Traveling is one of the most exciting experiences, but it can also get expensive. That’s where travel credit cards can help. The right card allows you to earn travel rewards, enjoy special perks, and save money on trips. In this guide, we’ll look at the top travel credit cards for 2024. Whether you’re searching for cards with no annual fees, the best for international travel, or those with lounge access and family-friendly benefits, this list will help you find the best option for your next adventure.
No Annual Fee Travel Credit Cards
A no-annual-fee travel credit card is a great choice if you want rewards without the extra cost. These cards provide points or miles on everyday purchases while saving you the expense of an annual fee. Although premium cards may offer higher rewards, these are still some of the best travel credit cards for budget-conscious travelers. Here are some standout options:
- Discover it® Miles: This card offers 1.5x miles on all purchases, with no annual fee. Plus, it matches all the miles you earn during your first year.
- Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: Earn 1.25 miles per dollar with no annual fee. You also get 20,000 miles if you spend $500 in the first three months.
- Wells Fargo Autograph Card: This card offers 3x points on categories like dining, travel, gas stations, and streaming services. It comes with a 30,000-point sign-up bonus when you spend $1,500 within three months.
Best Travel Credit Cards for International Travel
For frequent international travelers, having a card with no foreign transaction fees is a must. These cards save you from extra charges and offer benefits like travel insurance and airport lounge access, ensuring a smooth experience abroad. Here are three excellent options:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: This card offers 2x points on travel and dining, with no foreign transaction fees. It also lets you transfer points to airline and hotel loyalty programs.
- American Express Platinum Card®: With perks like elite hotel status, airline fee credits, and lounge access, this premium card is great for frequent flyers.
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: This card earns 2x miles on every purchase and has no foreign transaction fees. Plus, you can transfer miles to various airline partners.
Best Travel Reward Miles Credit Cards
If you want to rack up miles quickly for future travel, a travel rewards credit card is a smart choice. These cards help you earn miles for flights, hotel stays, and more. Here are some of the best travel cards for earning reward miles:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: With 2x points on travel and dining, this card is ideal for earning miles. It also offers point transfers to airlines and hotels.
- Citi Premier® Card: This card earns 3x points on travel and 2x points on dining and entertainment, making it a versatile choice for travelers.
- American Express Gold Card: Earn 4x points on dining and 3x points on flights booked with airlines. This card also allows you to transfer points to airline and hotel partners for added flexibility.
Best Travel Credit Cards with Lounge Access
If you value comfort while traveling, cards that offer airport lounge access are perfect. Lounge access gives you a place to relax, with free food, drinks, and comfortable seating. These are the best travel rewards credit cards for lounge lovers:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express: This card provides access to lounges like Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs. It also includes other premium travel benefits like elite hotel status.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Enjoy Priority Pass lounge access, along with perks like travel credits and a valuable sign-up bonus.
- Citi Prestige® Card: Get Priority Pass Select membership, giving you access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide. This card also offers ThankYou points for travel and dining.
Best Travel Credit Cards for Families
Traveling with family requires extra benefits, like travel insurance or rewards on everyday purchases. Here are the best family travel credit cards to consider:
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: With 2x miles on every purchase and flexible redemption options, this card makes family trips easier to manage.
- Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card: With 2x miles on every purchase and flexible redemption options, this card makes family trips easier to manage.
- Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card: This hotel card offers excellent rewards for families who prefer staying at Hilton properties. It also includes complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status.
Best Cash Back Travel Credit Cards
Cash back cards give you rewards in the form of cash that you can use for future trips or everyday expenses. If you want flexibility, a cash back travel credit card could be the best option. Here are three top picks:
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: This card offers 2x points on travel and dining, which can be redeemed for cash back or transferred to travel partners.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Earn 2x miles on all purchases, and use them for statement credits toward travel expenses.
Discover it® Miles: Get 1.5x miles on all purchases, which can be redeemed as cash back. Plus, Discover matches all your miles in the first year.
Best Airline Reward Credit Cards
For those who fly with a specific airline often, an airline credit card can provide extra perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and lounge access. Here are some of the top choices for airline rewards:
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard®: This card offers 2x miles on American Airlines purchases and 1x on all other purchases. You also get perks like a free checked bag and priority boarding.
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card: Earn 2x miles on Delta purchases and 1x on everything else. You also get priority boarding and a free checked bag on Delta flights.
United℠ Explorer Card: This card offers 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and hotels. It also comes with a free checked bag and two United Club passes per year.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right travel credit card can make your trips more affordable and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a no-fee card, one with international travel benefits, travel miles, or lounge access, there’s a card for every type of traveler. Consider your travel habits and preferences, then pick the card that will give you the most value. Safe travels!