19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (2024)

Best General Purpose Travel Credit Cards

Best Travel Credit Card for Beginners

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

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On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

5.0

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (3)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

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

75,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent, Good(700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

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.

Why We Like It

For a modest annual fee (which is partially justified with an annual 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℠ and 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.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (6)

Julian Kheel

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.

Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.

In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.

Julian Kheel

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (7)

Julian Kheel

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.

Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.

In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

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.

Pros & Cons

  • Earn high rewards on several areas of spending
  • Transfer points to travel partners at 1:1 rate
  • Many travel and shopping protections
  • Annual fee
  • No intro APR offer
  • Best travel earning rates are only for bookings through Chase

Card Details

  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s over $900 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, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 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, 2024.
  • Member FDIC

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Premium Travel Rewards Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

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On Capital One's Website

4.9

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (10)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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On Capital One's Website

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)

Our Expert Take

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 travel credit and bonus miles, which makes the perks feel almost free.

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.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (13)

Julian Kheel

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.

Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.

In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.

Julian Kheel

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (14)

Julian Kheel

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.

Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.

In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

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

Pros & Cons

  • Annual fee lower than others in its category
  • Annual travel credit through Capital One Travel and anniversary miles alone could justify the annual fee
  • Miles are easy to earn and easy to use
  • Lack of domestic airline and upscale hotel travel partners
  • Capital One lounge network in its infancy
  • Lack of hotel status benefits

Card Details

  • 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 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
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

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.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Travel Credit Card for International Travel

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

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On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

4.9

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (17)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

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

75,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$550

Regular APR

22.49%-29.49% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent(750 - 850)

Our Expert Take

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.

Why We Like It

The $300 travel credit compensates for much of the annual fee, and 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.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (20)

Lori Zaino

Credit Cards Writer

A credit card enthusiast and avid traveler, Lori has visited more than 60 countries, many of them using credit card points and frequent flyer miles. She has lived in Spain as a freelance writer and editor for around two decades, figuring out the best tips and tricks for using points and miles to live and travel abroad, and writing about it to share her knowledge every step of the way.

Lori Zaino

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (21)

Lori Zaino

Credit Cards Writer

A credit card enthusiast and avid traveler, Lori has visited more than 60 countries, many of them using credit card points and frequent flyer miles. She has lived in Spain as a freelance writer and editor for around two decades, figuring out the best tips and tricks for using points and miles to live and travel abroad, and writing about it to share her knowledge every step of the way.

Credit Cards Writer

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.

Pros & Cons

  • $300 annual travel credit is incredibly flexible
  • Generous welcome bonus
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem points for travel through Chase
  • Points transfer to valuable airline and hotel partners
  • High annual fee
  • High variable APR on purchases
  • Excellent credit recommended

Card Details

  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursem*nt 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, 75,000 points are worth $1125 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®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Member FDIC

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Travel Rewards Credit Card for Lounge Access

The Platinum Card® from American Express

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On American Express's Website

Partner Offer

Rates & Fees / Terms Apply

4.8

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (24)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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On American Express's Website

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)

Our Expert Take

The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees) is 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.

What We Don’t Like

Many of the statement credits and other offers have limitations for how you can use them.

Who It’s Best For

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

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (27)

Ben Nickel-D'Andrea

Credit Cards Writer

Ben is a credit cards and luxury travel writer, an immigrant with three citizenships and a husband. He speaks English, Spanish and Italian, has a background in linguistics and languages, and travels the world for the love of it. You'll find him flying up front in first or business class all over the world and enjoying food from fine dining to street fare.Ben unpacks the complex network of loyalty programs across the credit card and travel industries with his simple and easy-to-understand, yet relatable, explanations. A nature enthusiast at heart, he lives in Seattle with his husband Jon and their beagle.

Ben Nickel-D'Andrea

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (28)

Ben Nickel-D'Andrea

Credit Cards Writer

Ben is a credit cards and luxury travel writer, an immigrant with three citizenships and a husband. He speaks English, Spanish and Italian, has a background in linguistics and languages, and travels the world for the love of it. You'll find him flying up front in first or business class all over the world and enjoying food from fine dining to street fare.Ben unpacks the complex network of loyalty programs across the credit card and travel industries with his simple and easy-to-understand, yet relatable, explanations. A nature enthusiast at heart, he lives in Seattle with his husband Jon and their beagle.

Credit Cards Writer

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. for any of those premium cabins.

Pros & Cons

  • High reward potential on flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel
  • Multiple credits can help justify the fee
  • Comprehensive airport lounge access
  • Luxury travel benefits and elite status with Hilton and Marriott with enrollment
  • Very high annual fee
  • Maximizing the statement credits takes some work and could be impractical for many
  • Reward rate outside of travel is sub-par for a premium card

Card Details

  • 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 with American Express Travel when you pay with 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, Peaco*ck, 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.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 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 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), 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.
  • Terms Apply.

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.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Runner-Up Travel Cards

Best Travel Rewards Earning for Foodies

American Express® Gold Card

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On American Express's Website

Partner Offer

Rates & Fees / Terms Apply

4.6

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (31)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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On American Express's Website

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

Our Expert Take

Foodies and travelers can leverage the American Express® Gold Card (terms apply, see rates & fees) to 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.

Why We Like It

The grocery earnings on this card are impressive and rare for a travel card. Earn on everyday spending and redeem toward vacation: perfect.

What We Don’t Like

The dining credits and Uber Cash are provided monthly rather than in an annual lump sum.

Who It’s Best For

Cardholders with high spending on food expenses.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (34)

Barbara King

Credit Cards Writer

Always dreaming about the next destination, credit cards specialist Barbara King is an avid traveler who optimizes her adventures through the use of points and miles. Barbara has earned and redeemed millions of credit cards points which has enabled her to explore over 50 countries on six continents, enjoying both budget and luxury travel.

Barbara King

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (35)

Barbara King

Credit Cards Writer

Always dreaming about the next destination, credit cards specialist Barbara King is an avid traveler who optimizes her adventures through the use of points and miles. Barbara has earned and redeemed millions of credit cards points which has enabled her to explore over 50 countries on six continents, enjoying both budget and luxury travel.

Credit Cards Writer

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).

Pros & Cons

  • High rewards earnings possibilities
  • Points transfer option to many partners
  • Add up to 5 authorized users for no additional annual fee
  • Can choose from regular or rose gold versions
  • No lounge benefits
  • Limited options to carry a balance
  • High APR for pay over time feature
  • High pay over time penalty APR

Card Details

  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
  • $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.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and 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, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
  • Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
  • Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $250.
  • Terms Apply.

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Flat-Rate Rewards Credit Card for Travel

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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On Capital One's Website

4.6

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (38)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (39)

On Capital One's Website

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)

Our Expert Take

Casual travelers who don’t plan to carry a balance will find good value in the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card‘s (rates & fees) earnings rates. 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 access transfer partners without ponying up a triple-digit annual fee.

What We Don’t Like

The card is light on big-ticket benefits compared to peers.

Who It’s Best For

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

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (41)

Kimberly Shearer

Credit Cards Writer

Kimberly Shearer is a credit cards enthusiast, family travel blogger and mom of three boys who lives in the Philadelphia area. She is an extreme couponer turned points and miles enthusiast who loves using credit card points to spoil her family on nearly free vacations. She has been perfecting the fine art of traveling with kids since 2009 and uses her blog, podcast and social media to teach other parents how to travel more for less.

Kimberly Shearer

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (42)

Kimberly Shearer

Credit Cards Writer

Kimberly Shearer is a credit cards enthusiast, family travel blogger and mom of three boys who lives in the Philadelphia area. She is an extreme couponer turned points and miles enthusiast who loves using credit card points to spoil her family on nearly free vacations. She has been perfecting the fine art of traveling with kids since 2009 and uses her blog, podcast and social media to teach other parents how to travel more for less.

Credit Cards Writer

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).

Pros & Cons

  • Solid rewards rate
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® statement credit (up to $100)
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Miles are easy to redeem either via partner transfers or by applying against travel purchases
  • $95 annual fee
  • No introductory APR on purchases or transfers

Card Details

  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X 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
  • 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
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Travel Rewards Credit Card With No Annual Fee

Bilt World Elite Mastercard®

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On Bilt's Website

4.5

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (45)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (46)

On Bilt's Website

Up to 3x Reward Rate

1x on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year). 2x points on travelRead More

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

See terms

Credit Score

Good/Excellent(700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

Pay rent, earn rewards and use your earnings for travel. I wish the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® (rates & fees) existed when I was still renting, so something positive would have come out of those expenses. Even without a rent payment, the earning rates and redemption options aren’t too shabby.

Why We Like It

There aren’t many options to earn transferable miles without an annual fee or a card pairing, especially considering how many partners Bilt has.

What We Don’t Like

There’s no welcome offer on this card whatsoever.

Who It’s Best For

Anyone who regularly makes rent payments.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (48)

Julian Kheel

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.

Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.

In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.

Julian Kheel

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (49)

Julian Kheel

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.

Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.

In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.

Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert

It’s almost impossible to earn rewards on what is the biggest monthly expense for many people, which is why anyone who pays rent should have a Bilt Mastercard in their wallet. Not only will you earn points just from paying your rent, you’ll do it without being charged a fee for the transaction, and Bilt points are among the most versatile travel points around. (Pro Tip: Don’t redeem Bilt points to pay rent when you can get much more value for them for travel!).

Pros & Cons

  • Earn rewards on rent
  • Primary car rental and cell phone insurance
  • Points can be transferred to partners
  • Requires five card transactions per statement period to earn rewards
  • No welcome bonus
  • High regular APR range
  • Rewards outside of rent spend are relatively low compared to other cards

Card Details

  • Earn points when you make 5 transactions that post each statement period
  • $0 annual fee
  • 1x points on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year)
  • 2x points on travel (when booked directly with an airline, hotel, car rental or cruise company)
  • 3x points on dining
  • Plus 1x points on other purchases
  • Cell Phone Insurance
  • Purchase security (theft and damage protection)
  • Mastercard® World Elite Concierge
  • Lyft Credits
  • No foreign currency conversion fee
  • Rewards & benefits terms

N/A

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Travel Credit Card for Fair Credit

Credit One Bank Wander® Card

Apply Now

On Credit One Bank's Website

Click Here To Apply Now

4.3

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (52)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now

On Credit One Bank's Website

Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 10X points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel site; earn 5X pointsRead More

Welcome Bonus

N/A

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

29.74% Variable

Credit Score

Fair/Good(650 - 699)

Our Expert Take

The Credit One Bank Wander® Card is a rare card that combines high-value travel and gas earnings but requires only average credit to apply. Once you get it, I’d recommend working hard to rebuild your credit and apply for a similar card without an annual fee, but it’s a great stepping stone in the meantime.

Why We Like It

Almost everyone looking for a travel card will spend on the card’s bonus categories of airfare, gas and dining.

What We Don’t Like

Maximizing the 10x categories requires booking through the Credit One travel partner.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers with fair credit.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (55)

Albert Hsieh

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.

Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.

With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.

His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.

Albert Hsieh

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (56)

Albert Hsieh

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.

Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.

With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.

His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

The Credit One Bank Wander Card offers lucrative points-earning opportunities within key travel categories, however, its extra perks and benefits fall short when compared to other premium credit cards.

Pros & Cons

  • No foreign transaction fees
  • High reward potential
  • Issuer advertises requiring an average minimum credit rating
  • $95 annual fee
  • No low introductory APR period
  • High 29.74% Variable APR

Card Details

  • Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site
  • Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
  • Earn 1x points on all other purchases
  • Redeem your reward points for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, flights, hotels, and more
  • With $0 Fraud Liability, you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • Free Online Credit Score and Credit Report summary, terms apply
  • If you are a Covered Borrower under the Military Lending Act, you may get a different offer
  • See Rates & Fees

N/A

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Travel Cards for Airlines

Best Airline Rewards Program for International Travel

Aeroplan® Credit Card

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (57)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

5.0

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (59)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (60)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

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)

Our Expert Take

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

Not only can you earn quickly with this card, but your miles stretch far, too. Cardholders may 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.

Who It’s Best For

Savvy travelers who mostly fly internationally.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (62)

Albert Hsieh

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.

Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.

With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.

His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.

Albert Hsieh

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (63)

Albert Hsieh

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.

Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.

With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.

His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

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.

Pros & Cons

  • Excellent rewards earning
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Travel benefits including perks for Air Canada flyers
  • $95 annual fee
  • Lacks non-travel related benefits

Card Details

  • Earn 70,000 bonus points
  • Earn 70,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
  • $95 Annual Fee
  • Redeem points for both international and domestic flights with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
  • Fly to another continent and travel the world with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
  • Earn 3X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and Air Canada directly. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
  • 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month – up to 1,500 points per month.
  • Member FDIC

Earn 70,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best United Credit Card

United Quest℠ Card

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (64)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

4.8

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (66)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (67)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

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 60,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$250

Regular APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Score

Good/Excellent(700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

Frequent United Airlines customers will appreciate that the United Quest℠ Card comes with an annual $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.

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.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (69)

Ben Luthi

Contributor

Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.

Ben Luthi

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (70)

Ben Luthi

Contributor

Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.

Contributor

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.

Pros & Cons

  • $125 annual United purchase credit
  • Earn up to two 5,000-mile award flight credits annually
  • Two free checked bags for cardholder and a companion traveling on the same reservation
  • Earn up to 6,000 Premier Qualifying Points annually
  • Primary auto collision damage waiver for eligible rentals
  • Checked baggage benefit only applies to one companion
  • Earnings for general purchases are only 1 mile per dollar

Card Details

  • Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after qualifying purchases
  • Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Free first and second checked bags – a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) – and priority boarding
  • Up to a $125 United® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
  • Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
  • Member FDIC

Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Premium Airline Card

United Club℠ Infinite Card

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (71)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

4.6

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (73)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (74)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

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 80,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$525

Regular APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent(750 - 850)

Our Expert Take

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 with eligible charges.

Why We Like It

Airport lounge access can turn the frustration of airports into an actually relaxing experience.

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.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (76)

Emily Moore

Credit Cards Writer

Experiencing the world through travel is a privilege, but affordability is a common barrier to entry. By sharing accessible tips on responsible credit card use, rewards programs and rewards hacking, Emily Jane Moore helps people with limited financial resources access meaningful travel experiences.

Emily Moore

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (77)

Emily Moore

Credit Cards Writer

Experiencing the world through travel is a privilege, but affordability is a common barrier to entry. By sharing accessible tips on responsible credit card use, rewards programs and rewards hacking, Emily Jane Moore helps people with limited financial resources access meaningful travel experiences.

Credit Cards Writer

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.

Pros & Cons

  • No foreign transaction fee
  • United Club membership is worth more than the annual fee
  • First and second checked bag free when you pay for your flight with your card
  • Very high annual fee
  • No intro APR offer
  • High regular APR

Card Details

  • Earn 80,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases
  • Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United®purchases
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Free first and second checked bags – a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) – and Premier Access® travel services
  • 10% United Economy Saver Award discount within the continental U.S. and Canada
  • Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
  • Member FDIC

Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for British Airways Passengers

British Airways Visa Signature® Card

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (78)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

4.5

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (80)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (81)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

Welcome Bonus

Earn 85,000 Avios.

Annual Fee

$95

Regular APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent, Good(700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

British Airways’ Avios reward currency is looked down upon by lots of travelers, but the British Airways Visa Signature® Cardoffers 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.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (83)

Ben Nickel-D'Andrea

Credit Cards Writer

Ben is a credit cards and luxury travel writer, an immigrant with three citizenships and a husband. He speaks English, Spanish and Italian, has a background in linguistics and languages, and travels the world for the love of it. You'll find him flying up front in first or business class all over the world and enjoying food from fine dining to street fare.Ben unpacks the complex network of loyalty programs across the credit card and travel industries with his simple and easy-to-understand, yet relatable, explanations. A nature enthusiast at heart, he lives in Seattle with his husband Jon and their beagle.

Ben Nickel-D'Andrea

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (84)

Ben Nickel-D'Andrea

Credit Cards Writer

Ben is a credit cards and luxury travel writer, an immigrant with three citizenships and a husband. He speaks English, Spanish and Italian, has a background in linguistics and languages, and travels the world for the love of it. You'll find him flying up front in first or business class all over the world and enjoying food from fine dining to street fare.Ben unpacks the complex network of loyalty programs across the credit card and travel industries with his simple and easy-to-understand, yet relatable, explanations. A nature enthusiast at heart, he lives in Seattle with his husband Jon and their beagle.

Credit Cards Writer

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.

Pros & Cons

  • Generous rewards on eligible flights
  • Potential to earn a companion ticket
  • Lucrative welcome bonus
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Rewards rate poor outside of Avios-earning airlines
  • Subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule
  • No checked baggage or lounge perks

Card Details

  • Limited time offer! Earn 85,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
  • Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
  • Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
  • 10% off British Airways flights starting in the US when you book through the website provided in your welcome materials.
  • Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, you’ll earn a Travel Together Ticket good for two years.
  • Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
  • Simply tap to pay with your contactless British Airways Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!
  • Member FDIC

Limited time offer! Earn 85,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Southwest Passengers

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (85)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

4.5

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (87)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (88)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

Up to 3X Reward Rate

Earn 3X points on Southwest purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare, 2X points on internet, cable,Read More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 50,000 points.

Annual Fee

$149

Regular APR

21.49%-28.49% variable

Credit Score

Good, Excellent(700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

My biggest gripe with Southwest is the lack of assigned seating, but the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card solves that issue with four upgraded boardings per year when available, a $75 annual travel credit toward Southwest purchases (upgrade to an Anytime fare for EarlyBird Check-In) and the chance to earn tier qualifying points. Once you’re A-List, you’ll always get complimentary priority boarding.

Why We Like It

Stick with this card and you’ll get a 7,500 anniversary points bonus each year after renewal. Sounds like another free flight to me.

What We Don’t Like

Rapid Rewards doesn’t partner with other airlines, so your redemption options are limited.

Who It’s Best For

Southwest flyers who can consistently maximize the annual travel credit and anniversary points.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (90)

Barbara King

Credit Cards Writer

Always dreaming about the next destination, credit cards specialist Barbara King is an avid traveler who optimizes her adventures through the use of points and miles. Barbara has earned and redeemed millions of credit cards points which has enabled her to explore over 50 countries on six continents, enjoying both budget and luxury travel.

Barbara King

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (91)

Barbara King

Credit Cards Writer

Always dreaming about the next destination, credit cards specialist Barbara King is an avid traveler who optimizes her adventures through the use of points and miles. Barbara has earned and redeemed millions of credit cards points which has enabled her to explore over 50 countries on six continents, enjoying both budget and luxury travel.

Credit Cards Writer

The perks on this card are practical and useful for regular Southwest flyers. Four upgraded boarding passes per year plus an easy-to-earn $75 statement credit on Southwest purchases and a 7,500-point anniversary bonus can all make this card worth keeping in their wallets.

Pros & Cons

  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Earn points toward A-list status
  • Unlimited reward seats with no blackout dates
  • High regular APR
  • No intro APR offer
  • Rewards flights only available on Southwest, no partner airlines
  • Annual fee

Card Details

  • Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • 7,500 anniversary points each year.
  • Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
  • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
  • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
  • $75 Southwest® travel credit each year.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Member FDIC

Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Travel Cards for Hotel Points

Best Midrange Hotel Card

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (92)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

5.0

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (94)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (95)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

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)

Our Expert Take

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.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (97)

Ben Luthi

Contributor

Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.

Ben Luthi

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (98)

Ben Luthi

Contributor

Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.

Contributor

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.

Pros & Cons

  • Earn up to 26 points per dollar spent on IHG hotels worldwide
  • Free night award every account anniversary
  • Fourth night free on point redemption stays
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status
  • Poor earnings for everyday and non-category hotel purchases
  • Low overall point value
  • No worthwhile redemption options outside of IHG properties

Card Details

  • Earn 140,000 Bonus Points
  • Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay.
  • Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 every 4 years as reimbursem*nt for the application fee charged to your card
  • IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®
  • Member FDIC

Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Travel Credit Card for Hyatt Loyalists

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (99)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

5.0

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (101)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Apply Now 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (102)

On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website

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)

Our Expert Take

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 loyalists looking to earn extra points and work toward status.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (104)

Barbara King

Credit Cards Writer

Always dreaming about the next destination, credit cards specialist Barbara King is an avid traveler who optimizes her adventures through the use of points and miles. Barbara has earned and redeemed millions of credit cards points which has enabled her to explore over 50 countries on six continents, enjoying both budget and luxury travel.

Barbara King

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (105)

Barbara King

Credit Cards Writer

Always dreaming about the next destination, credit cards specialist Barbara King is an avid traveler who optimizes her adventures through the use of points and miles. Barbara has earned and redeemed millions of credit cards points which has enabled her to explore over 50 countries on six continents, enjoying both budget and luxury travel.

Credit Cards Writer

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.

Pros & Cons

  • Annual free night certificate on cardmember anniversary
  • Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
  • High points redemption values
  • Generous welcome bonus
  • Limited number of properties
  • No worthwhile redemption options aside from Hyatt properties
  • No intro APR offer

Card Details

  • Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
  • Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
  • Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
  • Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
  • Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
  • Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
  • Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
  • Member FDIC

Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best for Marriott Customers

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card *

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (106)

5.0

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (107)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

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)

Our Expert Take

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’ve held a Marriott-branded credit card in the past, 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.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (109)

Ben Luthi

Contributor

Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.

Ben Luthi

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (110)

Ben Luthi

Contributor

Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.

Contributor

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.

Pros & Cons

  • Free night certificate every year (valued at 35,000 points)
  • 15 Elite Night Credits per year
  • Automatic Silver Elite status
  • Stingy earnings structure
  • High APR
  • $95 annual fee

Card Details

  • Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening
  • Earn 6 points per dollar on qualifying Marriott Bonvoy hotel stays
  • Earn 3 points per dollar spent on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on groceries, gas stations, and dining
  • Earn 2 points per dollar spent on all other purchases
  • Points don’t expire as long as you make purchases on your credit card every 24 months

Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best Premium Hotel Card

Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express *

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (111)

4.7

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (112)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 14X Reward Rate

Earn 14X Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio; Earn 7XRead More

Welcome Bonus

Earn 175,000 points

Annual Fee

$550

Regular APR

20.99% - 29.99% variable

Credit Score

Good/Excellent(700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

The flagship card from Hilton, the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express* comes with a price tag to match its top-tier status and perks. It’s a perfect fit for big spenders who haunt Hilton properties enough to leverage the rich suite of benefits that come with the complimentary Diamond elite status.

Why We Like It

Hilton status is actually meaningful, giving you benefits like food and beverage credits, executive lounge access and room upgrades.

What We Don’t Like

Since the annual fee is $550, you’ll need to travel often to make the perks worth the cost.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers willing to pay for automatic top-tier hotel status and other benefits.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (114)

Jon Nickel-D'Andrea

Credit Cards Expert Writer

For more than 10 years, Jon Nickel-D'Andrea has been a sought-after expert on how to travel the world using rewards points and miles. Jon has been featured in local and national publications and as a speaker at various seminars across the world. Combining his deep knowledge of credit cards, rewards programs, airlines and hotels with his unique style and sense of humor, Jon makes the complex web of these programs more fun and easy to understand. He lives in Seattle with his husband Ben and their 4-year-old beagle pup.

Jon Nickel-D'Andrea

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (115)

Jon Nickel-D'Andrea

Credit Cards Expert Writer

For more than 10 years, Jon Nickel-D'Andrea has been a sought-after expert on how to travel the world using rewards points and miles. Jon has been featured in local and national publications and as a speaker at various seminars across the world. Combining his deep knowledge of credit cards, rewards programs, airlines and hotels with his unique style and sense of humor, Jon makes the complex web of these programs more fun and easy to understand. He lives in Seattle with his husband Ben and their 4-year-old beagle pup.

Credit Cards Expert Writer

Top-tier elite status from simply holding this credit card is its most endearing quality. Hilton Diamond status–granted every year you hold the card–gets you room upgrades, food and beverage credits, executive lounge access and more. Since there’s no spend requirement for the Diamond status, this benefit even on its own can make the card worth keeping long term.

Pros & Cons

  • CLEAR® Plus membership credit with enrollment
  • Over $750 in value annually
  • Instant Hilton Diamond elite status with rich set of benefits
  • Free standard night award with no category limits at participating properties
  • High annual fee with no first-year waiver
  • High regular APR and penalty APR
  • Credits are doled out in increments, making them harder to spend
  • Points have a lower value than most rewards programs

Card Details

  • Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of card membership, offer ends 7/31/2024
  • Earn 14 points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio
  • Earn 7 points for every dollar spent on dining and eligible travel purchases including: Flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com and car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
  • Earn 3 points per dollar spent on other eligible purchases
  • Up to $400 in statement credits each year of card membership ($200 semi-annually) for eligible purchases at participating Hilton Resorts
  • Complimentary Hilton Honors™ Diamond status
  • Annual free night reward, terms apply
  • Up to $200 flight credit ($50 in statement credits each quarter)

All information about Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor

All information about Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor

Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of card membership, offer ends 7/31/2024

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Best No Annual Fee Hotel Card

Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card *

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (116)

4.4

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (117)

Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.

Up to 5X Reward Rate

Earn 5X points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at participating By Wyndham hotels and on gas; Earn 2XRead More

Welcome Bonus

75,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$0

Regular APR

20.99% - 29.99% variable

Credit Score

Good/Excellent(700 - 749)

Our Expert Take

Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card* is for road warriors and frequent stayers at Wyndham properties who are looking for a no annual fee card. You might be surprised at what you can do with Wyndham points.

Why We Like It

This can be a backdoor way to earn points for vacation rental redemption options instead of traditional hotels, which opens up a new world of travel opportunities.

What We Don’t Like

Wyndham Guest Rewards expire if you don’t use them, even if you have activity on your account.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers whose trips tend to be U.S.-centric.

Expert Commentary

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (119)

Albert Hsieh

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.

Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.

With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.

His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.

Albert Hsieh

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (120)

Albert Hsieh

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.

Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.

With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.

His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.

Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert

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

Pros & Cons

  • Automatically receive Wyndham Rewards Gold elite status
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • Enjoy extra discounts on local attractions when booking “go free” awards
  • APR can be high, depending on your creditworthiness
  • Target and Walmart are excluded from the grocery bonus and only earn 1 point per dollar
  • Only hotel redemptions offer high value

Card Details

  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening
  • Earn 5 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases made at Hotels by Wyndham and qualifying gas purchases
  • Earn 2 points per dollar spent on eligible dining and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart)
  • Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham Timeshare resort down payments)
  • Automatically receive a Wyndham Rewards GOLD member level
  • Earn 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year if you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases
  • Redeem 10% fewer Wyndham Rewards points for go free awards, and earn your free nights faster

Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024 (2024)

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