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AAdvantage ® Aviator ® Red World Elite Mastercard ®

Earn 60,000 AAdvantage ® bonus miles 2

First checked bag free 2, enjoy preferred boarding 2.

annual fee 1

Rewards & Benefits

Earn 60,000 aadvantage ® bonus miles.

after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days. 2

Earn 1X AAdvantage ®  miles

for every $1 spent on all other purchases. 2

Anniversary Companion Certificate

Each anniversary year: earn a Companion Certificate good for 1 guest at $99 (plus taxes and fees) if you spend $20,000 on purchases and your account remains open for 45 days after your anniversary date. 2

First checked bag free

on domestic American Airlines itineraries for the primary cardmember and up to 4 companions traveling with you on the same reservation. 2

No foreign transaction fees

on international purchases. 1

Travel Coverage

Eligible for Travel Accident Insurance, Trip Cancellation and Interruption coverage, Baggage Delay Insurance, and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver. 3

Introductory APR on balance transfers

0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening. After that, a variable APR will apply, 21.24% to 29.99%, based on your creditworthiness and other factors. There is a fee for balance transfers. 1

Earn 2X AAdvantage ® miles

for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases. 2

Get up to $25 back as statement credits on inflight Wi-Fi purchases

every anniversary year on American Airlines operated flights. 2

Inflight savings

Receive 25% inflight savings as statement credits on food and beverages when you use your card on American Airlines operated flights. 2

Preferred boarding

for the primary cardmember and up to 4 companions on their reservation for all American Airlines operated flights. 2

Travel and Lifestyle Services

Access a suite of benefits, amenities and upgrades, preferential treatment and premium travel offers from best-in-class travel companies. 3

$0 Fraud Liability protection

means you're not responsible for charges you did not authorize.

AAdvantage ® Benefits

Aadvantage ® benefit.

The new AAdvantage ® program now has only one way to earn status — Loyalty Points. Earning one eligible AAdvantage ® mile will earn you one Loyalty Point. Learn more at aa.com/loyaltypoints 4

Hotels, cars and more 

Redeem your miles for hotel stays, rental cars, vacation packages and other retail products. 4

Earn miles faster with SimplyMiles ™

Join and earn miles faster on purchases by activating offers and shopping your favorite brands in store and online. 4

Earn more miles eShopping ™

Sign up and shop at 1,200+ online stores and earn miles on every dollar you spend in addition to those earned with your credit card. 4

Earn miles with AAdvantage Dining SM

Join and earn miles faster on purchases when you dine at local restaurants. 4

Interest Rates and Charges Summary

Fee summary.

See Terms and Conditions for a complete listing of rates and fees

Important Information

Offer subject to credit approval. This offer is available through this advertisement and may not be accessible elsewhere. Other offers may be available. For complete pricing and other details, please see the Terms and Conditions .

This offer is valid for approved applicants. Any bonus associated with this offer may only be earned once. You may not be eligible for this offer if you currently have or previously had an account with us in this program. In addition, you may not be eligible for this offer if, at any time during our relationship with you, we have cause, as determined by us in our sole discretion, to suspect that the account is being obtained or will be used for abusive or gaming activity (such as, but not limited to, obtaining or using the account to maximize rewards earned in a manner that is not consistent with typical consumer activity and/or multiple credit card account applications/openings). Please see the About This Offer section of the  Terms and Conditions  for important information.

Annual fee is $99. 0% introductory APR on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening is applicable for the first 15 billing cycles that immediately follow each balance transfer. This introductory APR offer does not apply to purchases and cash advances. For new and outstanding balance transfers after the introductory period and all purchases, the variable APR is 21.24% to 29.99%, depending upon our review of your application, your credit history at account opening, and other factors. The variable APR for cash advances is 29.99%. The APRs on your account will vary with the market based on the Prime Rate and are subject to change. The minimum monthly interest charge will be $0.50. Balance transfer fee: 5% (min. $5). Cash advance fee: 5% (min. $10). Foreign transaction fee 0%. See  Terms and Conditions  for updated and more information about the terms of this offer, including the "About the Variable APRs on Your Account" section for the current Prime Rate information.

Conditions and limitations apply. Please refer to the Introductory Bonus Offer section within the Terms and Conditions for additional information about this introductory offer. Please refer to the Reward Rules within the Terms and Conditions for additional information about the rewards program. Anniversary Companion Certificate may not be achievable based on the assigned credit line and ability to maintain that credit line.

Restrictions, limitations and exclusions apply. Upon account approval, we will send you a Guide to Benefits which includes a full explanation of coverages and details regarding specific time limits, eligibility and documentation requirements.

Benefit provided by American Airlines. Conditions and limitations apply. Visit aa.com/loyaltypoints  for complete details.

The AAdvantage ®  Aviator ®  Red World Elite Mastercard ® is issued by Barclays Bank Delaware pursuant to a license from Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard, World Mastercard, World Elite Mastercard, and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.

American Airlines reserves the right to change the AAdvantage ®  program and its terms and conditions at any time without notice, and to end the AAdvantage ® program with six months' notice. Any such changes may affect your ability to use the awards or mileage credits that you have accumulated. Unless specified, AAdvantage ®  miles earned through this promotion/offer do not count toward elite-status qualification or AAdvantage ®  Million Miler SM status. American Airlines is not responsible for products or services offered by other participating companies. For complete details about the AAdvantage ® program, visit aa.com/aadvantage .

© 2024 Barclays Bank Delaware, PO Box 8801, Wilmington, DE 19801, Member FDIC.

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16 Best Travel Credit Cards of September 2024

The best travel credit card is one that brings your next trip a little closer every time you use it. Purchases earn points or miles you can use to pay for travel. If you're loyal to a specific airline or hotel chain, consider one of that company's branded travel credit cards. Otherwise, check out our picks for general-purpose travel cards that give you flexible travel rewards without the restrictions and blackout dates of branded cards.

400+ credit cards reviewed by our team of experts ( See our top picks )

80+ years of combined experience covering credit cards and personal finance

27,000+ hours spent researching and reviewing financial products in the last 12 months

Objective comprehensive ratings rubrics ( Methodology )

NerdWallet's credit cards content, including ratings and recommendations, is overseen by a team of writers and editors who specialize in credit cards. Their work has appeared in The Associated Press, USA Today, The New York Times, MarketWatch, MSN, NBC's "Today," ABC's "Good Morning America" and many other national, regional and local media outlets. Each writer and editor follows NerdWallet's strict guidelines for editorial integrity .

Show summary

NerdWallet's Best Travel Credit Cards of September 2024

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for Max flexibility + big bonus

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for Flat-rate rewards

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for Travel portal benefits

Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best for Cash back for travel bookings

American Express® Gold Card : Best for Big rewards on everyday spending

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for Bonus rewards + no annual fee

The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for Luxury travel perks

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for Business travelers

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card : Best for Triple points on multiple categories

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card - Miles Boost : Best for Flat-rate rewards + no annual fee

Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for Bonus rewards + high-end perks

World of Hyatt Credit Card : Best for Best hotel card

Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card : Best for Travel rewards for rent payments

United℠ Explorer Card : Best for Best airline card

PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card : Best for Credit union benefits

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best for Booking directly with airlines/hotels

Best Travel Credit Cards

Find the right credit card for you..

Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

Max flexibility + big bonus

Flat-rate rewards, travel portal benefits, cash back for travel bookings, big rewards on everyday spending, bonus rewards + no annual fee, luxury travel perks, business travelers, triple points on multiple categories, flat-rate rewards + no annual fee, bonus rewards + high-end perks, best hotel card, travel rewards for rent payments, best airline card, credit union benefits, booking directly with airlines/hotels, full list of editorial picks: best travel credit cards.

Before applying, confirm details on the issuer’s website.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Our pick for: Flat-rate rewards

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is probably the best-known general-purpose travel credit card, thanks to its ubiquitous advertising. You earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel and 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed at a value of 1 cent apiece for any travel purchase, without the blackout dates and other restrictions of branded hotel and airline cards. The card offers a great sign-up bonus and other worthwhile perks ( see rates and fees ). Read our review.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card - Miles Boost

Our pick for: Flat-rate rewards + no annual fee

With the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card - Miles Boost , you don't pay an annual fee, but you also don't get rewards as rich as those on the regular Venture card ( see rates and fees ). Still, the bonus offer makes this a solid card for starting out with travel rewards. Read our review.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Our pick for: Bonus rewards + high-end perks

The high annual fee on the Chase Sapphire Reserve® gives many potential applicants pause, but frequent travelers should be able to wring enough value out of this card to more than make up for the cost. Cardholders get bonus rewards (up to 10X) on dining and travel, a fat bonus offer, annual travel credits, airport lounge access, and a 50% boost in point value when redeeming points for travel booked through Chase. Points can also be transferred to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. Read our review.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Our pick for: Max flexibility + big bonus

For a reasonable annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earns bonus rewards (up to 5X) on travel, dining, select streaming services, and select online grocery purchases. Points are worth 25% more when you redeem them for travel booked through Chase, or you can transfer them to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. The sign-up bonus is stellar, too. Read our review.

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

Our pick for: Booking directly with airlines/hotels

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card stands out among general-purpose travel cards because it pays its highest rewards rates on travel bookings made directly with airlines and hotels, rather than requiring you to go through the issuer's travel agency, where prices might not be competitive. The points are flexible, you get a good bonus offer, and the card comes with a few other nice perks. Read our review.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Our pick for: Bonus rewards + no annual fee

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card offers so much value, it's hard to believe there's no annual fee. Start with a great bonus offer, then earn extra rewards in a host of common spending categories — restaurants, gas stations, transit, travel, streaming and more. Read our review.

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

Our pick for: Triple points on everyday categories

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card earns bonus points on select travel, supermarkets, dining, gas stations and EV stations. There's a solid sign-up bonus as well. Read our review.

U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

Our pick for: Road trips

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is one of the most generous cards on the market if you're taking to the skies or the road, thanks to the quadruple points it earns on travel and purchases at gas stations and EV charging stations. It's also a solid card for everyday expenses like groceries, dining and streaming, and it comes with ongoing credits that can offset its annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $95 . Read our review .

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Our pick for: Travel portal benefits

Capital One's premium travel credit card can deliver terrific benefits — provided you're willing to do your travel spending through the issuer's online booking portal. That's where you'll earn the highest rewards rates plus credits that can make back the bulk of your annual fee ( see rates and fees ). Read our review.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Our pick for: Cash back for travel bookings

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® was already a fine card when it offered 1.5% cash back on all purchases. Now it's even better, with bonus rewards on travel booked through Chase, as well as at restaurants and drugstores. On top of all that, new cardholders get a 0% introductory APR period and the opportunity to earn a sweet bonus. Read our review.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Our pick for: Luxury travel perks

The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a hefty annual fee, but travelers who like to go in style (and aren't afraid to pay for comfort) can more than get their money's worth. Enjoy extensive airport lounge access, hundreds of dollars a year in travel and shopping credits, hotel benefits and more. That's not even getting into the high rewards rate on eligible travel purchases and the rich welcome offer for new cardholders. Read our review.

American Express® Gold Card

Our pick for: Big rewards on everyday spending

The American Express® Gold Card can earn you a pile of points from everyday spending, with generous rewards at U.S. supermarkets, at restaurants and on certain flights booked through amextravel.com. Other benefits include hundreds of dollars a year in available dining and travel credits and a solid welcome offer for new cardholders. There's an annual fee, though, and a pretty substantial one, so it's not for smaller spenders. Read our review.

Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card

Our pick for: Travel rewards on rent payments

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® Credit Card stands out by offering credit card rewards on rent payments without incurring an additional transaction fee. The ability to earn rewards on what for many people is their single biggest monthly expense makes this card worth a look for any renter. You also get bonus points on dining and travel when you make at least five transactions on the card each statement period, and redemption options include point transfers to partner hotel and loyalty programs. Read our review.

PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card

Our pick for: Credit union rewards

With premium perks for a $95 annual fee (which can be waived in some cases), jet-setters will get a lot of value from the PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card . It also offers a generous rewards rate on travel purchases and a decent flat rate on everything else. Plus, you’ll get travel credits and a Priority Pass membership that offers airport lounge access for $32 per visit. Read our review.

United℠ Explorer Card

Our pick for: B est airline card

The United℠ Explorer Card earns bonus rewards not only on spending with United Airlines but also at restaurants and on eligible hotel stays. And the perks are outstanding for a basic airline card — a free checked bag, priority boarding, lounge passes and more. Read our review.

» Not a United frequent flyer? See our best airline cards for other options

World of Hyatt Credit Card

Our pick for: Best hotel card

Hyatt isn't as big as its competitors, but World of Hyatt Credit Card is worth a look for anyone who spends a lot of time on the road. You can earn a lot of points even on non-Hyatt spending, and those points have a high value compared with rival programs. There's a great sign-up bonus, free nights, automatic elite status and more. Read our review.

» Not a Hyatt customer? See our best hotel cards for other options.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Our pick for: Business travelers

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card starts you off with one of the biggest sign-up bonuses of any credit card anywhere: Earn 90,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. You also get bonus rewards on travel expenses and common business spending categories, like advertising, shipping and internet, cable and phone service. Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel booked through Chase, or you can transfer them to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. Learn more and apply .

OTHER RESOURCES

How travel rewards work.

Modern-day adventurers and once-a-year vacationers alike love the idea of earning rewards toward their next big trip. According to a NerdWallet study , 68% of American adults say they have a credit card that earns travel rewards.

With a travel rewards credit card, you earn points or miles every time you use the card, but you can often earn more points per dollar in select categories. Some top travel credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , offer bonus points on any travel spending, while the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card grants bonus points when you use the card at Marriott hotels, grocery stores, restaurants or gas stations.

Not all points and miles earned on travel rewards credit cards are the same:

General-purpose travel credit cards — including the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , the American Express® Gold Card and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card — give you rewards that can be used like cash to pay for travel or that can be exchanged for points in airline or hotel loyalty programs. With their flexible rewards, general-purpose options are usually the best travel credit cards for those who don't stick to a single airline or hotel chain.

Airline- and hotel-specific cards — such as the United℠ Explorer Card and the Hilton Honors American Express Card — give points and miles that can be used only with the brand on the card. (Although it's possible in some cases to transfer hotel points to airlines, we recommend against it because you get a poor value.) These so-called co-branded cards are usually the best travel credit cards for those who always fly one particular airline or stay with one hotel group.

How do we value points and miles? With the rewards earned on general travel cards, it's simple: They have a fixed value, usually between 1 and 1.5 cents per point, and you can spend them like cash. With airline miles and hotel points, finding the true value is more difficult. How much value you get depends on how you redeem them.

To better understand what miles are worth, NerdWallet researched the cash prices and reward-redemption values for hundreds of flights. Our results:

Keep in mind that the airline values are based on main cabin economy tickets and exclude premium cabin redemptions. See our valuations page for business class valuations and details about our methodology.

Our valuations are different from many others you may find. That’s because we looked at the average value of a point based on reasonable price searches that anyone can perform, not a maximized value that only travel rewards experts can expect to reach.

You should therefore use these values as a baseline for your own redemptions. If you can redeem your points for the values listed on our valuations page, you are doing well. Of course, if you are able to get higher value out of your miles, that’s even better.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TRAVEL CREDIT CARD

There are scores of travel rewards cards to choose from. The best travel credit card for you has as much to do with you as with the card. How often you travel, how much flexibility you want, how much you value airline or hotel perks — these are all things to take into account when deciding on a travel card. Our article on how to choose a travel credit card recommends that you prioritize:

Rewards you will actually use (points and miles are only as good as your ability to redeem them for travel).

A high earning rate (how much value you get in rewards for every dollar spent on the card).

A sign-up bonus (a windfall of points for meeting a spending requirement in your first few months).

Even with these goals in mind, there are all kinds of considerations that will influence your decision on a travel rewards credit card.

Travel cards are for travelers

Travel cards vs. cash-back cards.

The very first question to ask yourself when choosing a travel credit card is: Should I get a travel card at all? Travel credit cards are best for frequent travelers, who are more likely to get enough value from rewards and perks to make up for the annual fees that the best travel credit cards charge. (Some travel cards charge no annual fee, but they tend to offer lesser rewards than full-fee cards.) A NerdWallet study found that those who travel only occasionally — say, once a year — will probably get greater overall rewards from cash-back credit cards , most of which charge no annual fee, than from a travel card.

Flexibility and perks: A trade-off

Co-branded cards vs. general travel cards.

Travel credit cards fall into two basic categories: co-branded cards and general travel cards.

Co-branded cards carry the name of an airline or hotel group, such as the United℠ Explorer Card or the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card . The rewards you earn are redeemable only with that particular brand, which can limit your flexibility, sometimes sharply. For example, if your credit card's co-branded airline partner doesn't have any award seats available on the flight you want on the day you want, you're out of luck. On the other hand, co-branded cards commonly offer airline- or hotel-specific perks that general travel cards can't match.

General travel cards aren't tied to a specific airline or hotel, so they offer much greater flexibility. Well-known general travel cards include the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card . Rewards on general travel cards come as points (sometimes called "miles" but they're really points) that you can redeem for any travel expense. You're not locked into using a single airline or hotel, but you also won't enjoy the perks of a co-branded card.

Evaluating general travel credit cards

What you get with a general travel card.

The credit cards featured at the top of this page are general travel cards. They're issued by a bank (such as Chase or Capital One), carry only that bank's name, and aren't tied to any single airline or hotel group. With these cards, you earn points on every purchase — usually 1 to 2 points per dollar spent, sometimes with additional points in certain categories.

Issuers of general travel cards typically entice new applicants with big sign-up bonuses (also known as "welcome offers") — tens of thousands of miles that you can earn by spending a certain amount of money on the card in your first few months.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best credit card sign-up offers

What do you do with those points? Depending on the card, you may have several ways to redeem them:

Booking travel. With this option, your points pay for travel booked through the issuer's website, using a utility similar to Orbitz or Expedia. For example, if points were worth 1 cent apiece when redeemed this way, you could book a $400 flight on the issuer's portal and pay for it with 40,000 points

Statement credit. This lets you essentially erase travel purchases by using your points for credit on your statement. You make travel arrangements however you want (directly with an airline or hotel, through a travel agency, etc.) and charge it to your card. Once the charge shows up on your account, you apply the necessary points and eliminate the cost.

Transferring to partners. The card issuer may allow you to transfer your points to loyalty programs for airlines or hotel chains, turning your general card into something like a co-branded card (although you don't get the perks of a co-brand).

Cash back, gift cards or merchandise. If you don't plan to travel, you can burn off your rewards with these options, although you'll often get a lower value per point.

Airline and hotel cards sharply limit your choice, but they make up for it with perks that only they can offer, like free checked bags or room upgrades. General travel cards, on the other hand, offer maximum flexibility but can't provide the same kinds of perks, because the banks that issue them don't operate the airlines or hotels. Still, there are some noteworthy perks on general travel cards, including:

Travel credit. This is automatic reimbursement for travel-related spending. Some top travel credit cards offer hundreds of dollars a year in travel credit.

Trusted traveler reimbursement. More and more travel credit cards are covering the application fee for TSA Precheck and Global Entry, programs that allow you to move through airport security and customs more quickly.

Airport lounge access. Hundreds of lounges worldwide operate separately from airlines under such networks as Priority Pass and Airspace, and several general travel cards offer access to these lounges.

Points programs

Every major card issuer has at least one travel card with a points program. American Express calls its program Membership Rewards, while Chase has Ultimate Rewards® and Citi pays in ThankYou points. Wells Fargo has Wells Fargo Rewards, and U.S. Bank has FlexPerks. Bank of America® travel cards offer points without a fancy name. Travel cards from Capital One, Barclays and Discover all call their points "miles."

These programs differ in how much their points are worth and how you can use them. Some offer the full range of redemption options, including transfers to loyalty programs. Others let you use them only to book travel or get statement credit.

» MORE: Travel loyalty program reviews

Evaluating airline credit cards

What you get with an airline credit card.

Airline credit cards earn "miles" with each purchase. You typically get 1 mile per dollar spent, with a higher rate (2 or more miles per dollar) on purchases with the airline itself. (Some airline cards have also begun offering extra miles for purchases in additional categories, such as restaurants or car rental agencies.) These miles go into the same frequent-flyer account as the ones you earn by flying the airline, and you can redeem them for free flights with the airline or its alliance partners.

Co-branded airline cards typically offer sign-up bonuses (or welcome offers). But what really sets them apart are the perks they give you. With some cards, for example, the checked-bag benefit alone can make up for the annual fee after a single roundtrip by a couple. Common perks of airline cards include:

Free checked bags. This commonly applies to the first checked bag for you and at least one companion on your reservation. Some cards extend this perk to more people, and higher-end cards (with higher annual fees) may even let you check two bags apiece for free.

Priority boarding. Holders of co-branded airline credit cards often get to board the plane early — after the airline's elite-status frequent flyers but before the general population. This gives you time to settle in and gives you a leg up on claiming that coveted overhead bin space.

In-flight discounts or freebies. You might get, say, 25% off the cost of food and beverages during the flight, or free Wi-Fi.

Airport lounge access. High-end cards often include a membership to the airline's airport lounges, where you can get away from the frenzy in the terminal and enjoy a complimentary snack. Some less-expensive airline cards give you only limited or discounted lounge access; others give you none at all.

Companion fares. This perk lets you bring someone with you for a lower cost when you buy a ticket at full price.

A boost toward elite status. Miles earned with a credit card, as opposed to those earned from actually flying on the airline, usually do not count toward earning elite status in an airline's frequent-flyer program. However, carrying an airline's high-end card might automatically qualify you for a higher tier within the program.

The biggest U.S. airlines — American, United and Delta — offer an array of credit cards. Each airline has a no-annual-fee card that earns miles on purchases but provides little in the way of perks (no free bags or priority boarding). Each has a high-end card with an annual fee in the neighborhood of $450 that offers lounge access and sumptuous perks. And each has a "middle-class" card with a fee of around $100 and solid ongoing perks. Southwest offers three credit cards with varying fees; smaller carriers may just have a single card.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best airline credit cards

Choosing an airline

Which airline card you get depends in large part on what airline you fly, and that's heavily influenced by where you live. Alaska Airlines, for example, has an outstanding credit card, but the airline's routes are concentrated primarily on the West Coast. So it's not a great option for those who live in, say, Buffalo, New York, or Montgomery, Alabama.

If your local airport is dominated by a single airline, then you're probably flying that carrier most (or all) of the time by default. Delta, for example, is the 800-pound gorilla at Minneapolis-St. Paul and Salt Lake City. United has the bulk of the traffic at Newark and Washington Dulles. American calls the shots at Charlotte and Dallas-Fort Worth. That airline's credit card may be your only realistic option. If you're in a large or midsize market with frequent service from multiple airlines, you have more choice.

» MORE: How to choose an airline credit card

Evaluating hotel credit cards

What you get with a hotel card.

Hotel credit cards earn points with each purchase. As with airline cards, you typically get more points per dollar for purchases from the co-brand partner, and some cards also give bonus points in additional categories. (Hotel cards tend to give you a greater number of points overall than airline cards, but each individual point is generally worth less than a typical airline mile.) Similar to the airline model, the points you earn with the card go into the same loyalty account as the points you earn from actually staying at a hotel. You redeem your points for free stays.

Hotel cards usually offer a sign-up bonus, but like airline cards, they really make their bones with the ongoing perks. Common perks on hotel cards include:

Free nights. Several cards offer this perk, which can make up for the card's annual fee. You may get a free night automatically every year, or you may unlock it by spending a certain amount within a year. In the latter case, it comes on top of the points you earn for your spending.

Upgrades and freebies. Cardholders may qualify for automatic room upgrades when available, or free or discounted amenities such as meals or spa packages.

Early check-in/late check-out. No one likes having to cool their heels in the hotel lobby waiting for 3 o'clock to check in. And no one likes have to vacate their room by 11 a.m. when their flight doesn't leave till evening.

Accelerated elite status. Some hotel cards automatically bump you up a level in their loyalty program just for being a cardholder.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best hotel credit cards

Choosing a hotel group

If you decide to go the hotel-card route, you'll need to decide which hotel group gets your business. Hotels aren't as market-concentrated as airlines, so if your travels take you mostly to metropolitan areas, you'll have a decent amount of choice. Keep in mind that even though there are dozens of nationally recognizable hotel brands, ranging from budget inns to luxury resorts, many of them are just units in a larger hotel company, and that company's card can unlock benefits across the group.

Marriott, for example, includes not only its namesake properties but nearly 30 other brands, including Courtyard, Fairfield, Renaissance, Residence Inn, Ritz-Carlton, Sheraton and Westin. The Hilton family includes DoubleTree, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn and Waldorf-Astoria. InterContinental includes Holiday Inn, Candlewood, Staybridge and Crowne Plaza. Wyndham and Choice have more than 15 mid-tier and budget-oriented brands between them.

HOW TO COMPARE TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS

No travel rewards credit card is going to have everything you want. You're going to be disappointed if you expect to find a high rewards rate, a generous sign-up bonus, top-notch perks and no annual fee. Each card delivers value through a different combination of features; it's up to you to compare cards based on the following features and choose the best travel credit card for your needs and preferences.

Most of the best travel cards charge an annual fee. Fees in the range of $90 to $100 are standard for travel cards. Premium cards with extensive perks will have fees of $450 or more. Weigh the value of the rewards and perks you'll get to make sure they'll make up for the fee.

Can you find good cards without an annual fee? Absolutely! There are no-fee options on our list of the best travel credit cards, and we've rounded up more here . Just be aware that if you go with a no-fee travel card, you'll earn rewards at a lower rate, your sign-up bonus will be smaller, and you won't get as many (if any) perks.

Rewards rate

Rewards can be thought of in terms of "earn rate" and "burn rate".

The earn rate is how many points or miles you receive per dollar spent. Some general travel cards offer flat-rate rewards, meaning you get the same rate on all purchases, all the time — 2 miles per dollar, for example, or 1.5 points per dollar. Others, including most co-branded cards, offer a base rate of maybe 1 point per dollar and then pay a higher rate in certain categories, such as airline tickets, hotel stays, general travel expenses or restaurant meals.

The burn rate is the value you get for those points or miles when you redeem them. The industry average is about 1 cent per point or mile. Some cards, particularly hotel cards, have lower value per point on the "burn" side but give you more points per dollar on the earning side.

When comparing rewards rates, don't just look at the numbers. Look at the categories to which those numbers apply, and find a card that matches your spending patterns. Getting 5 points per dollar seems great — but if those 5X points come only on purchases at, say, office supply stores, and you don't spend money on office supplies, then you're getting lousy value.

Sign-up bonus

Travel cards tend to have the biggest sign-up bonuses — tens of thousands of points that you earn by hitting a certain amount of spending. But there's more to consider when comparing sign-up bonuses than just how many points or miles you earn. You must also take into account how much you have to spend to earn the bonus. While cash-back credit cards often require just $500 to $1,000 in spending over three months to unlock a bonus, travel cards commonly have thresholds of $3,000 to $5,000.

Never spend money you don't have just to earn a sign-up bonus. Carrying $3,000 in debt for a year in order to earn a $500 bonus doesn't make economic sense — the interest you'll pay could easily wipe out the value of the bonus.

Finally, keep in mind that the biggest bonuses will come on cards with annual fees.

Foreign transaction fees

A good travel card will not charge a foreign transaction fee. These fees are surcharges on purchases made outside the U.S. The industry standard is about 3%, which is enough to wipe out most if not all of the rewards you earn on a purchase. If you never leave the U.S., then this isn't much of a concern, but anyone who travels abroad should bring a no-foreign-transaction-fee card with them.

Some issuers don't charge foreign transaction fees on any of their cards. Others charge them on some cards but not all.

International acceptance

Not all travel credit cards are great companions for international travel. While Visa and Mastercard are good pretty much worldwide, you may encounter limited acceptance for American Express and, especially, Discover, depending on the destination. This doesn't mean world travelers should dismiss AmEx and Discover. Just know that if you take one of these cards with you overseas, you'd be smart to bring along a backup in case you run into acceptance problems. (Having a backup card is good advice within the U.S., too, really.)

Travel protections

Consider which travel protections — car rental insurance , trip cancellation coverage , lost baggage protection — are important to you.

"Rewards" are what you get for using a credit card — the points earned with each transaction and the bonuses you unlock with your spending. "Perks" are goodies that you get just for carrying the card. There's a very close correlation between the annual fee on a card and the perks you get for carrying it. Cards with no annual fee are all about rewards and go very light on perks. Premium cards with annual fees of $450 or more are laden with perks (although sometimes their rewards aren't too special). Midtier cards (in the $100 range) tend to have solid rewards and a handful of high-value perks.

Assuming you take advantage of them, the perks often make up for the annual fee on a card quite easily. This is especially true with co-branded cards. Free checked bags can pay for an airline card several times over, and a free night is usually worth more than the fee on a hotel card. When comparing the perks of various cards, be realistic about which ones you will and won't use. Sure, that card may entitle you to a free spa package the next time you're at a five-star hotel, but how often do you stay at five-star hotels?

SHOULD YOU GET A TRAVEL CARD? PROS AND CONS

Pros: why it's worth getting a travel card.

The sign-up bonus gives you a big head-start on travel. Bonuses on the best travel credit cards typically run $500 or more — enough for a roundtrip ticket in many instances.

Perks make travel less expensive and more relaxing. You won't have to worry about cramming a week's worth of clothes into a carry-on if your travel credit card gives you a free checked bag (or automatically reimburses you for the bag fee). Hate the crush of travelers in the terminal? Escape to the airport lounge. Renting a car? Use a travel card that provides primary rental car insurance.

Rewards get you closer to your next trip with every purchase. Spending money on the mundane activities of daily life has a silver lining when you know that every $1,000 you spend will knock $10 or $20 off the cost of that future beach vacation or trip home to see Mom and Dad.

No foreign transaction fee can mean big savings. Take just any old credit card with you on vacation outside the U.S., and $1,000 worth of purchases can cost you $30 off the top due to the foreign transaction surcharge. Good travel cards don't charge this fee.

"Double dipping" gives you more points on travel purchases. Buy a plane ticket or book a hotel room, and you'll earn loyalty points or miles regardless of how you pay. Use the right credit card, though, and you'll earn even more points and miles on top of those.

Strategic redemption can multiply your value. With cash-back credit cards, 1 cent is worth 1 cent, and that's just how it goes. The points and miles on many travel credit cards have variable value based on how you redeem them — booking travel with them vs. transferring them to a partner, booking domestic vs. international flights and economy vs. business class, staying at budget hotels vs. high-end resorts, and so on.

Cons: Why a travel card might not be for you

The best cards charge annual fees. In many cases, the value you get from a credit card more than makes up for the annual fee. But some people are dead set against paying a fee under any circumstances. If that's you, your options in travel cards will be sharply limited, and you won't get the perks that provide a big portion of the value on many cards.

Sign-up bonus spending requirements can be steep. A bonus worth $500, $600 or $700 is attractive, but only if you can afford to earn it with spending you were going to do anyway. If you have to amass thousands of dollars in debt and then pay interest on it, it's not worth it.

Travel cards aren't ideal for infrequent travelers. In the first year with a travel card, you're probably going to come out ahead: You can earn a big sign-up bonus, and several popular cards waive the first year's annual fee, too. In subsequent years, though, you'll break even on that fee only if you use the card enough to make up for it (with the rewards you earn and redeem and the perks you use). Infrequent travelers are more likely to get more total rewards from a cash-back card with no annual fee.

Cash back is simpler and more flexible. Some travel cards allow you to redeem your rewards only for travel. Others give you poor value unless you redeem for travel. Still others have complicated redemption options, making it hard to get the most out of your rewards. With cash-back credit cards, you can use your rewards on anything, you know exactly how much your rewards are worth, and redemption is usually simple.

Rewards cards tend to charge higher interest rates. If you regularly carry a balance from month to month, a travel credit card — or any rewards credit card — probably isn't your best choice. The interest you pay is eating up the value of your rewards. You're better off with a low-interest card that reduces the cost of carrying debt.

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR TRAVEL CARD

Maximize your rewards with the following tips:

Plan your credit card application around a big purchase to earn the sign-up bonus.

Seize every opportunity to pick up the tab, especially if your travel credit card pays bonus rewards on dining; your friends can pay you back while you collect rewards.

Redeem rewards for travel instead of gift cards, merchandise or (in most cases) cash back to get the best value.

Join the loyalty program associated with a co-branded card — a frequent-flyer or frequent-guest program.

Shop for essentials in your card’s online bonus mall or through its exclusive offers, if available, to get extra rewards.

OTHER CARDS TO CONSIDER

It’s worth considering whether a travel credit card is even right for you in the first place. A NerdWallet study found that cash-back credit cards often earn more money — even for many travelers.

If you carry a balance from month to month, the higher interest rates typically charged by rewards cards can cancel out any rewards earned. If you have a good credit score, you're better off with a low-interest credit card that can save you money on interest.

A good travel credit card shouldn't charge foreign transaction fees, but there are good non-travel cards that also don't charge them. See our best cards with no foreign transaction fee .

If you value transparency and flexibility in your rewards, you can't go wrong with a cash-back card — and you can still use the rewards for travel, if you want.

Finally, if you're still not sure what's right for you, take a look at our best rewards credit cards for options beyond travel and cash back.

NerdWallet's Sam Kemmis contributed to this article.

To view rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card , see this page . To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express , see this page .

Last updated on September 6 , 2024

Methodology

NerdWallet's Credit Cards team selects the best travel rewards credit cards based on overall consumer value, as evidenced by star ratings, as well as their suitability for specific kinds of travelers. Factors in our evaluation include each card's annual fee, foreign transaction fees, rewards earnings rates, ease of use, redemption options, domestic and international acceptance, promotional APR period, bonus offers, and cardholder perks such as automatic statement credits and airport lounge access. Learn how NerdWallet rates credit cards.

Frequently asked questions

Travel credit cards earn points (sometimes called miles) each time you buy something. The standard earning rate is 1 to 2 points per dollar spent, and many cards give you extra points for certain purchases, particularly travel expenses. The value of a point depends on the card that earned it and how you redeem it, but a good rule of thumb is to assume each point is worth an average of about 1 cent.

Your points accumulate in a rewards account, where you can use them to pay for travel. Most cards let you book travel directly using a portal similar to those at online travel agencies or on airline and hotel websites, but instead of paying cash, you pay with your points. Depending on the card, you may also have the option of booking travel any way you want, paying for it with the card and then cashing in your points for a credit against those expenses.

Points and miles are just different names for the same thing: the currency used in a travel rewards program. Some travel credit cards call them points, some call them miles.

Airline frequent flyer programs have long used the term “miles” to refer to the rewards you earn for flying. That’s because at one time, you really did earn rewards according to how many miles you flew — the longer the flight, the more miles you earned. Nowadays, most domestic airlines give out “miles” based on how much you spend, not how far you fly, so they’re really just points. (There are a few exceptions, though, notably Alaska Airlines.)

Especially when it comes to redeeming your rewards, there’s no difference between points and miles. The number of points or miles you need is based mostly on the cost of what you’re redeeming them for. It takes more than 500 miles (value about: $5) to get a free 500-mile flight!

The value of a point or mile depends on the card you earned it with and how you redeem it. A common rule of thumb is to assume that each point or mile is worth an average of 1 cent, although you can certainly get a much higher (or lower) redemption value. See our travel loyalty roundup page for NerdWallet’s current valuations for airline miles and hotel points.

Travel credit cards fall into two main categories: co-branded and general-purpose.

• Co-branded travel cards carry the name of an airline or hotel chain. The rewards you earn on the card can typically be redeemed only with that brand (or maybe its partners). Co-branded cards limit your flexibility, but because they are issued in partnership with an airline or hotel, they can give you special perks, like free checked bags or room upgrades.

• General-purpose travel cards are issued by a credit card company and are not directly tied to any particular airline or hotel. They earn points in the issuer's own program, such as American Express Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards® or Citi ThankYou. These points are a lot more flexible, as you can use them to pay for a range of travel expenses, including flights on any airline or stays at any hotel. However, they don’t offer the airline- or hotel-specific perks of co-branded cards.

Travel cards — like rewards cards in general — typically require good to excellent credit for approval. Good credit is generally defined as a credit score of 690 or better. However, credit scores alone do not guarantee approval. Every issuer has its own criteria for evaluating applications.

Business travel can earn credit card rewards just like leisure travel. Credit cards that earn rewards for travel purchases don't distinguish between one or the other — meaning, if a card pays 3X points on airfare, for example, it's going to pay it no matter why you're buying the ticket. There are also travel credit cards specifically designed for business operators, with benefits and perks better aligned with their needs.

Where things get complicated is when you're not arranging the travel yourself. With credit card points, the rewards go to the cardholder. So if you arrange travel through your employer and the cost goes on the "company card," then the company card gets the points. Put it on your own card and get reimbursed later, and you get the points. (And if you have a company card with your name on it? That may come down to company policy.)

When redeeming travel rewards, you want to get as much value as possible. If you can get more value by using your rewards than by using cash, then it's smart to do so. (And of course, the reverse also applies.) NerdWallet has calculated the baseline values of most major credit card points, airline miles and hotel points. When you get a value that exceeds these baselines, go ahead and use your rewards. If not, consider using cash.

For example, say you could book a trip by paying $400 cash for a ticket or by redeeming 50,000 points or miles. In that case, your points would be getting you a value of 0.8 cents apiece (50,000 x 0.8 cents = $400). If the baseline value of each point is 1 cent, then you're better off paying cash and saving the points for when you can redeem them for 1 cent or better.

That said, you don't want to be overthinking it and hoarding points indefinitely in search of the deal to end all deals. Like any other currency, travel rewards lose value over time. That flight that costs 50,000 points today might cost 55,000 next year. Do you have enough points to get you where you want to go, when you want to go, in the way you want to get there? If so, don't let fractions of a penny stop you from booking your trip. It's your money, and you get to decide how to spend it.

A number of travel credit cards come with "travel credits," which reimburse you for specific expenses. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® , for example, has a $300 annual travel credit; several cards offer credits toward things like airline fees or hotel bookings; and a bunch of cards have a credit for the application fee for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry .

The less restrictive a credit is, the easier it is to redeem. The easiest travel credit to redeem is one that:

Applies to a broad range of expenses. Some credits are very fickle. You may get $200 a year in "airline credit," but it applies only to incidental fees (not airfare) on a single airline that you have to choose ahead of time. A card may offer hundreds of dollars in credit toward travel, but you have to go through the issuer's booking portal, where rates may be more expensive and options more limited. Other credits, however, are broad and open-ended: $300 on any travel expense, $100 toward any airline booking, and so on.

Shows up automatically on your statement. Your issuer's system should be able to recognize qualifying expenses and then apply the credit to them without you having to do anything. If the only way to receive the credit is by calling a phone number or submitting receipts or other documentation, that makes it harder to redeem, which in turn makes it less likely that you'll redeem (and that may be the point).

About the author

Sara Rathner

Istanbul.tips

Unique Routes and Hidden Gems

The Guide to IstanbulKart: Price, Where to Buy & How to Use Istanbul Transport Card

Discover the wonders of Istanbul with ease using the IstanbulKart, the city’s all-in-one public transportation card. Navigate the city like a pro with our comprehensive guide, covering everything from purchasing and loading credit to utilizing special offers and navigating the diverse transportation options available.

Page Contents

What is IstanbulKart?

IstanbulKart is a versatile, prepaid smart card designed to provide full access to Istanbul’s extensive public transportation system, including the metro, buses, trams, ferries, and more.

See also: Unlimited City Travel Card

Do I Need an Istanbul Card?

With Istanbul Card, you can navigate transport more easily and cheaply. The prices are better when you pay with it (almost 50% less) and you won’t need to find ticket booth and stay in the queue every time you need a ride.

Importantly, one Istanbulkart can be used by an individual or shared among a family, adding to its convenience. However, it’s worth noting that there is no monthly spending limit of 2500 TL for the Istanbulkart.

An excellent alternative is the Istanbul City Card , specifically designed for tourists, providing unlimited transport access.

Where and How to Buy Istanbulkart

Istanbul new airport (ist).

Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, you can purchase your IstanbulKart from yellow/blue vending machines or authorized exchange offices located on the -2 arrivals floor.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport

You can purchase an Istanbul public transport card from the kiosk located on the street level across from the exit of the arrivals terminal.

Alternatively, you may buy it from IETT’s supervision booth at the public bus station after exiting the terminal if you intend to take the public bus to your destination.

Metro Stations and Other Locations

IstanbulKart can also be acquired from over 2,000 points across the city, including subway, tram, ferry, metrobus, and funicular stations. Look for yellow/blue vending machines or ticket-matics and kiosks near public bus stops.

Supermarkets & Local Booth

You can also purchase an Istanbulkart at various supermarkets, including BIM, SOK, Migros, and local booths. Look for IstanbulKart signs.

IstanbulKart Vending Machines

These user-friendly machines allow you to purchase an IstanbulKart by depositing cash. Simply follow the on-screen instructions and use banknotes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, or 200 TRY.

IstanbulKart Pricing: Know the Costs

Card Price: The Anonymous IstanbulKart costs 70 TL without any credits. It is the red city card.

IstanbulKart is a pre-paid and rechargeable card, which means you’ll need to load credits onto it before using it for public transportation.

Fare System, Transfers, and Discounts

The fare system is based on zones and pricing structures, with opportunities for transfers and discounts. IstanbulKart offers substantial savings compared to single-ride tickets.

Understanding Fares and Pricing of Public Transport Options with IstanbulKart

• Buses: 17,7 TL
• Tram: 17,7 TL
• Metro: 17,7 TL
• Metrobus: from 12,67 TL
• Cable Car: 17,7 TL
• Funicular: 17,7 TL
• Ferry: from 19,53 TL
• Marmaray Train: from 17,7 TL

Check all prices and transfer discounts here.

Fare Zones and Pricing Structure

Metrobus, some ferry routes, and Maramray IstanbulKart fares are determined by a zonal pricing structure, where the cost of a journey depends on the number of stops.

After using your IstanbulKart on the Ferry, Marmaray Train or Metrobus, you can place your card on a special stand near the exit to receive a refund for the part of trip on your card.

Stress-Free Transport Cards for Your Istanbul Adventure

If the Istanbulkart system seems a bit complicated for you, we recommend booking a transport card, pre-charged with 5 or 10 rides, for a seamless travel experience in Istanbul. Available for pickup at Havalines Kiosks at the airport or delivered to your hotel, this card allows you to effortlessly navigate the city and focus on soaking up the rich history and culture that Istanbul offers.

Loading Credit onto Your IstanbulKart

To add credit to your IstanbulKart, put the card onto a yellow/blue vending machine, wait for it to scan, and then deposit cash. Alternatively, you can top up your card online at Istanbulkart .

How Much Money Should I Load?

When using the Istanbul card for public transportation, it’s important to consider your approximate usage and load the card with the appropriate amount of cash. The yellow vending machines, which are the most common machines for loading the card, do not give change in return. This means that if you load more cash than you need, you won’t be able to get the excess cash back.

If you plan to take at least 20 rides on Istanbul’s public transportation system, it’s recommended that you load up to 400 TRY onto your IstanbulKart to ensure you have sufficient credit.

IstanbulKart Mobile: A Digital Option

IstanbulKart Mobile is an app developed by the Municipality of Istanbul, enabling users to manage their card and load credits online. It offers a convenient alternative to physical cards and can be found on both the App Store and Google Play.

How to Set Up and Use IstanbulKart Mobile

To start using IstanbulKart Mobile, download the app from your device’s app store and create an account. Once logged in, you can add your IstanbulKart details, check your balance, and top up credits as needed. The app also offers an English version for international users.

How to Use Istanbul Card?

When boarding a metro, tram, bus, ferry, or funicular, you will see card readers at the entrance. Simply hold your Istanbulkart up to the reader until you hear a beep, which indicates that your card has been successfully read.

It’s important to remember to tap your card again when you exit the transportation mode. This is necessary to calculate the correct fare for your journey, and to ensure that you’re not charged extra for not tapping out.

Transfers and Discounts: How to Save on Your Trips

IstanbulKart allows you to transfer between different modes of transportation, such as metro, tram, bus, and ferry, for a reduced fare. This means that you can easily switch between modes of transportation without having to pay for each trip separately, which can add up quickly. Read more…

The Istanbul City Card: Unlimited Transport Access for Your Trip

Unlock the wonders of Istanbul with the Istanbul City Card , a passport to unlimited public transportation throughout the city. Effortlessly navigate its vibrant streets, hopping between enchanting attractions and soaking up the rich tapestry of local life.

The Istanbul City Card comes with 1-3-5-7-15 day options for you to choose from, so you can tailor your experience to the length of your stay and explore Istanbul to your heart’s content. Say farewell to ticket queues and embrace the freedom to roam, as this indispensable pass propels you on an unforgettable urban adventure.

Easily purchase it online and have it delivered to your hotel for ultimate convenience. To buy a transport card, click on the link below and click “Book this attraction” after that:

IstanbulKart for Families and Groups

Child fares and family discounts.

Children under the age of six can travel for free on public transportation in Istanbul.

Find more places to visit with kids in Istanbul >>

Another important thing to keep in mind is that the Istanbulkart is not a personal card. If you’re traveling with a group, you can purchase only one card and use it for each passenger. Keep in mind that each card has a 2 500 TL monthly limit and you will need to buy another one if you exceed it. Also, children under the age of 6 do not need a card.

IstanbulKart Online with Free Hotel Delivery/Airport Pick-Up

Traveling to a new city can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating the public transportation system. But did you know that you can also purchase and receive your IstanbulKart online with free hotel delivery or airport pick-up?

Istanbul Welcome Card offers this convenient service for those who want to skip the hassle of waiting in line and buying their IstanbulKart from vending machines or kiosks. With Istanbul Welcome Card, you can have your IstanbulKart delivered directly to your hotel in the areas of Taksim, Sultanahmet, and Besiktas, or you can pick it up at the airport between 8:00 AM and 11:00 PM.

IstanbulKart is Still a Must-Have

IstanbulKart provides an affordable, efficient, and convenient way to explore Istanbul’s public transportation system, granting you access to various modes of transport and helping you save money on your journeys. It’s an essential travel companion for tourists visiting the city.

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Don’t Miss The Best Tours and Cruises in Istanbul

Old City Digital Route №1

A step-by-step guide to uncovering Istanbul’s hidden gems beyond Sultanahmet. Access the route via Google Maps and a handy PDF guide, both packed with:

• Local dining spots for any budget
• Currency exchange tips
• Recommended hotels in Fatih
• Directions from the airport to Sultanahmet
• Souvenir and gift ideas

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One Comment

We recently visited Istanbul and bought 4 red card to travel with. There was no one about at the airport to ask how to buy one or load money onto it. However, a commuter helped us purchase them and we travelled both on the metro and trams which was good. When we got to the airport and went to the same place where we bought the cards, we found that it was not refunding the money back to us. Again no one to ask and nothing on the card machine to tell you how. There was a small machine that refunds ‘tap’ here but error message kept coming up. We still have monies loaded on our cards and do not know how to obtain refunds. Any advice would be much appreciated.

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• Is the AAdvantage Aviator Red Mastercard the best credit card for you?
• How to earn miles

How to use American Airlines miles

• Benefits and features

Fees and costs

• Barclays AAdvantage Aviator Red vs other American Airlines credit cards
• Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

AAdvantage Aviator Red card review

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us and terms apply to offers listed (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate credit cards to write unbiased product reviews .

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp®, Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

With a generous, easy-to-earn welcome bonus and elite-like travel perks, the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® is well worth it for frequent or occasional American Airlines flyers. The annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $99 is manageable, and other benefits like travel insurance and discounts can save you money.

Earn 1-2x miles on purchases

$0 intro for the first year, then $99

0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening

20.24%, 24.24% or 29.24% variable

Good to Excellent

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You’ll earn the welcome bonus after making your first purchase and paying the annual fee
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Free checked bag and preferred boarding on American Airlines
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Inflight Wi-Fi statement credits
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. To earn a companion certificate you have to spend $20,000 or more in a year
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Annual fee isn’t waived the first year
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No bonus categories outside of American Airlines purchases
• The information related to the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® has been collected by Business Insider and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
• Earn 50,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase within the first 90 days
• Earn 2X miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
• Earn 1X miles for every $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get up to $25 back as statement credits on inflight Wi-Fi purchases each year on American Airlines operated flights
• Earn a Companion Certificate good for 1 guest at $99 (plus taxes and fees) if you spend $20,000 on purchases and your account remains open for 45 days after your anniversary date
• Receive 25% inflight savings as statement credits on food and beverages when you use your card on American Airlines operated flights

AAdvantage Aviator Red Mastercard Overview

The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® is best for frequent American Airlines flyers or anyone looking to give their AAdvantage balance a boost. Perks include free checked bags, a 25% discount on inflight food and beverage purchases, up to $25 in annual credit towards inflight Wi-Fi, a $99 annual Companion Certificate when you meet a spending threshold, and priority boarding.

The card comes with a generous welcome bonus offer of 50,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase within the first 90 days. This is by far the lowest minimum spending requirement  of any airline credit card . 

While the card's category bonuses aren't the most competitive, every dollar you spend will count towards AA elite status. Combined with a reasonable annual fee and an easy sign-up bonus, this card is an excellent option for a wide range of travelers. 

Keep in mind American Airlines has four personal co-branded credit cards , ranging from the premium Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® to the no-annual-fee American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® . Depending on how often you fly American Airlines and your spending habits, one of these cards could be a better fit.

How to earn miles with the AAdvantage Aviator Red card

The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® earns 2 miles per dollar spent on eligible American Airlines purchases and 1 point per dollar on everything else. AA purchases that qualify include eligible tickets, goods, and services purchased directly from American Airlines (purchases made through online third-party travel agencies don't count).

The card also offers one of the most attainable welcome bonuses out there: 50,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase within the first 90 days. 

While the welcome bonus is quite generous, the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® isn't the best AAdvantage card for everyday spending. The category bonuses are limited, especially compared to the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® , which earns 2x miles on American Airlines purchases, restaurants, and gas stations, and 1 mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

As one of the few airlines still publishing an award chart, American Airlines makes it easy to determine how far your miles will go. With the welcome bonus offer from the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®, you can book up to four round-trip tickets in economy class.

These awards sometimes go on sale as part of American Airlines' Web Specials. You can book award tickets as cheap as 5,000 miles each way during these sales.

Alternately, you can redeem AAdvantage miles for American Airlines vacations or Admiral's Club membership at 1 cent per mile. This isn't a good redemption since American Airlines miles are worth an average of 1.4 cents each (based on Business Insider's valuations ), and you can get a lot more value by using them for airfare. 

AAdvantage Aviator Red benefits and features

The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® is packed with benefits that can help you save money on travel. The savings can really add up at every step of your journey, from check-in to boarding to the flight itself.

In fact, if you take just one trip per year with a companion, you might offset the annual fee through the free bag benefit alone.

Up to $25 back per year as statement credits on inflight Wi-Fi purchases

If you like to get work done on flights or simply watch the latest Tik Tok videos, you can do so with free Wi-Fi. The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® offers up to $25 in statement credits each anniversary year for inflight Wi-Fi purchases on American Airlines-operated flights.  

Anniversary Companion Certificate

The Anniversary Companion Certificate is arguably the most valuable benefit this card offers. Cardholders who make at least $20,000 in purchases on this card in an anniversary year receive a round-trip qualifying domestic economy companion certificate valid for one guest. All you have to pay is $0 intro for the first year, then $99, plus taxes and fees. 

In addition to meeting the $20,000 spending requirement, you have to keep your account open for 45 days after your anniversary date. Since the category bonuses on this card aren't the most lucrative, the Anniversary Companion Certificate offers a rewarding incentive to keep spending on this card. Those who earn and redeem this benefit annually will easily offset the card's $0 intro for the first year, then $99 annual fee. 

25% savings on inflight food and beverage purchases

Food and drink expenses can really add up when you're traveling. With the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®, you can offset some of this spending. Cardholders receive 25% back as a statement credit on food and beverage purchases made with their card on American Airlines flights.

This benefit could be worthwhile if you fly American Airlines often, especially on long segments when you're more likely to pay for food and drinks.

First checked bag free

The free checked bag benefit is the most practical and lucrative benefit offered by the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®. American Airlines charges $30 for the first checked bag per person on domestic flights. That adds up to $60 round-trip for one person.

With the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®, you and four travel companions on the same reservation get your first checked bag free on American Airlines domestic itineraries. That's a savings of up to $150 each way.

Preferred boarding

If you prefer not to check your luggage, you can still benefit from the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®. Cardmembers and up to four companions traveling on the same reservation will receive preferred boarding on American Airlines flights.

The advantage of this perk is that you'll get to board earlier, giving you more opportunities to store your belongings. This decreases your chances of having to gate-check your bag due to a lack of overhead space.

Earn AAdvantage elite status from everyday purchases

American Airlines revamped its elite status requirements this year, introducing a new loyalty metric. AAdvantage members no longer have to rely on flying to earn elite status. With the new Loyalty Point system, all credit card spending counts towards elite status. Every dollar spent on the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® earns 1 Loyalty Point, regardless of the category bonus.

It's important to note that Loyalty Points are different from redeemable miles. While the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® offers several category bonuses, you'll only earn 1 Loyalty Point on every dollar spent.

Travel insurance

AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® cardholders are eligible for travel accident insurance, trip cancellation and interruption coverage , baggage delay insurance, and car rental insurance. 

AAdvantage Dining program

Your AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® is automatically enrolled in the American Airlines AAdvantage dining program, which allows you to earn bonus miles when you dine at participating restaurants. 

The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® has an annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $99, which is on par with most other mid-tier airline credit cards.

The card has no foreign transaction fees , which can be around 3% or more on other cards. This means you can use it to earn miles abroad without incurring a penalty. 

Lastly, the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening. After that, there's a 20.24%, 24.24% or 29.24% variable APR. A balance transfer fee of 5% or $5, whichever is greater, applies. 

Comparison: Barclays AAdvantage Aviator Red vs other American Airlines credit cards

Aadvantage aviator red card frequently asked questions (faq).

If you fly American Airlines a couple of times a year and check bags, the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® is worth opening. The free checked bag perk alone can offset the card's annual fee, and if you can make use of other benefits, you'll receive even more value.

This is also a great choice for big spenders who can qualify for the card's annual companion certificate by spending $20,000 or more each year. Depending on how you use the certificate, it can translate into savings of hundreds of dollars.

Yes, you can have both cards. The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® and Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® are issued by different banks and are considered totally separate products. However, since many of their benefits overlap, it may not be worth paying the annual fee on both cards for the long term.

Most people who open the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® have a good or excellent credit score. That translates to a  FICO score of 670 or more.

Unlike some other airline credit cards, you're not required to pay for your ticket with the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® to receive a first free checked bag on American Airlines domestic itineraries. As long as your card was opened and your reservation included your AAdvantage frequent flyer number at least seven days prior to your flight, you can receive the benefit.

Note that the perk doesn't apply to overweight or oversized bags, and if you cancel your card, you'll no longer be eligible.

• Credit card rewards and benefits
• Maximizing travel rewards
• Personal finance strategies

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, please click here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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• Main content

At a glance

Pros and cons of the target circle card, who this card is good for, who should skip this card, a closer look at the target circle card, alternative cards, how target circle™ card compares to other cards, our methodology, the target circle™️ card: the revamped target redcard.

Here are the benefits, perks and discounts you can expect with the new Target Circle Card.

Holly Johnson

Contributor

Holly Johnson is a credit card expert and writer who covers rewards and loyalty programs, budgeting, and all things personal finance. In addition to writing for publications like Bankrate, CreditCards.com, Forbes Advisor and Investopedia, Johnson owns Club Thrifty and is the co-author of "Zero Down Your Debt: Reclaim Your Income and Build a Life You'll Love."

Evan Zimmer

Staff Writer

Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

Target Circle™ Card

The new Target Circle™️ Card* -- which replaced the Target RedCard™️ in March -- is available as a credit card, debit card or reloadable card. Each card version provides the same 5% off at checkout as the card’s previous iteration and offers cardholders standard store card perks including special saving offers, free two-day shipping and extended returns.

We rate credit cards using our Rewards / Travel methodology for cards tailored to earning rewards. We focus on each card’s reward potential, the value you get compared to the card’s cost, the benefits and the card’s rates and fees. Credit card issuers have no say or influence in our ratings. How we rate credit cards

The Target Circle Card -- uniquely for a retail credit card -- can be a credit card, a debit card or a reloadable card. 

That means you can use the credit version of the Target Circle Card to build credit and carry a balance if you need to, or you can link the debit version to your existing checking account. 

The prepaid version of the card is reloadable, which makes it useful for Target shoppers who don’t use credit cards or bank accounts, or for parents who want to give their kids some money to spend at Target.

As a welcome bonus, new debit and credit card holders receive a $50 coupon for a future qualifying Target purchase over $50, and reloadable card customers get a $50 statement credit after spending $50 at Target.

The credit card version can either be a closed-loop card -- meaning it will only earn rewards with Target -- or an open-loop Mastercard that also earns rewards for dining and gas. You may need a higher credit score to qualify for the Mastercard. Regardless of which card type you have, you can only redeem your rewards for Target gift cards.

If you already have the Target RedCard, you likely won’t notice much difference with the new Target Circle Card -- it’s mostly just a brand refresh. 

However, all of the cards offer a $50 discount on a membership with the new Target Circle 360, which charges a $99 annual fee and is similar to Amazon Prime or Walmart Plus.

Three versions of the card: credit, debit or reloadable prepaid card

5% discount on Target purchases

Mastercard version of the card earns rewards on everyday spending

Discount on Target Circle 360 membership

No annual fee

Small welcome bonus

Credit card rewards are only redeemable for Target gift cards

High APR if you carry a balance on the credit card

Most card versions (except the Mastercard) can only be used at Target stores

Credit card rewards require a minimum redemption of $10

• If you shop at Target every week. If you’re frequently spending money at Target, the Target Circle Card could save you 5% off of your purchases.
• You want to score automatic deals. Consider getting the Target Circle Card (any version) if you want automatic deals and savings applied to your orders at checkout.
• You’re signing up for Target Circle 360 . This card pairs well with the paid subscription service from Target. Members get $50 off the annual subscription cost.
• You rarely shop at Target. Target Circle Cards are for regular Target shoppers, especially since the closed-loop versions of the cards cannot be used at other stores.
• Reward flexibility is important to you. Target Circle Cards offer 5% off Target purchases instead of rewards you can redeem. Rewards earned with the Mastercard version of the card can be redeemed for Target gift cards only.

Rewards and redemption

You’ll get 5% off your Target purchases with any version of the Target Circle Card, whether online or in store. This reward rate is common for retailer cards within their own brand.

At the same time, Target’s in-brand rewards are unique because instead of earning cash back or points that you later redeem as a statement credit, your rewards come in the form of 5% savings right at checkout. You don’t have to redeem your rewards later or meet any minimum redemption thresholds.

The Target Circle Mastercard offers rewards from other spending outside of Target -- 2% rewards on gas or dining, and 1% on all other purchases -- but those rewards can only be redeemed for Target gift cards. You’ll need to have at least $10 in rewards to redeem a gift card or an e-gift card.

Welcome bonus

When it comes to the welcome bonus , the Target Circle Card is pretty typical of retailer credit cards -- that is, its nominal value is pretty low. You earn $50 toward a future qualifying purchase of $50 or more when you’re approved. 

The only exception is with the Target Circle reloadable card, which gives you the $50 credit when you open an account and spend $50 at Target. 

Extended return policy

Return policies may differ from item to item, but generally, most items from Target are eligible for return within 90 days of purchase. The Target Circle Card offers an additional 30 days to return or exchange purchases, so as a cardholder you would have 120 days for returns, which is helpful for those of us with an especially busy schedule. 

When compared to the Target Circle Card, the Prime Visa offers simplicity. Your rewards aren’t limited to the Amazon ecosystem (you can earn your cash-back reward points in the form of a statement credit, for example), and if you want to get the 5% rewards rate, you’ll get a greater selection from Amazon brands. It also has a better welcome bonus -- an instant $100 Amazon gift card when you get approved. The biggest potential drawback is that you need to have Amazon Prime, which costs $139 annually. If you already have Prime though, this card would likely suit you better.

For more details, see our Prime Visa review .

Discover it® Cash Back

The Discover it® Cash Back* earns 5% cash back on select categories on a quarterly rotating basis upon activation (on up to $1,500 in quarterly purchases, then 1%), which could make it a better offer if you want to earn rewards across multiple categories. The card’s current bonus category includes Walmart and grocery stores (July to September 2024). You’ll earn 1% on other purchases outside of the select quarterly categories. 

At the end of the first year, your rewards are matched as part of Discover’s Unlimited Cashback Match™ welcome bonus. That means that Discover will match your total rewards earned, dollar for dollar. For more information, see our Discover it Cash Back review .

If you’re making online purchases, there are two ways to get free two-day shipping from Target: Use the Target Circle Card or spend over $35 on your order. Two-day shipping isn’t available on all items, but availability is shown on the product page, in your online shopping cart and at checkout. Taxes and handling fees may still apply.

Target Circle Week took place in April of this year. Check back later in the year to find out Target Circle Week dates for 2025.

If you opt for the Target Circle Card debit card instead of the credit card, you will still get a 5% discount on your Target purchases, online and in-store. However, you won’t earn rewards on purchases outside the Target brand, unlike with the Mastercard version of the card.

CNET reviews credit cards  by exhaustively comparing them across set criteria developed for each major category, including cash back, welcome bonus, travel rewards and balance transfer. We take into consideration the typical spending behavior of a range of consumer profiles -- with the understanding that everyone’s financial situation is different -- and the designated function of a card. 

* All information about the Target Circle™️ Card and Discover it Cash Back has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

CNET editors independently choose every product and service we cover. Though we can’t review every available financial company or offer, we strive to make comprehensive, rigorous comparisons in order to highlight the best of them. For many of these products and services, we earn a commission. The compensation we receive may impact how products and links appear on our site.

Department of Defense Travel Card Benefits

Progress informed from the past, and inspired by the future, cardholder guide.

Official travel for the Department of Defense just became easier with the Citi Department of Defense Travel Card. When you are preparing to use your new card, please read What To Do When I First Receive My New Card . For more information regarding your new card, please read the Department of Defense Cardholder Guide .

Department of Defense Travel Insurance

As a cardholder, you will receive global travel accident and lost luggage insurance so you feel safe and secure wherever you travel with a Citi ® Commercial Card.

• Travel Accident Insurance Guide
• Lost Luggage Insurance Guide

MasterCard Guide to Benefits

Visa Guide to Benefits

In addition to the card benefits provided by Citi, Visa provides card benefits such as Car Rental Insurance and Travel and Emergency Assistance. For full details, please read the Visa Guide to Benefits .

Travel Tips

For more information on your Citi Department of Defense Travel Card, please read What to do Before, During and After travel .

Online Tools

Citi's global online tool, CitiManager ® , enables you to manage business expenses from anywhere around the globe from your computer or mobile device; you can view statements online, confirm account balances, sign up for email and SMS alerts, and much more. If you have not already signed up for the CitiManager ® tool, please log on to www.citimanager.com/login and click on the 'Self registration for Cardholders' link. From there, follow the prompts to establish your account.

For more information on the CitiManager ® tool, view our CitiManager ® Cardholder Quick Reference Guide .

16 best travel credit cards of September 2024

The best travel credit cards offer premium perks and benefits . Our team at The Points Guy curated a selection of the best travel credit cards for anyone from the occasional traveler to frequent flyer. We’ve chosen the top cards to earn rewards and save money.

Discover which travel credit card from our partners makes the best addition to your wallet.

Browse by card categories

Comparing the best travel cards, more details on the best travel credit cards, helpful tools.

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for earning miles
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for premium travel
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for beginner travelers
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for maximizing business purchases
• American Express® Gold Card : Best for dining at restaurants
• Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card : Best for occasional Delta flyers
• American Express® Business Gold Card : Best for flexible rewards earning
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for lounge access
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best for no annual fee
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for travel credits
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best for unlimited point earning
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card : Best for Sky Club access
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for variety of bonus categories
• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for travel rewards beginners
• Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card : Best for Alaska Airlines miles
• American Express® Green Card : Best for Travelers who value Membership Rewards points
• Airport Lounge Access

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn earns 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

• This flexible rewards card delivers a solid sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, plus a $250 Capital One Travel credit valued by TPG (not provided by the issuer) at $1,638 when adding together the value of the bonus miles and the Capital One Travel credit
• You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories.
• Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for any hotel or airline purchase for a statement credit or transferred to 15+ travel partners.
• Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
• Capital One airline partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
• Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

If you can maximize the  $300 credit toward Capital One Travel, the Venture X’s annual fee effectively comes down to $95, the same annual fee pegged to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ). Add in a 10,000-mile bonus every account anniversary (worth $185, according to TPG valuations ) and lounge access, and the card may become the strongest option out there for a lot of travelers. Read our full  review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

• 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
• $395 annual fee
• $300 credit annually, only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

• You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases, 2 points per dollar on all other travel and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
• Annual $50 Chase Travel Hotel Credit
• Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.
• The card comes with a $95 annual fee.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• Member FDIC

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card's sign-up bonus is a generous offer for the card. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card .

• Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption.
• Reasonable $95 annual fee.
• Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners; primary car insurance.
• Perks including cellphone and purchase protection; extended warranty; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement.
• Yearly cap on bonus categories.
• No travel perks.
• Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications.
• Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

American Express® Gold Card

This isn’t just a card that’s nice to look at. It packs a real punch, offering 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar) and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar). There’s also an up to $120 annual dining credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com ,  and Five Guys, plus it added an up to $120 annually ($10 per month) in Uber Cash, which can be used on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. Card must be added to Uber app to receive this benefit.  All this make it a very strong contender for all food purchases, which has become a popular spending category. Enrollment is required for select benefits. Read our full review of the Amex Gold .

• 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar) and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
• 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com.
• Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months of account opening. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible restaurant purchases (up to $100) within the first six months of card membership.
• Weak on travel and everyday spending bonus categories.
• Not as effective for those living outside the U.S.
• Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits.
• Few travel perks and protections.
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
• Get the American Express® Gold Card in either the Gold, Rose Gold or Limited-Edition White Gold metal design. White Gold design is only available while supplies last.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Dunkin' locations.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.
• Terms Apply.

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex provides valuable elite-like benefits for causal Delta flyers including a first checked bag free and priority boarding. It can easily justify getting and keeping this card. Read our full  review of the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card .

• First checked bag free for you and up to eight companions.
• Priority boarding.
• 20% back in the form of a statement credit on in-flight purchases (not including Wi-Fi).
• Doesn't make sense if you don't fly Delta.
• There are better Delta cards if you want lounge access or a boost to earn elite status.
• Earn 40,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enjoy a $0 introductory Annual Fee for the first year, then $150.
• Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• $200 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel.
• Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• You can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a family of four that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
• Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
• $100 Delta Stays Credit: Get up to $100 back per year as a statement credit after using your Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
• Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
• Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
• With Send & Split®, you can send money and split your Card purchases with any other Venmo or PayPal user, directly from the Amex App. Enroll today.
• See Rates & Fees

American Express® Business Gold Card

The Amex Business Gold card is a solid choice for high-spending small businesses with the flexibility to earn 4 points per dollar in the two categories where you spend the most. The card is ideal for businesses who value simplicity above all. Read our full  review of the American Express Business Gold Card .

• You'll earn 4 Membership Rewards points per dollar in the top 2 spending categories each billing cycle (on the first $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).
• Hefty $375 annual fee.
• There may be better options for small businesses who don't spend a lot.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
• 0% Intro APR ¤ for 6 months from the date of account opening on purchases eligible for Pay Over Time, then a 19.49% to 28.49% variable APR.*
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.*
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.*
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.*
• The Business Gold Card now comes in three metal designs: Gold, Rose Gold and Limited Edition White Gold. White Gold design is only available while supplies last. Make your selection when you apply on Americanexpress.com.
• *Terms Apply

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full  review of the Platinum Card from American Express .

• The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
• This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and more than $1,400 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. (enrollment required)
• The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.
• The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
• Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
• The annual airline fee credit and other monthly statement credits can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.¤

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking to dip your toes into the world of travel rewards, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great way to get started. With no annual fee and a simple 1.25 miles per dollar on all your purchases, you won’t have to keep up with multiple bonus categories — just earn rewards on everything you purchase! Coupled with the 20,000-mile sign-up bonus, you can use your rewards to book travel, transfer to Capital One’s loyalty partners and more. Read our full review of the  Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

• No annual fee.
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.
• Use your miles to book or pay for travel at a 1-cent value, or transfer your miles to loyalty programs to gain potentially even greater value for your rewards.
• Earn 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Other credit cards can offer you higher rewards for your common purchase categories.
• Capital One airline transfer partners do not include any large U.S. airlines.
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, bonus points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card .

• $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Access to Chase Travel hotel and airline travel partners.
• 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals through Chase Travel, 10 points per dollar on Chase Dining purchases through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through the Chase Travel portal, 3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining, 1 point per dollar on everything else
• 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Travel
• Steep initial $550 annual fee.
• May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card offers healthy reward earning rates on top of uncapped point-earning meaning the sky's the limit — especially if you strategize and spend in popular categories.

• No foreign transaction fees
• Uncapped earning potential
• $50 annual statement credit
• Solid point earning rates in popular categories
• This card features an annual fee
• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is the premier choice for Delta loyalists who value an accelerated path to elite status, Delta SkyClubs lounge access, an annual companion certificate and strong earning rates on Delta purchases. Read our review of the  Delta SkyMiles Reserve card .  Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.

• Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry every 4 years or $85 TSA PreCheck credit every 4.5 years (enrollment is required)
• Delta SkyClub access when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club. See terms for more details.
• High annual fee of $650
• Lower fee Delta cobranded cards offer superior earning categories
• Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter. Once all 15 Visits have been used, Eligible Card Members may purchase additional Delta Sky Club Visits at a per-Visit rate of $50 per person using the Card.
• Receive four Delta Sky Club® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly Delta so you can share the experience with family and friends.
• Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
• Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
• Earn $1 Medallion® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
• $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• $650 Annual Fee.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph card packs a punch for a no-annual-fee product, with an array of bonus categories plus solid perks and straightforward redemption options. Read our  full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph here .

• This card offers 3 points per dollar on various everyday purchases with no annual fee. It also comes with a 20,000-point welcome bonus and an introductory APR offer on purchases. Plus, you'll enjoy up to $600 in cellphone protection when you pay your monthly bill with the card. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Despite the lucrative earning structure, Wells Fargo doesn't offer any ways to maximize your redemptions — you're limited to fixed-value rewards like gift cards and statement credits.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is a great starter card thanks to its no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees when you travel internationally. Earning and redeeming is effortless, with no confusing bonus categories to keep track of and the ability to redeem your points for all of your travel needs. Read our  full review of the Bank of America Travel Rewards  card.

• 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
• No annual fee
• Bank of America does not offer airline or hotel transfer partners like other banks such as American Express, Chase or Capital One.
• No travel and purchase protections.
• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

There’s a lot to love about the Alaska Airlines credit card, in part due to its highly valuable loyalty program: Alaska Airlines MileagePlan. Whether you’re a loyal Alaska flyer or a points maximizer looking to diversify your rewards portfolio, this card has a lot to offer. For starters, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Pass each year from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year, free checked bags for you and up to six guests on your itinerary, 20% back on in-flight purchases and more. Plus, Alaska has joined the oneworld alliance, opening up endless redemption opportunities. Read our  full review of the Alaska Airline credit card.

• Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on your reservation.
• Alaska discounts, including 20% back on in-flight purchases.
• Limited Time Online Offer—Buy One, Get One + 50,000 Bonus Miles!
• Buy one ticket, get one for just the taxes and fees ($0 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) and get 50,000 bonus miles with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
• Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
• With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
• This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

American Express® Green Card * *The information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by ThePointsGuy.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.

• Decent earning rates across popular spend categories
• Annual Clear Plus credit
• Annual LoungeBuddy credit
• $150 annual fee
• May not offer much value if you’re not a frequent traveler

The American Express® Green Card is packed with value for the frequent jet setter who will maximize the travel credits and related perks that come with it. In addition to earning valuable Amex Membership Rewards points on purchases such as transit, flights, hotels and vacation rentals, this card offers a nice starter stash of points in the form of an attainable welcome bonus.

With the Capital One Venture, you’re earning 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which makes it easy to rack up rewards without having to juggle different bonus categories or spending caps. And with flexible redemption options and a manageable annual fee, this card is an excellent choice if you’re looking to keep just one credit card in your wallet for all spending.

Those looking to earn flexible rewards should use the Capital One Venture card as it allows you to redeem miles for a fixed value or transfer the miles you earn to 15+ airline and hotel transfer partners , including Avianca, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines and Singapore Airlines.

“The Capital One Venture is a great card that can add value to pretty much anyone’s wallet. I use it to earn 2 miles per dollar on the purchases that fall outside of my other cards’ bonus categories. The annual fee is low, Capital One miles are easy to redeem and the card does come with a few nice perks — including TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

Even if you’re a casual traveler, consider jumping to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  (see  rates and fees ). The card’s up to $300 annual credit for purchases made with Capital One Travel immediately covers the higher annual fee — and that’s not even considering the added perks you’ll enjoy.

At $395 per year (see rates and fees ), this premium card is cheaper than all of its competitors without sacrificing the breadth of valuable perks it includes. Cardholders will get unlimited visits to Capital One’s premium network of lounges and 1,300-plus Priority Pass lounges worldwide  and able to bring up to two guests for no additional charge.

For frequent travelers, the Capital One Venture X is a must-have and is well worth the $395 annual fee. If you travel frequently with your significant other, family or friends, you can even add some authorized users for no additional cost. This will grant them their own lounge access (and the ability to bring up to two guests for no fee), among many other benefits, making this a huge cost-saver for those who travel in groups.

“With an annual fee that is $300 less than The Platinum Card® from American Express (see Amex Platinum rates and fees ), the Capital One Venture X card is my favorite travel credit card. The card comes with an annual $300 Capital One Travel credit, which I use to book flights. That effectively brings the annual fee down to $95 per year (see rates and fees ). Cardholders enjoy a Priority Pass Select membership. Authorized users — you geta number of them at no cost — also enjoy their own Priority Pass Select membership. I use my Venture X card to earn 2 miles per dollar (a 3.7% return at TPG’s valuations ) in spending categories where most cards would only accrue 1 mile — like auto maintenance, pharmacies and medical bills.” — Kyle Olsen , former points and miles reporter

Those turned off by the Venture X’s annual fee could opt for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , which has a $95 annual fee (see rates and fees ) and similar earning and redemption options.

You’ll earn a solid return on dining and travel (6% back and 4% back, respectively, based on TPG valuations ) on top of your generous sign-up bonus, and you also have access to some of the best travel protections offered by any travel rewards credit card.

We’ve long suggested the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card   as an excellent option for those who are new to earning travel rewards because it lets you earn valuable, transferable points  with strong bonus categories and a reasonable annual fee.

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has remained a top card in my wallet for years. Between the consistently strong sign-up bonus, low annual fee and continual improvements that have been made over the years, it’s hard for any other mid-tier rewards card to compare. I love that I can earn bonus rewards on travel, dining, streaming and online grocery purchases — all with just one card. Plus, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable and easy to use whether you’re new to points and miles or an expert.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

To add more luxury to your travel experience, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . Though it comes with a higher annual fee, you’ll enjoy Priority Pass lounge access plus a $300 annual travel credit.

The Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 in combined travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services and advertising purchases made on social media sites and search engines each account anniversary year. TPG’s most recent valuations peg the value of Chase Ultimate Rewards points at 2.05 cents apiece, so you’ll get a fantastic return of 6.2% on purchases in these categories.

If you spend a lot on business travel or social media advertising, you’ll be able to earn significant points using the Ink Business Preferred card .

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I’ve found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.” — Katie Genter , senior writer

If you don’t want to worry about maximizing specific purchases and are looking for a lower spending requirement to earn a sign-up bonus, consider the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card , which offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases and carries no annual fee.

The Amex Gold earns 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar), with no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ), meaning you’ll get an 8% return on purchases (based on TPG’s valuations ). While a few other cards temporarily offer higher return rates on dining, this is the best option for long-term spending, making it one of the best dining cards and best rewards cards .

Those looking for a great return on dining and purchases at U.S. supermarkets will get a lot of value from this card.

“I'm a huge foodie, especially when I travel, so I make sure to grab the dinner bill for all my friends in order to earn 4 points per dollar at restaurants every time (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar).” — Stanley Sanford , compliance manager

For those who dine out a lot and also want additional bonus categories and other valuable perks for a lower annual fee, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card .

The card offers elitelike perks that can provide solid value for casual Delta flyers — all at a low $150 annual fee (that’s $0 the first year; see  rates and fees ) compared to other Delta cobranded cards.

The card is best suited to casual Delta flyers who may not fly often enough to earn elite status but would enjoy elitelike perks such as priority boarding and a free checked bag.

“As someone who likes flying Delta but doesn’t fly with them often enough to earn elite status, my Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex still gives me elitelike perks to help upgrade my travel experience.” —  Madison Blancaflor , senior editor

If you are a regular Delta flyer interested in earning elite status, the  Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card  is a strong alternative. You’ll get the same elitelike benefits as with the Gold, but you’ll also get the ability to fast-track your way to  Medallion status .

The American Express Business Gold card comes packed with perks and benefits, but its most unique feature is the ability to shift your monthly billing cycle bonus categories. Cardholders will automatically earn 4 points per dollar in their top two spending categories each billing cycle on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar thereafter), so if your business spending varies month to month, you won’t have to commit to a bonus category.

The American Express Business Gold card is an excellent choice for business owners who are looking for a premium business card with premium business perks like monthly office supply statement credits, travel and shopping protection and access to The Hotel Collection.

The American Express Business Gold is an excellent choice for small businesses that have changing bonus categories but still want more premium business perks and benefits.

If you still want to earn Membership Rewards points without paying an annual fee, consider The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express (see rates and fees ), which earns 2 Membership Rewards points on all business purchases (up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).

The Amex Platinum is a stellar premium travel card that can provide amazing redemptions . Besides the welcome offer, it comes with more than $1,400 in credits each year and various lounge access options. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Anyone looking for luxury travel benefits will find that the ton of annual statement credits make the annual fee worth it. Plus, you’ll get unparalleled lounge access , automatic Gold status with Hilton and Marriott, and extra perks with Avis Preferred , Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Car Rental Emerald Club . Enrollment is required for select benefits.

“While this card has a high annual fee, it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all of my flights on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent and trip protection insurance. I make sure to take full advantage of the Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, Hulu/Disney+ and Clear credits (enrollment is required). And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card  can be a great alternative to the Amex Platinum, with a notably lower annual fee, similar perks and a more rewarding earning rate on everyday purchases.

The no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card (see  rates and fees ) has the same redemption options as its sibling card (the Venture Rewards card) but with a lower rewards rate and fewer perks. The miles earned on the card can also be transferred to airline and hotel partners, a benefit not usually seen with a no-annual-fee card.

The VentureOne is a strong card to have in your arsenal and great if you are budgeting. After all, there aren’t many no-annual-fee cards with the ability to transfer points and miles directly to travel partners, so it’s a big bonus that this card offers that (see rates and fees ).

“I wanted a credit card that earns Capital One miles without an annual fee, and this is a winner (see rates and fees ). It doesn’t have the bells and whistles of some other cards, but I’m happy earning 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases without paying a fee to keep this card year after year. I’ll never cancel this card.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

For a small annual fee, many travelers could benefit from the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’ll earn at least 2 miles per dollar on all purchases and receive a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with an annual $300 travel credit to offset a variety of expenses — such as airfare, hotels, rental cars, transit and more. You’re also getting an up-to-$100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit  once every four years along with Priority Pass Select membership. And Chase’s slate of transfer partners allows plenty of opportunity to get the maximum value from your points.

Those looking for elevated earning rates and extensive travel protections should have this card in their wallet. The 50% redemption bonus when you use your points to pay for travel through the Chase portal  is also a nice perk.

“I’ve had the Sapphire Reserve for years, and it’s going to stay in my wallet for the near future. I get $300 off travel every year along with great earning rates on travel and dining (3 points per dollar) and various trip protections that can reimburse me when things go wrong. And by leveraging other cards in the Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, I’m able to maximize the earnings across all of my purchases.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you just can’t stomach the Sapphire Reserve’s $550 annual fee, go for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card  instead. It has similar perks, redemption options and travel protections — for a much lower $95 per year.

The Autograph Journey offers cardholders the chance to earn elevated rates across travel categories including 5 points per dollar spent on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airline purchases and 3 points per dollar on restaurants and 'other travel' which includes timeshares, car rentals, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites and campgrounds. On top of this, cardholders also get the added benefit of earning a flat rate of 1 point per dollar on other purchases for a $95 annual fee.

If you travel frequently and are looking for a card to help you rack up points you can redeem for future travel, this card is a decent option. Additionally, those looking for a way to fill gaps in their points earning strategy will benefit from the flat 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases outside of the main travel categories.

Another great perk the Autograph Journey features is an annual $50 statement credit triggered by an airline purchase of at least $50. This is on top of elevated earning rates in the certain travel categories and a solid welcome offer for new applicants. There's also no foreign transaction fees on the Autograph Journey card making it a good first travel card as well as a decent supplemental card to add to your travel credit card roster.

If you're looking for a more general use credit card with no annual fee, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see  rates and fees ). It earns a flat rate of 2% cash rewards on purchases making an excellent choice to help fill gaps in your reward earning strategy. The best part? Like the Autograph Journey card, the Active Cash Card doesn't put a cap on the amount of cash back you can earn.

The card offers some great perks for loyal Delta flyers, including free checked bags, space-available upgrades, a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit, lounge access, an annual companion certificate and more.

Because of the high annual fee, this card is best for those who fly Delta regularly and can maximize all of the card’s benefits.

“As a Delta Diamond Medallion, I spend a lot of time on Delta jets. The Delta Reserve card helps me maintain my status by offering shortcuts to earning (and retaining) status. Plus, the card’s annual companion ticket is valid on first-class itineraries and has helped me offset the card’s annual fee multiple years in a row.” —  Andrew Kunesh , former senior editor, points and miles

The Platinum Card® from American Express  offers a host of benefits for travelers who want to keep their redemption options open beyond Delta and its partners. While it won’t help you earn Delta elite status, Amex Platinum cardholders do have access to Delta Sky Club lounges (when flying Delta that same day) and can transfer points to Delta for award redemptions.

The Wells Fargo Autograph is a great no-annual-fee card that offers quality earning categories and travel and shopping protection.

Travel card beginners who are looking to get into points earning should consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which offers a welcome bonus, 3 points per dollar on a variety of everyday spending categories and cellphone protection.

If you’re just getting into the travel credit card world and are not sure travel cards are for you, consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which will allow you to earn bonus points on travel spending without the commitment of an annual fee.

If you’re looking to earn transferable reward points but still maintain a similar earning structure, consider the Bilt Mastercard® (see rates and fees ). The card earns 3 points per dollar on dining and 2 points per dollar on travel purchases for no annual fee. Plus, Bilt points can be transferred to any of its multiple travel partners. 

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card operates similarly to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’re earning flat-rate rewards across all spending, and then you can use those rewards as a statement credit to cover eligible travel purchases.

It’s perfect for low-budget beginner travelers  who want a card with no annual fee and a simple way to earn and redeem points.

“I’m happy earning 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases on a card without an annual fee. I can’t pay for everything in life with transferable points, and it’s nice to have a card with fixed-value points for those situations. I use this card for travel purchases where I need to pay in cash, then I can reimburse myself with the points.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re interested in a card with transferable miles that still has no annual fee (see  rates and fees ), consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

The Alaska Airlines Visa earns 3 miles per dollar on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases; 2 miles per dollar on eligible gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services and transit (including local ride share purchases); and 1 mile per dollar on everything else. You get a free checked bag on Alaska flights for you and up to six guests on your reservation, an annual Companion Fare on your account anniversary and 20% back on all inflight purchases.

Whether you live on the West Coast or not, the Alaska Airlines Visa is a good cobranded airline card to consider adding to your wallet. The Seattle-based airline is mostly limited to North American routes, but international destinations through Oneworld partners make this card valuable for all travelers.

“With new benefits, this card is even more valuable to me — even with its higher annual fee. It provides a free first checked bag, discounts on inflight purchases and priority boarding. My favorite feature, however, is the annual Companion Fare. I get hundreds of dollars in annual value from this perk.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re not looking to collect airline-specific miles, a general travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might be a better option.

The Amex Green Card is straightforward and easy to use. It earns 3 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide — which is great, especially because this card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees — and 3 points per dollar spent on various modes of transit, including trains, ferries and buses, plus tolls you may encounter during your travels. On top of these earning healthy earning rates, the Amex Green Card also earns 1 Membership Reward point per dollar spent on other eligible purchases.

*The information for the Amex Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

This card is designed for travelers who want airport lounge access without having to pay a sky-high annual fee on a more premium card. It’s also a great fit for people who often spend in the high-earning bonus categories (restaurants, transit and travel).

If you like airport lounge access but don’t want to pay a super premium fee for a card with access to exclusive lounges. the annual LoungeBuddy credit that comes with this card will serve you well.

If you’re looking for a travel card with several perks and a sub-$100 annual fee, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. This card earns valuable and transferable Ultimate Rewards points you can use to book flights and hotel stays with several transfer partners. The Sapphire Preferred also features healthy earning rates across popular categories, including dining, select streaming services and travel booked via Chase Travel℠ to name a few.

• Awards vs cash calculator Compare the cost in points or miles to cash.
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What are travel credit cards, and how do they work?

What is a travel credit card.

Travel rewards credit cards earn points, miles or cash back that can be redeemed toward travel expenses. They also have many perks and rewards geared toward travelers. If you have the right card (or cards) in your wallet, the sky is the limit on where your travels can take you — literally.

Are you new to travel rewards? Check out our beginner’s guide to all things points and miles . You’ll learn about top loyalty programs, how to maximize your credit card strategy to reach your travel goals and so much more.

Related: The complete history of credit cards, from antiquity to today

We have researched various types of travel credit cards to help you figure out which one is best for you.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards offer rewards on different purchases, which can help you book flights, hotels and more with little to no out-of-pocket expenses.

Some cards also provide valuable perks and benefits that upgrade the overall travel experience — from Global Entry application fee credits to lounge access to complimentary elite status . 

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

Types of travel credit cards

Typically, when talking about travel credit cards, we are referring to transfer rewards credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards. There are additional types of travel credit cards that are less popular but can still be a good option for the right traveler. Luckily, there are many types of travel credit cards which means there is a good option for any traveler.

Transferable rewards credit cards earn points and miles that can be redeemed through a card’s rewards program directly or by transferring them to a travel partner . Many of our best travel credit cards fall under this category because they are the most valuable type of points you can earn. Transferable rewards give you the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a way that will be most beneficial to you. Examples of top transferable rewards cards are the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Airline cobranded cards earn a specific type of airline miles. These cards also generally come with perks specific to that airline. For example, an airline card may offer free checked bags , a certain number of elite-qualifying miles to help you reach status, priority boarding privileges, inflight discounts and more.

Hotel cobranded cards work like airline cards. You’ll earn rewards that are redeemable for a particular hotel program, such as Hilton or Marriott. Hotel cards come with their own benefits, such as complimentary elite status or free award-night stays. In addition, hotel cards can help you stack your earnings on hotel stays with the hotel’s program.

For example, if you have a Marriott credit card , you’ll earn bonus points for every dollar spent at participating Marriott properties on top of the 10 base points you get as a member of the Bonvoy program. This can really amplify the rewards you can earn when you use your hotel card to pay for your booking.

The points and miles world can be confusing for new credit card users but it doesn’t have to be. While transferable rewards cards are arguably the best way to earn points and miles for travel, they can also be incredibly confusing. Fixed-value credit cards and cash-back credit cards are good alternatives for beginners who are looking to get into the travel credit card world.

Fixed-value cards earn points or miles that are always redeemed for the same value. For example, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card earns points worth 1 cent each. These cards are great for beginners who haven’t quite gotten the hang of maximizing transferable points or casual travelers who are looking for their first travel credit card . Fixed-value credit cards are often the best travel credit cards for beginners. 

As more hotels and airlines move to a dynamic pricing model where award pricing shifts dramatically, fixed-value rewards programs are becoming more popular.

Another great credit card option for casual travelers or credit card beginners is cash-back credit cards. You don’t have to worry about points, transfer partners or maximizing your rewards with these cards. Cash-back cards provide a percentage of cash back on your spending and provide a simple way to save on your upcoming travels. 

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) is a great option for beginners to travel rewards. It earns unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and has no annual fee.

Travel vs cash back credit cards

A travel credit card is a card that is geared toward travel spending. A cash-back credit card is a card that earns cash back on purchases made with the card.

Generally, when we are talking about travel credit cards, we refer to cards that earn points, such as transferable points earned with The Platinum Card® from American Express or Hilton points earned with Hilton Honors American Express Aspire card. These cards do not earn cash back on any purchases.

Cash back cards generally offer cash back as a flat rate or feature bonus categories that earn an elevated cash back rate. Select cash-back cards can also be a great travel card, such as the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, which offers 3% cash back on transit, including rideshare, trains, buses, and more (cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout).

The information for the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. 

Pros + cons of travel credit cards

• Using credit cards responsibly can help build your credit score
• Travel credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend
• Travel credit cards can provide purchase, theft and fraud protection
• Travel credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and more
• Credit cards can encourage overspending
• Carrying a balance and using your card irresponsibly can damage your credit score
• The cost of borrowing on credit cards is higher than traditional loans
• Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score
• Travel credit cards may be too complicated (or expensive) for those who aren’t frequent travelers

How to choose the best travel credit card

• 1 Sign-up bonus Choosing a card with a healthy sign-up bonus will help jumpstart the possibility of unlocking elite status across different areas, including airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• 2 Annual fee Premium travel credit cards typically feature higher annual fees. Double-check that the card you choose suits your spending habits and travel needs before applying.
• 3 Bonus categories It also helps to check which bonus categories a card offers to ensure that they align with your spending, whether it’s at restaurants, at grocery stores or on streaming subscriptions.

What TPG readers have to say about their favorite travel credit cards

Fan favorites among top travel credit cards include those that earn both points and miles. In addition to helping offset the cost of travel — whether it’s for rental cars, hotel stays or flights — some TPG readers love that travel cards also offer travel insurance (including protections for things like delayed or lost baggage). We asked our readers which credit card has made the biggest impact when they travel and why — here are their responses.

Note: Reader-submitted responses have not been edited, reviewed or approved by the issuers nor reflect TPG’s opinions of these cards.

“Allowed me to justify staying at nicer hotels and just overall leveling up with how I travel.” — Jackie C via Facebook  

“ Venture X for me - lounge access and my first long haul biz [sic] class flight on points! Changing my travel game for the better!” — Lauren R via Facebook

“Can't beat the flexibility of the $300 travel credit from the Chase Sapphire Reserve .” — Armando S via Facebook

Ask our experts

What's your favorite travel credit card — and why.

Credit pointers with Brian Kelly

How to maximize travel credit cards

Earn the welcome bonus.

One of the best ways to maximize your travel credit cards is to earn the welcome bonus , which allows cardmembers to earn points or miles that would otherwise require a very high spend. If offered, a welcome bonus can be a crucial part of a card’s value. Before you apply for your next travel card, be sure to plan for how you will meet the spending requirement. 

Use a travel card that matches your travel style

There is a travel credit card for everyone, but not every travel card is the best fit for your wallet . Consider what type of traveler you are, whether you have any brand loyalty and what perks you are looking for from your next credit card.

If you travel often and in luxury, consider cards that are loaded with tons of luxury perks like lounge access and automatic elite status .

Alternatively, if you’re a more thrifty traveler who likes to maximize your travel earnings, consider a mid-tier travel card that will allow you to earn points on your travel without a long list of luxury perks. They’re often much more cost-effective for a traveler on a budget .

Even beginners don’t have to veer away from travel cards since many products out there offer an introduction to the travel rewards world without incurring an annual fee.

Also, consider if you'll be taking a lot of international travel or if you'll be away for longer, as there are certain credit cards best for long-term travelers .

Use loyalty programs to stack your rewards

You don’t have to limit your earnings to just travel credit cards . Many airlines and hotel chains have loyalty programs that can be used in conjunction with your travel card to unlock added perks when doing business with a specific brand. In addition, many travel credit cards allow you to transfer points from your card to your eligible loyalty programs . This can open up nearly endless redemption options, including award chart sweet spots that can get you the most maximized redemptions for your points and miles.

Transferable points credit cards earn points or miles when you make a purchase on the cards. These points and miles can then be transferred to travel partners for rewards like flights, hotel stays and more. Different cards will have different currencies, but they are generally called either “points” or “miles” (depending on the issuer). All transferable reward credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards will have their own currency that is redeemable for travel rewards. 

Travel cards have varying rates for different purchase categories. For example, the American Express® Gold Card card earns 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar) but only 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or Amextravel.com. While the Amex Platinum may be a better card for travel as it earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights (booked directly with airline or Amex Travel and up to $500,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar), the Amex Gold can be a good addition for Platinum holders who spend a lot of money on dining out.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards for maximum value

Once you’ve decided on a travel credit card and earned a welcome bonus, it’s time to put those points or miles toward free travel. There are many ways to redeem your rewards with travel credit cards. Many cards feature an online booking portal through which you can use your rewards to book things like flights, hotels and car rentals. Before booking your flight, you should consider doing a  flight portal comparison to ensure you're getting the best redemption. Others allow you to transfer your points or miles to individual loyalty programs. Depending on the redemption, this could unlock even more value.

There are plenty of ways to ensure you don’t make mistakes with your travel rewards . For instance, be sure you do your research with your rewards to get a high-value redemption and make sure your accounts are in good standing so you don’t risk losing them.  

Related: Tips and tricks to get maximum value from your Capital One miles

It’s up to you to decide whether a specific trip is worth spending your rewards. You can use TPG’s monthly valuations to help you determine if the price of your flight or hotel room is worth your points and miles. Some travels are more affordable in cash, but you can always save your points to splurge on a business-class flight to Europe or an overwater bungalow at a luxury resort. 

In the world of travel credit cards, the four major players are American Express, Capital One, Chase and Citi. These issuers also have their own travel portals which can be used to earn and redeem points for travel. 

Some issuers, like Capital One and Chase , offer an incentive to book travel through the bank’s portal but it is not always worth booking through a portal. 

We do not recommend booking hotel travel through card portals as it typically does not honor elite-status benefits or elite-qualifying stay credits. 

Luckily, flights typically allow you to earn bonus points through a card issuer’s portal and with the airline. Keep in mind that this does not apply to all cards. When purchasing in cash, there generally is little variance in booking through a portal or on the airline’s website so if your travel credit card offers incentives to book through the portal , it can be a great way to earn extra points. 

Related: Ultimate guide to the Citi travel portal

Points and miles redemptions will have a fair variance, especially if there are incentives to book through the travel portals. Overall, travel portals can be a great addition to your points redemption journey if properly used. Always remember to compare the price or redemption value of booking through a portal or directly with an airline. 

Booking through a portal may make matters complicated if you ever need to change or cancel your flight. 

Related: Battle of the credit card travel portals: Which is the best for booking flights?

Travel credit card benefits

Some travel cards offer automatic elite status with various programs when you sign up and can also accelerate the journey to elite airline status by converting points to air miles. If you are loyal to a particular hotel brand, status with that brand will be valuable. You’ll be entitled to room upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, late checkout and more. If you’re not loyal, it won’t. The same goes for elite status with an airline — you’ll get lounge access, upgrades, increased baggage allowance, etc. When comparing the perks of various cards like elite status, be realistic about which ones you will and won’t use.

One of the coveted perks of premium travel credit cards is complimentary airport lounge access. Many premium travel credit cards come with Priority Pass lounge access , a membership that allows access to airport lounges across the world. These lounges are a great place to relax before your flight or have a snack during a long layover. Amenities will vary between lounges but most lounges provide wifi, private seating and refreshments. Be sure to check the priority pass guest policy as many lounges allow you to bring a complimentary guest (or guests).

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both expedited screening programs for travelers. TSA PreCheck is reserved for expedited security screening for domestic flights and Global Entry provides expedited customs screening for international travelers when entering the United States. 

The application fee for TSA PreCheck is up to $85 and $100 for Global Entry. If you are approved for the program, the membership is valid for 5 years. Many travel credit cards will offer statement credit for the application . 

How we rate cards

Frequently asked questions.

Generally speaking, you need at least a very good credit score in order to get many popular travel credit cards. According to FICO, the scoring model used by most lenders, this is a score of at least 740. However, there’s no hard-and-fast rule, as each individual credit card issuer looks at a variety of factors in addition to your credit score when deciding whether to approve or decline your application.

Thankfully, there are a number of ways to check your credit score for free , so you can get an idea of where you stand before wasting an application (and a hard inquiry on your credit report) for a card for which you’re unlikely to qualify.

Points and miles are simply two different ways to describe the same thing: the rewards you earn on a credit card. As an example, many popular Capital One credit cards earn miles, whereas cards that participate in Chase Ultimate Rewards accrue points. There’s no appreciable difference between the two words.

This gets a little more complicated when you begin discussing cash-back credit cards. Some of these show earnings with a dollar amount, while others show cash-back rewards in points. However, here too there’s no significant difference. It’s simply how the card issuer chooses to describe the rewards you’re earning.

It depends entirely on your typical travel habits. Many popular travel credit cards feature rewards, benefits and redemption options that only come into play when you’re actually on the road. This includes perks like airport lounge access,  rental car insurance  or statement credits for certain travel purchases. Ultimately, you should look at how much value you expect to get out of a given travel card in one year. Then, compare that to the card’s annual fee to make sure you’re getting at least that much value.

It depends. Generally speaking, you should aim to use your rewards from travel credit cards for travel-related purchases – like flights or hotel rooms. However, everyone has a different version of what “value” looks like here. Some travelers are perfectly content redeeming 25,000 miles for a $250 economy flight. Others would rather save up and use 100,000 miles for a $5,000 business-class ticket. The important thing is to avoid redemptions like gift cards or merchandise, since those typically offer poor value for your points and miles.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether you want to keep cash in your pocket by using rewards for a particular purchase instead.

Many of the luxury travel cards on this list offer hundreds of dollars in annual travel statement credits. However, not all annual travel statements are created equal. While some cards feature easy redemptions, other cards feature redemptions that come with more restrictions. 

Out of the various cards that offer annual travel credits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® has the easiest redemption process for travel credits . The Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel credit covers a broad selection of charges, including flights, hotels, campgrounds and more. Additionally, the travel does not have to be booked through Chase’s travel portal, and the statement credit will automatically post when you make an eligible purchase. 

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

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Target RedCard Credit Card Review – Everything You Need to Know

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Director of Operations & Compliance

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Table of Contents

The target redcard at a glance, applying for the target redcard, redcard rewards, other target redcard benefits/features, target redcard fees & drawbacks, other rewards based cards (our recommendations), additional target card options, logging in & managing your target redcard account online, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

It happens nearly every time you step up to the checkout: the salesperson asks if you’d like to save 10%, 15%, or 20% off your purchase by applying for a store credit card.

Unfortunately, many store-branded credit cards often have high interest rates and low minimum payments, offsetting the discount in the end. That’s why your answer should usually be “No, thanks.”

However, The Target RedCard™ offers several benefits that may appeal to responsible cardholders who regularly shop the retail giant.

You can apply for the Target RedCard online or by mail. With the online application, you simply fill out a few forms and submit your information. You may be approved instantly, or your application may require further review. It can take up to 7-10 days to find out if you have been approved for the card.

Potential applicants should have a fair credit history. In general, it looks like a FICO credit score of 615 or higher is recommended but not required.

Other things to note before applying for the Target RedCard :

• You must be at least 18 years old and have a U.S. address to apply
• To apply, you’ll need your social security number and one of the following: driver’s license, state ID, or military ID

The Target RedCard is unique in that it gives shoppers a 5% savings on almost everything  bought with the card* from Target and Target.com including groceries, apparel, home goods, and more. The 5% discount even applies to purchases at Starbucks located within Target stores.

Unlike many cash-back credit cards , the Target RedCard applies your discount automatically — no points to earn or rebates to wait weeks to receive. And there’s no annual fee! All Target RedCard are chip-and-PIN cards for higher security.

A special note about pharmacy purchases: Your 5% store discount does not apply to pharmacy purchases. Cardholders used to earn discounts by filling a certain number of prescriptions and paying for them with the RedCard. However, CVS now runs all Target pharmacies, and this specific RedCard reward benefit is no longer in place.

Stacking Discounts:  Smart shoppers make an effort to stack discounts and receive additional savings on top of the 5% RedCard discount. For instance, when you sign up to have essentials delivered as part of the Target subscription service, you save 5% for using the service plus 5% for using the card — a total discount of 10%.

Also, look for Target Circle discounts of 5% to 50% off merchandise on top of the 5% RedCard discount. Take note, though, that the 5% RedCard discount pertains to the amount spent on the card after all other discounts are applied.

There are a number of additional Target RedCard features you can enjoy:

• No annual fee
• FREE two-day delivery on most purchases made with your RedCard at Target.com
• Target adds 30 days onto the regular 90-day return policy (so 120 days to return) when you use your RedCard
• Early access to special events, products, and promotions like seasonal sales (think Black Friday, Cyber Monday, etc.)
• “Exclusive extras” like special items, gifts, and cardholder anniversary offers (subject to restrictions)
• No foreign transaction fees: Shoppers can make purchases at international Target locations without racking up additional charges. (There are lots of other cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees either)

The biggest drawback of using a Target RedCard is that it is only accepted at Target stores and Target.com. Of course, if you already do most of your shopping at Target, that’s not a big deal.

APR:  Another caveat is the high APR associated with the card. At 23.90% (variable), this can be extremely dangerous for those who carry a balance. The interest and fees can quickly outweigh the 5% savings.

The Target RedCard usually comes with a pretty low minimum payment that can be paid back over a long period. This means you could rack up a ton of charges on the card, but incur hefty fees due to the high APR since you’re only required to pay off a little at a time.

Late Fee:  Target states users will pay a late fee of $24 when any amount due remains unpaid after the payment due date. All subsequent late fees will be $38 until you reach the minimum required payment by the due date for 6 consecutive billing periods.

Returned Payment Fee:  Users are charged $27 each time a check or other payment order is not honored by your banking institution.

Are the fees on the Target RedCard worth it? If you’re a responsible cardholder, then yes. If you pay the card in full every month (avoiding the high APR) and make your payments on time (avoiding the late fees), then the card can provide significant value — especially when you consider there is no annual fee.

A Possible Concern:  It’s important to note that when you utilize a Target RedCard of any kind, you’re authorizing the company to gather information about your purchases. In turn, Target may then utilize this data to send you coupons and advertisements specifically geared to your spending habits (thus enticing you to spend more at the store).

While Target isn’t the only company  with these practices, they’re a major player in the data collection game with illustrious techniques that set the company apart in the retail sector. In other words…they’re very good at this. Whether or not you’re concerned is really up to your personal privacy standards.

The Target card is a great option when making purchases at a Target store , but — the card is  not accepted outside of Target.

We recommend also using a card that’ll give you cash-back and rewards when making purchases at other stores, restaurants, online – or practically anywhere.

In other words, don’t just get rewards at Target – earn rewards on ANY purchase!

This cash-back card offers a capped 3% at U.S. supermarkets, 3% at U.S. gas stations, and 3% on U.S. online retail purchases!

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with  no credit score impact.

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

When it comes to cash-back credit cards, there are dozens of options to choose from. So what sets the Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express  apart from the rest?

This card is excellent at earning cash-back on your everyday purchases at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and on U.S. online retail purchases. So if you regularly spend money on everyday purchases, this could be the perfect card to add to your wallet.

• 3% back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• 3% back on purchases on online retail purchases on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1% back after.
• Rewards are not flexible and can only be redeemed for cash-back. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday ® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday ® Card.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 15 months
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  2.7% of each transaction after conversion to US dollars.

This card is great for those who want to earn cash-back with U.S. supermarkets, U.S. streaming subscriptions, transit, and U.S. gas stations.

The Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express is a stellar cash-back credit card for those looking to maximize every purchase they make.

With bonus categories like U.S. supermarkets, select U.S. streaming services, U.S. gas stations, and transit purchases , this card rewards you for the items you spend the most on in a big way! For those looking to earn up to 6% cash-back on their purchases , this could be the card for you!

• 6% cash-back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year)
• 6% cash-back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions
• 3% cash-back on U.S. gas stations and transit (including rideshares, parking, etc.)
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It ® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• $84 Disney Bundle Credit: With your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card, spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription, to receive a monthly statement credit of $7. Valid only at Disney Plus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the U.S.
• APR: 19.24%-29.99% Variable,0% on purchases for 12 months

Redeem cash-back through your American Express account

Alternatively, if you love to travel (or would like to travel more!) you could sign up for the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card which is arguably the best travel rewards card on the market.

You will earn 1 points per dollar at Target stores as well as 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel , 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance . With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• Member FDIC
• APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  None

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Remember, the points you’ll be earning with this card are extremely valuable , but only when used correctly!

Target RedCard ™ Debit: In addition to the Target RedCard, Target offers another option: the Target RedCard Debit, which is linked to the cardholder’s checking account.

The Target debit card offers the same 5% savings benefit as the credit card. Additionally, users can withdraw up to $40 in cash-back per transaction. However, since this is a debit card, you can’t use it to build your credit. Similar to the credit card version, this card can only be used at Target and online at Target.com.

Target Prepaid REDcard: The Target Prepaid REDcard by American Express can be loaded with funds each month by the user, who can then use those funds like a regular debit card. These funds can be added via bank account, debit card, cash, or even direct deposit from your paycheck. There are no fees associated with adding money to your prepaid card.

Cardholders will receive the same 5% savings benefit at Target stores and Target.com, as well as the Target.com free shipping and extended returns benefits.

Additionally, cardholders receive free ATM usage at U.S. Target stores. Cardholders can reportedly bay bills online to major utility companies, phone providers, or landlords, and can also create subaccounts to manage expenses for other users like family members.

Plus, since the Target Prepaid REDcard is sponsored by American Express, it also gives you access to benefits like purchase protection , a roadside assistance hotline, a Global Assist ® Hotline, 5  and Entertainment Access ® .

Target Mastercard:  Some Target RedCard holders may receive a notification from Target to upgrade their Target RedCard to a Target Mastercard.

This upgrade allows users to receive all the standard benefits of the Target RedCard, while also allowing them to utilize the card for standard purchases anywhere Mastercard is accepted. Of course, the 5% discount does not apply to other merchants — it remains exclusive to Target and Target.com.

Target RedCard holders can access account activity, manage PINs, set alerts, and add authorized users at target.com/myredcard.

If you’re environmentally-conscious, this is also where you can enroll in paperless statements.

The Target RedCard offers loyal customers an opportunity to save 5% on purchases, or even more if they look for chances to stack discounts with Target Circle and Target subscription services.

However, be careful! If you get behind on payments, this card’s high interest rate & fees can negate the 5% savings. It’s best to pay off the balance every month or choose the Target RedCard Debit version instead.

Alternatively, if you don’t spend at Target very often, there’s likely a better cash back card out there for you.

Want to be a REALLY savvy cash-back earner? Combine the Target RedCard with another great option like the Chase Freedom Unlimited ® , The Blue Cash Everyday ® Card from American Express, or The Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express . This way you can earn between 1%-6% cash back at tons of other places!

*5% Savings Exclusions:

• Prescriptions, over-the-counter items located behind the pharmacy counter, and clinic services at Target
• Target Optical™ eye exams
• Target gift cards and prepaid cards; Stockpile and Gift of College gift cards
• Previous purchases
• Certain restaurant merchants in Target stores, such as D’Amico & Sons Italian Kitchen, Freshii, and Pret A Manger
• Target credit account payments, Target Debit Card cash-back and cash advances on the Target Mastercard
• Gift wrap and shipping and handling charges on Target.com purchases
• Wireless protection program purchases and deposits required by mobile carrier
• Where otherwise prohibited by law

The information regarding the Target RedCard™ was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday ® from American Express, click  here . For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred ® Card from American Express, click here .

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TRAVEL MONEY CARDS

Get more with our Rewarding Red Travel Money Card

Unlock unparalleled value with Caxton Red. For just £8 a month, enjoy worldwide usage with no FX mark-ups and earn reward points on UK spending.  Benefit from peer-to-peer transfers, first-class financial security and five-star customer service. It's the perfect choice for frequent travelers.

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Make memories with peace of mind

Caxton Red is the ultimate travel companion for frequent travelers. Enjoy the best foreign exchange rates with no FX mark-ups, backed by impenetrable security features. Let us protect your finances while you focus on making unforgettable memories.

Excellent exchange rates, zero FX mark-up

For just £8 a month, save money every time you spend, with the best rates and zero FX mark-up. It's simply a better way to travel.

Take us with you, one call away

Our friendly, five-star rated UK-based team is on hand to help you around the clock, and simply a phone call away. Manage your account 24/7 online or via the app.

Spend global, earn rewards local

No currency is foreign on your Caxton Red Card. Use fee-free* at over 35 million locations globally and earn points on UK spending. 

Trusted all over the world, for 20 years

Unlock 0% fx rates and zero mark-ups.

No currency is foreign on your Caxton Red Card. Whether you load before you jet away or top-up on the go, you'll always get the best conversion rate and no FX mark-ups. For far flung destinations, simply load GBP and we'll convert at your exclusive 0% FX rate on the spot. 

NIFTY EXTRAS WITH CAXTON RED

It's the little things that make all the difference. Right?

Alongside 0% FX mark-ups and reward points on UK spend, enjoy nifty extras with your Caxton Red account that make a real difference. Plus enjoy discounted travel perks including airport parking, lounge access and more.

Say goodbye to IOUs with peer-to-peer transfers

Splitting your holiday accommodation with your friends or sharing the bill at lunch? Our 'peer-to-peer transfers' feature does the hard work for you.

Left over currency? We'll buy it back

Simply let us know when you're home and we'll but back any unused currency at the same rate you bought it.

Need an additional card? No problem

Whether it's to keep as a spare or to give to a loved one, order up to five additional cards online for free.

Leave you wallet at home - pay with Apple Pay

Add your Caxton Travel Money Card to your Apple Wallet to unlock a world of payment freedom. Pay anywhere you see the Apple Pay logo or contactless sign. 

Your travel finances in one place

Our app lets you keep track of your spending from any time zone, 24 hours a day. Top-up your card, transfer money and it something's up, block your card instantly, without charge. Manage your finances, anytime, anywhere.

Flexible and secure funding options

Fund your Caxton Red Card and account flexibly via Open Banking  for quick and secure transfers, ensuring instant to-ups with minimal hassle. Alternatively, opt for the traditional method of Direct Debit. 

Security that's truly global

Unlike your bank card, a Caxton Card adds an impenetrable layer of security, with no access to your bank account and the ability to freeze and unfreeze your funds at a moments notice. Caxton protects your money like a shield, preserving your finances. No matter what. 

WITH CAXTON, YOUR HOLIDAY MONEY GOES FURTHER

The total average saving for Caxton Card customers last summer was £445k

Our research published in CNN, BBC and MSN demonstrated that Britain could save around £60 million in fees, if everyone who went on holiday used a Caxton Card instead of their bank card.

A WORLD OF BENEFITS

Explore more, pay less with Caxton

Get your Caxton Red Travel Card today and embark on a journey filled with extraordinary experiences, memorable moments and seamless payment convenience. Some of the benefits include:

No mark-up 0% FX

Make international transfers

Up to 5 additional cards

Peer-to-peer transfers

Rewards on UK spending

Apply Pay and Google Wallet

Customer service 365 days

Buy Back Guarantee

Perks and discounts

The rates here reflect the currencies you can load onto your card. When using Caxton, you can choose our standard Black Card or upgrade to our Red card to enjoy 0% FX, perfect for frequent flyers.

Caxton Black

HKD 10.0063

HUF 454.2345

JPY 182.6078

NOK 13.7464

SEK 13.2147

ZAR 22.8729

TRAVEL MONEY, WITHOUT THE HASSLE

Money that moves as fast as you do

No currency is foreign with Caxton. Choose from our free Black Card with competitive FX rates or pay monthly to get 0% FX on our Red Card and if you need some extra cash, opt for our Cash Delivery Service.

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Our traditional free currency card makes holidays a breeze. Simply top-up from within the app with no transaction fees.

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£8 monthly fee for leading exchange rates, no FX mark-ups, and reward points for UK spending.

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Get travel money delivered straight to your door with our convenient cash delivery service. 

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Frequently asked questions

What is the best currency card to use.

There are many different currency cards on the market offering different exchange rates, fees and benefits. Caxton currency cards allow you to spend abroad without fees, while providing the safety and convenience of a prepaid card. Choose our Red Card to get the best exchange rates.

What does a currency card do?

A currency card, also known as a travel card, or travel money card, provides better exchange rates than a traditional bank card and avoids expensive exchange fees. Caxton currency cards also allow you to buy and hold 15 different currencies, and our Red Card provides a range of exclusive benefits.

Are prepaid currency cards worth it?

Prepaid currency cards involve the user preloading the card with money before spending with them. This provides added security, as they are not directly linked to your bank account, and you decide how much money to have available. With Caxton currency cards, you can also buy and hold 15 different currencies, allowing you to lock in exchange rates if the market is in your favour.

What are the disadvantages of a travel money card?

Travel money cards are great as they allow you to easily spend your money in different currencies abroad. However, it may also be a good idea to carry cash when travelling, in case your card is stolen or lost, or if you are trying to buy from a cash-only establishment. The Caxton Cash Delivery service offers next day currency delivery to your home, in over 50 different currencies.

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25,000 online bonus points offer (a $250 value) and no annual fee †

Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases everywhere, every time

Card Details

Unlimited points.

Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases everywhere, every time and no expiration on points as long as your account remains open. Calculate Rewards Travel Rewards

No annual fee † and no foreign transaction fees †

Enjoy no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees while earning points to use for a statement credit to pay for flights, hotel stays, vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants – including takeout.

Low Introductory APR Offer

0% † Intro APR for your first 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made within the first 60 days of opening your account. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 19.24% to 29.24% will apply. 3% † Intro balance transfer fee for the first 60 days your account is open. After the intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for all future balance transfers is 4%.

25,000 online bonus points offer

25,000 online bonus points if you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening – which can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel and dining purchases

Get even more rewards

Bank of America Preferred Rewards ® members earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase

That means you could earn 1.87 to 2.62 points for every $1 you spend, everywhere, every time.

Learn more about Preferred Rewards Travel Rewards

Interest Rates & Fees Summary †

Introductory apr.

0% for 15 billing cycles

Applies to purchases and to any balance transfers made within 60 days of opening your account

Standard APR

19.24% - 29.24%

Balance Transfer Fee

After the intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for all future balance transfers is 4%.

† Please see Terms and Conditions for rate, fee and other cost information, as well as an explanation of payment allocation. All terms may be subject to change.

Note: minimum payments are applied to lower-interest balances first. Additional payments are applied to higher-interest balances first.

Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases everywhere, every time.

No blackout dates or restrictions and points do not expire as long as your account remains open.

Use our rewards calculator to see where your points can take you...

Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.

Flexibility to redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel and dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants – including takeout.

See how many points you can earn

Tell us how much you spend every.

for every $1 spent on purchases

Your 1 Year of spending

Pay yourself back with a statement credit towards travel and dining purchases

Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for flights, hotels, vacation packages, cruises, rental cars or baggage fees, or dining expenses, such as restaurants and takeout. (Redemptions for cash or gift cards will be of lesser value.)

Travel Rewards

Customer bonus

Gold Tier Preferred Rewards Bonus

Platinum Tier Preferred Rewards Bonus

Platinum Honors Tier and Higher Preferred Rewards Bonus

Learn more about Preferred Rewards

Preferred Rewards makes your card even better

Note: This calculator is for illustrative purposes only. It is not intended to be printed or distributed. Your actual rewards earned will depend upon your individual purchases.

10% Customer bonus

25% Gold Tier Preferred Rewards Bonus

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75% Platinum Honors Tier and Higher Preferred Rewards Bonus

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Stay protected, contactless chip technology, balance connect ® for overdraft protection, paperless statement option, digital wallet technology, online & mobile banking, account alerts, fico ® score.

Now, when you opt-in you can access your FICO ® Score updated monthly for free, within your Mobile Banking app or in Online Banking. FICO ® Score Program . The FICO ® Score Program is for educational purposes and for your non-commercial, personal use. This benefit is available only for primary cardholders with an open and active consumer credit card account who have a FICO ® Score available. The feature is accessible through Online Banking, the Mobile website, and the Mobile Banking app for iPhone and Android devices. FICO is a registered trademark of Fair Isaac Corporation in the United States and other countries. Data connection required. Wireless carrier fees may apply." data-footnote="ADDITIONAL_BENEFITS_FOOTNOTE_07" aria-label="Footnote 5"> Footnote [5] Learn More   about Free FICO Credit Score opens in a new window

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Explore the benefits of your AAdvantage® Aviator® Mastercard®

Access the exclusive benefits, miles, and rewards you enjoy as a cardmember.

Enjoy elite travel benefits and enhance every journey

Aadvantage® aviator® world elite silver mastercard®.

Unlock travel rewards and benefits with every purchase

Aadvantage® aviator® world elite red mastercard®.

Soak it in with 2X AAdvantage® miles on American Airlines purchases

Aadvantage® aviator® world elite blue mastercard®.

Earn AAdvantage® miles on your purchases with no annual fee**

Aadvantage® aviator® world elite mastercard®.

Earn AAdvantage® miles on Business Expenses  

Aadvantage® aviator® world elite business mastercard®, earn aadvantage® miles on business expenses.

Compare our AAdvantage® Aviator® credit cards

Compare our, aadvantage® aviator® credit cards.

Select up to three cards above to compare their great benefits

† The AAdvantage® Aviator® World Elite Business Mastercard® is for commercial use.

* Effective October 1st, this amount will increase to $120.

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A single card from public transport to payment!

Korea travel card.

Top 6 Benefits

Korea's representative bank card, Transit Cards

Easy Deposit (Charge)

Unlimited cashback & benefits

Google reservation service

Hassle-free Withdrawals (refunds)

Stay safe with a card from korea's leading bank, pay at 5 million stores nationwide.

T-money, EZL Transportation Card

Nationwide buses, subways, and taxis.

National buses, Seoul/Jeju City Tour Bus, Airport Limousine

National Subway

National Taxi

KTX•Saemaeul• Mugunghwa•ITX Cheongchun•Nuriro, etc

National Express Bus terminal

National Expressway Corporation toll booths, private toll booths

*You can charge your transit balance at subway transit card charging terminals, convenience stores(CU, GS25, 7-11), and kiosks.

Anywhere, as much as you want

Airport banks, convenience stores, currency exchange, kiosks,, online recharge via app.

Online Recharge via App Mobile Payments, Visa, Master, Amex, Union Pay

At a bank at the airport Exchange and deposit money upon arrival in Korea

At a MONEY BOX Exchange and recharge at the best exchange rates

Charge at over 14,000 CU convenience stores nationwide

charge at kiosks in major tourist spots

No deposit fees, no payment fees

When depositing at woori bank, up to 50% cash back, at partner stores, 0.2% unlimited cash back, on every purchase.

10,000 partner stores

Nationwide provision of, reservation services.

Find an ATM or convenience store near you

Hassle-free refunds.

REDTABLE 11F, SIGNATURE TOWER(WEST),100,Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea Tel : +82-2-6964-7958 Corporate Registration Number : 206-86-50534 Mail-order Registration Number : 2022-Seoul Jung-gu-1568 Tourist Business Operator Registration Number : 2022-000073 @Copyright KOREA TRAVEL CARD. All Rights Reserved.