Top Credit Cards to Earn Travel Rewards

By Edward

Jun 08, 2025

In Credit Cards

Dreaming of your next vacation? The right credit card can help you get there faster by maximizing your travel rewards. Finding the best credit cards to earn travel rewards can seem daunting with so many options available. This guide simplifies the process, highlighting the top cards, and explaining how to choose one that fits your spending habits and travel goals. We will explore the best credit cards to earn travel rewards points and how you can leverage them to unlock your dream vacations. Choosing the right card can turn everyday purchases into points, miles, and incredible travel experiences. Let's dive in and discover how to make your travel dreams a reality.

Understanding Travel Rewards Credit Cards

Travel rewards credit cards offer points, miles, or cash back that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, rental cars, and other travel-related expenses. These cards typically come with various benefits, such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, and statement credits. Before diving into specific cards, let's understand the types of rewards available:

Points: These are flexible and can often be transferred to various airline and hotel loyalty programs.
Miles: These are specific to an airline and can be redeemed for flights with that airline and its partners.
Cash Back: While not strictly travel-specific, cash back can be used to offset travel expenses.

When comparing cards, consider the earning rates, redemption options, annual fees, and additional perks. A card with a high earning rate but limited redemption options might not be as valuable as one with a lower earning rate and more flexibility. The best credit cards to earn travel rewards are the ones that align with your lifestyle and spending patterns.

Best Overall Travel Rewards Credit Cards

For those seeking versatility and generous rewards, several cards stand out:

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: This card is a favorite among travelers for its flexible points, travel and dining bonus categories, and reasonable annual fee. Cardholders earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries, and 2x points on all other travel purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards at a rate of 1.25 cents per point, or transferred to partner airlines and hotels like United, Hyatt, and Marriott. This card provides robust travel insurance, and has no foreign transaction fees. It is a great option for those who want to earn rewards on both travel and everyday spending.
American Express® Gold Card: Known for its generous rewards on dining and groceries, this card is perfect for foodies who also love to travel. Cardholders earn 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1x) and at restaurants worldwide, plus 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. American Express Membership Rewards points are valuable and can be transferred to numerous airline and hotel partners. The card also comes with dining credits, offsetting the annual fee. This card provides travel insurance, and has no foreign transaction fees, which is an added benefit. It also provides access to the American Express Experiences program, which provides access to exclusive events.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: This card offers a simple and straightforward rewards structure, making it a great option for those who prefer simplicity. Cardholders earn 2x miles on every purchase, with no bonus categories to track. Miles can be redeemed for travel or transferred to Capital One's airline and hotel partners. The card comes with a solid signup bonus and travel insurance, and has no foreign transaction fees. This is a solid travel credit card option, especially for those who do not want to keep up with bonus categories.

These cards are the best credit cards to earn travel rewards overall because they offer a balance of high earning rates, valuable redemption options, and useful travel perks. Assess your spending habits and travel preferences to determine which card best fits your needs.

Top Airline Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers

If you're loyal to a specific airline, an airline credit card can offer significant benefits, such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and lounge access. Here are some of the top options:

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: This card offers benefits like Delta Sky Club access, first-class or Main Cabin 1 companion certificate each year upon renewal, and accelerated mileage earning on Delta purchases. It’s ideal for frequent Delta flyers.
United Club℠ Infinite Card: United loyalists will appreciate the United Club membership, free checked bags, and Premier Access benefits. The card also offers bonus miles on United purchases and everyday spending.
American Airlines AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®: This card provides perks like preferred boarding, free checked bags, and bonus miles on American Airlines purchases. It’s a great option for those who frequently fly with American Airlines.

Airline credit cards can enhance your travel experience and help you accumulate miles faster. However, ensure the benefits align with your travel patterns and that you can maximize the card’s perks.

Best Hotel Credit Cards for Accommodation Rewards

Hotel credit cards can offer perks such as free night awards, elite status, and bonus points on hotel stays. Here are some of the top choices:

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: This card provides automatic Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, a free night award each year, and bonus points on Marriott purchases. It’s a great option for frequent Marriott guests.
World of Hyatt Credit Card: Cardholders enjoy Discoverist status, bonus points on Hyatt stays, and a free night award each year after spending a certain amount. The card also offers opportunities to earn additional free night awards.
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card: This card offers Diamond status, a weekend night reward each year, and bonus points on Hilton purchases. It’s a top-tier card for Hilton loyalists.

Hotel credit cards can offer significant value if you frequently stay at a particular hotel chain. Assess your travel habits and choose a card that aligns with your preferred hotel brand.

Maximizing Travel Rewards: Strategies and Tips

Earning travel rewards is just the first step. To maximize the value of your points and miles, consider these strategies:

Understand Redemption Options: Learn the best ways to redeem your points or miles. Transferring points to airline or hotel partners can often provide more value than redeeming them directly through the card’s travel portal.
Take Advantage of Bonus Categories: Use your card for purchases in bonus categories to earn extra points or miles. For example, use a card that offers bonus points on dining for restaurant purchases.
Meet Minimum Spending Requirements: To earn a signup bonus, make sure to meet the minimum spending requirement within the specified timeframe. But don't overspend just to get the bonus!
Track Your Rewards: Keep track of your points or miles balance and expiration dates. Set reminders to use your rewards before they expire.

By following these strategies, you can make the most of your travel rewards and enjoy more frequent and affordable trips.

Comparing the Best Credit Cards for Travel Rewards

To make an informed decision, compare the best credit cards for earning travel rewards side-by-side. Consider these factors:

Earning Rates: How many points or miles do you earn per dollar spent?
Redemption Options: What are the available redemption options, and how much value do you get per point or mile?
Annual Fee: Is there an annual fee, and is it worth the benefits you receive?
Additional Perks: What other benefits does the card offer, such as travel insurance, lounge access, or statement credits?

Use online tools and resources to compare cards and read reviews from other cardholders. The best credit card for you will depend on your individual spending habits and travel goals.

Applying for a Travel Rewards Credit Card: What to Expect

Applying for a travel rewards credit card is similar to applying for any other credit card. Here’s what you can expect:

Check Your Credit Score: A good to excellent credit score increases your chances of approval.
Gather Your Information: You’ll need to provide personal information, such as your name, address, Social Security number, and income.
Complete the Application: Fill out the online application carefully and accurately.
Wait for a Decision: The card issuer will review your application and make a decision. You may be approved instantly or need to wait a few days.

If approved, you’ll receive your card in the mail along with information about your credit limit, interest rate, and fees. Be sure to read the cardholder agreement carefully.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Travel Rewards Card for You

Selecting the best credit cards to earn travel rewards requires careful consideration of your spending habits, travel preferences, and financial goals. By understanding the types of rewards available, comparing different cards, and maximizing your earnings, you can unlock a world of travel opportunities. Evaluate your options, choose wisely, and start earning rewards toward your next adventure. Whether you're after the best credit cards to earn travel rewards points or just want to offset some travel costs, the right card can make all the difference. Happy travels! Be sure to select a card that suits your personal spending habits.