Travel rewards credit cards have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more and more people are looking to earn points and miles for their travel expenses. With so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to navigate which card is best suited for your needs. In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the top travel rewards credit cards currently available and how to choose the right one for you.
Chase Sapphire Reserve
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is often considered the gold standard of travel rewards credit cards. It offers an impressive 50,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. These points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards or transferred to airline and hotel loyalty programs. The card also offers a $300 annual travel credit that can be used towards any qualifying purchase made with airlines, hotels, rental cars or other related expenses.
Cardholders receive triple points on dining purchases worldwide and one point per dollar spent on all other purchases. Additionally, cardholders receive complimentary Priority Pass Select membership with access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide.
The annual fee for this card is $550 but includes a range of additional benefits such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance and emergency evacuation coverage while traveling.
American Express Platinum Card
Another great option is the American Express Platinum Card which offers 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $5,000 in the first three months of account opening. Cardholders earn five times Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel website; they also get five times Membership Rewards Points when booking prepaid hotels on amextravel.com.
In addition to earning rewards points quickly from everyday purchases like groceries or gas stations (one point per dollar), cardholders enjoy complimentary access to over 1k airport lounges around the world including Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta Airlines out of JFK Airport Terminal 4. The card also offers $200 annual airline fee credit and up to $200 in Uber credits each year.
The annual fee for this card is $695, which is higher than some other travel rewards cards but includes a range of additional benefits such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage insurance plan, car rental loss and damage insurance, and more.
Capital One Venture Rewards Card
For those who are looking for a travel rewards card with no annual fee in the first year, the Capital One Venture Rewards Card may be worth considering. New cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months of account opening. These miles can be redeemed towards any travel purchases made within 90 days of purchase.
Cardholders receive two times miles per dollar spent on all purchases with no limits or restrictions on earning potential. Additionally, there are no foreign transaction fees when using this card outside of the US.
The annual fee for this card is waived for the first year but will cost $95 annually thereafter. However, if you’re excited about earning points quickly without paying an upfront cost then consider choosing this great option!
Choosing The Right Travel Rewards Credit Card
When choosing your travel rewards credit card it’s important to take into consideration your personal goals and lifestyle habits; otherwise you might miss out on valuable perks that could have been available through another choice! Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
– Your Spending Habits: Are you someone who tends to spend more money on dining or shopping? Look for a credit card that offers bonus points or cashback options at these types of locations.
– Redemption Options: Do you prefer hotel stays over flights? Make sure the credit card allows you to redeem your points/miles towards hotels rather than just flights.
– Annual Fees: How much are you willing to pay upfront every year? Some cards offer great rewards programs but come with high annual fees.
– Sign-up Bonuses: Look for sign-up bonuses, which can give you a big boost in earning points/miles right off the bat.
Final Thoughts
With so many travel rewards credit cards on the market it can be challenging to know where to start. By researching different options and taking into consideration your personal goals and spending habits, you’ll be able to find the perfect card that works best for your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for more luxurious perks or just want an easy way to earn travel rewards, there’s a card out there that is perfect for you!