Traveling is one of life’s greatest joys, but it can also be one of the most expensive. That’s why savvy travelers turn to credit cards that offer travel rewards to help offset some of those costs. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know which credit card to choose. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve rounded up the top 5 credit cards for travel rewards.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a favorite among travel enthusiasts for good reason. This card offers an enticing sign-up bonus of 100,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. These points can be redeemed for up to $1,250 in travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Additionally, cardholders earn 2x points on travel and dining purchases and 1x point on all other purchases.
One of the standout features of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is its flexibility. Points can be transferred to several travel partners, including airlines and hotels, at a 1:1 ratio. This allows cardholders to maximize their rewards and book travel at a discounted rate. Other perks of the card include trip cancellation/interruption insurance, rental car insurance, and no foreign transaction fees.
2. American Express Gold Card
The American Express Gold Card is another top contender for travel rewards. With this card, new cardholders can earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 in the first six months. Cardholders also earn 4x points on dining at restaurants worldwide and on up to $25,000 per year at U.S. supermarkets, 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, and 1x point on all other purchases.
One of the key benefits of the American Express Gold Card is the $120 annual dining credit, which can be used at select restaurants and food delivery services. Cardholders also receive up to $120 in Uber Cash credits each year, as well as travel insurance and purchase protection. With its generous rewards and valuable perks, the American Express Gold Card is a solid choice for frequent travelers.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a popular choice for travelers looking for simplicity and flexibility. This card offers a sign-up bonus of 60,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months, which is equal to $600 in travel. Cardholders earn 2x miles on every purchase, making it easy to rack up rewards quickly.
One of the standout features of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is the ability to redeem miles for any travel purchase at a rate of 1 cent per mile. This means that cardholders can book flights, hotels, rental cars, and more with no blackout dates or restrictions. The card also comes with travel accident insurance, 24-hour travel assistance services, and no foreign transaction fees.
4. Citi Premier Card
The Citi Premier Card is a great option for travelers who want to earn rewards on a wide range of purchases. New cardholders can earn 60,000 ThankYou Points after spending $4,000 in the first three months, which is equal to $600 in gift cards or $750 in airfare through the ThankYou Travel Center. Cardholders earn 3x points on dining, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel, and hotels, and 1x point on all other purchases.
One of the key benefits of the Citi Premier Card is the ability to transfer points to a variety of airline partners at a 1:1 ratio. This allows cardholders to maximize the value of their points and book award flights at a discounted rate. The card also offers valuable travel perks such as travel insurance, trip cancellation/interruption protection, and no foreign transaction fees.
5. Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card is a top choice for travelers who frequent Marriott hotels. New cardholders can earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first three months, which is equal to up to 10 free nights at select hotels. Cardholders earn 6x points on eligible Marriott purchases, 2x points on all other purchases, and a free night award every year on their cardmember anniversary.
One of the standout features of the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card is the automatic Silver Elite status, which comes with perks such as late checkout, bonus points on stays, and more. Cardholders also receive 15 elite night credits each year, which can help them reach higher status levels faster. With its generous rewards and valuable perks, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card is a must-have for Marriott loyalists.
In conclusion, the top 5 credit cards for travel rewards offer a range of benefits and features to suit different travel styles and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a generous sign-up bonus, flexible redemption options, or valuable perks, there’s a credit card on this list that’s sure to fit the bill. So before you book your next trip, consider applying for one of these top credit cards and start earning rewards on your travel purchases.
