The credit card industry has grown from providing financial backup to giving rewards and perks related to travel, entertainment, and much more. One of the most appreciated forms of credit card in the USA is the travel credit card.
It is a boon for frequent travelers who wander for work or leisure. Using travel credit cards in the USA, this group can enhance the travel experience through multiple rewards.
It typically includes exclusive lounge access, discounted ticket prices, no-cost upgrades, and a never-ending list. Depending on the card or the issuing body you choose, you may also enjoy perks like travel insurance, zero foreign transaction fees, or points you can convert into miles.
There are multiple ways in which travel credit cards in the USA prove fruitful. The primary concern is choosing the right option out of many choices. Some popular issuers in this category are American Express, Capital One, and Chase. However, there are many other choices for you to explore. Before looking into the options, let us explain what a travel credit card is and how you can check your eligibility.
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What is a Travel Credit Card?
It is a credit card category designed particularly for the benefit of travelers or to reward your travel-related spending. With these cards, you can earn points or miles against each transaction you make and later redeem it during your travels.
Apart from hotel stays, flight tickets, and other travel expenses, these cards may come with perks like insurance or the elimination of foreign transaction fees. If you love to explore places around the globe or your work pushes you towards frequent traveling, this card is for you!
Eligibility to opt for Travel Credit Cards in the USA
Obtaining travel credit cards in the USA involves multiple factors, like your credit score, stable income source, and more. All these factors help the card issuing body get an assurance about your ability to repay.
The higher annual income qualifies you for a credit card in the USA that comes with promising perks. The eligibility criteria for getting the credit card may vary for different issuing bodies; some generic requirements are as follows.
- An individual’s credit score should be higher than 700. This score will help prove your creditworthiness and repayment assurance.
- Lenders prefer an excellent track record to ensure responsible credit usage, including timely payments. The issuing body will particularly check your financial behavior over the years.
- Applicant must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
If you qualify for these criteria and other terms set by the preferred financial institute, you can apply for the travel credit card and enjoy all its perks.
11 Best Travel Credit Cards in the USA for 2024
Here are the top 11 travel credit cards in the USA, each offering unique benefits tailored to different types of travelers. Let us explore more about these cards.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
It is a well-rounded credit card in this category, offering excellent value through a smooth rewards program. With this card, you can also avail travel protection benefits and flexible redemption options. It’s particularly suitable for those who travel frequently, as it can enhance their travel experiences and allow them to earn substantial rewards.
Ideal For:
- Frequent travelers and diners who spend significantly on travel and dining can maximize rewards.
- Reward-seeking Individuals looking for flexible redemption options and substantial signup bonuses.
- Travel protection enthusiasts who may require extensive travel insurance and protection benefits.
Chase Sapphire Reserve
It is a top-tier travel credit card designed for luxury travelers. It offers a generous rewards program, substantial signup bonus, annual travel credit, and extensive travel benefits. The rewards this card offers make it an apt option for those who wish to travel lavishly. Many may find the annual fee to be on the higher end, but the benefits you get make it all worthwhile.
Ideal For:
- Those who travel frequently can take full advantage of the lounge access and discounted tickets.
- Individuals who value premium travel perks, like lounge access, travel credits, and comprehensive travel insurance.
- Those who can leverage the 50% increased points value when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
The Platinum Card from American Express
This credit card is from American Express and it falls under the top-tier travel card offering an extensive range of luxury benefits and rewards. The perks include high rewards rates, significant travel credits, elite status in hotel loyalty programs, and comprehensive lounge access. If you seek a premium or luxury travel experience, this card is apt.
Ideal For:
- Frequent flyers that travel often and prefer premium travel experiences.
- Reward maximizer Individuals who can leverage the 5x points on flights, hotels, and various travel credits.
- Travelers who value extensive lounge access and comfort during their journeys.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
It is an excellent option for travelers who want a sorted rewards program with flexible redemption options. Additionally, the ability to transfer miles to various travel loyalty programs adds value and versatility, making it a strong contender in the travel rewards card market.
Ideal For:
- Those who travel often, and can benefit from the unlimited 2x miles on every purchase and travel credits.
- Individuals looking for flexible and straightforward rewards without any need to track spending categories and other details.
- For those who frequently travel abroad and wish to enjoy zero foreign transaction fees.
Citi Premier Card
The Citi Premier Card offers excellent rewards through a robust program and has a flexible redemption setup. You get 3x points on a wide range of every day and travel-related purchases. Moreover, you get a generous welcome bonus and no foreign transaction fees. Additional offers further enhance its value, making it a top choice for those looking for a versatile travel rewards card.
Ideal For:
- Those who spend generously on travel, dining, groceries, and gas, maximize the 3x points earning potential.
- Individuals looking for a flexible redemption option and substantial signup bonuses.
American Express Gold Card
This credit card in the USA is an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize dining out and grocery purchases. It offers excellent rewards in these categories along with valuable travel and dining credits. So, if you want to enjoy culinary experiences and promising travel perks, you can certainly opt for this card.
Ideal For:
- Individuals who prioritize dining out and grocery shopping.
- Those who frequently dine out at restaurants or order food delivery.
United℠ Explorer Card
It is a solid choice for those loyal to United Airlines loyalists and often travel through them. You can earn miles for United Airlines flights and enjoy plenty of other travel benefits, such as free checked bags and priority boarding.
Ideal For:
- Those who frequently fly with United Airlines.
- Travelers who appreciate occasional access to United Club lounges with the included annual passes.
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card
This credit card is an excellent choice for those who are loyal to Delta Air Lines. The loyalists can earn miles quickly and enjoy valuable travel perks, including the first checked bag free and priority boarding. Moreover, the welcome bonuses are excellent.
Ideal For:
- Those who frequently fly with Delta Air Lines.
- Individuals who spend significantly on dining out and groceries can earn double miles in these categories.
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card
This card is a rewarding choice for Hilton enthusiasts who wish to earn substantial points on hotel stays and everyday purchases. You can enjoy excellent welcome offers and a wide range of travel rewards.
Ideal For:
- Those who frequently stay at Hilton properties.
- Those who spend generously on dining, groceries, and other travel-related expenses.
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card provides significant rewards related to Marriott properties. You can earn and redeem points for hotel stays and other rewards. Additionally, you get an annual Free Night, automatic Silver Elite status, and a range of travel and purchase protections.
Ideal For:
- Those who frequently stay at Marriott hotels.
- Those who would value the automatic Silver Elite status, no foreign transaction fees, and comprehensive travel insurance.
Wells Fargo Propel American Express Card
It is a standout choice for consumers seeking a no-annual-fee rewards card. Additionally, this card focuses on everyday spending categories like dining, travel, gas, and transit. Its earning structure is competitive, and you get benefits such as no foreign transaction fees.
Ideal For:
- Individuals who spend more on dining, gas, commute, and travel, maximizing points on everyday purchases.
- People looking for a rewards credit card with robust benefits and no annual fee.
Each of these credit cards offers distinct advantages, catering to different spending habits and travel preferences, making them highly attractive to frequent travelers.
Comparison of Best 11 Travel Credit Cards in the USA
Name of Card | Sign Up Bonus | Annual Fee | Benefits |
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | $95 | 2x points on travel and dining |
Chase Sapphire Reserve | Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | $550 | 3x points on travel and dining, $300 annual travel credit access to Priority Pass™ lounges |
The Platinum Card from American Express | Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first 6 months. | $695 | 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel Access to Centurion Lounges |
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card | Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening. | $95 | 2x miles on every purchase Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. |
Citi Premier Card | Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou Points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. | $95 | 3x points on air travel, hotels, and restaurants. 1x points on all other purchases. |
American Express Gold Card | Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 6 months. | $250 | 4x points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel $120 dining credit. |
United℠ Explorer Card | Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | $0 intro for the first year, then $95 | 2x miles on United purchases, restaurants, and hotels Free checked bag, priority boarding, and two United Club passes per year. |
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card | Earn 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months. Earn $200 statement credit after you make a Delta purchase with your new Card within your first 3 months. | $0 intro for the first year, then $99 | 2x miles on Delta purchases, restaurants, and U.S. supermarkets Free checked bag, priority boarding. |
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card | Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you use your new Card to make $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. | $95 | 12x points on Hilton purchases 6x points at U.S. restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations, complimentary Gold status. |
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card | Earn 100,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months. | $95 | 6x points on Marriott purchases 2x points on all other purchases, free night award annually. |
Wells Fargo Propel American Express Card | Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months. | $0 | 3x points on dining, travel, and popular streaming services 1x points on other purchases, no foreign transaction fees. |
End Note
The best 11 travel credit cards in the USA listed above offer a plethora of benefits. If you want particular rewards related to a specific category, it is possible to tailor the reward program according to different travel styles and spending habits. You can enjoy perks like airport lounge access, annual travel credits, and robust rewards on dining, hotels, and flights.
You only have to focus on choosing the right credit card in the USA that complies with your travel preferences, spending patterns, and desired perks.
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