Best Credit Card for Travel: Top Picks for 2024

Looking for the best credit card for travel? Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your dream vacation, having the right travel credit card can help you earn rewards, enjoy travel perks, and make your trips more affordable. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.

That’s why we’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of our top picks for the best travel credit cards in 2024. Our team at Fortune Recommends™ has evaluated these cards based on rewards rates, intro bonuses, annual fees, and travel benefits to help you find the perfect card that aligns with your travel and spending habits.

Key Takeaways:

• Choosing the right travel credit card can help you earn free and discounted travel.
• Consider factors like rewards rates, intro bonuses, and annual fees when comparing travel credit cards.
• Our top picks for 2024 include the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, The Platinum Card® from American Express, UnitedSM Explorer Card, and more.
• Read the terms and conditions of each card to determine which one is the best fit for you.
• Safe travels!

Best Premium Travel Card: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is considered the best premium travel card for its rich rewards and travel perks. It offers a generous intro bonus of 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months. The card has a $395 annual fee, but it comes with an annual $300 travel credit and 10,000 bonus miles upon card anniversary. Cardholders also enjoy airport lounge access and various travel protections.

With the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, travelers can maximize their rewards and enjoy a seamless travel experience. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, this premium travel card offers unmatched value and convenience.

The intro bonus of 75,000 bonus miles is one of the highest among premium travel cards. It provides cardholders with a significant boost towards their next trip. Plus, the card’s annual travel credit of $300 helps offset the annual fee and enhances the overall value.

A standout feature of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the airport lounge access. Cardholders can relax and unwind in select airport lounges worldwide, enjoying amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, and private workspaces.

“The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a perfect blend of rewards and travel perks, making it the ideal choice for frequent travelers and luxury seekers.” – Travel Expert

In addition to its generous rewards and travel perks, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card provides various travel protections. From trip cancellation/interruption insurance to lost luggage reimbursement, cardholders can travel with peace of mind knowing they’re covered.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has established itself as one of the top-rated travel credit cards in the market. Its competitive rewards program, extensive travel benefits, and exceptional customer service make it a favorite among discerning travelers.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Highlights:

• Intro bonus of 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
• $395 annual fee with an annual $300 travel credit
• 10,000 bonus miles upon card anniversary
• Airport lounge access
• Travel protections such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance and lost luggage reimbursement

Best Flat-Rate Rewards Travel Card: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is considered the best flat-rate rewards travel card. It offers a consistent rewards rate on all purchases, making it a top choice for travelers looking to maximize their rewards. Cardholders earn 2X miles on every dollar spent, ensuring that every purchase contributes to their travel goals.

What sets this card apart is its additional earning potential on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. For these specific categories, cardholders earn an impressive 5X miles per dollar spent, giving them even more value and flexibility when planning their trips.

In addition to its competitive rewards program, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a range of travel benefits and perks. Cardholders can redeem their miles for travel expenses such as flights, hotel stays, and car rentals. Alternatively, they have the option to transfer their miles to various airline and hotel loyalty programs, providing even more possibilities for rewards redemption.

With its solid rewards earning potential and flexible redemption options, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a top-rated choice for frequent travelers seeking a flat-rate rewards travel card.

Best Mid-Level Travel Card: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is hailed as the best mid-level travel card in the market. With its outstanding rewards program and valuable travel benefits, it has garnered high ratings among travel enthusiasts.

Cardholders of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card can enjoy a generous intro bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first 3 months. This bonus can be a significant boost toward future travel expenses.

When it comes to earning points, this card doesn’t disappoint. Cardholders earn 2X points on travel and dining, making it an excellent choice for those who frequently dine out or travel. Additionally, every other purchase earns them 1X points, ensuring that they can accumulate points on their everyday spending as well.

One of the standout features of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is its valuable travel protections. Whether it’s trip cancellation insurance or baggage delay coverage, cardholders can travel with peace of mind, knowing that they are protected.

Moreover, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card provides access to Chase’s transfer partners, enabling cardholders to transfer their points to various airline and hotel loyalty programs. This feature enhances the flexibility of using points for travel, giving cardholders more options for redemption.

With a $95 annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers exceptional value considering the benefits and rewards it provides. It has proven to be a top choice for individuals looking for a mid-level travel card that offers excellent rewards and travel perks.

Best Travel Card for Lounge Access: The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express is recognized as the best travel card for lounge access. Cardholders enjoy complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, giving them a luxurious travel experience.

This premium travel card offers an array of exclusive benefits and perks that elevate the travel experience. With a $695 annual fee, cardholders gain access to a world-class airport lounge network, including renowned lounges like the Centurion® Lounge, Delta Sky Club®, and Priority Pass™ Select lounges.

Cardmembers can relax and unwind before their flights with amenities like gourmet food and beverage options, comfortable seating, spa services, and business facilities. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, the Platinum Card® provides a peaceful and rejuvenating environment to enhance your journey.

Aside from lounge access, the Platinum Card® from American Express comes with various travel benefits and consumer protections. These include travel statement credits, elite hotel status, airline fee credits, fine hotels and resorts program, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee credits, and more. Cardholders also have the flexibility to transfer Membership Rewards® Points to over 20 airline and hotel partners, further maximizing their travel rewards.

As a welcome offer, new cardmembers can earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 on eligible purchases within the first 6 months of card membership. This generous intro bonus adds value to the overall travel experience.

With its extensive lounge access network, exclusive benefits, and an attractive welcome offer, the Platinum Card® from American Express stands out as the best travel card for lounge access.

“The Platinum Card® from American Express is the ultimate travel companion, providing unparalleled lounge access, exceptional benefits, and rewards. With access to luxurious airport lounges worldwide, cardholders can truly experience the pinnacle of travel luxury.”

Best Travel Card for Airline Loyalists: UnitedSM Explorer Card

The UnitedSM Explorer Card is the perfect travel card for airline loyalists who frequently fly with United Airlines. With this card, you can earn valuable rewards and enjoy exclusive benefits that enhance your travel experience.

Cardholders earn 2X miles on United purchases, including flights, and also on dining and hotel accommodations booked directly through the hotel. This means you can accumulate miles quickly while doing the things you love.

One of the standout features of the UnitedSM Explorer Card is the $0 introductory annual fee for the first year (then $95). This gives you a chance to take advantage of the card’s benefits without paying an annual fee initially.

Additionally, the UnitedSM Explorer Card offers an impressive intro bonus of 60,000 miles when you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months. This bonus can be a great boost to your travel plans, helping you earn free flights or upgrades.

As a cardholder, you’ll enjoy additional perks such as free checked bags for the primary cardholder and one companion on United flights. This can save you hundreds of dollars on baggage fees and ensure a smoother travel experience.

The UnitedSM Explorer Card also offers expanded award availability on United flights, giving you more options to redeem your miles for flights. This flexibility allows you to make the most of your rewards and travel on your terms.

This card is a top choice for airline loyalists who want to maximize their rewards and enjoy exclusive travel benefits with United Airlines. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a casual traveler, the UnitedSM Explorer Card is designed to enhance your travel experience.

Card Benefits at a Glance:

• Earn 2X miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel accommodations booked directly through the hotel
• 60,000-mile intro bonus when you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95
• Free checked bags for the primary cardholder and one companion on United flights
• Expanded award availability on United flights
• Premier upgrades on award tickets (subject to availability)
• Priority boarding

With its generous rewards, valuable benefits, and airline loyalty perks, the UnitedSM Explorer Card is a top-rated travel credit card for airline loyalists.

Best Travel Card for Hotel Loyalists: IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is the perfect travel card for hotel loyalists who frequently stay at IHG hotels. With this card, you can earn 10X points per dollar spent at IHG hotels, allowing you to rack up rewards quickly. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, this card offers excellent benefits and perks that will enhance your hotel experience.

Not only do you earn 10X points on IHG hotel stays, but you also earn 2X points at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants. Plus, you’ll earn 1X point on all other purchases, ensuring that you earn rewards on your everyday spending.

One of the standout features of the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is the generous intro bonus of 150,000 points. This bonus can be a significant boost to your rewards balance, allowing you to redeem points for free hotel stays, upgrades, and more.

Another valuable benefit of this card is the free night certificate, which is awarded annually. This certificate can be used at any IHG hotel worldwide, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a luxurious accommodation without using your points.

Additionally, cardholders of the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card enjoy automatic Platinum elite status. This status provides a range of exclusive perks and benefits, including room upgrades, priority check-in, late checkout, and more. It’s a fantastic way to elevate your hotel experience and make your stay even more enjoyable.

While there is an $89 annual fee associated with this card, the benefits and rewards easily offset the cost for frequent travelers and hotel loyalists. The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is truly one of the best travel cards available for those who prioritize hotel stays and want to maximize their rewards.

Key Features:

• Earn 10X points per dollar at IHG hotels
• Earn 2X points at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants
• Earn 1X point on all other purchases
• Intro bonus of 150,000 points
• Free night certificate annually
• Automatic Platinum elite status
• $89 annual fee

Best $0 Annual Fee Travel Card: Bilt Mastercard

The Bilt Mastercard is the perfect choice for travelers who want to maximize their rewards without paying an annual fee. With this card, you can earn Bilt Rewards on your rent payments, making it an excellent option for individuals living in rental properties. In addition to that, the Bilt Mastercard offers bonus points on dining and travel expenses, allowing you to rack up rewards faster.

One of the standout features of the Bilt Mastercard is its wide range of redemption options. Cardholders have the flexibility to transfer their points to partner hotel and loyalty programs, providing even more value for their rewards. Whether you’re looking to book a hotel stay or redeem points for other travel expenses, the Bilt Mastercard has got you covered.

Although the Bilt Mastercard does not come with an introductory bonus, it offers ongoing rewards that can add up over time. And the best part? There’s no annual fee, so you can enjoy the benefits without any additional cost.

If you’re searching for a top-rated travel credit card that combines great rewards and no annual fee, look no further than the Bilt Mastercard.

Best 0% Intro APR Travel Card: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is the best 0% intro APR travel card for budget-conscious travelers. With a 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months, cardholders can take advantage of interest-free financing for their travel expenses. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to spread out the cost of their trips without incurring hefty interest charges.

Not only does the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card offer a competitive introductory APR, but it also rewards cardholders for their everyday spending. With 1.25X miles earned on all purchases, you can rack up rewards quickly and easily. These miles can then be redeemed for travel, allowing you to save money on flights, hotels, and more.

One of the standout features of this card is its lack of an annual fee. Unlike many other travel rewards cards, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card doesn’t charge cardholders an annual fee to enjoy its benefits. Coupled with the 0% intro APR, this makes it an attractive option for travelers looking to maximize their savings.

To summarize, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is the best choice for those seeking a 0% intro APR travel card with no annual fee. With its introductory APR, generous rewards program, and fee-free structure, it’s a top-rated travel credit card that offers both financial flexibility and rewards potential.

Best Travel Card for Earnings: U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is the best travel card for earnings. With this card, cardholders can maximize their rewards on everyday expenses and enjoy a range of benefits that make travel more rewarding.

Here are the key features of the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card:

• Earn 4X points on travel and purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations.
• Earn 2X points on groceries, dining, and streaming.
• Enjoy a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year (then $95).
• Receive an intro bonus of 50,000 points.

Cardholders can redeem their points for travel, gift cards, and more, allowing them to make the most of their earnings. Whether it’s booking a flight, filling up at the pump, or enjoying a meal at a favorite restaurant, the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card ensures that every purchase counts towards valuable rewards.

Experience the benefits of earning points while enjoying the convenience and flexibility of a top-rated travel credit card. Apply for the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card today and start earning rewards on your everyday spending.

Best Travel Card for Fair Credit: Credit One Wander

The Credit One Wander is the best travel card for fair credit. Cardholders can earn rewards on their everyday purchases and have the opportunity to build credit. The card does not have an annual fee specified, and it does not offer an intro bonus.

The Credit One Wander is the perfect travel card for individuals with fair credit who want to start their journey towards better financial health while still enjoying travel rewards. With this card, cardholders can earn rewards on their everyday purchases, making it easier to save up for their next travel adventure.

While fair credit may limit some credit card options, the Credit One Wander provides a viable solution for those looking to build credit and enjoy the perks of a travel card. This card allows cardholders to earn rewards on all their eligible purchases, making it a valuable companion for their daily expenses.

Although the specific details about the card’s annual fee are not mentioned, the absence of an annual fee can be an attractive feature for those looking to save on card costs. Additionally, the Credit One Wander does not offer an intro bonus, but the long-term rewards and the opportunity to build credit can be more valuable for fair credit cardholders.

With the Credit One Wander, cardholders can accumulate rewards while responsibly managing their credit usage. By making on-time payments and keeping their credit utilization low, cardholders can work towards improving their credit score over time.

While fair credit may still have room for improvement, the Credit One Wander offers a valuable solution for individuals looking to establish or rebuild their credit history. By using the card wisely and taking advantage of the rewards program, cardholders can maximize their travel benefits while working towards a brighter financial future.

Best Travel Card for Credit Building: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card is the perfect choice for individuals looking to build or rebuild their credit history while enjoying the benefits of a travel card. As a secured credit card, it offers a secure way to establish credit by requiring a security deposit, which also sets the credit limit.

This card stands out among other credit-building options due to its attractive rewards program. Cardholders earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, allowing them to earn rewards while demonstrating responsible credit usage. This cash back can be redeemed for travel expenses, making it a top choice for those looking to enhance their travel experiences.

With no annual fee specified, the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card offers great value and doesn’t require a significant financial commitment. It’s an excellent option for individuals who want to start their credit-building journey without incurring additional costs.

Key Features:

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
• Requires a security deposit for a secured credit limit
• No annual fee specified

By responsibly managing your credit with the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card, you can establish a positive credit history and work towards qualifying for premium travel cards in the future.

Best Travel Card for Students: Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students is the best travel card for students. With this card, students can earn 1.5X points on all their purchases, making it easy to accumulate rewards quickly. Whether it’s buying textbooks, dining out with friends, or booking flights for a spring break getaway, every purchase adds up to valuable travel points.

One of the standout features of this travel card is the flexibility it offers. Students can redeem their points for various travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars, and more. It’s a great way to offset the cost of travel and make those study abroad dreams a reality.

Another advantage of the Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students is its no annual fee policy. As a student on a tight budget, it’s essential to save money wherever possible, and this card allows you to do just that. Plus, it offers an introductory bonus of 25,000 points, giving you an extra boost when you start using the card.

Designed specifically for students, this travel card understands the unique needs and challenges of being a student. It’s a fantastic tool not only for earning rewards but also for building credit responsibly. By using the Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students and making timely payments, you can establish a positive credit history that will benefit you in the future.

So, if you’re a student with a thirst for adventure and a desire to see the world, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students is the perfect travel card for you. Start earning points today and embark on incredible travel experiences tomorrow!

What Makes Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students the Best Travel Card for Students?

Best Travel Card for Low Interest: First Tech Credit Union Choice Rewards World Mastercard®

The First Tech Credit Union Choice Rewards World Mastercard® stands out as the best travel card for low interest rates. With this card, you can enjoy the benefit of a low variable interest rate, saving you money on your travel expenses.

Cardholders earn 1X rewards points on all purchases, allowing you to accumulate points quickly as you make your everyday transactions. These rewards points can be redeemed for a wide range of options, including travel, merchandise, gift cards, and more. Whether you’re booking a flight, treating yourself to a new gadget, or purchasing gifts for your loved ones, the choice is yours.

What sets the First Tech Credit Union Choice Rewards World Mastercard® apart is its commitment to keeping costs low. This card does not have a specified annual fee, ensuring that you can enjoy the benefits without any additional expenses. With no annual fee to worry about, you can focus on maximizing your rewards and enjoying your travels.

If you’re searching for a top-rated travel credit card that offers low interest rates and flexible redemption options, the First Tech Credit Union Choice Rewards World Mastercard® is the perfect choice for you.

Note: The image above illustrates the benefits of the First Tech Credit Union Choice Rewards World Mastercard®, including low interest rates and flexible redemption options.

Best Travel Card for Students: Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students

When it comes to students looking for the best travel card, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students stands out as a top choice. This card not only helps students build their credit but also offers fantastic travel rewards.

With the Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students card, students have the opportunity to earn 1.5X points on every purchase they make. These points can be redeemed for various travel expenses, including flights, hotels, and rental cars, making it an ideal card for those dreaming of their next adventure.

What sets this card apart is that it is designed specifically for students, taking into account their unique needs and financial situations. There is no annual fee, providing students with a cost-effective option for their travel needs. Additionally, the card offers an introductory bonus of 25,000 points, giving students a head start on their rewards journey.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a study abroad experience, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students card ensures that students can make the most of their travels while building their credit profile.

Take a look at the table below to see a comparison of the top rated travel credit cards for students:

As shown in the table, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students card offers an excellent combination of benefits, rewards, and affordability, making it the best travel card for students. With no annual fee and a generous intro bonus, this card provides an excellent opportunity for students to explore the world and build their credit at the same time.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing the best credit card for travel, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Our top picks for 2024 offer a variety of benefits and rewards to enhance your travel experience.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card are great options for frequent flyers, with generous rewards rates and valuable travel perks. If you’re looking for a mid-level travel card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent choice, offering a substantial intro bonus and flexible redemption options.

For travelers who value lounge access, The Platinum Card® from American Express provides complimentary access to airport lounges worldwide. If you’re loyal to a specific airline or hotel, the UnitedSM Explorer Card and IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offer exclusive benefits for airline and hotel loyalists.

Remember to compare the different travel credit cards available, considering factors such as rewards rates, annual fees, and additional perks. By selecting the right travel credit card, you can maximize your rewards and enjoy a more rewarding travel experience.