Summer is the peak season for travel, often accompanied by higher costs. The right travel credit cards can alleviate some of the expenses through rewards programs that offer benefits like free flights, hotel stays, waived baggage fees, and travel insurance.
Premium travel credit cards provide extra perks, such as lounge access and TSA PreCheck credits, and various options are available depending on individual needs. CNBC Select reviewed the best travel credit cards across multiple categories, including those with no annual fees, dining benefits, and rewards tailored for frequent travelers.
Best Travel Credit Cards
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Best Overall: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Known for valuable rewards and a lower annual fee, this card offers extensive travel protections. -
Best for Low Annual Fee: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
This card allows users to earn rewards without worrying about bonus categories. -
Best for Lounge Access: American Express Platinum Card®
Ideal for frequent travelers, it provides access to numerous airport lounges. -
Best for Dining: American Express® Gold Card
Perfect for food lovers, it offers generous rewards for dining out. -
Best for Luxury Travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Offers high-tier rewards and benefits for serious travelers. -
Best for Groceries: Bilt Obsidian Card
This card rewards grocery and dining purchases, making it ideal for practical travelers. -
Best for No Annual Fee: Citi Double Cash® Card
A straightforward rewards card that offers cash back with no annual fee. -
Best for Gas Stations: Wells Fargo Autograph® Card
This card earns high rewards on gas purchases, perfect for road trips. -
Best for Authorized User Perks: Citi Strata Elite℠ Card
Provides authorized users with valuable travel benefits at a competitive fee. -
Best for Bonus Categories: Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card
Combines rewarding spending categories with a decent welcome offer. -
Best for Fair Credit: Credit One Bank Wander Card
Geared towards those with fair credit, offering rewards on various travel expenditures.
How Travel Credit Cards Work
Travel credit cards allow users to convert their spending into rewards for future travel. The amount of points or miles earned varies with spending habits and the specific rewards program of each card. Many cards also enable points to be transferable to hotel and airline loyalty programs for greater value.
Conclusion
Travel credit cards can significantly enhance the traveling experience, making it more affordable and enjoyable. For those who travel regularly and are proactive about their card management, choosing a suitable credit card from the options available can offer appreciable rewards and benefits.