19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of June 2024 (2024)

Up to 5x Reward Rate

Earn 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on allRead More

Welcome Bonus

60,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent, Good(700 - 749)

I jumped at the chance to get the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card when it was first launched. More than a decade later, I’m still a loyal cardholder. It’s the ideal starter card for someone dipping their toe into travel rewards and I’m living proof you may never need to upgrade. Cardholders earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards® points for access to transfer partners or for easy, no-strings-attached redemptions through Chase Travel℠. There’s no foreign transaction fee and a wide selection of travel insurances.

Why We Like It

For a modest annual fee of $95 (which can be partially offset with an annual $50 hotel credit) you get a rare mix of high rewards rates and redemption flexibility.

What We Don’t Like

The highest earning rate requires making reservations through Chase Travel℠, which doesn’t include direct bookings or online travel agencies.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers who want to earn transferable points without a steep annual fee.

I​​t’s the granddaddy of travel credit cards, but it still earns its reputation as one of the best around with solid bonus categories, strong travel protections, a great set of domestic and international transfer partners and a reasonable annual fee to boot. You can’t go wrong with it as your first travel credit card.

Rates & Fees

Up to 5X Reward Rate

Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5X miles on Capital One EntertainmentRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Credit Score

Excellent, Good(700 - 749)

Casual travelers who don’t plan to carry a balance will find good value in the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card‘s earnings rates (rates & fees). And if you appreciate the skip-the-line perks of TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry as much as I do, you’ll be grateful for the up to $100 credit toward program fees.

Why We Like It

You can earn double miles on every purchase and can access transfer partners without ponying up a triple-digit annual fee.

What We Don’t Like

Expect dialed-back benefits compared to more premium travel cards. You’ll still enjoy select trip protections along with no foreign transaction fee. Keep in mind that you’ll want to redeem for travel bookings or transfers to partner programs (cash back redemptions are often not the best value).

Who It’s Best For

Cardholders who want to earn travel rewards at a flat rate.

The Capital One Venture Rewards card is extremely low maintenance as far as travel reward cards go. It provides consistent value and flexibility when it comes to earning and redeeming points for travel and is an excellent alternative for anyone a bit leery of the high Venture X annual fee (rates & fees).

Rates & Fees

Up to 5x Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X pointsRead More

Welcome Bonus

60,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Credit Score

Excellent, Good(700 - 749)

We love that the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card bestows you with strong earning rates on travel without requiring you to book through a card’s portal. Go ahead and book directly with your preferred airline and hotel: You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airlines, 3 points per dollar on other travel and restaurants and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Why We Like It

There’s a minimal annual fee for this card and it comes with the opportunity to earn a $50 statement credit each year when you spend $50 or more on airline purchases. That’s a bargain travelers will love.

What We Don’t Like

For now, there’s a limited number of transfer partners, which means you’ll have fewer redemption options than what some other issuers provide.

Who It’s Best For

We think this card is a perfect fit for travelers who like to book trips directly, especially if they’re looking for cash-back rewards rather than travel transfers.

Wells Fargo has entered the premium card market with its highly anticipated Autograph Journey credit card which offers accelerated points earnings on airfare, hotels and restaurants. It’s also the newest card to offer the option to redeem points by transferring them to travel partners.

Up to 2X Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 you spend on travel and dining purchases. Earn 1.5 points for every $1Read More

Welcome Bonus

60,000 points

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Credit Score

Good, Excellent(700 - 749)

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card won’t turn heads unless you’re a Preferred Rewards member with substantial account balances at Bank of America. But if you are, watch your rewards grow at amazing rates.

Why We Like It

I have no problem earning $100 in statement credits annually for airline incidental charges, my favorite perk of the card. And while it won’t be relevant to everyone, some Bank of America account holders could earn an incredible 25-75% more in rewards on every purchase.

What We Don’t Like

The standard earning rate on this card isn’t notable. You’ll earn 2 points per dollar on travel and dining purchases and 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases.

Who It’s Best For

This card stands out for someone who already qualifies for Preferred Rewards, or is willing to move banking balances to Bank of America and their partners accordingly.

The best travel credit cards make it easy to earn back the annual fee every year, and the Premium Rewards credit card is one of those. It’s also a rewards powerhouse for Bank of America Preferred Rewards customers.

Up to 5% Reward Rate

Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled, 5% on travel purchased throughRead More

Welcome Bonus

$200 bonus

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

20.49%-29.24% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent, Good(700 - 749)

I don’t automatically think of the Chase Freedom Flex℠ as a travel card, but it’s a great everyday card that also rewards you generously for bookings made through Chase Travel℠.

Why We Like It

In addition to the welcome offer and ongoing rewards this card offers, new cardholders can also take advantage of a 0% introductory APR to help pay off their travel expenses: 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24% applies. Balance transfer fee of up to 5% (min. $5) of the amount of each transfer applies.

What We Don’t Like

Rewards are initially made available as cash back. If you want to transfer your rewards to partnering airlines and hotels, you’ll also need to hold an Ultimate Rewards card that offers that feature.

Who It’s Best For

The Freedom Flex requires a little more hands-on management to earn in its quarterly bonus categories, so it’s a better fit for someone willing to stay on top of details.

Kudos to Chase for always keeping the rotating categories relevant on the Freedom Flex. From Amazon to PayPal and Starbucks to Walmart, you’re almost guaranteed to find at least one quarter every year (or even several) where the 5 bonus points roll in with almost no effort. Just don’t forget to activate the categories every quarter.

Up to 3X Reward Rate

Earn 3X Membership Rewards points on eligible travel, transit and restaurant purchases including takeout and delivery in the U.S. EarnRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 40,000 points

Annual Fee

$150

Regular APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Score

Excellent/Good(700 - 749)

When you don’t want to limit your earnings only to travel charges, check out the American Express® Green Card*. It offers elevated rewards on dining and local transit, too.

Why We Like It

Cardholders have access to annual statement credits for CLEAR® Plus and LoungeBuddy charges, which can easily exceed the cost of the card’s annual fee.

What We Don’t Like

Amex isn’t always accepted overseas, which could be a major issue for international travelers, if they don’t have a backup card.

Who It’s Best For

This is a great midrange card that has access to American Express Membership Rewards®, making it a good choice for someone who doesn’t want the high cost of a Gold or Platinum card.

Occasional travelers who want to be treated like VIPs will find that the Amex Green card has an ideal set of perks. The $100 annual LoungeBuddy credit is just enough to cover airport lounge access a few times a year, and the CLEAR credit provides expedited access through TSA security at major airports across the country. Put them together and it’s a perfect balance of benefits for infrequent flyers at a relatively low annual fee.

Rates & Fees

Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases, 5 miles per dollar on flights and 10 miles per dollarRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$395

Regular APR

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Credit Score

Excellent(750 - 850)

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (rates & fees) is packed with extras that put it firmly in competition with other upscale credit cards. Just as important, the easy earnings structure is ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to stress over details.

Why We Like It

Its annual fee is easily recouped through an annual $300 credit for bookings through Capital One Travel and 10,000 bonus miles after your anniversary, which makes the perks feel almost free. A Priority Pass membership also provides value, giving you access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide.

What We Don’t Like

The flat-rate earnings mean that if you have high spending in a single category, you might be better off with a different card.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers who want premium benefits and are willing to book through Capital One Travel, at least once a year.

If you’re looking for lofty perks without a lofty annual fee, the Venture X fits the bill. While other cards with elite benefits run nearly $700 a year, you’ll only pay a little more than half that for the Venture X. And you’ll still get Capital One and Priority Pass airport lounge access for you and your guests, an annual travel credit and solid earnings on everyday purchases.

Up to 10x Reward Rate

Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel throughRead More

Welcome Bonus

60,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$550

Regular APR

22.49%-29.49% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent(750 - 850)

Earn superior points rates if you spend frequently on travel and dining out with the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. Its greatest selling point, though, is the awesome list of 1:1 transfer partners. There’s also best-in-market travel insurance benefits and no foreign transaction fee. Plus, as a Visa card, it’s also widely accepted worldwide, so if you travel at least a couple times per year, this card deserves serious consideration.

Why We Like It

Cardholders can make up for a chunk of the annual fee with the $300 annual travel credit, a Priority Pass Select airport lounge membership and up to a $100 credit every four years to cover your Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS application fee, all of which make far-flung travel easier to bear. The travel protection benefits have personally reimbursed me more than $1,000.

What We Don’t Like

There’s an extra fee to add an authorized user to your account.

Who It’s Best For

Anyone looking to take advantage of built-in travel insurance protections.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is one of the most valuable flexible rewards credit cards thanks to its lucrative bonus categories and easy-to-use travel credit. Cardholders can offset the annual fee and get great value when redeeming Chase Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card, thanks to partnerships with numerous airlines and hotels and its convenient travel booking portal, Chase Travel℠.

Rates & Fees / Terms Apply

5X Reward Rate

Earn 5 Membership Rewards Points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and on flights booked directlyRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 80,000 points

Annual Fee

$695

Regular APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Score

Good,Excellent(700 - 749)

The Platinum Card® from American Expressis destined for frequent travelers who intend to fully leverage the rich set of travel benefits. Trust me when I say the perks can make you feel like a VIP. The staggering annual fee for this classic status card won’t be worth it for everyone, but in the right hands the expense can be well justified.

Why We Like It

Lounge access with this card extends beyond the Priority Pass membership you see on other premium cards. Plus, if you’re looking for a giant welcome bonus to get things started, the Platinum Card certainly shakes things up.

What We Don’t Like

Many of the perks are very specifically applied and may require enrollment. Examples include statement credits toward Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, select digital entertainment, select hotel stays and airline incidental fees.

Who It’s Best For

Cardholders who will track and maximize the long list of member benefits.

Being an Amex Platinum cardholder grants access to the International Airline Program, which can save you money on first and business class seats on more than 20 airlines as well as premium economy tickets for you and up to seven traveling companions. Start your search on the Amex Travel website to find international flights departing or arriving in the U.S. on any of those premium cabins.

Rates & Fees / Terms Apply

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points atRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 60,000 points

Annual Fee

$250

Regular APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Score

Excellent/Good(700 - 749)

Foodies and travelers can leverage the American Express® Gold Cardto the hilt, earning up to 4 points per dollar. The annual fee may seem intimidating—I get that. But my household comes out ahead by taking advantage of the card’s dining credits and rotating Amex Offers. It’s an appealing option for anyone who wants to redeem travel rewards but doesn’t spend enough on flights or hotels to require elevated earning categories on travel itself.

Why We Like It

The grocery earnings on this card are impressive and rare for a travel card. For someone who wants to transform everyday expenses into a vacation, this card seamlessly blends the experience.

What We Don’t Like

The Amex Gold provides dining credits valid at GrubHub and more plus Uber Cash, but you’re required to enroll and credits are dished out monthly rather than in an annual lump sum.

Who It’s Best For

Cardholders with high spending on food expenses.

This card makes it easy to earn Membership Rewards points while doing regular grocery shopping since the card earns bonus points at supermarkets. And for the nights that cardholders don’t want to cook, they can make use of the monthly dining and Uber credits (which can be used on Uber Eats orders).

Up to 3x Reward Rate

Earn 3x points for each dollar spent on grocery stores, dining at restaurants including takeout and eligible delivery services, andRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 70,000 points

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.74% - 28.74% Variable

Credit Score

Good, Excellent(700 - 749)

Many people—myself included—might be tempted to overlook this card that seems geared toward Air Canada passengers. But the Aeroplan® Credit Card recently caught my eye for its strong earning potential and the option to redeem miles for award flights on partner airlines, of which there are dozens.

Why We Like It

This card allows you to earn quickly and stretch your miles far. Cardholders may also have access to reduced-price award flights.

What We Don’t Like

Learning the ins and outs of Aeroplan rewards requires a little extra attention. And if you’re drawn in by the automatic status benefits, keep in mind that maintaining status after your initial benefit requires spending $15,000 on the card in a calendar year.

Who It’s Best For

Savvy travelers who mostly fly internationally.

Chase and Air Canada’s co-branded Aeroplan Credit Card will serve as an excellent companion for frequent flyers of Star Alliance and its carriers from United to Lufthansa as you earn valuable Aeroplan points. Maximize your Aeroplan points and redeem for flights and hotels through an extensive partner network. Enjoy additional points-earning opportunities in key everyday categories.

Welcome Bonus

Earn 85,000 Avios.

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent, Good(700 - 749)

British Airways’ Avios reward currency is looked down upon by lots of travelers, but the British Airways Visa Signature® Card offers value, if you know where to look.

Why We Like It

This card makes it even easier to lock in a deal, thanks to flight discounts, statement credits toward award flights and the chance to earn a Travel Together Ticket.

What We Don’t Like

Many British Airways redemptions have really high fees associated with them, which takes some of the fun out of booking award flights.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers who fly British Airways annually or more often.

Those who spend enough to earn the Travel Together Ticket can get 50% off the price of their award ticket when traveling solo or get a second seat on the same flight and cabin for a companion at no additional cost beyond taxes and fees. Travel Together Tickets are now valid on British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus flights and any of their subsidiaries on itineraries from anywhere in the world for both one-way or round-trip flights.

Up to 3X Reward Rate

3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases. 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, select streaming services & allRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 70,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$250

Regular APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Score

Good/Excellent(700 - 749)

Frequent United Airlines customers will appreciate that the United Quest℠ Card comes with an annual up to $125 United credit, rewards on travel and dining and travel protections such as primary car rental coverage and trip cancellation insurance.

Why We Like It

This card rewards your loyalty. You can earn award flight credits after renewing the card and booking eligible award flights with your miles. You’ll also earn 25 Premier Qualifying Points for every $500 in net purchases (including purchases made by authorized users) up to a maximum of 6,000 PQPs, in a calendar year.

What We Don’t Like

The annual fee on the United Quest is more than double the average airline card.

Who It’s Best For

United flyers who aren’t interested in committing to an ultra-premium card.

Don’t let the card’s annual fee scare you off. Even if you’re not a frequent flyer, the perks can make this card worth your while, and the rewards rates are better compared to most airline cards.

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases; Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel andRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 90,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$525

Regular APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent(750 - 850)

United’s top-tier card ties up the whole package. A suite of travel perks makes the United Club℠ Infinite Card a compelling value, with the United Club membership alone worth more than the annual fee. If I flew more often, I’d be tempted by the ability to earn Premier Qualifying Points for eligible charges.

Why We Like It

The most prominent benefit is access to United Club airport lounges and other Star Alliance Gold lounges. You’ll also receive two free checked bags for yourself and another person traveling on the same reservation, expedited check-in, security screening and boarding, expanded access to award flights and Premier Upgrades on award tickets, if you have status.

What We Don’t Like

Many loyal customers may already have elite status with United, making the included Premier Access benefits redundant.

Who It’s Best For

United flyers who want airport lounge access when traveling.

If reaching a higher status with United is a priority, the United Club Infinite all but guarantees it, as long as the card is used regularly. Cardholders also enjoy frequent seat upgrades (depending on route and availability) plus always-free United Club access. But these perks come with a hefty price tag.

Up to 26X Reward Rate

Earn up to 26 points total per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts; 5 points perRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 140,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$99

Regular APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Good, Excellent(700 - 749)

I stay at IHG properties only a few times a year, but the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a mainstay in my husband’s wallet. Get it for the benefits, not the points potential: We love the Anniversary Free Night—which alone justifies the annual fee—and appreciate the fourth-night-free feature.

Why We Like It

High spenders are showered with extra love. You can earn statement credits, bonus points or upgraded elite status when hitting spending thresholds on the card.

What We Don’t Like

The earning rates aren’t as high as they seem once you realize that IHG One Rewards are typically worth less than a penny apiece.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers who stay at IHG properties one or more times per year.

The IHG One Rewards Premier blows all other mid-tier hotel credit cards out of the water with perks alone. You don’t even have to use the card regularly to offset its annual fee every year.

Up to 9X Reward Rate

Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 bonus points per $1 when you useRead More

Welcome Bonus

Up to 60,000 Bonus Points

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.49% - 28.49% variable

Credit Score

Excellent, Good(700 - 749)

While Hyatt doesn’t have an extensive network of properties compared to other chains, the value offered by The World of Hyatt Credit Card is outstanding. If you’re a regular at Hyatt, a combination of high redemption values, sweet perks and one free night per year easily covers the annual fee and then some.

Why We Like It

The card comes with five qualifying night credits, but cardholders can earn more through card spending to work their way up the elite ladder.

What We Don’t Like

The automatic Discoverist elite status for cardholders is, frankly, uninspiring.

Who It’s Best For

Hyatt enthusiasts looking to earn extra points and work toward status.

For many Hyatt loyalists, earning Globalist status each year is a priority and this card can help them get there faster by providing five elite night credits annually. Plus the complimentary yearly certificate for a category 1 to 4 Hyatt hotel counts toward elite status too and can offset the card’s annual fee.

Up to 6X Reward Rate

Earn 6 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at participating By Wyndham hotels and at gas stations; EarnRead More

Welcome Bonus

100,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$75

Regular APR

20.99% - 29.99% variable

Credit Score

Excellent/Good Credit(700 - 749)

The Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card* offers solid hotel benefits and earning rates for travelers—especially road trippers, thanks to gas rewards and properties that line the interstates.

Why We Like It

Guests have access to discounts on both paid and award stays with Wyndham-family hotels. Cardholders are also boosted to Platinum status for upgrades and extras while traveling. And high spenders get an additional reward on top of all this: You’ll earn 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year.

What We Don’t Like

Wyndham Guest Rewards don’t always provide outsized value, which puts your earning rates in perspective.

Who It’s Best For

This card is an obvious choice for regular Wyndham travelers who can take advantage of the discounts and bonus points.

Wyndham loyalists will enjoy the array of perks and benefits offered by the Wyndham Earner Plus card. By providing complimentary PLATINUM loyalty status, this card is primed to ensure an enhanced experience at Wyndham’s 9,000+ properties.

Up to 6X Reward Rate

Earn 6 points for every $1 at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3 points for every $1 spent each year (upRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 3 Free Night Awards

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Good, Excellent(700 - 749)

Overwhelmed by all of Marriott’s credit card options? So am I. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card* is the best value for most customers, given a robust set of perks and rewards potential without an eye-popping annual fee.

Why We Like It

The Free Night Award, provided each year after renewal, is valued at 35,000 points and can be topped off if you prefer an upgraded stay.

What We Don’t Like

If you currently hold a Marriott-branded credit card, you may not be eligible for this one. Choose your card wisely before applying!

Who It’s Best For

Marriott Bonvoy members looking for a little extra without a high annual fee.

The card’s free award night perk alone makes the card worth a spot in any traveler’s wallet. The option to combine the certificate with up to 15,000 points to get more flexibility for your annual stay is a nice touch.

Rates & Fees / Terms Apply

Up to 12X Reward Rate

Earn 12X Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio; Earn 6XRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 130,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$150

Regular APR

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Credit Score

Good,Excellent(700 - 749)

For a midrange card, you’ll enjoy fabulous on-site perks with Hilton just for being a Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Cardmember. You’ll have automatic Gold status without any spending or earning requirements.

Why We Like It

The elite status is significant, but so are the points. The Surpass is known for its sizable welcome offer and strong earnings on Hilton spending. There’s hotel savings, too: You can earn statement credits when using your card to pay for a Hilton stay, up to $50 per quarter (that’s $200 per year).

What We Don’t Like

Though some other hotel credit cards dole out free night certificates like candy, you have to earn one with the Surpass. It takes $15,000 in annual eligible spending for a free night reward.

Who It’s Best For

Unsurprisingly, this card is best for someone who travels with Hilton throughout the year. The quarterly statement credits mean you’ll need to stay often to maximize that benefit.

The Hilton Surpass is a great fit for Hilton fans who don’t want to pay a high annual fee to earn points and status with their favorite hotel chain. The card’s complimentary Hilton Gold elite status and Free Night Reward after spending $15,000 on the card in a year are nice perks and the up to $200 in credits for purchases at Hilton properties each year are more than enough to offset the card’s entire annual fee on their own.