Best Travel Credit Cards of 2024

Finding the one among best travel credit cards can transform your travel experiences, offering generous rewards and exclusive perks. In this article, we highlight the best travel credit cards for 2024.

FULL LIST: BEST TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers unlimited 2X miles on every purchase and 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Enjoy a generous welcome bonus, annual travel credit, and access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass™ lounges worldwide.

HOW TO APPLY

Pros:

• High earning rate on all purchases
• Extensive travel benefits
• No foreign transaction fees

Cons:

• High annual fee

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express is perfect for luxury travelers, offering 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel. Enjoy access to over 1,300 airport lounges and up to $200 in Uber credits annually.

HOW TO APPLY

Pros:

• Exceptional travel perks
• Extensive lounge access
• High points earning rate on travel

Cons:

• Very high annual fee

American Express® Gold Card

The American Express® Gold Card is ideal for dining and travel, offering 4X points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, and 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

HOW TO APPLY

Pros:

• High rewards on dining and groceries
• Versatile redemption options
• Generous welcome bonus

Cons:

• Annual fee applies

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® card offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases, 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, all with no annual fee.

HOW TO APPLY

Pros:

• No annual fee
• High earning rate on travel through Chase
• Flexible redemption options

Cons:

• Lower rewards rate on general purchases compared to some competitors

Bilt World Elite Mastercard®

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® earns rewards on rent payments without fees, plus 2X points on travel and 3X points on dining. Points can be transferred to travel partners.

HOW TO APPLY

Pros:

• No fees on rent payments
• Strong rewards on dining and travel
• Transferable points to travel partners

Cons:

• Limited high-reward categories

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers 3X points on travel and dining, a $300 annual travel credit, and access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

HOW TO APPLY

Pros:

• High rewards rate on travel and dining
• Extensive travel benefits and credits
• Enhanced points value through Chase Ultimate Rewards®

Cons:

• High annual fee

How to Choose The One Among The Best Travel Credit Cards

Selecting the right travel credit card depends on several factors, including your travel habits, spending patterns, and the benefits you prioritize. Here are some tips to help you make the best choice:

1. Identify Your Travel Goals: Determine whether you want to earn miles, points, or cash back. Some cards offer better rewards for specific types of travel expenses like airfare, hotels, or dining.
2. Consider the Annual Fee: High-end travel credit cards often come with hefty annual fees but offer substantial perks in return. Make sure the benefits outweigh the cost.
3. Evaluate the Rewards Program: Look at how many points or miles you earn per dollar spent and the redemption options available. Some cards offer flexible points that can be transferred to travel partners.
4. Check for Travel Perks: Benefits like airport lounge access, travel credits, and no foreign transaction fees can add significant value to your card.
5. Review the Sign-Up Bonus: Many travel cards offer generous sign-up bonuses. Ensure you can meet the spending requirement to earn the bonus.
6. Understand the Redemption Options: Some cards provide better value when points are redeemed through their own travel portals or transferred to partner programs.

This way, carefully considering these factors, you can select a travel credit card that maximizes your rewards and enhances your travel experiences.