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* Suggested credit score ranges for credit cards are supplied by QuinStreet, not from the issuers, and are guidelines, not a guarantee of approval.
* Suggested credit score ranges for credit cards are supplied by QuinStreet, not from the issuers, and are guidelines, not a guarantee of approval.
Best Travel Credit Cards of April 2026
The best credit cards for travel should earn bonus points that align with your spending habits and can be transferred to hotel and airline loyalty programs. The other benefits, like an application fee credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, lounge access, and travel protections, are all fantastic perks. At the end of the day, these perks don’t mean anything if you aren’t traveling in the first place.
As a full-time digital nomad, I’m constantly on planes, working from hotel lobbies, and booking my next great experience. Even if you only plan on taking one trip a year, having the right credit card in your pocket can make luxury, once-in-a-lifetime experiences accessible.
If you’re looking for versatile and rewarding travel credit cards, you’ve come to the right place. Here are our picks:
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best overall
- Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card Best for low annual fee
- Chase Sapphire Preferred®: Best for transfer partners
- Chase Freedom Unlimited®: Best for cash back
- American Express® Gold Card: Best for foodies
- American Express Platinum Card®: Best for luxury travel American Express Platinum Card®
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for travel protections
- Bilt Palladium Card: Best for renters
- Bilt Obsidian Card: Best for customizable rewards
- Bilt Blue Card: Best for no annual fee
Best Travel Credit Cards Overview
| Card | Best for | Annual fee | Rewards rate | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capital One Venture X | Overall | $395 | 2X on all purchases 5X on flights and vacation rentals through Capital One Travel 10X on hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel | Learn more |
| Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card | Low annual fee | $95 | 2X on all purchases 5X travel bookings through Capital One Travel | Learn more |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® | Transfer partners | $95 | 5X on travel through Chase Travel℠ 3X on dining, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services purchases 2X on travel 1X on all other purchases | Learn more |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | Cash back | $0 | 5% cash back on Chase Travel bookings 3% cash back on dining and drugstore purchases 1.5% cash back on all other purchases | Learn more |
| American Express® Gold Card | Foodies | $325 (Terms apply, see Rates and Fees ) | 4X at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 in purchases each year) 4X on groceries at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in purchases each year) 3X on flights 2X on prepaid hotels and other eligible travel purchases booked through AmexTravel.com 1X on other eligible purchases | Learn more |
| The Platinum Card® from American Express | Luxury travel | $895 (Terms apply, see Rates and Fees) | 5X on flights (up to $500,000 spent each year) 5X on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com 1X on other eligible purchases | Learn more |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve® | Travel protections | $795 | 8X on Chase Travel℠ purchases 4X on flights and hotels booked directly 3X on dining 1X on all other purchases | Learn more |
| Bilt Palladium Card | Renters | $495 | 4% Bilt Cash on everyday purchases (excluding rent and mortgage) 2X points on everyday purchases (excluding rent and mortgage) Up to 1X points on rent and mortgage payments | Learn more |
| Bilt Obsidian Card | Custmoizable rewards | $95 | 4% Bilt Cash on everyday purchases (excluding rent and mortgage) 3X points on your choice of dining or grocery purchases (if grocery, up to $25,000 spent each year) 2X points on travel 1X points on all other everyday purchases (excluding rent and mortgage) Up to 1X points on rent and mortgage payments | Learn more |
| Bilt Blue Card | No annual fee | $0 | 4% Bilt Cash on everyday purchases (excluding rent and mortgage) 1X points on everyday purchases (excluding rent and mortage) Up to 1X points on rent and mortage payments | Learn more |
Best Travel Credit Cards
Best overall: Capital One Venture X
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
(4.38) Our Review
- With a $300 annual travel credit and 10,000 miles (worth $100) each year at renewal, the credits you receive are actually worth more than the annual fee.
- Access to Capital One lounges and Landings and participating Priority Pass™ lounges
- Capital One Miles are extremely flexible, with the option to redeem for travel at a value of one cent per point, or transfer to a wide range of excellent air and hotel partners.
- With a $300 annual travel credit and 10,000 miles (worth $100) each year at renewal, the credits you receive are actually worth more than the annual fee.
- Access to Capital One lounges and Landings and participating Priority Pass™ lounges
- Capital One Miles are extremely flexible, with the option to redeem for travel at a value of one cent per point, or transfer to a wide range of excellent air and hotel partners.
Pros
- The annual fee is more than covered by annual credits
- Comes with access to Capital One lounges and Landings and participating Priority Pass™ lounges
- Authorized users also get the upgraded Hertz status like the primary card holder
Cons
- The annual fee, while effectively negative $5 after credits, can feel like a lot.
- Aside from bonus points for booking through Capital One Travel, there are no bonus categories. Still, all eligible purchases do earn 2X miles per dollar spent which is great.
- Points don't transfer to any domestic airlines, although you can use other partners to book domestic award tickets on domestic airlines.
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2x-5x
Airfare
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2x-10x
Car Rentals
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2x-10x
Hotels
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2x
Everything Else
Card details
The Capital One Venture X is, without a doubt, the most well-rounded travel credit cards on the market right now. It’s also my personal favorite credit card and one that I consistently recommend to friends.
Here’s why: you’ll earn two miles per dollar on every purchase, plus five miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel, and 10 points per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Capital One Miles can be transferred to several leading hotel and airline loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio, including British Airways Executive Club, Qantas Frequent Flyer, and Virgin Red.
I use my Venture X for all of my everyday purchases, and I accumulate a solid chunk of points every month. I also use it for large, one-off purchases like my taxes. Even though you’re charged a fee for paying taxes with a credit card, the points I earn more than cover the additional cost.
Although it has a $395 annual fee, it’s easily offset by the $300 annual travel credit for bookings through Capital One Travel and the 10,000-mile anniversary bonus. As well as airfare and hotels, you can even use that travel credit on rental cars booked at Capital One Travel.
Plus, you’ll receive up to a $120 statement credit for the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. You won’t be charged foreign transaction fees when making purchases abroad.
Travelers will appreciate lounge access through Priority Pass™ and Capital One Lounges and Landings. When you have a 6 a.m. flight, grabbing a free coffee and breakfast at the lounge before takeoff can elevate your experience substantially. Once you land, you’ll enjoy Hertz President’s Circle status (and auto rental collision coverage).
Please note that authorized user cards are still free but do not come with lounge access. You can spend $125 per Authorized User to enable access for that user, who will have their own lounge access.
Authorized Users where the primary account holder is paying the $125 additional annual fee as well as primary cardholders that spend at least $75,000 total across their Venture X account per calendar year can bring up to two complimentary guests to Capital One Lounges and one complimentary guest to Capital One Landings per visit. If qualifying via the $75,000 in spend, you will get access for the year that you spend $75,000 plus the following year.
After enrolling in Priority Pass™, Venture X cardholders get unlimited complimentary access for themselves but with a cost of $35 per guest.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Fantastic earning potential
- Variety of annual credits and bonus points
- Ability to transfer points
Cons:
- High annual fee
- No bonus categories to maximize
Capital One Miles Transfer Partners
| Capital One Miles | ||
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Ratio | Expected Transfer Time | |
| Air Canada (Aeroplan) | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air France / KLM Flying Blue | 1:1 | Instant |
| Avianca Lifemiles | 1:1 | Instant |
| Aeromexico | 1:1 | Instant |
| British Airways Avios | 1:1 | TBD |
| Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 1:1 | Nearly instant |
| Choice Hotels | 1:1 | 1 day |
| Emirates Skywards | 1:1 | Instant |
| Etihad Guest | 1:1 | 1-2 days |
| EVA | 2:1.5 | 1-2 days |
| Finnair | 1:1 | Instant |
| JAL (Japan Airlines) Mileage Bank | 2:1.5 (Account must be open for 7 days before transfer) | TBD |
| JetBlue | 5:3 | TBD |
| Qantas | 1:1 | 1-2 days |
| Qatar Avios | 1:1 | TBD |
| Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer | 1:1 | 1-2 days |
| TAP Air Portugal | 1:1 | TBD |
| Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | 1:1 | TBD |
| Wyndham Rewards Hotel Program | 1:1 | Instant |
| Virgin Red | 1:1 | TBD |
| Accor Live Limitless (ALL) Hotel Program | 2:1 | 1-2 days |
| I Prefer Hotel Rewards: | 1:2 | TBD |
Who should apply
Venture X packs many comparable benefits from competitor cards at a smaller annual fee. If you want simplicity and flexibility, the Capital One Venture X is the best choice.
Learn more about the Capital One Venture X including how to apply.
Best for low annual fee: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
(4.25) Our Review
- Simple (and strong) flat-rate earning structure with 2X miles per dollar spent on almost all purchases.
- Relatively modest $95 annual fee, especially considering how valuable Capital One Miles can be with the ability to either redeem for travel at a value of one cent per point, or transfer miles to a wide range of excellent hotel and airline partners.
- Up to $120 statement credit to offset Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees and no foreign transaction fees.
- Simple (and strong) flat-rate earning structure with 2X miles per dollar spent on almost all purchases.
- Relatively modest $95 annual fee, especially considering how valuable Capital One Miles can be with the ability to either redeem for travel at a value of one cent per point, or transfer miles to a wide range of excellent hotel and airline partners.
- Up to $120 statement credit to offset Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees and no foreign transaction fees.
Pros
- Great sign-up bonus
- Easy 2X Miles on all eligible purchases
- Hertz Five Star elite status
Cons
- Not as strong travel protections as the more robust Capital One Venture X Credit Card
- No complimentary access to Capital One lounges or Landings, but can purchase passes at a special rate of $45
- While the card is simple to use, there is effectively a lack of real bonus categories. Still, 2X miles on almost all purchases are solid
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2x-5x
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2x
Everything Else
Card details
If you want some of the baseline benefits of the Venture X at a fraction of the cost, consider the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. It offers two miles per dollar on everyday purchases and five miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
The annual fee is just $95, and you’ll still receive up to a $120 credit for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee. You’ll also enjoy Hertz Five Star status and an auto rental collision damage waiver.
The Venture typically has a solid sign-up bonus, although it is subject to change at any time. Still, you can often earn a nice amount of points after meeting minimum spending requirements in the first few months of account opening.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Solid earning potential
- No foreign transaction fees
- Low annual fee
Cons
- No lounge access
- No bonus earning on flights booked through Capital One Travel
Capital One Miles Transfer Partners
| Capital One Miles | ||
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Ratio | Expected Transfer Time | |
| Air Canada (Aeroplan) | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air France / KLM Flying Blue | 1:1 | Instant |
| Avianca Lifemiles | 1:1 | Instant |
| Aeromexico | 1:1 | Instant |
| British Airways Avios | 1:1 | TBD |
| Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 1:1 | Nearly instant |
| Choice Hotels | 1:1 | 1 day |
| Emirates Skywards | 1:1 | Instant |
| Etihad Guest | 1:1 | 1-2 days |
| EVA | 2:1.5 | 1-2 days |
| Finnair | 1:1 | Instant |
| JAL (Japan Airlines) Mileage Bank | 2:1.5 (Account must be open for 7 days before transfer) | TBD |
| JetBlue | 5:3 | TBD |
| Qantas | 1:1 | 1-2 days |
| Qatar Avios | 1:1 | TBD |
| Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer | 1:1 | 1-2 days |
| TAP Air Portugal | 1:1 | TBD |
| Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | 1:1 | TBD |
| Wyndham Rewards Hotel Program | 1:1 | Instant |
| Virgin Red | 1:1 | TBD |
| Accor Live Limitless (ALL) Hotel Program | 2:1 | 1-2 days |
| I Prefer Hotel Rewards: | 1:2 | TBD |
Who should apply
The Venture offers the same transfer partners as the Venture X, so it’s a solid alternative for those new to the world of travel rewards who aren’t ready to commit to a higher annual fee.
Learn more about the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card including how to apply.
Best for transfer partners: Chase Sapphire Preferred®
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
(4.05) Our Review
- Earns valuable and highly flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points
- Extensive travel protections — including lost luggage insurance and a collision damage waiver on rental cars up to $60,000 (Primary except in NY where it is secondary)
- 3X points on dining means you can rack up points quickly!
- Earns valuable and highly flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points
- Extensive travel protections — including lost luggage insurance and a collision damage waiver on rental cars up to $60,000 (Primary except in NY where it is secondary)
- 3X points on dining means you can rack up points quickly!
Pros
- You can offset the annual fee by more than half with the $50 annual credit on hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel℠
- Earns valuable and highly flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points.
- Extensive travel protections — including lost luggage insurance and a damage waiver on rental cars.
Cons
- A low earning rate of 1x point per dollar on other purchases keeps it from being an ideal everyday spending card.
- High credit scores required for account opening.
- Lack of travel benefits like a Global Entry application fee credit.
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3x
Dining Out / Food Delivery
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3x
Streaming Services
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2x-5x
Airfare
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2x
Transit
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2x-5x
Car Rentals
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2x-5x
Hotels
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2x-3x
Cruises
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1x
Everything Else
Card details
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is one of the most popular travel rewards cards on the market, and for a good reason. You’ll earn three points per dollar on dining purchases and two points per dollar on travel (excluding hotel purchases that qualify for the $50 annual statement credit). If you pair the Sapphire Preferred with the Venture X, you’ll definitely want to pull out your Chase card when going out to eat. Every year on your account anniversary, you’ll receive bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year, which is great for heavy spenders.
Once you’ve accumulated enough points through your welcome offer and daily spending, you can redeem your points for travel in a couple of ways — a 1:1 point transfer to hotel and airline loyalty programs or through Chase Travel℠. If you redeem points through Chase Travel, you can get up to 1.75 cents per point in value on Points Boost bookings and 1 cent per point otherwise.. You can transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards to airlines like Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards, United MileagePlus, and JetBlue TrueBlue, and to hotels like Marriott Bonvoy and World of Hyatt.
With all these perks, it’s easy to justify a $95 annual fee. If you still need more convincing, you can earn up to $50 in statement credits each year for hotels purchased through Chase Travel, and you’ll receive a complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership (a $120 value). For most people, the card easily pays for itself.
The Sapphire Preferred also offers an incredibly strong range of trip protections for a low-annual fee credit card, including primary auto rental coverage (secondary in New York State), trip cancellation and interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, travel accident insurance, travel and emergency assistance, lost luggage insurance, baggage delay insurance, emergency evacuation and transportation, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Low annual fee
- Valuable transfer partners
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- No credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee
- Bonus categories might not align with your spending
Chase Ultimate Rewards® Transfer Partners
| Chase Ultimate Rewards Transfer Partners | ||
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Ratio | Expected Transfer Time * | |
| Aer Lingus Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air France Flying Blue | 1:1 | Instant |
| British Airways Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| Emirates (Transfers End Oct 15, 2025) | 1:1 | Instant |
| Iberia Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| JetBlue | 1:1 | Instant |
| Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer | 1:1 | ~ 1 – 2 days |
| Southwest Airlines | 1:1 | Instant |
| United MileagePlus | 1:1 | Instant |
| Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | 1:1 | Instant |
| Hyatt | 1:1 | Instant |
| Marriott Bonvoy | 1:1 | ~ 1-2 days |
| IHG Rewards Club | 1:1 | ~ 1 day |
| Wyndham Rewards | 1:1 | ~ 1 day |
Who should apply
The Sapphire Preferred makes sense for almost any traveler to have in their wallet. Whether you’re about to embark on your first trip or you’re a seasoned traveler, the Sapphire Preferred is a cost-effective option.
Learn more about the Chase Sapphire Preferred including how to apply.
Best for cash back: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
(4.25) Our Review
Limited Time Offer:
Earn a $250 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.
This is awarded as 25,000 Ultimate Rewards Points, transferrable to airline / hotel partners if you also hold a Chase Sapphire Reserve®, Chase Sapphire Preferred®, Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ or an Ink Business Preferred®.
- 0% Intro APR offers for both new purchases and balance transfers
- Simple earning structure with 3% back on drugstore purchases and dining and 1.5% on everyday purchases
- Comes with shopping benefits like Purchase Protection and Extended Warranty
- 0% Intro APR offers for both new purchases and balance transfers
- Simple earning structure with 3% back on drugstore purchases and dining and 1.5% on everyday purchases
- Comes with shopping benefits like Purchase Protection and Extended Warranty
Pros
- No annual fee
- 0% Intro APR offers on both purchases and balance transfers
- Points earned can be combined with other cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Cons
- Cannot transfer points to airline or hotel partners unless you also have a Chase Sapphire Preferred, Sapphire Reserve, or Ink Business Preferred
- Carries a foreign transaction fee of 3%
- Limited travel protections and no bonus points on travel purchases
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3x
Dining Out / Food Delivery
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3x
Drugstores
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1.5x-5x
Airfare
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1.5x-5x
Car Rentals
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1.5x-5x
Hotels
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1.5x
Everything Else
Card details
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is the only cash back credit card that made our list. If a cash back card isn’t already part of your credit card strategy, you might want to reconsider. You can earn a whopping 5% cash back on bookings through Chase Travel, which is a great way to offset the cost of an upcoming trip. When you go out to eat, you’ll earn 3% cash back (including takeout and eligible delivery services). You’ll also earn 3% at drugstores and 1.5% on everything else!
For a card with a $0 annual fee, the earning potential is phenomenal. If you don’t want cash back, you have the option of combining your rewards as Ultimate Rewards points if you also have a Sapphire Preferred or Sapphire Reserve card (or a Chase Ink Business Preferred), which opens up the door to transfer partners.
You’ll only want to use the Chase Freedom Unlimited when you’re in the U.S. — you’ll be charged 3% of the amount of each transaction in U.S. dollars when you use it abroad. It might not sound like much, but that can quickly add up. Although the sign-up bonus and intro APR offer aren’t usually lucrative enough to seal the deal, the other card benefits make up for it.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Solid cash back earnings
- Can combine earnings with Sapphire cards to unlock transfer partners
Cons
- Charges foreign transaction fees
- No bonus cash back on travel unless booking through Chase Travel
Who should apply
If you focus most of your travels within the U.S., having the Freedom Unlimited can make a lot of sense. A cash back card is a great way to round out your credit card rewards strategy, and the Freedom Unlimited makes a compelling case.
Learn more about the Chase Freedom Unlimited including how to apply.
Best for foodies: American Express® Gold Card
American Express is an Advertising Partner
American Express® Gold Card
(4.48) Our Review
- Amazing Membership Rewards earn rate for spend on dining and at supermarkets as well as airfare
- No Preset Spending Limit. No Preset Spending Limit means your spending limit is flexible. Unlike a traditional card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment, and credit history.
- You can choose the traditional American Express Gold Card color or the unique Rose Gold versions
- Amazing Membership Rewards earn rate for spend on dining and at supermarkets as well as airfare
- No Preset Spending Limit. No Preset Spending Limit means your spending limit is flexible. Unlike a traditional card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment, and credit history.
- You can choose the traditional American Express Gold Card color or the unique Rose Gold versions
Pros
- For a pure combination of spending on dining, groceries, and airfare, the American Express Gold card is unmatched
- Although the annual fee seems high, you can actually come out ahead by using available monthly statement credits
- Earns valuable American Express Membership rewards points and card membership includes the highly regarded American Express customer service
Cons
- The annual fee of $325, despite the statement credits that can offset it, is steep for some
- Bonus categories are limited to just three
- Car rental CDW coverage is secondary to your own auto insurance
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4x
Supermarkets
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4x
Dining Out / Food Delivery
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3x
Airfare
Card details
If your largest monthly expense is eating out or groceries, you need the American Express Gold Card. You’ll earn four points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50K in purchases, and on groceries at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 in purchases per year. You’ll also earn three points per dollar on flights and two points per dollar on prepaid hotels and other eligible travel purchases booked through AmexTravel.com.
While the ability to earn Membership Rewards is amazing, the real benefit of being an Amex Gold cardholder is the annual statement credits. You can earn:
- $10 in Uber Cash each month when you add your Gold Card to your Uber account (up to $120 annually)
- Up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations (Up to $84 annually). Enrollment required.
- Up to to $50 in statement credits semi-annually after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases (up to $100 annually) Enrollment required.
- Up to a total of $10 when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys (up to $120 annually). Enrollment required.
- Up to $100 annual credit for a minimum two-night stay with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com
If you maximize each benefit, you’re receiving more than $500 in value from a card with an annual fee of just $325. You’ll want to keep track of the monthly statement credits to be sure you take advantage of them.
It’s no secret that food prices are astronomical, so having a card with a high earning potential on purchases at grocery stores is key.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Lucrative credits
- Fantastic earning potential
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- Some of the credits might be hard to use
- Caps on bonus points for restaurants and supermarkets
- High annual fee
American Express Membership Rewards® Transfer Partners
| American Express Membership Rewards Transfer Partners | ||
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Ratio | Approximate Transfer Time * | |
| Aeromexico | 1:1.6 (1,000 Amex = 1,600 Aeromexico) | ~4-7 days |
| Aer Lingus | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air France Flying Blue | 1:1 | Instant |
| ANA | 1 : 1 (transfers only from Amex and Marriott) | ~2-3 days |
| Avianca | 1:1 | Instant |
| British Airways Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 1:1 | ~1-2 days |
| Delta | 1:1 (subject to excise tax) | Instant |
| Emirates | 5:4 | Instant |
| Etihad Guest | 1:1 | Instant |
| Iberia Avios | 1:1 | ~1-2 days |
| JetBlue TrueBlue | 250 : 200 (subject to excise tax) | Instant |
| Qantas | 1:1 | Instant |
| Qatar Airways Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer | 1:1 | ~ 1-2 days |
| Virgin Atlantic | 1:1 | Instant |
| Choice Hotels | 1:1 | Instant |
| Hilton | 1:2 (frequent transfer bonuses – look for a better ratio if considering) | Instant |
| Marriott | 1:1 | Instant |
Who should apply
Those who already eat out at restaurants included in the dining credits could easily cover their annual fees by being a cardholder of the American Express Gold card. Plus, the immense amount of Membership Rewards points you can earn can help pay for trips around the world.
Learn more about the American Express® Gold Card including how to apply.
Best for luxury travel: American Express Platinum Card®
American Express is an Advertising Partner
The Platinum Card® from American Express
(4.33) Our Review
- With over $3,500 in annual value, this is a premium travel rewards card with benefits galore. (Terms apply.) Note: Aside from the listed bonus categories, earn 1X on all other eligible purchases.
- The Platinum Card® hasn't shed its travel roots, but it’s expanded beyond to become a lifestyle card with perks like Uber, lululemon, Oura Ring, Equinox, and more. (Enrollment required)
- American Express Membership Rewards® points are extremely flexible, with the option to redeem for travel directly through Amex Travel or transfer to a wide range of airline and hotel partners.
- With over $3,500 in annual value, this is a premium travel rewards card with benefits galore. (Terms apply.) Note: Aside from the listed bonus categories, earn 1X on all other eligible purchases.
- The Platinum Card® hasn't shed its travel roots, but it’s expanded beyond to become a lifestyle card with perks like Uber, lululemon, Oura Ring, Equinox, and more. (Enrollment required)
- American Express Membership Rewards® points are extremely flexible, with the option to redeem for travel directly through Amex Travel or transfer to a wide range of airline and hotel partners.
Pros
- A wide array of travel and lifestyle credits and exclusive access that can enhance your life.
- There is no better card for the breadth and variety of airport lounge access worldwide. Plus, the Centurion Lounge network is the largest amongst credit card issuers.
- One of the best cards to earn points on airfare: 5 points per dollar on airfare purchased directly with airlines or through the Amex Travel portal (on up to $500,000 of airfare purchases per calendar year).
Cons
- High annual fee that will require a bit of work to fully maximize.
- Besides airfare and select hotels, it's not the best card to use for other purchases as it only earns 1X on categories outside of flights booked directly with the airlines (5X) or through the Amex Travel portal (5X on up to $500,000 of airfare purchases per calendar year) and 5X points for prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel.
- Car rental insurance is only secondary, not primary as it is with premium cards from Chase and Capital One.
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5x
Airfare
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1x-5x
Hotels
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1x
All Other Eligible Purchases
Card details
The American Express Platinum Card® is one of the most luxurious cards on the market. It also happens to come with a $895 annual fee. Although this sounds extremely high, it can make sense for many travelers.
The credits you can receive include:
- $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can ride or dine in style with $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus a bonus $20 in December after adding their Card to their Uber account. Use your Uber Cash on rides and orders in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Terms apply.
- $120 Uber One Membership Credit: Receive up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year after you purchase an auto-renewing Uber One membership with the Platinum Card®. Terms apply.
- $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Treat yourself and discover new shows, news and recipes with Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium, and YouTube TV. Get up to $25 in statement credits each month when you make eligible purchases directly from one or more of our participating partners with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required.
- $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. (The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.)
- $400 Resy Dining Credit: With over 10,000 U.S. restaurants (as of 03/2025) to discover, Resy allows you to find and book reservations for any dining occasion. When you use the Platinum Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible purchases with Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter. Enrollment required.
- $209 CLEAR+ Credit: CLEAR+ helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 55+ airports nationwide. Use the dedicated CLEAR Lane to confirm your identity without taking out your passport or ID – this can mean shorter lines, less waiting. Receive up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for your CLEAR+ Membership (subject to auto-renewal) with the Platinum Card®. (Enrollment Required)
- Up to $200 in annual airline fee credits (as statement credits)
Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card® Account. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details. - $300 lululemon Credit: With the $300 lululemon Credit, you can get up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. Enrollment required.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: A Walmart+ membership can get you free shipping with no order minimum on eligible items shipped by Walmart. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) and receive one statement credit for up to $12.95 (plus applicable taxes. Plus Ups not eligible) each month. Free Shipping excludes most Marketplace items, freight & certain location surcharges. Paramount+ Essential plan only, separate registration required.
- $300 Equinox Credit: Receive up to $300 back per calendar year in statement credits for purchases at Equinox. Valid for Equinox All Access, Destination, or E by Equinox membership fees, or for Equinox+. (Enrollment required)
- $300 statement credit when you purchase a SoulCycle At-Home Bike, up to 15x per calendar year. An Equinox+ membership is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. (Enrollment required)
- $200 Oura Ring Credit: Receive up to $200 in statement credits when you use the Platinum Card to purchase an Oura Ring at Ouraring.com each calendar year. Enrollment required.
You will also receive access to American Express Global Lounge Collection®, which includes Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club®, Plaza Premium Lounges, and Priority Pass™ lounges. If lounge access and a multitude of annual credits aren’t enough to justify the annual fee, you’ll enjoy elite status privileges with several hotel and car rental programs, including Marriott Bonvoy® Gold Elite Status, Hilton Honors™ Gold Status, Leader’s Club Sterling status, and car rental status with Avis, Hertz, and National. Enrollment required.
The earning potential isn’t necessarily anything to write home about — you’ll earn five points per dollar on flights booked with the airline or through American Express Travel® (up to $500,000 spent each year) and on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel. All other purchases earn one point per dollar.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Annual credits more than outweigh the annual fee
- You can sometimes snag a high welcome offer
- Comprehensive lounge access
Cons
- Very high annual fee
- Some credits are difficult to use
American Express Membership Rewards® Transfer Partners
| American Express Membership Rewards Transfer Partners | ||
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Ratio | Approximate Transfer Time * | |
| Aeromexico | 1:1.6 (1,000 Amex = 1,600 Aeromexico) | ~4-7 days |
| Aer Lingus | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air France Flying Blue | 1:1 | Instant |
| ANA | 1 : 1 (transfers only from Amex and Marriott) | ~2-3 days |
| Avianca | 1:1 | Instant |
| British Airways Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| Cathay Pacific Asia Miles | 1:1 | ~1-2 days |
| Delta | 1:1 (subject to excise tax) | Instant |
| Emirates | 5:4 | Instant |
| Etihad Guest | 1:1 | Instant |
| Iberia Avios | 1:1 | ~1-2 days |
| JetBlue TrueBlue | 250 : 200 (subject to excise tax) | Instant |
| Qantas | 1:1 | Instant |
| Qatar Airways Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer | 1:1 | ~ 1-2 days |
| Virgin Atlantic | 1:1 | Instant |
| Choice Hotels | 1:1 | Instant |
| Hilton | 1:2 (frequent transfer bonuses – look for a better ratio if considering) | Instant |
| Marriott | 1:1 | Instant |
Who should apply
Frequent travelers seeking a luxury experience would benefit from the Platinum Card, as long as they can justify the annual fee by utilizing the built-in perks. The Platinum Card is the most recent addition to my wallet, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.
Learn more about the American Express Platinum Card® including how to apply.
Best for travel protections: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
(4.5) Our Review
- Earns extremely valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points
- Chase Sapphire Lounge by the Club and Priority Pass Select airport lounge access for you and 2 guests, including Priority Pass Experiences
- The potential for more than $2,700 in annual value in benefits and statement credits.
- Earns extremely valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points
- Chase Sapphire Lounge by the Club and Priority Pass Select airport lounge access for you and 2 guests, including Priority Pass Experiences
- The potential for more than $2,700 in annual value in benefits and statement credits.
Pros
- Aside from a $300 annual credit on travel, you'll earn up to 8X on all travel purchases made via Chase Travel℠
- Chase Sapphire Lounge by the Club and Priority Pass Select airport lounge access for you and 2 guests, including Priority Pass Experiences
- The potential for more than $2,700 in annual value in benefits and statement credits.
Cons
- High annual fee
- Not as many bonus categories as some other cards
- If booking travel directly (rather than via Chase Travel℠), 4X bonus categories are limited to Airfare and Hotels booked directly but not all travel.
-
4x-8x
Airfare
-
4x-8x
Hotels
-
3x
Dining Out / Food Delivery
-
1x-8x
Car Rentals
-
1x
Everything Else
Card details
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is another popular premium credit card and the sibling of the Sapphire Preferred. It underwent a major facelift in mid-2025, adding a slew of statement credits in exchange for a significantly higher annual fee.
Among the most notable new benefits is complimentary IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite Status through Dec. 31, 2027. This is the third of four elite status tiers in the program, unlocking benefits such as complimentary upgrades and early check-in.
Cardholders still receive the fan-favorite $300 annual travel credit that is significantly more flexible than other similar credits. If you already spend a decent amount on travel purchases annually, you shouldn’t have any issue maximizing this credit.
Apart from that, cardholders receive the following statement credits:
- Up to $500 for The Edit ($250 January-June and $250 July-December)
- Up to $300 for Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables program ($150 January-June and $150 July-December)
- Up to $300 for StubHub ($150 January-June and $150 July-December)
- Up to $250 toward Apple TV+ and Apple Music subscriptions
- Up to $120 toward Peloton membership ($10 per month)
If you spend $75,000 a year (or more) on your card, you’ll unlock even more credits and benefits:
- $500 Southwest credit and Southwest A-List status when you book through Chase
- $250 for The Shops
- IHG One Rewards® Diamond Elite Status
Cardholders can take advantage of a tiered earning system:
- 8 points per dollar on Chase Travel purchases
- 4 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked directly
- 3 points per dollar on dining
- 1 point per dollar on all other purchases
You’ll also receive access for yourself and up to two guests to Priority Pass™ lounges and Chase Sapphire Lounges by The Club, a small but growing network of impressive cardholder lounges.
If you’re concerned with travel protections when you’re on the road, the Sapphire Reserve is the card to have. You’ll be covered with primary auto rental coverage (secondary in New York), trip cancellation and interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, travel accident insurance, travel and emergency assistance, lost luggage insurance, baggage delay insurance, emergency evacuation and transportation, and more.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive travel coverage
- Annual travel credit
- Good earning potential
Cons
- Very high annual fee
- “Use it or lose it” style credits
Chase Ultimate Rewards® Transfer Partners
| Chase Ultimate Rewards Transfer Partners | ||
|---|---|---|
| Transfer Ratio | Expected Transfer Time * | |
| Aer Lingus Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | 1:1 | Instant |
| Air France Flying Blue | 1:1 | Instant |
| British Airways Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| Emirates (Transfers End Oct 15, 2025) | 1:1 | Instant |
| Iberia Avios | 1:1 | Instant |
| JetBlue | 1:1 | Instant |
| Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer | 1:1 | ~ 1 – 2 days |
| Southwest Airlines | 1:1 | Instant |
| United MileagePlus | 1:1 | Instant |
| Virgin Atlantic Flying Club | 1:1 | Instant |
| Hyatt | 1:1 | Instant |
| Marriott Bonvoy | 1:1 | ~ 1-2 days |
| IHG Rewards Club | 1:1 | ~ 1 day |
| Wyndham Rewards | 1:1 | ~ 1 day |
Who should apply
The Sapphire Reserve is one of the best rewards cards out there, so if you don’t already have a card with overlapping benefits, you should strongly consider applying.
Learn more about the Chase Sapphire Reserve including how to apply.
Best for renters: Bilt Palladium Card
Bilt Palladium Card
(4.25) Our Review
Earn 50,000 Bilt Points + Gold Status after spending $4,000 on everyday purchases in the first 3 months + $300 of Bilt Cash. Subject to approval.
- Earn 2X points + 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases
- $400 Bilt Travel Hotel credit and $200 Bilt Cash (awarded annually) offset the annual fee
- Comes with Priority Pass airport lounge membership
- Earn 2X points + 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases
- $400 Bilt Travel Hotel credit and $200 Bilt Cash (awarded annually) offset the annual fee
- Comes with Priority Pass airport lounge membership
Pros
- Earn points on housing with no transaction fee
- Choose to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday spend. Use Bilt Cash to unlock point earnings on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee, up to 1X.
- 2X points on everyday spend
- $400 Bilt Travel Hotel credit. Applied twice a year, as $200 statement credits, for qualifying Bilt Travel Portal hotel bookings.
- $200 Bilt Cash (awarded annually). At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.
- Welcome bonus (subject to approval): 50,000 Bilt Points + Gold Status after spending $4,000 on everyday purchases in the first 3 months + $300 of Bilt Cash.
- Priority Pass ($469/year value)
- Bilt Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent and mortgage payments, Lyft rides, statement credits, student loan balances, a down payment on a home, and more.
Cons
- Earning points on rent requires either spending Bilt Cash or paying a 3% transaction fee
- No bonus categories higher than 2X, although 2X points plus 4% Bilt Cash on everything makes it an easy choice for everyday spend
- Annual fee
-
0x-1x
Rent / Mortgage
-
2x
Everyday Spend
Card details
If you’re a renter or pay a mortgage, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better option than the Bilt Palladium Card. The former Bilt Mastercard is no more. Bilt overhauled its credit card portfolio in 2026 and launched three new cards: a no-annual-fee option, a mid-tier option, and the premium Bilt Palladium Card. Although it has a $495 annual fee, it offers more than enough benefits to justify the price tag.
To start, you’ll receive $200 of Bilt Cash each year and a $400 Bilt Hotel credit, broken up into two semi-annual $200 credits. Those benefits alone are worth $600, so you’re already in the green. You also receive Priority Pass™ lounge access, which, if you don’t already have it, can upgrade your travel experience.
Plus, as a cardholder, you’ll earn 4% back in Bilt Cash and 2X points on your everyday purchases, excluding rent and mortgage payments. When you use your card with Bilt Neighborhood merchants, you have the opportunity to earn even more points per dollar spent. You’ll still earn up to 1X points on your rent and mortgage payments. However, this has gotten a bit more complicated.
There are two ways you can earn rewards on your rent and mortgage payments.
Option 1 is to earn points on rent and mortgage payments depending on your monthly spending:
- Spend at least 25% of your monthly rent on your card, earn 0.5X points per $1.
- Spend at least 50% of your monthly rent on your card, earn 0.75X points per $1.
- Spend at least 75% of your monthly rent on your card, earn 1X points per $1.
- Spend at least 125% of your monthly rent on your card, earn 1.25X points per $1.
If you choose this option, your everyday spending will not earn 4% Bilt Cash. However, if you plan on making the Bilt Palladium Card your daily driver, you shouldn’t have any issue spending as much as you pay in rent on your card. Bilt also removed the previous 100,000-point limit on annual rent earnings. Now, you can earn unlimited points on rent.
Option 2 is redeeming Bilt Cash at a rate of 3% to unlock the ability to earn rewards on your rent and mortgage payments. If you choose this option, you will still earn 4% Bilt Cash on your everyday purchases.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Lucrative earning potential
- Valuable and easy-to-use benefits
- Opportunity to earn rewards on rent
Cons:
- Complicated structure to earn rewards on rent
- High annual fee
- Bilt Cash expires
Bilt Rewards Transfer Partners
| Bilt Transfer Partners | All transfer at a 1:1 ratio except ALL. Transfer times below: |
|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards | TBD |
| Aer Lingus Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | Within 10 minutes |
| Air France Flying Blue | Within 10 minutes |
| Avianca Lifemiles | Within 10 minutes |
| British Airways Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| Cathay Pacific AsiaMiles | Within 10 minutes |
| Emirates Skywards | Within 10 minutes |
| Iberia Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| JAL Mileage Bank | Within 10 minutes (Account must be open 7 days before you can book an award with a Bilt transfer) |
| Marriott Bonvoy | Up to 48 hours; generally within minutes. (5,000 point bonus when you transfer 20,000). |
| IHG Rewards | Within 10 minutes |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards | Within 12 hours |
| United Airlines MileagePlus | Within 10 minutes |
| Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | Within 10 minutes |
| TAP Miles&Go | TBD |
| Virgin Points | Within 10 minutes |
| World of Hyatt | Within 10 minutes |
| Accor Live Limitless (ALL) | TBD – Note, transfer is 3:2 |
Who should apply
If you are a renter and you can make the Bilt Palladium Card your go-to card for everyday expenses, this is a no-brainer to add to your wallet.
Learn more about the Bilt Palladium Card including how to apply.
Best for customizable rewards: Bilt Obsidian Card
Bilt Obsidian Card
(4) Our Review
Welcome offer: $200 of Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved.
- 3X points on your choice of grocery (up to $25K/year) or dining. Your 3X category choice remains in effect for the entire calendar year.
- $100 Bilt Travel Hotel credit. Applied twice a year, as $50 statement credits, for qualifying Bilt Travel Portal hotel bookings.
- Low annual fee
- 3X points on your choice of grocery (up to $25K/year) or dining. Your 3X category choice remains in effect for the entire calendar year.
- $100 Bilt Travel Hotel credit. Applied twice a year, as $50 statement credits, for qualifying Bilt Travel Portal hotel bookings.
- Low annual fee
Pros
- Earn points on housing with no transaction fee
- Choose to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday spend. Use Bilt Cash to unlock point earnings on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee, up to 1X.
- 3X points on your choice of grocery (up to $25K/year) or dining. Your 3X category choice remains in effect for the entire calendar year.
- 2X points on travel
- 1X points on everyday spend
- Welcome offer: $200 of Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved.
- $100 Bilt Travel Hotel credit. Applied twice a year, as $50 statement credits, for qualifying Bilt Travel Portal hotel bookings.
- Bilt Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent and mortgage payments, Lyft rides, statement credits, student loan balances, a down payment on a home, and more.
Cons
- Everyday spend not in a bonus category earns just 1X plus 4% Bilt Cash
- Earning points on rent requires either spending Bilt Cash or paying a 3% transaction fee
-
1x-3x
Supermarkets
-
1x-3x
Dining Out / Food Delivery
-
0x-1x
Rent / Mortgage
-
1x
Everyday Spend
Card details
If you’re looking for a Bilt card without a high annual fee but with well-rounded benefits, look no further than the Bilt Obsidian Card. With only a $95 annual fee, you still get plenty of perks, plus the opportunity to customize your rewards. You’ll receive $100 in Bilt Hotel credits, broken into two $50 semi-annual credits. This is already enough to justify the annual fee.
Plus, you’ll earn:
- 4% back in Bilt Cash on your everyday purchases (excluding rent and mortgage payments)
- 3X points on your choice of either dining or grocery purchases (if you choose groceries, you’ll earn 3X points up to $25,000 spent per year)
- 2X points on travel
- Up to 1X points on rent and mortgage payments
- 1X points on all other everyday purchases
If you spend up to $2,000 per month on grocery purchases, it could make a lot of sense to choose groceries as your 3X category. That would allow you to earn a significant chunk of points each year that you can transfer to partners. However, be sure to carefully consider before you decide — you can only change your selection once per year in January.
Just like the Bilt Palladium Card, you’ll need to choose how you wish to earn points on rent.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- High earning rates
- Annual Bilt Hotel credits
- Opportunity to earn rewards on rent
Cons:
- Complicated structure to earn rewards on rent
- Limit to how much you can earn if you choose groceries as your 3X category
Bilt Rewards Transfer Partners
| Bilt Transfer Partners | All transfer at a 1:1 ratio except ALL. Transfer times below: |
|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards | TBD |
| Aer Lingus Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | Within 10 minutes |
| Air France Flying Blue | Within 10 minutes |
| Avianca Lifemiles | Within 10 minutes |
| British Airways Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| Cathay Pacific AsiaMiles | Within 10 minutes |
| Emirates Skywards | Within 10 minutes |
| Iberia Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| JAL Mileage Bank | Within 10 minutes (Account must be open 7 days before you can book an award with a Bilt transfer) |
| Marriott Bonvoy | Up to 48 hours; generally within minutes. (5,000 point bonus when you transfer 20,000). |
| IHG Rewards | Within 10 minutes |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards | Within 12 hours |
| United Airlines MileagePlus | Within 10 minutes |
| Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | Within 10 minutes |
| TAP Miles&Go | TBD |
| Virgin Points | Within 10 minutes |
| World of Hyatt | Within 10 minutes |
| Accor Live Limitless (ALL) | TBD – Note, transfer is 3:2 |
Who should apply
If you want the ability to customize how you earn rewards and you care about keeping annual fees low, the Bilt Obsidian Card is a solid option.
Learn more about the Bilt Obsidian Card including how to apply.
Best for no annual fee: Bilt Blue Card
Bilt Blue Card
(3.5) Our Review
Welcome bonus: $100 of Bilt Cash when you apply and are approved.
- Earns 1X points + 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases
- No annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
- Earns 1X points + 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases
- No annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
Pros
- Earn points on housing with no transaction fee
- Choose to earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday spend. Use Bilt Cash to unlock point earnings on rent and mortgage payments with no transaction fee, up to 1X.
- 1X points on everyday spend
- Welcome offer: $100 of Bilt Cash when you apply and get approved.
- Redeem Bilt Cash for dollar-for-dollar value toward fitness classes, hotel bookings, Home Delivery orders, Lyft rides, and more. At the end of each calendar year, any Bilt Cash balance over $100 will expire.
- Bilt Point redemptions include airlines, hotels, future rent and mortgage payments, Lyft rides, statement credits, student loan balances, a down payment on a home, and more.
- Earn additional points through Bilt Neighborhood Benefits™ when you use your Blue Card at Bilt's network of 50,000+ merchants
- Other benefits: No foreign transaction fees, Cellular Wireless Telephone Protection, Purchase Assurance, MasterRental Coverage (See Guide to Benefits)
Cons
- No bonus categories
- No way to earn more than 1X per dollar spent
- Limited card benefits compared to the annual fee Bilt cards
-
0x-1x
Rent / Mortgage
-
1x
Everyday Spend
Card details
Looking for a no-annual-fee option that allows you to earn rewards on rent? Consider the Bilt Blue Card. You’ll earn 4% back in Bilt Cash on everyday purchases (excluding rent and mortgage payments), and 1X points on everyday purchases. You’ll have the same opportunity to earn up to 1X points on rent and mortgage payments.
Just like with the other Bilt cards, you’ll be able to earn more rewards through the Neighborhood Benefits program. And if you haven’t already noticed, this is one of the only no-annual-fee options that made our list of the best travel credit cards.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Opportunity to earn rewards on rent
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
- Complicated structure to earn rewards on rent
- Limited benefits
Bilt Rewards Transfer Partners
| Bilt Transfer Partners | All transfer at a 1:1 ratio except ALL. Transfer times below: |
|---|---|
| Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards | TBD |
| Aer Lingus Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| Air Canada Aeroplan | Within 10 minutes |
| Air France Flying Blue | Within 10 minutes |
| Avianca Lifemiles | Within 10 minutes |
| British Airways Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| Cathay Pacific AsiaMiles | Within 10 minutes |
| Emirates Skywards | Within 10 minutes |
| Iberia Avios | Within 10 minutes |
| JAL Mileage Bank | Within 10 minutes (Account must be open 7 days before you can book an award with a Bilt transfer) |
| Marriott Bonvoy | Up to 48 hours; generally within minutes. (5,000 point bonus when you transfer 20,000). |
| IHG Rewards | Within 10 minutes |
| Southwest Rapid Rewards | Within 12 hours |
| United Airlines MileagePlus | Within 10 minutes |
| Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles | Within 10 minutes |
| TAP Miles&Go | TBD |
| Virgin Points | Within 10 minutes |
| World of Hyatt | Within 10 minutes |
| Accor Live Limitless (ALL) | TBD – Note, transfer is 3:2 |
Who should apply
If you want a no-annual-fee card that allows you to earn rewards on rent and mortgage payments, the Bilt Blue Card is your best option.
Learn more about the Bilt Blue Card including how to apply.
Cards That Didn’t Make Our List But Could Still Be Worth a Look
There were a few cards that we reviewed that didn’t make our list of the best travel credit cards but could still be worth considering:
- VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: The no-annual-fee sibling of the Venture and Venture X, the VentureOne Reward Credit Card allows you to earn 1.25 miles per dollar spent and typically allows you to take advantage of a low intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers. Still, there are better options out there.
- Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card: The great part about this card is that you can redeem your points for cash back as a deposit into Bank of America checking or savings account. If you don’t have any trips coming up, it might be helpful to contribute to your savings.
There’s tough competition between travel credit cards. Even though these cards didn’t make our list, they are still solid options for a smaller segment of travelers.
How To Choose A Travel Rewards Credit Card
There are a few factors you should consider before applying for a travel rewards credit card.
Travel goals
Whether you want to fly first-class on a 15-hour flight or stretch your points and miles as far as you can, there are options out there for everyone. Consider your favorite airlines and hotels, and ensure any prospective card allows you to transfer your points to those loyalty programs.
Spending habits
You should analyze your recent spending habits to see which categories you tend to spend the most money on each month. Then, consider the bonus earning categories of a prospective card to see if it aligns with your spending. If you take road trips every weekend, having a card with a higher return on card purchases at gas stations could make sense.
Looking at your spending habits will also help you determine whether you can earn a bonus point welcome offer by meeting a spending requirement in the first few months of card membership. Sign-up bonuses for new cardholders are standard for most rewards cards, but these can vary substantially.
Fees
One of the most important things to consider when applying for a new card is the fees. These can include an annual fee, foreign transaction fees, APR (including if there is an introductory APR within a certain timeframe from account opening), and balance transfer fees.
Annual fees can vary widely based on the card’s benefits. Most travel credit cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees, but there are some options (that are worth considering) that do. Interest rates will also vary depending on the type of card and your credit score.
Benefits
Make sure you will actually use a cardholder benefit. While lounge access is nice, if you rarely fly, it might not be something you need. Similarly, review the eligibility requirements to activate your benefits. There are plenty of cards with shiny perks, but if you don’t use them, you lose them. Don’t pay for something you won’t appreciate having, no matter how nice it sounds.
Odds of credit approval
Several travel credit cards require good to excellent credit. If you’re struggling with your credit score, you might not be approved for a premium travel card. Instead, you might be better off with a credit building card to improve your credit profile before graduating to a rewards card.
The Types of Travel Rewards Cards
The best travel credit card will depend on your financial situation and travel goals. However, you can generally categorize travel credit cards into two categories — general rewards cards and co-branded credit cards.
General rewards cards
General travel rewards cards are flexible options that allow you to transfer credit card points to airline and hotel loyalty programs. You can also typically redeem points through the card’s associated travel portal. These are fantastic options for many travelers, as they provide more generalized benefits and allow you to maximize the value of your points.
Co-branded credit cards
There are two main types of co-branded credit cards: airline cards and hotel cards. These cards are issued by one of the main issuers, often Chase or American Express, in partnership with the hotel or airline. These cards provide specialized benefits. For instance, if you hold an airline credit card, you might receive priority boarding, bonus miles on purchases, or a free checked bag. Hotel credit cards might give you perks like room upgrades or a welcome gift.
Bottom Line
The best travel credit cards can allow you to have unique experiences and travel farther than you ever thought possible. These 8 options are wonderful places to start. As a full-time digital nomad who travels around the world for a living, I can confidently say that you can’t go wrong with any of these cards.
