Looking to earn free flights, hotel stays, or luxury travel perks? We’ve reviewed the best travel rewards cards in the U.S. and ranked our top picks for 2025. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just planning a dream vacation, the right card can turn your everyday spending into unforgettable travel experiences.
🏆 Top 5 Travel Credit Cards for 2025
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Welcome Bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
- Travel Perks: 2x points on travel and dining
- Annual Fee: $95
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Welcome Bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in 3 months
- Travel Perks: 2x miles on all purchases
- Annual Fee: $95
- American Express® Gold Card
- Welcome Bonus: 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points
- Travel Perks: 3x on flights booked directly or via Amex Travel
- Annual Fee: $250
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Welcome Bonus: 60,000 points after $4,000 spend in 3 months
- Travel Perks: Priority Pass, 3x on travel & dining, $300 annual travel credit
- Annual Fee: $550
- The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Welcome Bonus: 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points
- Travel Perks: Lounge access, 5x on flights/hotels
- Annual Fee: $695
🧳 Who Should Get a Travel Rewards Card?
Not everyone needs a travel rewards card. However, if you travel more than once a year, whether for business or leisure, this type of card can be incredibly valuable. For example, frequent flyers often earn enough miles to cover multiple flights annually. Moreover, these cards offer perks that go beyond just rewards.
In fact, many top travel rewards cards include benefits such as airport lounge access, free checked bags, and priority boarding. Additionally, if you usually book hotels or rental cars, the right card can help you earn rewards on those purchases too.
Therefore, if your monthly spending exceeds $1,000, and you often travel within the U.S. or internationally, you’re likely to benefit from a travel-focused card. As a result, you may save hundreds—or even thousands—each year just by using the right card strategically.
✨ Pro Tips to Maximize Travel Rewards
- Use your card for everyday purchases to rack up points
- Pay off your balance monthly to avoid interest
- Combine points with travel partners for even more value
- Book through portals like Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Travel
- Collecting points is only part of the equation. To truly get the most value, you must redeem them wisely. For instance, instead of using points for gift cards or merchandise, travelers should transfer them to airline or hotel partners. In addition, booking through your credit card’s travel portal often gives you access to exclusive deals or discounts.
- Furthermore, stacking your card’s perks—like travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees—helps increase the overall value of your travel. Keep in mind, not all cards are created equal. That’s why comparing redemption options is essential when selecting the best travel rewards cards for your needs.
🛡️ Built-in Travel Insurance and Protections
Another advantage of the best travel rewards cards is the protection they offer. For example, many cards include trip cancellation or interruption insurance, which reimburses you if your plans change unexpectedly. Likewise, lost luggage coverage can save you money and stress while traveling.
In contrast, basic credit cards rarely provide these benefits. Hence, choosing a premium travel rewards card could be a smart long-term investment, especially for frequent travelers.
Moreover, many cards provide primary rental car insurance, which means you don’t need to pay extra when booking a car. In the event of medical emergencies abroad, some cards even cover your expenses.
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