The Best Credit Cards for Travelers (and How to Maximize Your Points)

Last updated August 2023

If you’re an experienced world traveler or planning your very first trip, investigating and utilizing travel rewards can benefit you greatly. From snagging upgrades to planning a dream trip on a budget, if you’re not utilizing travel rewards you’re missing out.

The rewards and points game can be confusing, but taking the time to find the best card for your travel needs can lead to big savings and awesome rewards.

How Do I Get Free Travel With Credit Cards?

Savvy travelers use their credit cards strategically to parlay points into upgrades and reduced travel fees. Choosing the right card is very personal – there is no one-size-fits-all.

The first thing you’ll want to assess is your travel style. For someone who travels frequently, a higher annual fee may be offset by use of all the travel perks and travel credit redemptions.

If you’re a new or infrequent traveler, a card with a $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees would maximize your benefits.

There are tons of options out there, so what’s a traveler to do? Here are the best credit cards with travel rewards on the market right now:

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card 

The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. If you love dining out, this is a great option for you.

Recommended Credit Score: 720+

Pros

Earn 60,000 bonus points if you spend $4,000 within the first three months of opening your account. That is equal to about $900 towards travel.

Cons

There is a hefty $550 annual fee (plus $75 if you want to add an authorized user), though you do get a $300 annual travel credit.

Bank of America Travel Rewards

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card was my first travel rewards credit card and the one I brought with my on my most recent trips to Europe and South America.

The sign-up bonus is not too shabby, either. You’ll receive 25,000 bonus points if you spend at least $1,000 in the first 90 days. This is equal to a roughly $250 travel credit.

Recommended Credit Score: 690+

Pros

There are no annual fees or foreign transaction fees, making this a low-maintenance and easy-to-use card.

You’ll also receive 0% interest for the first 12 billing cycles!

Cons

If you’ve got great credit, there are cards out there with bigger and better rewards options.

Capital One Venture Rewards

Recommended Credit Score: 670

Pros 

Earn 2x the miles per dollar on every purchase, no foreign transaction fees, and up to $100 towards Global Entry or TSA Pre.

Cons

There is a $95 annual fee, which is actually on the lower side. As an added bonus, the first year is free!

AMEX Platinum

If you’re hoping to unlock a world of luxury travel, the Amex Platinum card is where you want to be.

Recommended Credit Score: 690+

Pros: 

Holding this card grants access to the Centurion lounges in airport, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and around $500 in travel statement credits

You’ll have access to the Amex concierge team to help you book travel

Cons:

The hefty $695 makes it difficult to justify for casual travelers

The Credit Card for the Airline You Use the Most

If you’re loyal to one airline, it may be a good investment to apply for their credit card. Airport perks like free checked baggage or lounge access are huge for frequent flyers. Check out the United Explorer Card, Delta Skymiles American Express, or American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp Card to see which one fits your travel style.

Ready to hit the runway? Here are some ways to become a more eco-conscious traveler.

The recommended credit scores are just that – industry standard recommendations. Having a certain credit score does not guarantee you will be accepted for a certain credit card. Always consult your financial advisor before making financial decisions.