The Best Credit Cards for Travel Rewards in 2025
Travel rewards credit cards offer valuable points, miles, and perks that can make your trips more affordable and enjoyable. In 2024, several top-rated credit cards provide exceptional benefits for frequent travelers. Whether you’re looking for flexible redemption options, luxury travel perks, or high earning potential, there’s a card that suits your needs. Below, we’ll explore the best travel rewards credit cards available right now, what makes them stand out, and how to choose the right one for you.
What to Look for in a Travel Rewards Credit Card
Before diving into specific credit cards, it’s important to understand what makes a great travel rewards card. Here are key factors to consider:
- Sign-up Bonus: Many travel credit cards offer a generous welcome bonus after you meet a minimum spending requirement within the first few months.
- Rewards Rate: The number of points or miles earned per dollar spent varies by category, such as travel, dining, or general purchases.
- Redemption Flexibility: Consider whether you prefer fixed-point redemptions, airline transfers, or statement credits for travel purchases.
- Annual Fee: Premium cards offer better benefits, but often come with high annual fees. Make sure the rewards outweigh the cost.
- Travel Perks: Look for valuable extras such as lounge access, TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credits, and travel insurance.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: If you travel abroad frequently, a card with no foreign transaction fees is essential.
Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards of 2024
Based on expert analysis, here are the best travel rewards credit cards available today:
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit cards due to its generous rewards program and flexible redemption options.
- Sign-up Bonus: Earn **60,000 points** after spending **$4,000 in the first 3 months**.
- Rewards Rate:
- 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- 3x points on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases
- 2x points on all other travel purchases
- 1x points on all other purchases
- Annual Fee: **$95**
- Key Benefits:
- Points are worth **25% more** when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
- Transfer points to leading airline and hotel partners
- Primary rental car insurance
- Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a simple and flexible travel rewards program, making it great for frequent travelers.
- Sign-up Bonus: Earn **75,000 miles** after spending **$4,000 in the first 3 months**.
- Rewards Rate:
- 2x miles on all purchases
- 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Annual Fee: **$95**
- Key Benefits:
- Transfer miles to more than 15 travel partners
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
- No foreign transaction fees
3. The Platinum Card® from American Express
The Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium travel card packed with luxury perks.
- Sign-up Bonus: Earn **80,000 Membership Rewards® Points** after spending **$8,000 in the first 6 months**.
- Rewards Rate:
- 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel
- 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
- 1x points on all other purchases
- Annual Fee: **$695**
- Key Benefits:
- Access to **Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, and Delta Sky Clubs**
- Up to **$200 airline fee credit** per year
- Up to **$200 Uber Cash** annually
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
4. Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card is great for travelers who want high rewards on travel and everyday spending.
- Sign-up Bonus: Earn **60,000 ThankYou® Points** after spending **$4,000 in the first 3 months**.
- Rewards Rate:
- 3x points on air travel, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations
- 1x points on all other purchases
- Annual Fee: **$95**
- Key Benefits:
- Transfer points to partner airlines
- No foreign transaction fees
Comparison Table of the Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards
| Card | Sign-up Bonus | Rewards Rate | Annual Fee | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® | 60,000 points | 5x travel through Chase, 3x dining & more | $95 | 25% extra value on travel, primary rental insurance |
| Capital One Venture Rewards | 75,000 miles | 2x all purchases, 5x hotels & rental cars | $95 | No foreign fees, Global Entry/TSA credit |
| Platinum Card® from Amex | 80,000 points | 5x flights & hotels, 1x other | $695 | Lounge access, travel credits, top-tier perks |
| Citi Premier® Card | 60,000 points | 3x travel, dining, gas, groceries | $95 | Airline transfer partners, no foreign fees |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which travel credit card is best for beginners?
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is great for beginners due to its moderate annual fee, flexible points, and valuable travel benefits.
Is a travel credit card worth it?
Yes, if you travel frequently. The rewards and perks can offset the costs, but be sure to evaluate whether the benefits align with your spending habits.
Do travel credit cards have foreign transaction fees?
Many travel credit cards, including those listed above, waive foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel.
