When shopping for the best travel credit card, look for a card that offers the highest rewards. These types of rewards can be transferred to another travel partner or used directly through the card rewards program. Transferable rewards are the most valuable types of points because they give you more flexibility in redeeming them. Top transferable rewards cards include the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum. Listed below are some pros and cons of each type of credit card.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card is an excellent all-around travel card. It earns two miles for every dollar you spend and can be redeemed for travel. In addition, cardholders can also earn a $100 statement credit for TSA Precheck and Global Entry. The annual fee for this card is $95 and the card comes with other perks, but this one is especially attractive. The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a generous introductory APR and is also backed by a 0% liability guarantee for fraudulent transactions.
Many travel credit cards have a hefty sign-up bonus that can be as much as 100,000 points. However, most travel rewards credit cards come with an annual fee. On average, travel rewards credit cards cost $139 per year, a higher percentage than the average US credit card. Premium travel cards have higher annual fees, sometimes over $500. If your credit score is below six hundred, you may need to apply for a beginner card to improve your credit.
Capital One VentureOne rewards card has no foreign transaction fees. It earns 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases, and it has a manageable annual fee. It has other perks, including lounge access and a sign-up bonus. If you’re planning to make a trip with this card, you’ll get seventy thousand bonus miles for spending $4,000 in the first three months. The value of these miles is around 1.6 cents apiece.
The Platinum American Express is another excellent choice. While it comes with an annual fee of $695, it comes with perks that make it worth every penny. For instance, you can earn twox points for every dollar spent on Expedia, which makes it an excellent option if you frequently fly. If you prefer a co-branded credit card, you should also consider the Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express. The card’s annual fee is comparatively lower than the American Express Platinum, and you can also earn a 5x bonus by booking flights through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a great option for travelers who prefer to maximize their rewards points. You can earn up to $300 in travel credit each year with the Chase Sapphire Reserve. In addition to airfare, this card earns three points on dining and travel and two points on other purchases. Points transfer to travel partners on a one-to-one basis. Chase Sapphire Reserve also has no foreign transaction fees, which makes it the best travel credit card for frequent travelers.