Are you ready to set off on an adventure and explore the world but want to save money on your travels? Having the right credit card can be a great way to help you do just that! If you’re looking for the best travel credit cards to help you save money on your next trip, you’ve come to the right place. From cash back to airline miles, there is a wide range of options available to suit different needs and preferences.
By taking a look at the best travel credit cards on the market, you can easily compare their features and benefits to find the one that is the best fit for you. So get ready to embark on your journey with the right credit card and start saving right away!
Types of Travel Credit Cards
There are several types of travel credit cards, each with a different focus.
Here are the most popular types of travel cards to help you choose the one that is the best fit for you.
Cash Back Credit Cards
If you are more interested in getting cash back than frequent flyer miles, a cash-back credit card is a way to go. These cards typically offer a percentage back on every purchase you make, which can be applied to your monthly statement or paid out as a lump sum at the end of the year. While cash-back rewards are helpful in any situation, they are especially useful when traveling since you can use the money to help cover expenses such as flights, hotel stays, and travel insurance.
Low-Interest Credit Cards
If you are planning to carry a balance on your card, you will want to seek out a low-interest credit card. These cards have an interest rate that is typically lower than the standard card, helping you avoid paying a ton of money in interest. These cards are especially useful for larger purchases like airline tickets or a rental car since they allow you to pay off the balance over time. However, keep in mind that you will have to pay interest on the remaining balance.
Airline Miles Credit Cards
These cards typically reward you with airline miles each time you make a purchase. The number of miles you earn will vary depending on the card, but many give you anywhere from 1 to 3 miles per dollar spent. Some even offer bonus miles for opening the card and others offer a sign-up bonus of up to 100,000 miles if you spend a certain amount within a certain time frame. If you travel often and like to fly with a particular airline, you can use these miles to help offset the cost of your flights.
Hotel Credit Cards
These credit cards are catered to people who frequently stay at hotels. While many airline miles credit cards offer travel benefits, this is not the case with hotel credit cards. With these cards, you earn points for each dollar you spend. Points can then be redeemed for hotel stays at a wide range of hotels. The number of points you earn and the value of each point will vary depending on the card you choose.
Points Credit Cards
Unlike airline miles and hotel points, these points are typically not related to a specific hotel or airline. Instead, they can be used at a wide range of hotels and airlines. The number of points you will earn per dollar will vary depending on the card, but many give you a fairly high value. You can then use these points to cover the cost of your travel expenses, like flights or hotels.
Comparison of the Best Travel Credit Cards
When comparing the best travel credit cards, it is important to consider your spending habits and travel needs. You will want to make sure each card offers rewards for your travel expenses and also clearly outlines their terms and conditions. Once you have a better idea of what is available, you can then decide which card is the best fit for you and your travels.
Here are a few of the best travel credit cards to help you get started. One of the best travel credit cards out there is the Capital One Venture card. With this card, you will earn 2X miles on all purchases. Plus, there are no foreign transaction fees so you do not have to worry about paying extra when you travel abroad. The card also offers flexible travel benefits like travel accident insurance, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and 24/7 travel assistance. You can earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles once you spend $3,000 on the card within the first three months.
Another great option is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Visa card. This card offers two points per dollar spent on travel, taxis, and restaurants, making it a versatile travel card. You can earn a one-time bonus of 50,000 points once you spend $4,000 on the card within the first three months. Points can be used to cover the cost of travel expenses like flights, hotels, and rental cars. This card also comes with travel protections like trip cancellation/interruption insurance and lost luggage coverage.
The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Visa card by Chase is another excellent travel credit card that many frequent travelers choose. This card offers a one-time bonus of 50,000 Rapid Rewards points once you spend $2,000 on the card within the first three months. Points can be used to offset the cost of flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. This card also comes with other travel benefits like a travel credit, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and more. If you are a frequent Southwest Airlines traveler, this card is a great option.
Choosing the Right Card for You
Depending on your travel habits and spending patterns, there are several travel credit cards that can help you save money on your next trip. However, it is important to consider each card’s terms and conditions before applying to ensure it is a good fit for you. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you are comparing the best travel credit cards.
Rewards – One of the first things to consider when comparing travel credit cards is the type of rewards each one offers. Depending on how you plan to use your card, you may want to choose a card that rewards you for certain types of purchases. For example, if you frequently stay at hotels, you may want to choose a card that rewards you for hotel stays.
Annual Fee – Another important factor to keep in mind is the annual fee associated with each card. While travel credit cards do often offer great rewards and benefits, many also come with an annual fee. Before applying for a specific card, make sure you can easily justify the annual fee and know how you will make use of the card’s benefits to make up for it.
Eligibility – Last but not least, make sure you are eligible to apply for each card. Credit card companies have their own standards for approval, so make sure you meet the requirements for each one. This way, you can be sure you will be approved for the card and able to start earning rewards on your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to earn travel rewards?
The amount of time it will take you to earn travel rewards will depend on the card you choose. Some cards offer rewards immediately after you make your first purchase, while others have a wait period before you can earn rewards. Make sure you know what to expect from each card before applying.
Are travel credit cards worth it?
Travel credit cards can be a great way to earn travel rewards while helping you save money on your next trip. However, it is important to remember that many cards come with an annual fee. Therefore, you will want to think carefully about which card is right for you and how much the annual fee will cost you.
What should I do before leaving on my trip?
Before leaving on your trip, you will want to log into your credit card account to make sure everything is in order and that you know what to expect when using your card. This includes knowing your payment due date and setting up automatic payments so you do not forget. In addition, you will want to make sure you have travel insurance, such as health insurance, travel insurance, and car rental insurance, to help protect yourself in case of a medical emergency or accident.
