel credit card

• Fans of low-maintenance credit cards. While flat-rate travel cards are available, travel cards with fixed bonus categories or a tiered rewards structure often have the best rewards rates. The card that’s most fitting for you will depend on your spending habits. If you aren’t ready or willing to strategize to get the most out of your travel card, a more straightforward rewards credit card may be a better fit.
• Someone looking for flexibility . Cash back credit cards are usually more versatile and might work best for infrequent travelers or people with higher non-travel-related expenses. They can help you maximize your earnings on everyday categories like supermarkets, gas, transit, streaming services or online purchases. Mostly, redeeming can be far less complicated and far more flexible. Depending on the credit card, redemption options may include statement credit, direct deposit, check and travel.
• Someone prone to overspending . The best travel rewards credit cards can help you save a lot of money but only if you avoid a balance. Since rewards cards typically come with higher interest rates, paying your balances in full can save you money and create the best value. If you can’t, you run the risk of losing more money to interest charges than you earn in rewards. You may even fall into credit card debt. If you aren’t able to pay your balances in full, consider a low-interest credit card .

Do you know how much your points or miles are worth?

Choosing a card based solely on the number of miles or points you stand to earn can be a costly mistake. Redemption values can vary, and points and miles do not always transfer on a 1-to-1 basis, meaning 1,000 “miles” earned do not always translate to 1,000 miles of travel.

For example, the Citi Premier card has a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in your first three months of account opening. With the Premier card, most redemption options have a baseline value of 1 cent, so this offer can be worth at least $600. But based on Bankrate’s latest point valuations , we estimate that the right high-value transfer partner could boost your point value up to 1.9 cents on average. That could make your sign-up bonus worth an incredible $1,140.

Compare that to a card like the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card, which offers a sign-up bonus of 165,000 points after spending $3,000 within the first three months. Since IHG Rewards are estimated to be worth 0.7 cents on average based on our points valuation, that comes out to a value of $1,155 dollars.

Understanding the true value of your rewards program can help you to maximize value and select the card that offers the best rewards for your spending habits.

How to calculate the value of your points and miles

To find the value of your points and miles, divide the cost of paying cash for the booking (such as the plane ticket or hotel room) by the number of points or miles required. Then compare this number to Bankrate’s points and miles valuation for the airline, hotel or credit card rewards program.

For example, if a flight on Southwest Airlines costs $800 out of pocket or 50,000 miles, the value is 1.6 cents per mile ($800 divided by 50,000 miles equals $0.016 or 1.6 cents). Since this is slightly higher than our estimated value of 1.5 cents per mile, you’re getting a good deal if you book this flight.

But if you redeem for a gift card instead and find a $25 card costs 10,000 Southwest Rapid Rewards miles, your value drops to 0.25 cents per mile ($25 divided by 10,000 miles equals $0.0025 or 0.25 cents). Since this is far below the 1.5-cent-per-point value you should look for, you’re better off using cash for this gift card and saving your points for a better deal.

How to compare travel credit cards

Deciding which travel credit card is best for you can be difficult. Many cards have similar redemption options, earn rewards in the same categories or cost more than you’re willing to pay for an annual fee. The right card for you will provide value with both perks and rewards rates that match your needs and align with purchases you already make.

To find the right one, you may find it helpful to compare several cards at once so you can see which one offers the best value for your personal finances and travel habits.

• Are you an occasional or frequent traveler? Frequent travelers typically have an easier time taking advantage of the numerous perks found with a travel card. If you travel less frequently, then a cash back card may make more financial sense.
• Are you loyal to a certain airline or hotel? If you’re a fan of a particular airline or hotel chain, you can enjoy specific benefits with that company’s co-branded travel card, like companion pass or annual hotel credits. A general-purpose card, however, gives you flexibility to choose any travel partner when traveling.
• What travel perks and protections matter most to you? Higher rewards status with hotels or airlines, access to airport lounges or automatic elite status are a few examples of travel perks a card might offer. You can also have more peace of mind with any travel protections that a travel card might provide, like trip cancellation and interruption insurance, lost baggage insurance and 24/7 global assistance. Make sure to look for a card that has the features that matter most to you.
• Do you have to change your spending habits to earn and redeem rewards?  Rather than tailoring your spending to match a card’s bonus categories, you might choose a card that already rewards your typical spending habits. Also, watch out for restrictions like spending limits, which can hinder your ability to earn maximum rewards. And when redeeming, make sure your card provides the best value. Some travel cards don’t provide the best value when redeeming for non-travel-related options, such as gift cards or statement credits.
• Does the card have sign-up bonuses and annual fees?  A card’s welcome offer can boost your first year earnings. Look for the spend requirement to ensure you can meet it without overspending. Additionally, a card’s annual fee can be a significant factor. Cards with high annual fees often offer some of the best rewards and perks, but if you can’t offset the fee every year it might not be worth it.
• How does the card’s international acceptance and foreign fees measure up?  For people who frequently travel internationally, this detail can be a game changer. A card without a foreign transaction fee can help budget your trip. But you also want to make certain that the card has broad international coverage. Some cards, like Discover, while working on their international network, might be riskier to carry abroad.

How to make the most out of your travel credit card

Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or extended trip, your rewards from a travel credit card can either enhance your experience or save you money. If you have your eye on Walt Disney World or a small family gathering, you can use these strategies now to experience an elevated trip in the future.

• Score a welcome offer . To make the most of your purchases and capitalize on travel rewards, seek out a welcome offer with an affordable spend requirement. Some of the top sign-up offers could be large enough to help you score free travel.
• Take advantage of the card’s bonus rewards categories . Find a travel rewards card that offers bonus points for purchases you already make to supercharge your earnings. For example, if your weekly work plans include lunch outside of the office, you could earn 3 points for every $1 spent at restaurants as a Citi® Premier cardholder, maximizing your earnings potential.
• Consider a travel card that earns transferable points . Transferable points are points earned with one travel card that can be redeemed with another participating program. Based on Bankrate’s latest point valuations, the right high-value transfer partner could be the best way to maximize your rewards earnings.
• Don’t forget your credit card benefits . Your travel credit card could have hidden credit card perks that make travel more enjoyable and save you money, such as complimentary breakfast at hotels or free checked bags. In just one trip, a family of four could easily offset a card’s annual fee through baggage fees alone. Other benefits, such as lost baggage coverage, not only reimburse you for clothing, toiletries or medication you had to purchase because of delayed or lost luggage, but provide additional peace of mind while traveling.
• Consider a credit card combination . Pair your travel card with another credit card that earns high rewards in areas you spend the most to maximize value. You may even be able to combine cards within the same rewards program. Chase, American Express, Capital One and Citi all offer some of the best credit card combinations that can help you rack up transferable rewards.
• Skip the foreign transaction fees . Make sure to take along a card that skips this common overseas charge, typically 3% charge anytime you use the card internationally. You can avoid this by choosing a travel credit card that waives foreign transaction fees, such as the Capital One and Discover credit cards.

Alternatives to Travel Credit Cards

If you don’t want to commit to a travel card, but still want to earn travel rewards, then you have options.

• A cash back credit card lets you earn cash rewards, which you can often redeem for a statement credit to cover travel and other purchases.
• A card with a 0% intro APR might work better for people planning a large purchase. It can help you budget for a trip, as long as you can pay off the balance before the intro offer period ends.
• A no-annual-fee card that also carries no foreign transaction fees might suit infrequent travelers. With this type of card, you can still save on trips abroad without worrying about added fees or offsetting costs every year.

In the news: What is credit card travel insurance?

Travel insurance, or trip insurance, is a policy providing reimbursement or resources if something goes wrong during your trip. The coverage of the trip insurance varies depending on if it’s provided through a credit card or purchased as a separate policy.

Credit cards may provide a form of trip insurance when you use your card to pay for trip-related expenses. Credit card travel insurance can cover everything from trip cancellation and trip interruption, to lost luggage and car rental loss and damage insurance.

In some cases, the coverage provided by the credit card may be enough to cover your needs for a travel-related event. But confirm the benefits before you travel and make sure it offers the right coverage, for example, if you are traveling internationally or need a “cancel for any reason” policy.

How we picked the best travel cards

Research methodology : We analyzed 300 travel rewards credit cards to identify the best offers currently on the market. The major factors we considered include:

• Rewards rate : Does the card offer a competitive rewards rate for the travel category? For general purpose travel cards, this rate is generally between 1.25X to 2X rewards. For co-branded hotel or airline credit cards, we looked for a rate between 3X and 10X points on brand purchases, plus a competitive rate in other bonus categories.
• Welcome offer : Annual fee travel credit cards, in particular, may offer a welcome bonus valued between $500 to $900. We considered the value of the sign-up bonus, alongside the required spend to receive it.
• Additional travel perks : We considered whether the card offers additional travel benefits beyond base rewards. For instance, for airline credit cards, we considered whether they offered priority boarding, a free checked bag or lounge access. For hotel credit cards, we considered whether they offered upgrade opportunities for Wi-Fi and free hotel stays with a card anniversary. For premium travel credit cards, we considered whether the card touted travel credits, travel insurance and other benefits that justified the high annual fee.
• Rates and fees : Travel credit cards do tend to carry annual fees and higher APRs than low-interest credit cards. However, we considered how a card’s APRs compared to the current credit card industry average and whether any fees could be avoided or recouped by its travel rewards and benefits.

All criteria used : Rewards rates, rewards categories, sign-up bonus, point values, transfer partners, redemption options, redemption flexibility, annual fee, other rates and fees, travel credits, airport lounge access, travel accident insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, concierge service, other travel benefits, travel portal functionality, credit needed, customer service, events or other perks

More information on travel credit cards

For more information on all things travel cards, continue reading content from our credit card experts:

• Cash back vs. points
• Trip cancelation reimbursement by credit card
• No foreign transaction fee credit cards

Frequently asked questions about travel credit cards

What is the difference between points and miles on a credit card + –.

When you’re shopping for a travel credit card, you’ll likely have two rewards currencies to choose from: points and miles.

Credit card points are the more flexible of the two options, usually allowing you to redeem your rewards for flights or hotel stays with a number of brands. Some cards allow you to redeem points for cash back, gift cards or merchandise, but often at a lower value than a travel redemption.

Credit card miles usually refer to frequent-flyer miles with a particular airline, such as Delta or United. If you have a miles-earning card, this usually means you can only redeem your miles for flights with one particular airline, though there are exceptions. These types of cards are also called co-branded cards and often come with additional perks like free checked bags.

What credit score do you need for a travel credit card? + –

Travel credit cards often feature higher rewards rates and numerous benefits, which typically means the odds of approval are higher for someone with a good or excellent credit score — usually around a 670 FICO score or higher.

But someone with bad or fair credit still has options. Although the credit card may not be labeled specifically as a travel rewards card, cards like the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card don’t require great credit and offer rewards in travel categories like hotels and rental cars.

Do travel points and miles expire? + –

Typically, rewards won’t expire for the life of the account. However, each card is different so it’s always best to read your card’s terms and conditions. For instance, some cards do have rewards that expire after a period of inactivity. In some cases, you could forfeit your rewards by missing a payment or canceling a card . Every card comes with its own set of rules, so always read the fine print.

How many miles do you need for a free flight? + –

The miles you’ll need for a free flight depend on the type of card you have, its rewards and redemption structure and whether it offers bonus value on travel redemptions.

For example, If you book through Amex, your points are worth 1 cent apiece on travel redemptions. That means if a flight costs $500, you’ll need 50,000 points to book. However, with Chase Ultimate Rewards, points are valued at 1.25 cents, so a $500 trip would need only 25,000 points.

What purchases are part of the travel category for travel credit cards? + –

How purchases are categorized depends on both the merchant and the issuer and may vary from card to card. Typically, bookings for airlines, hotel stays and rental cars will fall under travel. However, some cards, such as the Bank of America Travel Rewards card, broaden the category to include other types of purchases like timeshares, campgrounds and parking garages.

Check the issuer’s website or contact the issuer directly to get a complete list of what is considered travel for your specific card.

About the Author

Jeanine Skowronski

Jeanine Skowronski is a credit card expert, analyst, and multimedia journalist with over 10 years of experience covering business and personal finance. She has previously served as the Head of Content at Policygenius, Executive Editor of Credit.com, Deputy Editor at American Banker, Staff Reporter at TheStreet and a columnist for Inc. Magazine.

About the Editor

Robert Thorpe

Robert Thorpe is an editor for CreditCards.com

About the Reviewer

Stephanie Zito

Stephanie Zito is a professional traveler, humanitarian and credit card points collector sharing savvy travel tips she has learned firsthand from more than 20 years of circling the globe as a backpacker, expat and premium traveler in more than 125 countries and all seven continents.

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The 12 Best Credit Cards for Everyday Purchases in 2024 [Cash-back & Points]

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What To Look For in a Credit Card for Everyday Purchases

Card summary, 1. chase freedom unlimited ®, 2. capital one venture rewards credit card, 3. citi double cash ® card, 4. blue cash preferred ® card from american express, 5. bank of america ® premium rewards ® credit card, 6. blue cash everyday ® card from american express, 1. the blue business ® plus credit card from american express, 2. ink business premier ® credit card, 3. ink business unlimited ® credit card, 4. capital one spark miles for business, 5. the american express blue business cash™ card, 6. capital one spark cash plus card, final thoughts.

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In the world of points, we’re always trying to get as many of the best points possible. And trying to figure out the best card to use for each bonus category can drive you crazy. In an ideal world, you’d just have 1 credit card that covers every type of expense you’ll ever have.

But it rarely ever works like that. Sure, you might have a go-to card like the American Express ® Gold Card if you tend to eat out or go grocery shopping a lot, but what about all the other purchases in life?

Importantly, there is plenty of day-to-day spending and expenses that don’t fit into a specific bonus category. That’s why you need to have a credit card for everyday purchases, also known as miscellaneous purchases.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the aspects of a rewarding credit card for everyday purchases, and then we’ll split up our favorite picks into a section for personal cards and a section for business cards.

Let’s get started!

You may already know that the  Amex Gold card  is one of the best credit cards for dining  or that the  Ink Business Preferred ® Credit Card  is one of the best business credit cards out there, especially for  advertising purchases . But when you look for a credit card for your everyday purchases, you’re specifically looking for a rewarding credit card for the non-categorized purchases out there.

You’re looking for the most rewarding credit card for other transactions like car maintenance , retail stores , clothes , medical bills , gyms , utilities ,   online shopping ,  movie theaters, and events . These types of purchases don’t fit perfectly into any single bonus category out there, and collectively, these purchases can really add up in the long run.

That’s why it’s so important to have the best credit card possible for everyday purchases. A rewarding credit card for everyday purchases will provide the highest return on spend (ideally 2 points per dollar), low annual fees, a great credit card bonus offer , and the most miscellaneous perks.

So with all that being said, let’s talk about our favorite credit card picks for everyday purchases. We’ll start with personal cards, then we’ll move into the best business credit cards for everyday purchases.

The 6 Best Personal Cards for Everyday Purchases

Chase Freedom Unlimited ®

This all-purpose cash-back card offers great bonus categories, including bonus points for every purchase you make!

The Chase Freedom Unlimited ® is easily one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. There aren’t many no-annual-fee credit cards that offer multiple great bonus categories like 5% back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.

When paired with other Chase cards in the Ultimate Rewards family, you can transfer that cash back into points if you wish – making it one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet.

• 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases
• 1.5% back on all other purchases
• No annual fee
• Earn big on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• Everyday bonus on dining and drugstores
• Straightforward cash-back on all other purchases
• Ability to pool points
• 3% foreign transaction fee
• INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited ® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

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The Freedom Unlimited card is our top recommended personal credit card for everyday purchases.

This credit card earns you at least 1.5% cash-back on all purchases . You will also earn 3% cash-back on dining and drugstore purchases, as well as 5% cash-back on travel purchased through the Chase Travel portal .

By itself, earning 1.5% cash-back is great — however, if you also have an Ultimate Rewards credit card, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card , Chase Sapphire Reserve ® , or Ink Business Preferred card, you can convert your cash-back into Ultimate Rewards points.

That means your 1.5%, 3%, and 5% cash-back would be equivalent to 1.5x, 3x, and 5x Ultimate Rewards points respectively. You would earn a minimum of 3% back on your spending , according to our points and miles valuations !

Furthermore, this card has no annual fee and comes with a 0% introductory APR period as shown in the table above, which is an awesome perk.

Other benefits of the Freedom Unlimited card include purchase protection, extended warranty coverage , zero liability protection, secondary auto rental collision damage coverage , travel coverage , fraud protection, and more.

Why We Like Chase Ultimate Rewards Points

If you  only have the Freedom Unlimited card, your points are redeemable at a 1 cent per point value for cash-back, Shop at Amazon, gift cards, and travel through the Chase travel portal.

However, with an Ultimate Rewards credit card, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, you can dramatically increase the value of your points.

That’s because your cash-back is convertible to Ultimate Rewards points at a 1% to 1x ratio. You can transfer your points to numerous great Chase airline and hotel partners and then redeem them for incredible travel experiences like business and first class flights .

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card   is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

• 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• No foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees )
• Access to Capital One transfer partners
• $95 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Limited elite benefits
• 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
• APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None
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The Capital One Venture card is our next favorite card option for everyday purchases.

In the past, Capital One was more focused on offering cash-back rewards and products for those with lower credit scores, but in recent years, Capital One unveiled a new rewards program, Capital One Miles , with transferable partnerships that have added yet another awesome rewards ecosystem to the mix.

Today, the Capital One Venture card is our runner-up for the best personal credit card for everyday purchases, and you’ll enjoy a generous welcome bonus. Earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel .

You’ll also earn an unlimited 2x Capital One miles on all non-bonus purchases you make with no caps ! In addition, you’ll get a $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit, as well as no foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees ) and a low annual fee ( rates & fees ).

Uniquely, this credit card offers great travel protections and benefits , including lost luggage insurance, roadside dispatch, and travel assistance services.

You can also shop with peace of mind with the purchase security and extended warranty perks. Lastly, you’ll enjoy zero fraud liability and a fabulous rewards program.

Why We Like Capital One Miles

We love Capital One miles because they’re one of the major flexible rewards currencies. You can redeem your Capital One miles for statement credits for travel purchases, experience, gift cards, and more. We value Capital One miles at 1.8 cents each.

But our favorite way to redeem Capital One miles is to transfer them to airline partners for some awesome flights like Lufthansa first class and Etihad first class .

Citi Double Cash ® Card

Great card for the average spender with no specific focus category; worry-free cash-back earning on everything!

The Citi Double Cash ® Card  has long been one of the top cash-back credit cards on the market, and the card now has the ability to earn Citi ThankYou Points!

This means that cardholders of the Double Cash card will now earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. Cash back is earned in the form of ThankYou Points . This means each billing cycle, you will earn 1 ThankYou point per $1 spent on purchases and an additional ThankYou point for every $1 paid on your purchase balance as long as there is a corresponding balance in your Purchase Tracker.

Citi has turned the Double Cash card into a top choice for those who are looking for an everyday, no-fuss credit card.

• Uncapped 2% for every $1 spent (1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay)
• Flexible redemption options
• No bonus categories
• 3% foreign transaction fees
• Lack of premium travel benefits
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases.
• To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
• Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
• If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
• APR: 19.24% - 29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 3% of the U.S. dollar amount of each purchase

Citi ThankYou Rewards

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One of the most misunderstood credit cards is the Double Cash card . This card offers some of the best rewards in the world with no caps. And as you become busier and busier, this card will be one of the best companions you can have for unfussy rewards.

The Double Cash card earns 2% cash-back (1% when you purchase and 1% when you pay it off, earned as ThankYou Points) which can be redeemed in many ways.

Other unique features include flexible pay dates, access to Citi Private Pass for event tickets, fraud protection, zero liability for unauthorized purchases, and a late fee pass.

Why We Like Citi ThankYou Rewards Points

We love earning Citi ThankYou Points because these points are one of the largest transferable currencies out there.

Normally, your rewards from the Double Cash card can be redeemed for cash-back, gift cards, travel through the Citi Travel Portal , or transferred to Choice, Wyndham, or JetBlue.

However, if you have a premium ThankYou Rewards credit card such as the Citi Premier ® Card or the Citi Prestige ® Card , you can access all of Citi’s transfer partners to redeem for jaw-dropping flights like Emirates first class and ANA first class .

Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express

This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.

The Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express is a stellar cash-back credit card for those looking to maximize every purchase they make.

With bonus categories like U.S. supermarkets, select streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and transit purchases , this card rewards you for the items you spend the most on in a big way! For those looking to earn up to 6% cash-back on their purchases , this could be the card for you!

• 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year) and on select streaming services
• 6% cash-back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• 3% cash-back on U.S. gas stations and transit (including rideshares, parking, etc.)
• 1% cash-back on all other purchases
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It ® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred ® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred ® Card. Enrollment required.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

Redeem cash-back through your American Express account

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The Amex Blue Cash Preferred card  is yet another excellent choice for those interested in great rewards and who want to maximize cash-back.

This card earns:

• 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%)
• 3% cash-back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis, rideshares, parking, tolls, trains, buses, and more)
• 1% cash-back on other purchases

Getting the ability to earn 6% cash-back on any card is an achievement by itself, but this card offers that and much more.

Hot Tip: Despite being a card with an annual fee, the Amex Blue Cash Preferred card even has a 0% introductory APR perk ( rates & fees )!

In addition to a hefty statement credit welcome bonus, you’ll find that this card also offers several benefits like a $10 monthly Equinox credit , $7 monthly credit after spending $9.99 per month or more on The Disney Bundle , return protection, fraud protection, and secondary car rental coverage.

Bank of America ® Premium Rewards ® credit card

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card is a great travel rewards card for those looking for a simple approach to earning and redeeming rewards.

The Bank of America ® Premium Rewards ® credit card  is a great option for anyone looking for a travel rewards card with a simple approach to how you earn and redeem your rewards.

From travel and purchase protections to airline incidental and Global Entry credits, there is plenty to love about the Bank of America Premium Rewards card.

Plus, those that hold status in the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program can get even more value from the card by boosting their rewards by 25% to 75%!

• 2x points per $1 on travel and dining purchases
• 1.5x points per $1 on all other purchases
• Up to $100 annual airline incidental statement credit
• Global Entry/TSA PreCheck statement credit
• No foreign transaction fees
• Travel protections
• Purchase protections
• Boost your rewards rate with the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program
• $95 annual fee
• Points are worth a fixed 1 cent per point, so it isn’t possible to get outsized redemptions via airline and hotel transfer partners
• Receive 50,000 online bonus points – a $500 value – after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
• No limit to the points you can earn and your points don’t expire.
• Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America ® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill ® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck ® /Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Low $95 annual fee.
• 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.
• APR: 18.24% - 25.24% Variable
• Guide to Bank of America Preferred Rewards
• Best Bank of America Credit Cards for Cash-back and Rewards

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card  has the potential to be a lucrative credit card if you have large banking relationships with Bank of America.

This card earns 2x points on travel and dining and 1.5x points everywhere else . However, if you are an elite member of Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards program, you’d earn up to 75% in bonus points, which could elevate your earnings to 3.5x points on travel and dining and 2.625x points everywhere else .

You’ll also get up to $100 as an airline incidental credit, up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credit, and travel protections like trip delay, trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage delay, baggage loss, emergency evacuation, transportation, and travel, emergency assistance, and rental car coverage.

Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

When it comes to cash-back credit cards, there are dozens of options to choose from. So what sets the Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express  apart from the rest?

This card is excellent at earning cash-back on your everyday purchases at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and on U.S. online retail purchases. So if you regularly spend money on everyday purchases, this could be the perfect card to add to your wallet.

• 3% back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases on online retail purchases on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• Monthly credit towards The Disney Bundle
• Monthly credit towards Home Chef
• Rewards are not flexible and can only be redeemed for cash-back. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday ® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday ® Card.
• APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
• Find the Amex Blue Cash Everyday Card $250 Welcome Bonus Offer
• Benefits of the Blue Cash Everyday
• Amex Gold vs Blue Cash Everyday
• Amex Blue Cash Everyday vs Chase Freedom Flex
• Best Credit Cards for Authorized Users

The Amex Blue Cash Everyday card is unique because it has a special bonus category — online shopping! This card earns 3% cash-back at U.S. online retailers (up to $6,000 in purchases each year). This is a broad category that includes the following types of online stores:

• Apparel, footwear, and accessories stores
• Auto and home supply stores
• Book stores
• Computer and electronics stores
• Department stores
• Furniture stores (like Wayfair.com)
• Major retailers (like Amazon.com)
• Personal and household care
• Pet stores (like Chewy.com)
• Sporting goods stores
• Toy and hobby stores

Additionally, this card earns 3% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases each year) and 3% cash-back at U.S. gas stations (up to $6,000 in purchases each year). All other purchases earn 1% cash-back.

The Amex Blue Cash Everyday card comes with additional perks like:

• Up to $7 back monthly after using your Amex Blue Cash Everyday card to spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription to The Disney Bundle, which includes Disney+, Hulu , and ESPN+. Enrollment required.
• Earn up to $15 back monthly – an annual savings of up to $180 – when you order online at Home Chef . Enrollment required.

The 6 Best Business Cards for Everyday Purchases

Now that we’ve combed through our favorite personal credit cards for everyday purchases, let’s take a deep dive into the best business cards for everyday purchases.

The Blue Business ® Plus Credit Card from American Express

Earn Membership Rewards for your business spending the easy way: get 2x points for the first $50,000 in purchases per year.

As a business owner, getting a credit card that maximizes each dollar you spend does not have to be complicated or expensive. Especially when you opt for The Blue Business ® Plus Credit Card from American Express .

With the Amex Blue Business Plus card, you’ll earn 2x Membership Rewards points on everyday business purchases throughout the year (up to $50,000; 1x thereafter) and receive purchase protections and no-additional-charge employee cards all for no annual fee (see rates and fees ).

The simple and straightforward earning structure makes it a great fit for those looking to earn flexible rewards, without having to fixate on which purchases earn the most points.

Let’s take look at all that the Amex Blue Business Plus card has to offer.

• 2x Membership Rewards points per $1 on everyday business purchases (up to $50,000; 1x thereafter)
• Purchase protection and extended warranty protection
• No annual fee and employee cards at no additional cost
• No unique bonus categories and 2x earnings are capped at $50,000 in annual spend
• No elite travel benefits like lounge access or elite status
• Charges foreign transaction fees
• Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within your first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors at account opening. APR will not exceed 29.99%
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards ® points on everyday business purchases such as office supplies or client dinners. 2X applies to the first $50,000 in purchases per year, 1 point per dollar thereafter.
• You’ve got the power to use your Card beyond its credit limit* with Expanded Buying Power.
• *The amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us, and other factors.
• No Annual Fee
• Terms Apply
• APR: 18.49% - 26.49% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months from date of account opening
• Best Business Credit Cards

American Express Membership Rewards

• Benefits of the Blue Business Plus
• Best American Express Business Credit Cards
• Best 0% APR Business Credit Cards
• Best Business Credit Cards with No Annual Fee
• Best Business Credit Cards for Nonprofits
• Best Credit Cards for Landlords
• Best Business Credit Cards for Real Estate Investors

The Amex Blue Business Plus card is our favorite business card for everyday purchases. You’ll seamlessly maximize your everyday purchases without having to pay an annual fee.

Specifically, you’ll earn 2x points on everyday business transactions , up to $50,000 per calendar year. You’ll also be able to utilize an introductory APR, as mentioned in the table above, on purchases. If you max out the 2x points, your earnings will drop to 1x points. With this card, you’ll also enjoy additional employee cards with no additional cost ( rates & fees ), purchase protection, extended warranty coverage, and access to Membership Rewards .

Why We Like Amex Membership Rewards Points

The Amex Blue Business Plus card is one of the only credit cards out there that allows you to access transferable points without paying an annual fee.

Amex points are among the easiest to redeem, but they are, according to our valuations, the most valuable transferable points there are.

You can redeem your Amex points for statement credits, gift cards, Amazon purchases, and travel bookings through AmexTravel.com , but these options don’t yield the most value.

Instead, the best way to redeem your Amex Membership Rewards points is to transfer them to one of the Amex transfer partners .

Remember, you don’t need any other credit cards to access transfer partners — this no-annual-fee business credit card is all you need!

Ink Business Premier ® Credit Card

Earn up to 5% cash-back for your business without complex bonus earning categories!

Chase has introduced the Ink Business Premier ® Credit Card  to its business credit card lineup. With straightforward cash-back earnings on everyday purchases and large expenses, tools to help you monitor your business, and multiple ways to redeem your rewards, this is a great card option to consider.

• Earn 2.5% total cash-back on purchases of $5,000 or more
• Earn 2% cash-back on all other business purchases
• Unlimited 5% total cash-back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance
• No additional cost for employee cards
• Cell phone protection
• Primary rental car coverage
• Purchase protection
• Extended warranty coverage
• $195 annual fee
• Some purchases need to be paid in full each month and don’t qualify for Flex for Business APR
• Rewards cannot be pooled with Chase cards that offer access to transfer partners
• Earn $1,000 bonus cash back after you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Earn unlimited 2.5% total cash back on purchases of $5,000 or more and unlimited 2% cash back on all other business purchases.
• Travel Benefits: Unlimited 5% total cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, No Foreign Transaction Fees and Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption Insurance.
• The only business credit card with 2.5% cash back on every purchase of $5,000 or more.
• Get the buying power you need to make large purchases, cover monthly expenses and help your business grow. While you must pay your Pay In Full balance each month, this card has built-in flexibility. The Flex for Business feature allows for qualifying purchases to be paid over time with interest.
• Purchase with confidence with built-in protections like Fraud Protection, Zero Liability Protection, Purchase Protection, Cell Phone Protection, and Extended Warranty Protection.
• There's no additional cost for employee cards. Monitor spend with digital tools like purchase alerts, set spending limits, reporting, and more.
• Benefits of the Chase Ink Business Premier
• Best Chase Business Credit Cards
• The Best Business Credit Cards

One of Chase’s newest cards is the Ink Business Premier card , and it currently has a welcome bonus, plus almost unbeatable cash-back rewards for high-spending businesses.

Your purchases will earn according to 2 rewards structures:

• 5% cash-back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• 2.5% cash-back on purchases of at least $5,000
• 2% cash-back on other purchases

These cash-back rewards cannot be converted to Ultimate Rewards points, so just keep that in mind.

The Ink Business Premier card is a Pay In Full card that has no preset spending limit but also cannot carry a balance. But even then, some purchases are eligible to be carried over time with interest through the card’s Flex for Business feature.

You can use your cash-back for statement credits, online shopping, Chase travel purchases, gift cards, and more.

This card also has fantastic travel insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty, cell phone protection, no foreign transaction fees, and no additional fee employee cards.

Ink Business Unlimited ® Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited card is a stellar option for business owners looking for a no-fuss uncapped 1.5% cash-back card without an annual fee.

As a business owner, you likely keep pretty busy and probably prefer a credit card that just keeps things simple.

If so, the Ink Business Unlimited ® Credit Card might be just the card for you. From zero annual fee to a flat cash-back rate, the card is a no-frills option that you don’t have to think twice about.

Don’t forget too, 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter

• 1.5% cash-back on all purchases
• 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
• Employee cards at no additional cost
• Earn flexible rewards
• Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards ® .
• Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
• 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.
• 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
• APR: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months; variable 18.49% - 24.49% thereafter
• The Ink Business Unlimited $900 Welcome Bonus Offer
• Benefits of the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card
• Ink Business Cash vs Ink Business Unlimited
• Ink Business Preferred vs Ink Business Unlimited
• Best Business Credit Cards for Multiple Employees
• Best Credit Cards for Car Rental Insurance

The Ink Business Unlimited card is our runner-up business credit card because it will earn you simple rewards with no bonus categories.

Similar to the Freedom Unlimited card mentioned above, earn 1.5% cash-back on all your purchases with no caps.

In addition, you’ll get a 0% introductory APR as detailed in the table above, which should help you with avoiding interest fees during the intro period.

This card has no annual fee and allows you to add unlimited employee cards with no additional fees. Also, you’ll get zero liability fraud protection, purchase protection, extended warranty coverage, primary rental car coverage , and other benefits !

Remember, if you have an Ultimate Rewards card like the Ink Business Preferred card, you can convert your 1.5% cash-back to 1.5x Ultimate Rewards points, effectively doubling the value of your rewards.

Capital One Spark Miles for Business

The Capital One Spark Miles card is a low-annual-fee business card that earns 2x transferable miles on every $1 you spend. (Information collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One.)

The Capital One Spark Miles for Business is a great option for business owners looking for an uncomplicated rewards card that earns double miles on every purchase they make and offers access to transfer partners, all for a low annual fee.

• Unlimited 2x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
• 5x miles per $1 spent on hotel and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• 2 complimentary visits to a Capital One Lounge per year
• Up to a $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
• Free employee cards
• Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, $95 after that
• Earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles – equal to $500 in travel – once you spend $4,500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won’t expire for the life of the account
• Unlimited 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Transfer your miles to 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Redeem your miles instantly for any travel-related purchases, from flights and hotels to ride-sharing services
• Skip the lines with up to a $100 statement credit on TSA PreCheck ® or Global Entry
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year; $95 after that
• Free employee cards which also earn unlimited 2X miles from their purchases
• APR: 26.24% (Variable)
• Business Credit Cards
• Best Capital One Business Credit Cards
• Best Ways To Redeem Capital One Miles
• Capital One Miles Program Review
• Capital One Transfer Partners
• How Much Are Capital One Miles Worth?
• Best High Limit Business Credit Cards

Our next business credit card is an excellent choice for everyday purchases. Specifically, the Capital One Spark Miles card is great for business owners looking to earn unlimited 2x Capital One miles on every purchase with no blackouts or seat restrictions and no minimum to redeem.

You’ll first get a 1-time welcome bonus. You’ll also enjoy 5x miles on hotel and rental car bookings through Capital One Travel, in addition to your 2x miles elsewhere.

This card offers up to $100 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fees, no-additional-cost employee cards, no foreign transaction fees, roadside assistance, zero fraud liability, extended warranty, purchase protection, and much more.

The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card

Take control of your cash-back with the Amex Blue Business Cash card, and earn 2% cash-back on up to $50,000 in purchases each year.

Looking for a way to keep tabs on your office supply costs and business travel expenses while earning cash-back? Then The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card  could be a good fit.

This card offers expense management solutions that are designed to give companies more control, along with a much clearer picture of their business spending. In doing so, the more you spend, the more cash-back you can earn.

• 2% cash-back on up to $50,000 in spend, then 1% back thereafter
• Travel and purchase protection
• Not ideal for those who spend a lot on a specific category like groceries or gas
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you make $3,000 in purchases on your Card in your first 3 months.
• 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% – 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
• Earn 2% cash back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1%. Cash back earned is automatically credited to your statement.
• From workflow to inventory to floor plans, your business is constantly changing. That’s why you’ve got the power to spend beyond your credit limit with Expanded Buying Power.
• Just remember, the amount you can spend above your credit limit is not unlimited. It adjusts with your use of the Card, your payment history, credit record, financial resources known to us and other factors.
• APR: 0.0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from the date of account opening, then a variable rate, 18.49% - 26.49%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors as determined at the time of account opening. APRs will not exceed 29.99%
• Foreign Transaction Fees: 2.7% of each transaction after conversion to U.S. dollars
• Best Business Credit Card for Advertising
• Best Business Credit Cards for Gas

The Amex Blue Business Cash card earns great cash-back rewards without needing to worry about bonus categories. If you’re looking for an organized way to manage business expenses while earning cash-back rewards, this card is an excellent choice.

Earn 2% cash-back on all eligible purchases on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1% thereafter. Also, any cash-back earned is automatically credited to your statement so you don’t have to worry about redeeming your rewards — they’re redeemed automatically for you!

This card also comes with a 0% introductory APR ( rates & fees ), as detailed in the table above, to help you grow your business and defer interest accrual.

Other worthwhile benefits include purchase protection and extended warranty coverage.

Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus card offers an unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases and helpful features for business owners.

The information regarding the Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card is great for business owners looking to improve their bottom line by earning 2% cash-back on all purchases without a high annual fee. Further, with no preset spending limit, the ability to get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000, and no-additional-fee employee cards, there is something that every business owner will love ( rates & fees ).

• Unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases
• 5% cash-back on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• No preset spending limit
• Get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000 ( rates & fees )
• Payment flexibility (pick your own due date)
• $150 annual fee ( rates & fees )
• Earn a one-time cash bonus of $1,200 once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months
• Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
• Comes with no preset spending limit, so it can adapt to your needs based on your spending behavior, payment history and credit profile
• Get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Add employee cards for free, and earn unlimited 2% cash back from their purchases
• $150 annual fee
• Spark Cash Plus has no APR because your balance is due in full every month
• 10 Best Ways To Earn Lots of Capital One Cash-back Rewards
• Capital One Launches New Spark Cash Plus Card for Businesses

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus card  is the last business credit card for everyday purchases that we’ll review — and it’s one worth considering because you can earn an unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases. It also has no preset spending limit!

You’ll earn a 1-time new cardmember offer to start, and you’ll also get zero fraud liability, free employee cards, roadside assistance, no foreign transaction fees, extended warranty, and purchase protection.

When you’re making everyday purchases that don’t fit neatly into a bonus category, it’s unreasonable to expect to earn 4x or 5x points like you could on dining, groceries, and airfare.

However, with the right personal or business credit cards, you can still make the most out of these purchases, earning up to 2x points per dollar spent!

Be sure to do your homework and choose the cards that best fit your needs, whether it be low annual fees, transfer partnerships, or card benefits.

We hope that you’ve found this guide useful to help you figure out the best credit cards for everyday purchases.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa ® or Mastercard ® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Enrollment required through Capital One website or mobile app. Upon enrollment, eligible cardholders will remain at upgraded status level through December 31, 2024.  Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier.  Additional terms apply.

For the return protection benefit of the Blue Cash Preferred ® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/ benefitsguide for more details. For the car rental collision damage coverage benefit of the Blue Cash Preferred ® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. 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.

For the purchase protection and extended warranty benefits of the Blue Business ® Plus Credit Card from American Express, and The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

The information regarding the Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Bank of America ® Premium Rewards ® credit card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information for the Citi Prestige ® Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Information regarding the Capital One Spark Miles for Business was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.   For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday ® from American Express, click  here . For rates and fees of The Blue Business ® Plus Credit Card from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best credit card for everyday purchases.

Our best personal cards for everyday purchases are the Freedom Unlimited card, Capital One Venture card, Double Cash card, Amex Blue Cash Preferred card , Bank of America Premium Rewards card, and Amex Blue Cash Everyday card.

Our best business cards for everyday purchases are the Ink Business Unlimited card, Amex Blue Business Plus card, Capital One Spark Miles card, Amex Blue Business Cash card, and Capital One Spark Cash Plus card .

Should I use a credit card for everyday purchases?

Yes! You should absolutely use a credit card for all the purchases you can, provided you can pay them all off in full without accruing any interest or late fees.

Is it good to use a credit card for everyday purchases?

Yes, it is! These everyday purchases can add up to a lot of money over the course of a year, so it makes a lot of sense to maximize your spending by using the right credit card.

What purchases help build credit?

Pretty much any responsible usage of credit will build credit. If you consistently make payments, avoid maxing out your credit cards, and pay all of your bills on time, you’ll build your credit very quickly.

What credit cards have no spending limit?

Charge cards have no preset spending limit, but this doesn’t mean that you can spend an unlimited amount of money.

It means that instead of a traditional credit limit, your spending limit gets adjusted based on your spending habits, your payment history, and other factors made available to the card issuer.

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How to choose a credit card for everyday spending

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Key takeaways

• Everyday spending cards offer cash back in common spending categories, taking the hassle out of choosing the right credit card for each purchase.
• Some of the most popular everyday spending cards include flat-rate and bonus rate cards that offer bonuses on categories like gas, groceries and travel.
• Whether you should add a new everyday card to your wallet depends on your budget and spending habits, as well as the cards you already own.

What credit card do you use for your day-to-day purchases? Whether you’ve thought about it or not, you probably have an everyday spending card — that is, a card you automatically reach for every time you complete an in-store checkout or make an online purchase. Tools like digital wallets make this process even easier by allowing you to select a single credit card as your default card.

So, how do you choose the best everyday card for maximizing the rewards you earn ? Here is a short list of the best credit cards for daily use. We’ve also included some tips for getting the most out of your rewards by combining an everyday spending card with a specialized credit card.

Should I get a credit card for everyday purchases?

When considering a credit card for daily use, you first want to determine which type of reward card benefits you the most. If you’re trying to stock up on points to cover the cost of a big trip, you should put your day-to-day shopping on a travel credit card or an airline credit card. That way, you’ll have the opportunity to earn rewards that you can redeem towards your next vacation. Plus, you might even earn a sign-up bonus that can significantly increase your total points or miles.

Or, you may prefer earning rewards that go straight to your budget’s bottom line. Many prefer using a more flexible rewards credit card for everyday expenses, such as a flat-rate cash back credit card that earns at least 1.5 percent cash back on every purchase. While travel credit cards often reserve their best rewards for purchases related to travel, flat-rate cash back cards give you the same percentage of cash back no matter what you buy. Then, you can redeem that cash for everything from statement credits to Amazon purchases.

After evaluating your spending habits, you may realize that most of your day-to-day expenses fall into a single shopping category — like groceries, gas or online shopping. If so, you might want to consider a card that specifically rewards that type of spending. Use our guides to the best credit cards for groceries , the best credit cards for gas and the best credit cards for shopping online to help you choose the best credit card for day-to-day use.

Need more help choosing a credit card? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.

How to choose a credit card for daily spending

Selecting the best credit card for day-to-day use comes down to a matter of your spending habits and personal preferences. With a variety of cards to choose from, you are sure to find a card that meets your personal goals and needs.

For example, if you spend a lot of money each month on groceries or dining, cards that offer cash back and welcome bonuses in these categories may be a good choice for daily use. Earning a higher percentage of cash back on these purchases could help you earn hundreds of dollars more in cash back every year.

If you’re hoping to maximize your cash back earnings and your spending is more varied, a card that offers bonus cash back in rotating categories may be the best credit card for daily use. These rotating bonus categories often earn up to 5 percent cash back on things like streaming services , gas stations and drug store purchases.

A flat-rate cash back card can also be a great tool for everyday spending, especially if you are concerned about simplicity. These cards offer an easy to understand flat cash back rate on all purchases. With a card like this, you can earn a solid level of cash back on every purchase without worrying about any bonus categories.

On the other hand, if you love to travel, a cash back card may not be the best fit for your everyday spending. Using a travel rewards credit card or airline credit card instead can help you earn points and miles that you can redeem for flights, hotel stays and more. This type of card could help you save big money on your next trip.

Comparing the top credit cards for everyday spending

There are several factors to consider for selecting the top credit card for everyday spending. Not only is the rewards potential a vital consideration, but so is a card’s annual fee. Plus, if your goal is to maximize potential rewards, you’ll want to meet your card’s minimum spending requirement to earn welcome offers or sign-up bonuses. Keep in mind these are usually only available for brand-new cardholders.

A closer look at the best credit cards for everyday spending

What’s the best credit card for everyday spending? It depends. Many of today’s best credit cards could be excellent everyday spending cards, depending on where your money goes every month. If you’re looking for some tips on choosing a credit card, here are four of our favorite everyday spending cards for you to consider.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers unlimited 2 percent cash rewards on purchases. This makes it one of the best credit cards for everyday spending, hands down. Plus, you don’t have to keep up with any promotions, activations or bonus categories to maximize earnings. Making it better is the fact that it has no annual fee, and new cardholders can earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash is designed for people with good or excellent credit. So if you’re still working on building your credit score, you might consider a card with less restrictive requirements for eligibility — like the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card . This card comes with a $39 annual fee but offers 5 percent cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. It also offers 1.5 percent cash back on all other purchases, making it an excellent starter credit card .

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express is one of our favorite everyday spending cards for families that do a lot of grocery shopping. Cardholders earn 6 percent cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases (for up to $6,000 in purchases per year, then 1 percent), 6 percent back on select U.S. streaming services, 3 percent cash back on transit and U.S. gas station purchases (including taxis, rideshares, parking, tolls, trains and buses) and 1 percent back on all other purchases. Plus, you can earn a $250 statement credit after making $3,000 in purchases on your new card within the first 6 months.

This card does come with an annual fee of $95 per year ($0 intro annual fee for the first year). However, savvy shoppers may find their cash back rewards quickly outpace the card’s annual fee — especially once you do the math and determine that it only takes about $1,600 in grocery purchases to earn $95 in cash back rewards.

Discover it® Cash Back

The Discover it® Cash Back card is a rotating bonus category credit card, offering 5 percent cash back on categories that rotate every quarter (for up to $1,500 in purchases, then 1 percent, activation required) and an unlimited 1 percent cash back on other purchases.

Some people love the idea of cash back bonuses that change every quarter. Other people are concerned that they won’t be able to take advantage of everything the Discover it® Cash Back card has to offer. Can a rotating bonus category card still be one of the best credit cards for everyday spending?

We think so. Discover’s cashback calendar is packed with bonus categories that should appeal to most shoppers — groceries, restaurants, gas stations and more. New Discover cardholders can also take advantage of Discover’s Cashback Match™ program , which matches all the cash back rewards you earn during your first year. The Discover it Cash Back also comes without an annual fee, so it doesn’t cost you anything up front to carry the card.

If you’re looking for an everyday spending card that offers top rewards on popular spending categories, the Discover it® Cash Back card should be at the top of your list.

We think so. Discover’s cashback calendar is packed with bonus categories that should appeal to most shoppers — groceries, restaurants, gas stations and more. New Discover cardholders can also take advantage of Discover’s Cashback Match™ program , which matches all the cash back rewards you earn during your first year.

Chase Freedom Flex℠

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * is a smart choice for someone who wants to take advantage of a welcome bonus offer but wants to avoid too much complexity or a high spending threshold. Cardholders who spend $500 within the first 3 months after account opening can earn a $200 welcome bonus. The $500 spending requirement is one of the smallest out there and can be easily achieved through routine purchases for gas, groceries and other necessities.

However, the welcome bonus isn’t the only thing to like about the card. For starters, you have plenty of opportunities to earn up to 5 percent cash back on up to $1,500 of purchases in activated bonus categories each quarter (after you reach this level, you earn 1 percent). Lyft rides (through March 2025) and Chase Ultimate Rewards travel purchases also earn 5 percent cash back. Additionally, you earn 3 percent cash back on drugstore and dining purchases — including restaurants, takeout and eligible delivery services — and 1 percent for all other purchases, all of which are ideal categories for everyday spenders.

How to combine an everyday spending card with a specialized credit card

Everyday spending cards are great on their own, but they’re even better when combined with a specialized spending card. For example, suppose you have a flat-rate cash back card and an airline credit card. In that case, you can maximize your credit card rewards by putting the majority of your day-to-day spending on your everyday spending card while putting all of your airline and travel purchases on your airline credit card .

Not only will you earn both cash back and miles , but you’ll also be able to take advantage of the other perks that come with the top airline credit cards — including elite membership status, annual airline credits, companion passes and more.

How do you know which specialized credit card to choose? Consider whether there is one category of spending that takes up a large percentage of your budget. Combining an everyday spending card with a store credit card , for example, could save you a lot of money every time you shop at your favorite retailer. Some people pair an everyday spending card with a travel, airline or hotel credit card to get the most out of every purchase, whether at home or on vacation.

Knowing where your money goes and where you’d like to earn the most rewards will help you choose the credit card combination that works best for you.

What credit score is needed for an everyday-spending credit card?

If you want a credit card that offers the most lucrative rewards, you’ll need a good to excellent credit score rating. Generally speaking, the more attractive the rewards program is, the more stringent the qualifications are for approval.

If your credit score falls in the poor or fair categories, you still have options . You may qualify for a credit builder card or a secured credit card option, and you can always work towards improving your credit score for future applications.

The bottom line

How do you choose the best credit card for everyday spending? It all comes down to where your money goes and what you hope to get out of your purchases.

If you want to earn the same cash back rate on every purchase, a top cash back card may be the best everyday spending card for you. On the other hand, if most of your budget goes towards gas and groceries, credit cards offering higher rewards on those purchases could be a better fit. Or, if you’re planning a vacation, using a travel credit card every time you shop could help you save big on your next trip.

*Issuer-required disclosure statement

Information about the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has been collected independently by Bankrate. Card details have not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.

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Best Travel Credit Cards of 2024

December 15, 2023

Going has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Going and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Opinions, reviews, analyses, and recommendations are the author's alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. Some of all of the card offers that appear on this page are from advertisers; compensation may affect how and where the cards appear on the site; and Going does not include all card companies are all available card offers.

‍ The best travel credit cards bring you closer to your next trip by making your everyday spending more rewarding. 

I’m sharing with you some insight from my brilliant colleagues here at Going about how they use their own favorite travel rewards cards. Real advice from real people? It’s more helpful than you think!

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best Overall

Annual fee: annual_fees

Foreign transaction fee: foreign_transaction_fee

Earning rate:

• Earn 5X points per dollar spent on travel purchased through Chase Travel(SM).
• Earn 3X points per dollar spent on online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), dining at restaurants (including eligible delivery services, takeout, and dining out).
• Earn 3X select streaming services. 
• Earn 2X points per dollar spent on all other eligible travel purchases (like airline tickets and hotel bills).
• Earn 1X point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: bonus_miles_full

• Low annual fee
• Great transfer partners -- Virgin Atlantic, FlyBlue and Air Canada are some of my favorite Chase transfer partners ‍
• Offers several types of travel protections, including car rental insurance
• Doesn't come with airline perks like lounge access or free checked bag
• Doesn't include credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry

Chase  points can be very valuable when you transfer them to airline partners. Plus the card offers travel insurance protections, for a low annual fee.

Who it's best for

Beginners and seasoned points and miles veterans alike may want to have the card_name in their wallet. It has an excellent welcome offer that you can redeem towards your next trip, and its bonus categories on travel, transit, food, and dining make a long-term keeper.

Read our review .

Why it’s in my wallet.

“I’ve had the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card for almost four years. Most often, I transfer the points to my hotel loyalty programs—Hyatt, Marriott, and IHG. The card has been clutch with accruing points and transferring them out!”

 — Bisola, Product Designer @ Going

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best travel credit card for beginners

• Earn 2X miles per dollar on every eligible purchase, everyday. 
• Earn 5X miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
• Statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
• Flat 2x earning structure
• Capital One transfer partners do not include a domestic airline
• No bonus categories

The generous welcome offer on the card can help you get a head start on earning a free flight for your next trip.

If you’re just starting out in learning how to use points and miles to travel for less, the card_name is a great place to start. Unlike other cards that have bonus categories to track, you’ll earn 2X miles per dollar on every eligible purchase, everyday. (Editor's note: Capital One calls its points currency "miles.")

"I just got the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card for the welcome offer and the good general spend benefits!" 

— Rob, Director of Member Success @ Going

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: Best for business travel

• Ads on social media or search engines
• Internet, cable, and phone services
• 1X point per dollar spent on all other purchases 
• Points can be redeemed with transfer partners
• Comparatively low annual fee
• Bonus categories for common business expenses make earning points easy
• Chase offers several no-annual-fee business cards that may earn at a higher rate, depending on spending category
• No travel credits, like  Global Entry or  TSA PreCheck
• Subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule

For a low annual fee, you have the ability to earn bonus points on common business expenses and redeem those points for travel through Chase’s network of transfer partners. 

The card_name is a great option for business owners and entrepreneurs who want to earn travel rewards on everyday business expenses.

Read our review.

Citi premier ® card: best for gas and groceries.

• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets. 
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels. 
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Earns bonus points in three spending categories
• Big welcome offer 
• JetBlue is the only domestic airline that is a transfer partner
• The travel bonus category limited to hotels and airlines: Other card

While other travel credit cards might earn bonus points on one or two of these bonus categories, the Citi Premier ® Card is the rare card that earns bonus points in gas, groceries, and travel.

The card_name stands out because it earns 3 Points per $1 spent on gas, groceries, restaurants, air travel and hotels. If these are big items in your budget, you'll earn that very generous welcome bonus easily.

Learn more about the Citi Premier Card.

The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best travel card for lounge access

Annual fee: annual_fees ( See Rates and Fees )

• Earn 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per calendar year); and on eligible prepaid hotels booked at AmexTravel.com, including The Hotel Collection. 
• Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• Great welcome offer
• Tons of travel perks included
• Access to Centurion lounges
• Very high annual fee
• Some statement credits can be difficult to use
• Low points earning rate
• To bring a guest to the Centurion Lounge , you need to spend $75,000 on the card the year before

If you can stomach the annual fee, the card offers a host of great travel benefits to enjoy. 

If you want to travel in luxury, card_name ( See Rates and Fees ) may be the card for you. Along with a stellar welcome offer, this card also grants you entry to the American Express Centurion Lounges and Priority Pass lounges. You’ll also get statement credits towards CLEAR Plus and Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, helping you to speed through security. The card also gives you mid-level elite status at Marriott and Hilton hotels.

Why it's in my wallet

“The Platinum Card® from American Express ( See Rates and Fees; terms apply ) has made my layovers insanely more entertaining because I have access to airport lounges, where I can have a snack, a drink, and even shower before a long flight. In New York, we even scheduled massages and went to a speakeasy! 

I even added my entire family as authorized users for a small fee that gives them the same access to lounges. What a special way to treat my parents when they fly now!” 

The Bilt Mastercard: Best travel card with no annual fee

If you make at least five transactions with your Bilt card each statement period, you will earn:

• 1X points per dollar on rent (up to 100,000 points each calendar year)
• 2X points per dollar on travel
• 3X points per dollar on dining
• 1X point per dollar on other purchases
• Earn double the amount of points on non-rent payments on the first day of the month (e.g. earn 6X on dining on the 1st) 
• No annual fee card with travel partners
• Earn rewards on rent payments
• Extremely valuable travel rewards points currency
• No signup bonus
• To earn points, you must use the card at least five times each statement period.
• May not be as valuable if you are not a renter

The Bilt Mastercard is the rare travel credit card that charges no annual fee, yet offers a wide range of excellent transfer partners.

If you rent, card_name enables you to earn points on what's probably your biggest monthly bill. Just be aware that in order to earn any points at all, you must use the card at least five times in a statement period.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best premium travel rewards credit card

• 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day. 
• 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel.
• 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
• Lower annual fee than most luxury travel credit cards
• Includes Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit  
• Includes access to Priority Pass lounges
• Earns the same 2x miles per dollar on everyday spending as does its sibling card, the Capital One Venture  
• Capital One Lounges are limited to only three airports currently
• Travel credit can only be used in the Capital One Travel portal

For a premium travel credit card, its annual fee is a bargain—comparatively speaking. Plus, the $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel portal, makes it even more palatable.

If you’re looking for a premium travel rewards card the card_name is an excellent option. The card gives you access to the network of Priority Pass airport lounges and Capital One Lounges, plus a statement credit for the application fee to Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

“I love the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card because it pretty much pays for itself with the $300 travel credit and 10,000 bonus points on your card member anniversary. I also love that I can easily transfer points from my Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. And of course, the Capital One Lounge in Dallas-Fort Worth is top tier!”

— Lanchi, Associate Member Success Specialist @ Going

American Express® Gold Card: Best travel credit card for foodies

• 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.
• Great welcome offer for American Express Membership Rewards points
• Excellent bonus earning rates
• No travel credits like CLEAR Plus or TSA PreCheck
• No lounge access
• High annual fee

This card is points-earning workhorse, especially if you love to eat. 

If you love to eat out, cook at home, or some combination of both, the card_name ( See Rates and Fees ) is worth considering. The card_name ( See Rates and Fees ) earns 4X points on restaurants, takeout and deliveries, plus 4X points on supermarkets (up to $25,000 at supermarkets), making it a powerful addition to your wallet.

Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card: Best credit card for international travel

• Earn 5x total points on flights when you purchase travel through Chase Travel (SM) after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• Earn 10x total points on hotels (excluding The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection) and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.
• Earn 3x points on dining at restaurants, including eligible delivery services, takeout, and dining out. 
• Earn 3x points on other travel worldwide after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.
• Earn 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Generous, very flexible annual $300 travel credit
• Highly valuable points currency with great suite of airline and hotel transfer partners
• Bonus categories in travel and dining
• Earns similar bonus rates to its younger sibling, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The benefits that this card offers easily can make up for the high annual fee.

Although any of the cards on this list could be great options for international travel, the combination of the $300 annual travel credit, lounge access benefits, and statement credit for an application to Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS, makes the card_name Card the best card for international travel.

AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®: Best airline card

• Annual fee:  $99
• Welcome bonus:  Earn 50,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.
• Rewards: Earn 2X AAdvantage ® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1X AAdvantage ® miles for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Foreign transaction fee: None
• Welcome bonus is easy to earn
• First checked bag free
• $99 annual fee
• Must spend $20,000 to earn the companion pass

Who it’s best for: 

Among domestic airline co-branded credit cards with an annual fee under $100, the American Airlines AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® stands apart for its easy-to-earn welcome offer. To earn 50,000 bonus miles all you have to do is make one purchase and pay that and the $99 annual fee in full. Like other airline co-branded cards, this card gets you one free checked bag and preferred boarding. 

‍ Learn more about the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® .

How do travel credit cards work? 

Travel credit cards reward you for the purchases you make on everyday expenses. You’ll earn points each time you use the card to make eligible purchases, but you’ll earn more points if you spend on the card’s bonus categories. For example, the American Express Gold Card (see rates and fees) allows you to earn 4X points on restaurants worldwide. That means if you spent $100 on a meal out, you’d earn 400 points to redeem for travel. 

Travel credit cards enable you to earn points or miles on purchases that you can redeem for travel, but specific cards reward you in different ways. You can either earn transferable credit card points from a general-purpose travel credit card or miles or hotel points from an airline or hotel credit card. 

General travel credit cards

General travel credit cards allow you to earn points that you can transfer to a wide range of airlines and hotels. You could transfer some of your points to one airline partner, then a few months later transfer more points to a different airline partner, and then transfer points to a hotel partner. 

Currency:  Transferable credit card points

Example:  Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Who it’s best for:  Travelers who fly or stay with multiple airlines and hotels

Co-branded airline or hotel cards

These cards earn airline miles or hotel points that can only be used with the specific airline or hotel. Depending on how premium the card may be, the card may also give you additional perks like a free checked bag, priority boarding, airport lounge access, a leg up on elite status, or a free night’s stay at a hotel’s property. The benefits and points earned are often limited to using with that airline or hotel chain. Bullet common benefits. 

Currency:  Airline miles or hotel points

Example:  Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card

Who it’s best for:  Travelers who are loyal to a specific airline or a hotel. 

Business travel credit cards

Business travel credit cards can be either general-purpose travel credit cards, earning flexible travel points, or co-branded with an airline or a hotel. Perks and earning rates tend to vary depending on the annual fee the business card charges. Of course, to be eligible for business travel credit card , you’d need to be a small business owner, freelancer, or entrepreneur.

Currency:  Either transferrable credit card points, airline miles, or hotel points

Example:  The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Who it’s best for:  Business owners or entrepreneurs who want to earn travel rewards on their business spending 

How to compare travel credit cards

Welcome offer.

The  welcome offer is the most fun part of opening a new credit card. After spending a certain amount on your new card within a predetermined amount of time, you’ll receive a treasure trove of tens of thousands of bonus points or miles. Earning a card’s welcome offer can help you get a free flight—or pretty close to one!

Earnings rate

After you’ve earned the welcome offer on your card, the card’s earning rate will help you continue to earn points or miles in the long term. Your spending habits should help guide your choice of cards. 

Do you spend a lot on groceries? Consider the  American Express Gold Card . Are you a renter? With  the Bilt Mastercard , you could earn points on your rent. 

Points, miles, or cash back

Even before you look at a card’s welcome offer, you should decide what type of travel points you want to earn. If you are looking to book a bucket trip to Tokyo or Rome, you might be better off getting a general-purpose travel credit card because it will give you a wider range of airline partners to transfer your points. 

On the other hand, if you are a Delta diehard or Marriott manic, a credit card with that brand could help get you a shortcut to elite status and a bunch of other benefits to use when you frequent that hotel or airline.

In addition to the credit card’s welcome offer and earning rates, the credit card’s annual fee is one of the most important deciding factors. While there are some travel credit cards with no annual fee, those that offer higher earning rates and more travel protections tend to have annual fees in the ballpark of $95. Cards offering premium benefits, like airport lounge access and travel statement credits, often carry annual fees of $395 or higher.

Foreign transaction fee

You’ll want to confirm that the card you’re considering does not charge a foreign transaction fee—it is a  travel  credit card, after all. Foreign transaction fees tend to be around 3% of each transaction, so if you’re traveling internationally for a week, that can add up fast. When you use a card that offers no foreign transaction fee, you’ll simply be charged that day’s exchange rate for your purchases—no extra fees. 

Lounge access

If you’re a frequent flyer, you may want to look for a credit card that includes access to airport lounges. This, too, is another area where general-purpose and co-branded credit cards differ somewhat. Higher-end airline cards offer you complimentary access to the airline’s network of airport lounges: For example, the card_name allows you complimentary access to Delta Sky Club®, plus four One-Time Guest Passes annually.*

Higher-end general-purpose travel credit cards also commonly offer  lounge access to their respective network of airport lounges: For example, the Platinum Card® from American Express gets you access to the American Express Centurion Lounges; the Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Card each offer access to their issuers’ lounges, respectively. 

You’ll also want to check if the card you’re eyeing allows you to enroll in  Priority Pass Select™ , a membership program that grants you access to a wider network of airport lounges worldwide.

*Note: Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits (including Grab and Go) at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.

Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are two different Trusted Traveler Programs that provide travelers with expedited security screening or customs processing. To be eligible, you’ll need to apply online through the US Customs and Border Patrol and pay the application fee. Over two dozen travel credit cards offer statement credit that would reimburse for this fee. Check out our picks for the  best cards that offer TSA PreCheck or Global Entry .

Elite status

Airline elite status used to be earned by the amount of miles you flew, but now, airline elite status is largely determined by the amount of dollars you spend with an airline. The transition is a bummer for those who loved to do  mileage runs , but the good news is that airline credit cards offer a shortcut toward earning elite status. 

For example, The United ClubSM Infinite Card allows you to earn 25 Premier Qualifying Points (PQP, United’s metric for earning status) for every $500 spent on the card, up to 10,000 PQP.

Likewise, card_name and card_name each award cardholders $2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs, Delta’s elite status currency) each Medallion Qualification Year. This alone gets you halfway to Delta’s Silver Medallion Status. Plus the cards allow you to earn MQDs based on your card spending: the card_name earns $1 MQD for each $10 spent on the card, while the card_name earns $1 MQD for each $20 spent on the card.

Travel insurance

Sometimes, shift happens in the overhead bins. Things happen in life, too, where you may need to cancel a trip due to illness, natural disaster, or personal emergency, or a trip may be delayed because of circumstances out of your control. When these things happen, a credit card with travel cancellation insurance may allow you to recoup your costs, while trip delay insurance may reimburse you for essential expenses like food or lodging. And, some cards offer baggage delay or lost baggage insurance. Just make sure to read your card’s terms and conditions carefully before filing a claim: Many require you to have made the original purchase on your card to qualify.

How to choose a travel credit card 

Now that you know what features to look for in a travel card, here are some questions and tips to keep in mind when you are picking one. 

Evaluating general-purpose travel credit card

When picking a general-purpose travel credit card, make sure to consider the following:

• Transfer partners:  Who are the airline partners, and can you redeem your points for good value?
• Travel portal statement credit:  Does the card issuer give you statement credit or perks toward booking through your card’s travel portal?
• Travel perks:  Does the card make travel more relaxing by giving you statement credit for Trusted Traveler programs or airport lounge access?
• Travel insurance protections

Evaluating airline credit cards

When picking an airline credit card look for the following:

• Companion fares:  This perk lets you  earn a companion pass that allows you to travel with a partner at a reduced rate. 
• Earning rates:  Airline cards usually offer the highest bonus rates on spending with their airline, but you’ll want to check what, if any, other bonus spending categories it offers.
• Free checked baggage:  This perk could let you get a  free checked bag for you and others on your reservation. 
• Elite status bonuses:  Does the card help you earn elite status with the airline quicker?
• Priority boarding:  If the card gives you this perk, you might be able to grab that overhead space first. 
• Airport lounge access
• Complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi

Evaluating hotel credit cards

When looking for a hotel credit card, pay attention to these things:

• Elite status:  You can generally expect cards with higher annual fees to give you higher tiers of elite status with the hotel chain. 
• Earning rates:  Hotel cards tend to earn bonus rates on hotel purchases, but check to see what other spending categories they might offer bonus rates.
• Free night certificate:  Does the card offer you a certificate for a free night’s stay each card anniversary? Some cards allow you to earn additional free night certificates based on spending or nights stayed at properties.
• Early check-in and late check-out: Many hotel credit cards offer this benefit. 
• Room upgrades or extra perks:  More elite cards offer complimentary room upgrades or complimentary services like a free breakfast or spa credit. 

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

• Big welcome offers can you get close to a free flight
• Travel perks like lounge access can make flying more comfortable
• Extra benefits like travel insurance or trusted traveler programs
• Can earn points for travel on everyday spending
• No foreign transaction fees
• Can offer free checked bag or elite status
• High annual fees
• High ongoing APRs
• Limited value for points outside of transferring to airline or hotel partners
• Cash-back rewards are simpler to redeem and understand
• Points and miles could expire or lose value over time
• Transferring to partners can be confusing or complicated

Remember: Your credit card should suit your lifestyle

It’s easy to get caught up in the glitz and glamor of a fancy credit card, but you shouldn’t have to drastically alter your own spending habits and lifestyle to take advantage of everything your card offers. If you find yourself working too hard to utilize a benefit or to redeem a credit that a card offers, it may not be a fit for you. 

You can always “product change” the card, i.e. convert it into another credit card within that same “card family” that better suits your needs. Never forget to take it step-by-step and to learn as you go. Points and miles will meet you where you are.

Frequently asked questions

How we chose our picks.

When making our picks, we gave a lot of weight to cards with standout welcome offers—the treasure trove of points a card issuer rewards you with for signing up for a new card and meeting the minimum spending requirements in time. The card’s bonus rewards categories also mattered a lot to us, since this is a card you’ll have long after the earning the welcome offer. We also factored in the card’s annual fee, its transfer partners, and additional benefits like free checked baggage, Global Entry credits, or lounge access.

See Rates and Fees for the card_name

Published December 15, 2023

Last updated March 19, 2024

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How to choose a credit card for everyday spending

Key takeaways.

• Everyday spending cards offer cash back in common spending categories, taking the hassle out of choosing the right credit card for each purchase.
• Some of the most popular everyday spending cards include flat-rate and bonus rate cards that offer bonuses on categories like gas, groceries and travel.
• Whether you should add a new everyday card to your wallet depends on your budget and spending habits, as well as the cards you already own.

What credit card do you use for your day-to-day purchases? Whether you’ve thought about it or not, you probably have an everyday spending card — that is, a card you automatically reach for every time you complete an in-store checkout or make an online purchase. Tools like digital wallets make this process even easier by allowing you to select a single credit card as your default card.

So, how do you choose the best everyday card for maximizing the rewards you earn ? Here is a short list of the best credit cards for daily use. We’ve also included some tips for getting the most out of your rewards by combining an everyday spending card with a specialized credit card.

Should I get a credit card for everyday purchases?

When considering a credit card for daily use, you first want to determine which type of reward card benefits you the most. If you’re trying to stock up on points to cover the cost of a big trip, you should put your day-to-day shopping on a travel credit card or an airline credit card. That way, you’ll have the opportunity to earn rewards that you can redeem towards your next vacation. Plus, you might even earn a sign-up bonus that can significantly increase your total points or miles.

Or, you may prefer earning rewards that go straight to your budget’s bottom line. Many prefer using a more flexible rewards credit card for everyday expenses, such as a flat-rate cash back credit card that earns at least 1.5 percent cash back on every purchase. While travel credit cards often reserve their best rewards for purchases related to travel, flat-rate cash back cards give you the same percentage of cash back no matter what you buy. Then, you can redeem that cash for everything from statement credits to Amazon purchases.

After evaluating your spending habits, you may realize that most of your day-to-day expenses fall into a single shopping category — like groceries, gas or online shopping. If so, you might want to consider a card that specifically rewards that type of spending. Use our guides to the best credit cards for groceries , the best credit cards for gas and the best credit cards for shopping online to help you choose the best credit card for day-to-day use.

Need more help choosing a credit card? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.

How to choose a credit card for daily spending

Selecting the best credit card for day-to-day use comes down to a matter of your spending habits and personal preferences. With a variety of cards to choose from, you are sure to find a card that meets your personal goals and needs.

For example, if you spend a lot of money each month on groceries or dining, cards that offer cash back and welcome bonuses in these categories may be a good choice for daily use. Earning a higher percentage of cash back on these purchases could help you earn hundreds of dollars more in cash back every year.

If you’re hoping to maximize your cash back earnings and your spending is more varied, a card that offers bonus cash back in rotating categories may be the best credit card for daily use. These rotating bonus categories often earn up to 5 percent cash back on things like streaming services , gas stations and drug store purchases.

A flat-rate cash back card can also be a great tool for everyday spending, especially if you are concerned about simplicity. These cards offer an easy to understand flat cash back rate on all purchases. With a card like this, you can earn a solid level of cash back on every purchase without worrying about any bonus categories.

On the other hand, if you love to travel, a cash back card may not be the best fit for your everyday spending. Using a travel rewards credit card or airline credit card instead can help you earn points and miles that you can redeem for flights, hotel stays and more. This type of card could help you save big money on your next trip.

Comparing the top credit cards for everyday spending

There are several factors to consider for selecting the top credit card for everyday spending. Not only is the rewards potential a vital consideration, but so is a card’s annual fee. Plus, if your goal is to maximize potential rewards, you’ll want to meet your card’s minimum spending requirement to earn welcome offers or sign-up bonuses. Keep in mind these are usually only available for brand-new cardholders.

A closer look at the best credit cards for everyday spending

What’s the best credit card for everyday spending? It depends. Many of today’s best credit cards could be excellent everyday spending cards, depending on where your money goes every month. If you’re looking for some tips on choosing a credit card, here are four of our favorite everyday spending cards for you to consider.

How to combine an everyday spending card with a specialized credit card

Everyday spending cards are great on their own, but they’re even better when combined with a specialized spending card. For example, suppose you have a flat-rate cash back card and an airline credit card. In that case, you can maximize your credit card rewards by putting the majority of your day-to-day spending on your everyday spending card while putting all of your airline and travel purchases on your airline credit card .

Not only will you earn both cash back and miles , but you’ll also be able to take advantage of the other perks that come with the top airline credit cards — including elite membership status, annual airline credits, companion passes and more.

How do you know which specialized credit card to choose? Consider whether there is one category of spending that takes up a large percentage of your budget. Combining an everyday spending card with a store credit card , for example, could save you a lot of money every time you shop at your favorite retailer. Some people pair an everyday spending card with a travel, airline or hotel credit card to get the most out of every purchase, whether at home or on vacation.

Knowing where your money goes and where you’d like to earn the most rewards will help you choose the credit card combination that works best for you.

What credit score is needed for an everyday-spending credit card?

If you want a credit card that offers the most lucrative rewards, you’ll need a good to excellent credit score rating. Generally speaking, the more attractive the rewards program is, the more stringent the qualifications are for approval.

If your credit score falls in the poor or fair categories, you still have options . You may qualify for a credit builder card or a secured credit card option, and you can always work towards improving your credit score for future applications.

The bottom line

How do you choose the best credit card for everyday spending? It all comes down to where your money goes and what you hope to get out of your purchases.

If you want to earn the same cash back rate on every purchase, a top cash back card may be the best everyday spending card for you. On the other hand, if most of your budget goes towards gas and groceries, credit cards offering higher rewards on those purchases could be a better fit. Or, if you’re planning a vacation, using a travel credit card every time you shop could help you save big on your next trip.

*Issuer-required disclosure statement

Information about the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has been collected independently by Bankrate. Card details have not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.

Travel points on credit cards, explained

PayPal Editorial Staff

March 14, 2024

Savvy shoppers can turn everyday spending into exciting adventures by harnessing the power of travel points on credit cards.

Travel points on credit cards are rewards earned for eligible purchases. When someone accumulates enough points, they can redeem them for travel-related expenses like flights, accommodations, or upgrades.

From earning to redeeming, discover the world of travel reward points in this guide.

How do travel points work?

Travel points on credit cards work by rewarding people for their spending. When someone uses their credit card for eligible purchases, they may earn a certain number of points or miles based on the card's rewards program. These points accumulate over time and can be redeemed for travel costs.

Some cards or reward programs also offer flexible redemption options, allowing individuals to transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs.

The more someone spends on their card, the more travel points they may accumulate. However, it’s important to practice responsible spending and not make purchases simply to earn more points.

While some credit cards may be specifically noted as travel credit cards or offered in tandem with airline companies, many rewards credit cards can still be used to earn points or cash back to spend on travel or lodging. There may also be rewards programs via cash back apps that offer earning potential for spending with certain travel-related companies or airlines. For example, PayPal users can view travel-related deals and rewards offerings in the Travel category on the PayPal app . Rewards earning and redemption options will vary depending on card provider and/or rewards program.

Potential pros and cons of travel points

Some benefits of travel points may be:

• Free or discounted travel expenses:  Travel points may be redeemed for complimentary or discounted flights, hotel stays, and even upgrades, allowing for cost savings on travel expenses.
• Travel perks:  Some travel rewards cards provide access to airline or hotel loyalty program benefits, such as priority boarding, lounge access, and room upgrades.
• Flexible redemption:  Many programs offer flexible redemption options, including the ability to transfer points to partner airlines or hotels, providing more choices for travelers.

Before signing up for a travel rewards credit card, consider the possible risks of travel points:

• Limited flexibility:  Some travel rewards programs may have restrictions or blackout dates. Points may also have expiration dates — if unused, someone may lose their rewards.
• High annual fees:  Many premium travel rewards cards come with annual fees, which may offset the value of the rewards.
• Increased spending:  To earn travel points, people must use their credit card, which can lead to debt if not managed responsibly.

How to earn travel points

To earn travel points, someone generally needs to use a travel rewards credit card on eligible purchases. Over time, they may accumulate enough points to enjoy a benefit like free or reduced airfare or a discounted hotel stay.

Beyond everyday spending, here are other ways to potentially earn travel points:

• Sign-up bonuses:  Many travel rewards credit cards offer sign-up bonuses when opening a new account and meeting a spending requirement within a specified timeframe.
• Frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs:  When someone flies with a specific airline or stays at a particular hotel chain consistently, they may accumulate points or miles that can be redeemed for future travel.
• Online shopping portals:  Some airlines and credit card companies have online shopping portals that offer bonus points for making purchases through their platforms.

Accumulating travel points requires responsible financial management, including paying off credit card balances in full each month to avoid interest charges . Additionally, check for any annual fees associated with travel rewards credit cards and ensure that the benefits outweigh the costs.

How to redeem travel points

Travel rewards credit cards may offer several redemption options, from flights or hotels to vacation packages or statement credits. When booking through a rewards portal, people typically have the option to pay with points or a combination of points and cash.

The redemption process may vary slightly depending on the specific travel rewards program or credit card. Always read the terms and conditions of the rewards program and credit card to understand any restrictions, blackout dates, and expiration policies associated with the points.

Learn how to redeem rewards .

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