Traveling can be costly, but using travel credit cards can help alleviate some expenses through rewards and perks. In 2025, significant hikes were observed in annual fees for popular premium travel credit cards, notably the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the American Express Platinum Card®, which now cost $795 and $895, respectively. New entries like the Citi Strata Elite℠ Card, priced at $595 annually, have also emerged.
Despite the steeper fees, many premium cards maintain their value through additional perks such as statement credits and enhanced rewards rates, which could justify their costs based on users’ travel habits. However, for those prioritizing simply gaining travel benefits without the price tag of luxury perks, there are affordable alternatives available.
Here are three valuable travel credit cards under $100 that still offer some travel benefits:
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Annual Fee: $95
- Welcome Bonus: Earn up to 75,000 bonus miles and a $250 travel credit after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Ongoing Rewards: 2X miles on all purchases and 5X miles on hotels or rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
The card’s substantial welcome offer has a value of about $1,000 in travel when utilized effectively, making it a strong choice for travelers. Additionally, it comes with travel insurance and various perks for hotel stays and car rentals.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Annual Fee: $95
- Welcome Bonus: 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months.
- Ongoing Rewards: 5X on travel through Chase, 3X on dining, and 2X on other travel-related purchases.
This card is an ideal option for those who want detailed travel insurance alongside a variety of point transfer options within Chase’s network. It offers a $50 annual hotel credit, making it practical for frequent travelers.
Bilt Obsidian Card
- Annual Fee: $95
- Welcome Bonus: $200 in Bilt Cash.
- Ongoing Rewards: 3X on dining or groceries (up to $25,000 per year), 2X on travel, and 1X on everyday spending.
While this card uniquely allows users to earn points on rent or mortgage payments, it also provides a hotel credit for qualifying bookings made through Bilt’s Travel Portal. Its point transferability to various airlines and hotels boosts its value for prospective travelers.
Conclusion
When selecting a travel credit card, it’s vital to consider both the annual fees and the value they provide based on your travel habits. While premium cards can offer significant benefits for the right user, lower-cost options can still yield valuable rewards for those who travel wisely.
For more information on credit cards, visit CNBC Select.