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Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

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25,000 online bonus points offer (a $250 value) and no annual fee †

Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases everywhere, every time

Card Details

Unlimited points.

Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases everywhere, every time and no expiration on points as long as your account remains open. Calculate Rewards Travel Rewards

No annual fee † and no foreign transaction fees †

Enjoy no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees while earning points to use for a statement credit to pay for flights, hotel stays, vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants – including takeout.

Low Introductory APR Offer

0% † Intro APR for your first 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made within the first 60 days of opening your account. After the intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that's currently 19.24% to 29.24% will apply. 3% † Intro balance transfer fee for the first 60 days your account is open. After the intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for all future balance transfers is 4%.

25,000 online bonus points offer

25,000 online bonus points if you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of your account opening – which can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel and dining purchases

Get even more rewards

Bank of America Preferred Rewards ® members earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase

That means you could earn 1.87 to 2.62 points for every $1 you spend, everywhere, every time.

Learn more about Preferred Rewards Travel Rewards

Interest Rates & Fees Summary †

Introductory apr.

0% for 15 billing cycles

Applies to purchases and to any balance transfers made within 60 days of opening your account

Standard APR

19.24% - 29.24%

Balance Transfer Fee

After the intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for all future balance transfers is 4%.

† Please see Terms and Conditions for rate, fee and other cost information, as well as an explanation of payment allocation. All terms may be subject to change.

Note: minimum payments are applied to lower-interest balances first. Additional payments are applied to higher-interest balances first.

Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases everywhere, every time.

No blackout dates or restrictions and points do not expire as long as your account remains open.

Use our rewards calculator to see where your points can take you...

Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.

Flexibility to redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel and dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants – including takeout.

See how many points you can earn

Tell us how much you spend every.

for every $1 spent on purchases

Your 1 Year of spending

Pay yourself back with a statement credit towards travel and dining purchases

Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for flights, hotels, vacation packages, cruises, rental cars or baggage fees, or dining expenses, such as restaurants and takeout. (Redemptions for cash or gift cards will be of lesser value.)

Travel Rewards

Customer bonus

Gold Tier Preferred Rewards Bonus

Platinum Tier Preferred Rewards Bonus

Platinum Honors Tier and Higher Preferred Rewards Bonus

Learn more about Preferred Rewards

Preferred Rewards makes your card even better

Note: This calculator is for illustrative purposes only. It is not intended to be printed or distributed. Your actual rewards earned will depend upon your individual purchases.

10% Customer bonus

25% Gold Tier Preferred Rewards Bonus

50% Platinum Tier Preferred Rewards Bonus

75% Platinum Honors Tier and Higher Preferred Rewards Bonus

Security & Features

Stay protected, contactless chip technology, balance connect ® for overdraft protection, paperless statement option, digital wallet technology, online & mobile banking, account alerts, fico ® score.

Now, when you opt-in you can access your FICO ® Score updated monthly for free, within your Mobile Banking app or in Online Banking. FICO ® Score Program . The FICO ® Score Program is for educational purposes and for your non-commercial, personal use. This benefit is available only for primary cardholders with an open and active consumer credit card account who have a FICO ® Score available. The feature is accessible through Online Banking, the Mobile website, and the Mobile Banking app for iPhone and Android devices. FICO is a registered trademark of Fair Isaac Corporation in the United States and other countries. Data connection required. Wireless carrier fees may apply." data-footnote="ADDITIONAL_BENEFITS_FOOTNOTE_07" aria-label="Footnote 5"> Footnote [5] Learn More   about Free FICO Credit Score opens in a new window

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7 bank of america ® travel rewards credit card benefits you may not know about.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card has a low intro APR offer, flexible redemptions, and a simple earning structure.

This article was subjected to a comprehensive fact-checking process. Our professional fact-checkers verify article information against primary sources, reputable publishers, and experts in the field.

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Travel rewards credit cards often provide ways to earn rewards you could redeem toward travel redemptions, including flights and hotel stays. But how you earn these rewards varies by each credit card.

With the Bank of America ® Travel Rewards credit card, you get a simple earning structure that’s easy to understand and use in everyday life. This card also offers a valuable sign-up bonus and a $0 annual fee.

We’ll take a look at Bank of America Travel Rewards benefits, such as Bank of America credit card benefits for rental insurance , and whether this card deserves a spot in your wallet.

About the Bank of America Travel Rewards card

7 bank of america travel rewards benefits, additional benefits, drawbacks to the bank of america travel rewards card, bottom line.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card is a rewards card focused on flexible travel and dining redemptions. It also offers a simple rewards rate of 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases.

Some of the card’s primary benefits include:

• A $0 annual fee
• A helpful welcome bonus
• Potential Visa Signature perks

A $0 annual fee is typically a clear indication of immediate value because there’s no annual cost to offset by earning rewards or using benefits. However, no-annual-fee credit cards often have limited benefits compared to cards with annual fees.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card’s straightforward earning rate could make sense if you want a travel card but aren’t sure about complicated earning and redeeming strategies. The welcome offer and potential Visa Signature perks, including roadside dispatch and emergency travel assistance, could also add more value for new cardholders.

Check out our  Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card review.

Here are the main Bank of America Travel Rewards benefits:

1. Generous sign-up bonus

The Bank of America Travel Rewards offers this welcome bonus: Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.

This sign-up bonus is particularly generous and likely attainable if you use the card for everyday purchases. This could include buying groceries, gas, food, and more. This type of strategy could effectively turn your everyday purchases into rewards to help offset future travel expenses.

2. Simple earning

Credit card rewards typically offer valuable points, miles, or cash back for making purchases and qualifying for sign-up bonuses. However, earning rewards can get complicated depending on the credit card.

With the Bank of America Travel Rewards, you can earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. And that’s it. You don’t have bonus categories or rotating categories to keep track of. As long as you make an eligible purchase, you already know how many rewards points you should be earning.

If you’re new to earning travel rewards, this could offer a straightforward way to get started.

3. Low annual cost

The Bank of America Travel Rewards has a $0 annual fee. This means there is no annual cost for your card membership.

Having no annual cost immediately increases the card’s value because you’re paying the card issuer to be a card member. Instead, you have the opportunity to earn rewards and use card perks freely.

4. Flexible redemptions

It’s nice to be able to earn travel rewards, but only if the travel redemptions align with your lifestyle and goals. Not every traveler is the same — some could look to use rewards on flights, whereas others prefer hotel stays.

Fortunately, the Bank of America Travel Rewards offers plenty of flexibility for any rewards you earn. Available redemption options include:

• Statement credits toward eligible dining- and travel-related purchases
• Cash rewards , including a paper check, a deposit into a Bank of America checking or savings account, or a credit to an eligible Merrill account

Statement credits can be applied toward eligible travel and dining purchases you make. Bank of America has a generous pool of eligible purchase categories, including the following:

• Hotels, motels, timeshares, trailer parks, and campgrounds
• Motorhome and recreational vehicle rentals
• Car rental agencies
• Truck and trailer rentals
• Cruise lines
• Travel agencies, tour operators, and real estate agents
• Operators of passenger trains and buses
• Taxis and limousines
• Ferries and boat rentals
• Parking lots and garages
• Tolls and bridge fees
• Tourist attractions and exhibits such as art galleries
• Amusement parks, carnivals, and circuses
• Aquariums and zoos
• Eating places, restaurants, and fast-food restaurants
• Drinking places, bars, taverns, cocktail lounges, nightclubs, and discotheques

Having such a wide choice of eligible purchases helps increase the flexibility of your rewards. This means you could redeem your rewards on typical travel redemptions such as flights, hotel stays, and rental cars. But other options might also work, including amusement parks, RV rentals, and loads of dining purchases.

Keep in mind that redemption values vary depending on the option you choose. You typically need at least 2,500 points to redeem for statement credits or cash rewards, and gift card redemptions start at 3,125 points. Statement credits are worth 1 cent per point, which means 2,500 points would be $25 in credit.

However, cash rewards and gift card redemptions are worth less. Using 2,500 points for cash would only net you $15 and gift card values vary.

5. Bank of America Preferred Rewards®

Bank of America Travel Rewards cardholders have the opportunity to access the Preferred Rewards program. There’s no cost to join this program, but you have to meet certain requirements to become a Preferred Rewards member, including:

• Having an active and eligible Bank of America checking account
• Having a three-month combined average daily balance of at least $20,000 or more in eligible Bank of America deposit accounts and/or Merrill investment accounts

Meeting these requirements could qualify you for at least Preferred Rewards Gold status, though the Platinum and Platinum Honors tiers are higher. You need at least a three-month combined average daily balance of $50,000 for Platinum, and at least $100,000 for Platinum Honors.

The main benefit of Preferred Rewards is that Bank of America Travel Rewards cardholders receive between a 25% to 75% bonus on rewards. Gold members receive a 25% bonus, Platinum members receive a 50% bonus, and Platinum Honors members receive a 75% bonus.

Here’s how it breaks down. Let’s say you spend $10,000 on your card in a year. You would typically receive 15,000 points or $150 ($10,000 x 0.015 = $150) for this spend. But with a 75% bonus, you would receive 26,250 points or $262.50 ($10,000 x 0.02625 = $262.50). That’s $112.50 in added value for Platinum Honors members.

6. Low introductory APR offer

You might consider the Bank of America Travel Rewards card if you have upcoming large purchases. 

7. Visa Signature perks

The Bank of America Travel Rewards is a Visa Signature card, which means it’s accepted in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Visa Signature cards also typically come with certain benefits depending on the card issuer, such as the following.

• Roadside dispatch: Receive access to roadside dispatch services, including standard towing, tire changing, and fuel delivery. This is a pay-per-use assistance program.
• Travel and emergency assistance services: Receive 24/7 access to emergency travel assistance, including medical referral assistance, legal referral assistance, lost luggage locator service, and emergency translation service.
• ID Navigator by NortonLifeLock: Receive access to certain security features to help prevent identity theft, including dark web monitoring, stolen wallet assistance, data breach notifications, and restoration assistance.

Consider these additional Bank of America Travel Rewards benefits:

• No reward expiration: Points earned with this card don’t expire as long as your account remains open, and your travel redemptions have no blackout dates. However, points for dining and travel statement credits can only be redeemed toward eligible purchases made within the past 12 months.
• No foreign transaction fees: This card has no foreign transaction fees, which are typically additional fees added on when making foreign purchases.
• Contactless: Use your contactless card to tap to pay anywhere Visa credit cards are accepted and you see the contactless symbol.
• Digital wallet: Add your card to popular digital wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.
• Mobile and online banking: Access your card account on the go by using your Bank of America online account through a web browser or mobile app.
• FICO Score: Opt into complimentary monthly updates to your FICO Score.
• Account alerts: Customize and receive alerts about due dates and paid payments as well as other notifications.

Potential drawbacks of the Bank of America Travel Rewards card include:

• No bonus categories: Many rewards cards provide additional earning categories to earn bonus rewards. This card has a simple flat-rate earning structure without bonus categories. Check out our page that lets you compare credit cards to see how each one works.
• Preferred Rewards requirements: Earning a rewards bonus from Preferred Rewards sounds great, but not everyone will meet the high account balance requirements.
• Redemption value: This card doesn’t provide good redemption value if you choose cash rewards or gift cards. You could still choose these options, but statement credits provide more value.
• Card qualification: This card typically requires a good or excellent credit score to qualify, which might not make sense for everyone.

Does Bank of America Travel Rewards have travel insurance?

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card does offer travel insurance through its Visa Signature benefits. Travel insurance benefits currently available to cardmembers include:

• Lost baggage reimbursement

The Travel Rewards card also offers Visa Signature benefits including roadside dispatch and travel and emergency assistance services. 

What can you use Bank of America travel points on?

Bank of America travel points from the Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card can be used as statement credits toward most travel and purchases. These are some of the eligible purchases:

• Restaurants

How much are Bank of America travel points worth?

Bank of America travel points are worth varying amounts depending on the travel redemption. The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card offers redemptions of statement credits, cash rewards, and gift cards.

Statement credit redemptions are worth 1 cent per point, so 2,500 points would equal $25. Cash rewards and gift card redemptions are worth less than 1 cent per point.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card could be a good fit as a beginner travel card. It offers a generous sign-up bonus, a simple earning structure, and has a $0 annual fee. But with beginner travel cards, don’t expect premium travel benefits or advanced redemption options.

Other travel credit cards could include airport lounge access or annual travel credits to use how you see fit. Many of these cards might also offer ways to transfer your rewards to airline and hotel loyalty programs, providing opportunities to be more flexible with your points or miles.

Check out our list of the best travel credit cards to see what benefits these cards offer.

Easy-to-Earn Unlimited Rewards

Bank of america ® travel rewards credit card.

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

• Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases
• Earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases
• Longer intro APR on qualifying purchases and balance transfers
• No foreign transaction fees
• Best for Bank of America customers
• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Author Details

Ben Walker, CEPF, CFEI®

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Visa Signature: What Is It, and What Are the Benefits?

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"Visa Signature" refers to a package of benefits and perks offered on certain cards that carry the Visa name. Visa offers three levels of benefits , which vary by card. Signature is the middle level: It offers more than the basic benefits of the Traditional tier but not as much as you get with high-end Visa Infinite cards.

Below is a quick summary of Visa Signature benefits and a guide to using the more valuable ones.

Summary of Visa Signature benefits

Visa Signature benefits include the following:

Extended warranty protection.

Travel and emergency assistance.

Year-end spending summary.

Visa Signature concierge.

Roadside assistance (T).

Auto rental collision damage waiver (T).

Zero fraud liability (T).

Lost/stolen card reporting, emergency replacement and emergency cash (T).

Cardholder inquiry service (T).

Benefits marked with (T) are part of Visa's Traditional tier. The Signature package includes all Traditional benefits plus Signature-level perks.

VISA BENEFITS VS. ISSUER BENEFITS

Before we go into detail on these benefits, it's important to understand a few basic points:

Most of the features on a typical Visa credit card aren't dictated by Visa at all, but rather by the bank that issued the card (such as Chase, Capital One, Wells Fargo or your local community bank). Rewards rates, bonuses, interest rates and fees are all determined by the issuer.

Visa makes these benefits available on cards that carry the Visa Signature label, but it is up to the issuing bank to decide whether a particular card actually includes a particular benefit.

Many issuers offer their own benefits on top of (or in place of) those offered by Visa. These may be substantially more generous than Visa Signature benefits.

Extended warranty protection

How it works.

Visa's extended warranty protection can add more time to the manufacturer's warranty on items purchase with your Visa Signature card:

For warranties of less than a year, Visa doubles the warranty period.

For warranties of one to three years, Visa adds a year to the warranty period.

For warranties longer than three years, there is no extended warranty benefit.

The maximum coverage is $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per cardholder. Vehicles, real estate, computer software and certain other items are excluded from this coverage. You’ll have to register your purchase with Visa or save the receipt and the original manufacturer’s warranty if you want to take advantage of this protection. File a claim by calling your benefits administrator at 800-397-9010 in the U.S., or 303-967-1093 outside the U.S.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

Visa will only extend the manufacturer’s warranty, not improve it. If the manufacturer offers less-than-impressive terms — for instance, if it just covers defects rather than normal wear and tear — don’t expect Visa’s coverage to offer anything more. You’ll also have to show proof that you tried to get the item repaired through the manufacturer first, and getting the manufacturer to cover repairs can be a tedious process.

In some cases, getting a replacement item may be less of a hassle than waiting for a repair. Another alternative is buying an extended warranty or protection plan from the store where you bought the item, which might offer more coverage than the manufacturer's warranty. But, hey — the Visa Signature coverage is free for cardholders, so if all your manufacturer’s repairs are fully covered and shipping is reimbursed right away, it’s worth a try.

Travel and emergency assistance

Travelers needing information or assistance can call a dedicated multilingual hotline 24/7, and benefits specialists will connect them with services. In the U.S., the number is 800-992-6029; see this list for toll-free numbers in other countries. Available services include:

Pre-travel information about such things as immunizations and other health precautions, weather reports, currency exchange rates and visas.

Medical services, including referrals to health-care providers, emergency medical transportation and prescription assistance.

Legal and logistical help, including referrals to lawyers or bail services, document delivery, translation services, emergency replacements for lost tickets and assistance in finding lost luggage.

You'll have to pay for services you request. The phone call is free; whatever help they line up for you will be your responsibility. For example, if you need translation help, the hotline might put you in touch with a local interpreter, help you find a lawyer, or arrange for an ambulance ride, but you’ll have to pay the interpreter, lawyer or ambulance company.

Auto rental collision damage waiver

If you rent a car with your Visa Signature card, you can get additional coverage against physical damage or theft of the rental. This auto rental collision damage waiver, or CDW, applies to expenses that aren’t covered by your own insurance policy. To use the benefit:

Rent the car using your card. Coverage applies to rentals of up to 15 days in your home country or up to 31 days internationally.

Decline the CDW offered by the rental car agency.

Report damage or theft. If the car is damaged or stolen, you have 45 days to report it to Visa Card Benefit Services.

File a claim. You have 90 days to file a claim with supporting documentation. (If you don't have all the necessary documents by then, you have 365 days to provide them.) Required documents are listed on the claim form and include a copy of the rental agreement; a copy of your credit card billing statement showing the rental; information about your personal auto insurance; information about the necessary repairs; and a police or incident report about the accident or theft. Start your claim at eclaimsline.com .

This coverage usually comes on top of your personal insurance. If your rental is damaged or stolen, you'll first file a claim with your personal auto insurer. Visa's protection extends to charges not covered by that, including your deductible. This is known as "secondary coverage."

If you don't have a personal auto insurance policy, Visa's coverage becomes "primary," meaning you'll file the original claim through Visa. Also, some cards offer primary rental coverage in all cases. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a Visa Signature, but its rental car coverage is primary. With primary insurance, you don't have to involve your own issuer at all if a rented vehicle is damaged or stolen.

The CDW covers only the rented vehicle. There's no liability protection for damage to other vehicles or for medical costs from an accident. It also doesn't cover your luggage or other belongings inside the rented vehicle. If you back into a pole, the Visa CDW is a nice perk; if you cause an accident that leaves other cars smashed up and people injured, you'll probably be going through your own insurance anyway.

It doesn't cover all vehicles. Passenger cars (economy through luxury class) are covered. SUVs are covered only when driven on the road. Not covered: vans that seat more than nine people, trucks, cargo vans and vehicles classified as "expensive."

It doesn't apply in certain countries. This coverage doesn't apply in Ireland, Israel or Jamaica. Also, some countries (including Australia, Costa Rica, Italy and New Zealand) require that people renting cars purchase a certain amount of insurance; Visa's coverage comes on top of that.

» MORE: Rental car insurance: How your credit card covers you

Roadside dispatch

If you have car trouble while on the road, you can call 800-847-2869 at any time, day or night, and Visa will hook you up with a tow truck, locksmith or other service provider. There's no limit to how often you can use the service. You'll pay a flat fee of $69.95 for the service call. Covered services include:

Jump start.

Changing a tire.

Lockout service. This covers the cost of getting you into your car when you're locked out. New keys cost extra.

Towing up to 5 miles. Beyond that, you can be charged extra.

Winching if your car is at least 100 feet from the road. Farther than that, it can be extra.

Fuel delivery of up to 5 gallons. You'll have to pay for the gas on top of the service fee.

On-the-spot repairs or diagnostic services may cost extra. Any additional services once your car is towed somewhere may also cost extra. If you’re a subscriber to a service like AAA already, or if your insurance has a roadside assistance program built in, those could be more affordable options.

Additional Visa Signature benefits

Other services and benefits available to Visa Signature cardholders:

Year-end spending summary. This detailed annual report breaks down where you used your card, which can help you with budgeting and tax prep.

Concierge service: If you need help choosing a gift for someone or arranging travel plans, you can call 24/7 , and a concierge will help you make arrangements. If you buy anything, though, you’ll have to foot the bill.

Zero fraud liability.

Cardholder inquiry service. This allows you to call Visa and get details about your card, including both issuer- and network-provided features.

Lost/stolen card reporting, emergency replacement and emergency cash. If your card is lost or stolen, Visa, will work with your issuer to get you a replacement quickly. It can also arrange an emergency cash advance.

Shipt delivery services. Through Dec. 31, 2024, get a free Shipt membership for three months and a 50% discount for nine months. This benefit also offers free deliveries on orders of $35 or more. Terms apply. Shipt provides delivery services from over 130 retailers in over 5,000 cities in the U.S.

Skillshare membership access. Through Sept. 19, 2023, get a free membership for three months to Skillshare’s online learning community of more than 30,000 classes when you put a Visa Signature credit card on file. You’ll also get a 20% discount on annual membership renewals purchased with your eligible card. Terms apply.

Sofar Sounds presales. Through Sept. 13, 2023, get an exclusive invitation to the seven-day presale of Sofar events and earn a free ticket when you purchase one or more tickets during that timeframe. Terms apply. Sofar Sounds offers live music concerts in over 400 cities worldwide.

Benefits you 'may' have

As mentioned, some credit card issuers offer perks beyond those provided by Visa. The Visa website highlights several of these extra benefits that "your Visa Signature card may come with," but keep in mind that they are not part of the Visa Signature package. They're dictated by the issuer. They include:

Lost luggage or baggage delay reimbursement.

Reimbursement for Global Entry application fee.

Reimbursement for travel delays, cancellations or interruptions.

Travel accident insurance.

Priority Pass airport lounge access.

Price protection, purchase protection and return protection.

Emergency medical service and medical evacuation.

Some of these benefits are included in the Visa Infinite package.

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Card Benefits

Visa Signature ® Travel Rewards+ Card

Service benefits, earn rewards 1.

• 4X Points on Travel
• 4X Points on Gas Stations and EV Charging Stations
• 4X Points on Entertainment and Recreation
• 1.5X Points on all other eligible purchases

Redeem Rewards 2

To redeem rewards:

• Log in to Account Access .
• Select your Account, and within the top navigation select “Rewards & Benefits”.
• Click “Redeem rewards at Rewards Center” to reach the rewards center and start redeeming.

Or call the number on the back of your card to reach Cardmember Service.

• Redeem for travel rewards, cash back 3 , gift cards or name brand merchandise.
• Redemption starts at 2,500 points for $25 cash back.

24/7 U.S.-Based Customer Service

Our dedicated specialists are available 24/7 to assist you with any account questions.

Call the number on the back of your card.

Lost/Stolen Card Reporting

Our dedicated specialists are available 24/7 to assist you with a lost or stolen card. Call Cardmember Service immediately - available 24 hours a day.

Consumer cards: 1-800-558-3424 Business cards: 1-866-552-8855 International (Collect): 701-461-1556

Fraud Protection

Our sophisticated fraud-monitoring tools look for abnormal spending patterns. If we see something unusual, we move fast to help keep your card and account information safe. We provide zero fraud liability 4 for unauthorized transactions. If you notice any charges you did not make, please notify us promptly by calling the number on the back of your card. Certain conditions and limitations may apply. Learn more

Emergency Card Replacement and Cash Disbursement

Our 24/7 worldwide service allows you to quickly and easily get a replacement card sent to you and/or receive emergency cash at a convenient location.

Contactless Payments

Pay with a tap. Use your card for contactless payments wherever you see the Contactless Symbol and your payment is processed in seconds. You enjoy the same chip security whether you tap or insert your card. Cards are embedded with a microchip that adds an additional layer of security. If a terminal is not yet contactless-enabled you can insert or swipe your card as usual. Learn more

View Visa Signature Guide to Benefits (PDF)

Certain terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please refer to the Guide to Benefits for further details and full terms and conditions.

• Airport Lounge Access Escape the airport crowds and await your flight in quiet comfort. Your complimentary 12-month Priority Pass™ Select Membership gives you 4 free visits to over 1,500 airport VIP lounges and experiences worldwide. Enroll at prioritypass.com/travelrewardsvs . * Number of lounges and experiences is subject to change.
• Visa Luxury Hotel Collection The Visa Signature Luxury Hotel Collection offers an unparalleled experience with a premium collection of benefits like VIP status, complimentary breakfast for two, an upgrade when available. For details visit VisaSignatureHotels.com .
• Travel and Emergency Assistance Services When you're traveling or working anywhere in the world, your card gets you access to a multilingual call center - 24 hours a day, 365 days a year - for the assistance you need. You, your spouse and legal dependent children under 22 years of age who are traveling with you can call toll-free in the United States or collect when traveling abroad. Services include: medical and legal referrals, emergency transportation and more. Call the Benefit Administrator at 1-800-992-6029 to get your questions answered. If you are outside the U.S., you can call collect at 1-804-673-1675. Travel and Emergency Assistance Services is provided on a best-effort basis and may not be available due to problems of time, distance or location.
• Roadside Dispatch � Get emergency roadside assistance with services like towing, fuel delivery, and more by calling 1-800-847-2869. Tell the operator where you are, what the problem is, and the operator will arrange a dispatch to a reliable tow operator or locksmith to provide help. The operator will let you know the name of the local tow operator or locksmith being sent to assist you. Cardmembers are responsible for any service fees.

Discounts and Special Access

• Concierge Service Your Visa Signature card comes with complimentary, 24/7 access to the Visa Signature� Concierge service. Simply call 1-800-953-7392 anytime for assistance booking travel, event tickets and more- even dinner reservations or golf tee times. 5
• Visa Offers + Perks Enjoy discounts at the places you love to shop. Indulge your passion and gain access to a wide variety of offers and deals, including food and wine, shopping, sports, entertainment and more. Find your favorites at visa.com/offers .
• ID Navigator Powered by NortonLifeLock™ Tools to help you act quickly if your personal data is threatened No one can prevent all identity theft, so staying informed and knowing what to do when your identity is threatened can provide you with greater peace of mind. ID Navigator Powered by NortonLifeLock provides you with the tools to help keep you informed of potential threats to your identity, so you can act quickly should the unexpected happen. To confirm eligibility, visit cardbenefitidprotect.com . * No one can prevent all cybercrime or all identity theft.
• Signature Event Access, Offers, and Discounts Enjoy access to special packages, discounts, offers, upgrades, and events in these categories: travel, entertainment, fine wine and food, sports and shopping. Learn more at visa.com/signature .

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• Best Credit Cards
• Balance Transfer
• No Annual Fee

On this page

• Our top picks
• Airline credit card details
• How do airline cards work?
• Pros and cons

Most popular airline rewards programs

How to choose an airline credit card.

• Maximizing an airline credit card
• Our methodology
• Frequently asked questions

Best Airline Credit Cards of June 2024

May 16, 2024

How we Choose

There are plenty of factors to consider when deciding which airline card is best for you. First things first, you want to choose a card that is co-branded or at least partners with an airline that offers frequent service to your nearest (or preferred) airport. You should also have a sense of what you’re looking for in terms of card perks and realistically assess whether those perks align with both your spending and travel habits.

Best Airline Credit Cards of 2024

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best general airline credit card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for luxury travel perks
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best for unlimited miles on purchases
• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for no annual fee
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for rewards value
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card : Best for Southwest Airlines
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best for less frequent travelers
• American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® : Best for American Airlines
• Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card : Best for Alaska Airlines
• Discover it® Miles : Best for airline miles flexibility

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Rewards rate

At a glance, overall rating, why we like this card.

The Capital One Venture card is one of the most flexible travel cards on the market. Not only do you earn a simple 2 miles per dollar on every purchase (no need to keep track of bonus categories), but the miles you earn are also extremely versatile.

Whether you prefer to book your trips through Capital One or any third-party provider, you can use your miles to cover the cost – and they’ll have the same value either way. Looking for even more options? You can also transfer miles to 15+ travel partner programs.

• Get a statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.
• Use your miles to cover any eligible travel purchase from the recent past.
• The card’s $95 annual fee is not waived in the first year.
• The list of travel partners does not include most major domestic airlines.

Bottom Line

The Capital One Venture makes it extremely easy to earn and spend miles – and enjoy some travel perks along the way.

• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Rates & Fees

The platinum card® from american express.

See if you’re pre-approved for this card using our CardMatch tool .

The Platinum Card® from American Express is an excellent choice for experienced travelers thanks to its earning potential and wealth of updated premium travel perks. While the issuer recently upped the annual fee to $695, the card now comes with a host of ways to recoup that value at home or around the globe. In addition, cardholders can receive 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in the first six months of membership. The Platinum Card offers up to $400 in travel credits annually (up to $200 in statement credits on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel – two night minimum stay required, and up to $200 in statement credits for airline fees at one qualifying airline – enrollment required), Uber cash credits, and credits for CLEAR® Plus, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. Also attractive are status benefits for hotels, car rental, cruises, airport lounges and more, adding up to over $1,400 in potential value.

• This card comes with an extensive list of travel credits and premium perks.
• You can transfer points to a host of airline partners, including Delta Airlines.
• There is a limited amount of bonus categories.
• The $695 annual fee is steep for many.

For experienced travelers or those looking to make their dream vacation a reality, the Amex Platinum checks every box and provides generous travel credits and premium perks to help offset its high annual fee.

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Frequent travelers who want to experience premium travel perks will find it hard to pass up this travel rewards credit card. You’ll get unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights – all when you book through Capital One Travel. All other purchases earn an unlimited 2X miles. Plus, cardholders will earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

The $395 annual fee is a bargain compared to other premium credit cards. And that price can be offset by the $300 annual credit for travel booked through Capital One Travel, as well as the generous 10,000 bonus miles you’ll get every year, starting on your first anniversary.

• Earn unlimited miles in all purchase categories
• No blackout dates, and miles won’t expire as long as your account stays open
• You’ll need to spend $4,000 on purchases within three months from account opening to earn the 75,000 bonus miles
• Requires excellent credit

Frequent travelers will be drawn to the big sign-up bonus, premium travel rewards, and travel credits packed in this travel rewards credit card.

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card doesn’t charge an annual fee, but it still offers a competitive rewards rate in spite of that. The card offers 1.5 points per dollar on every purchase, and they’re super flexible.

You can book your travel on any website – whether Bank of America or a third-party – and then redeem your points as a statement credit to cover the cost. Eligible purchases include travel and dining bought in the last 12 months, which is a particularly long period for this kind of offer.

• There is no annual fee and no bonus categories to track, so this card is easy to manage.
• You can redeem points for any travel purchase made in the last 12 months on any site.
• Your points are worth less when you redeem for non-travel options like cash back.
• You can’t transfer points to any partner travel programs.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card is super flexible for bargain-hunters, allowing you to book travel on any site of your choosing and still cover the cost with points.

• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

A classic pick for first-time travel cardholders, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers outstanding opportunities to rack up points. Most notably, the card currently has an 75,000-point sign-up bonus after you spend $4,000 in your first three months of card ownership.

Even better, your points are worth 25% more when you redeem them for travel in the Chase Travel℠  portal. That means your introductory bonus alone is worth a little over $900 in travel purchases. Add that to a solid rewards rate on travel and dining, and you’ll be globetrotting on rewards alone in no time.

• When you redeem your points for travel in the Chase Travel℠ portal, your sign-up bonus is worth a little over $900 towards travel.
• You can transfer points to a variety of travel partners at a 1:1 rate.
• This card does not offer some of the perks you get with other travel cards like a statement credit towards TSA PreCheck/Global Entry.

Frequent travelers will love the potential value of the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. Its lucrative sign-up bonus and points boost on travel redemptions make it a top choice.

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

While the rewards rate on the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is not the most eye-catching, the card makes up for it by charging no annual fee and keeping rewards earning and spending simple.

You’ll only earn 1.25 miles per dollar on each purchase, but that means you don’t have to worry about keeping track of bonus categories or juggling which card to use for which purchase. And, you can redeem miles for any travel purchase on any site without sacrificing value.

• You can earn 20,000 miles (worth $200 in travel) after you spend $500 in the first three months – a really easy spend requirement to meet.
• Miles can be redeemed for any eligible travel purchase made in the last 90 days on any website.
• Other cards with no annual fee offer a higher flat rate of rewards on all purchases.
• Travel partners are limited, and there are no major U.S. airlines on the list.

The Capital One VentureOne is a solid no-fuss travel card, thanks to its straightforward flat earning rate and flexible redemption options.

• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

While the base rewards are good, it’s the ancillary perks that make this co-branded Bank of America card a standout airline credit card – most notably, the free checked bag for you and up to six guests on the same Alaska Airlines reservation and the Alaska Airlines companion fare from $122 ($99 companion fare, plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year.

• The card touts a generous sign-up bonus offer.
• Alaska Airlines has a wide network of domestic and international partners.
• There is a $95 annual fee to hold this card, not waived the first year.
• You’ll need to at least semi-frequently fly Alaska Airlines to reap the benefits associated with this card.

There are a few easy ways to help recoup this card’s annual fee, namely, cashing in on the Alaska Airlines companion fare certificate anniversary offer (after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year) or taking advantage of multiple baggage fee waivers, so frequent Alaska Airlines flyers might find it’s a worthy addition to their wallet.

• Limited Time Online Offer—60,000 Bonus Miles!
• Get 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
• Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
• Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
• Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
• With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
• This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Discover it® Miles

The Discover it ® Miles offers a decent rewards rate for a travel card with no annual fee, but its biggest draw is a unique introductory offer that teases incredible value for heavy spenders. At the end of your first year of card ownership, Discover will match all the miles you earned on the card.

After that, you’ll earn a more modest 1.5X miles on all purchases. But there’s no annual fee to eat into your rewards, and you don’t have to keep track of any bonus categories to maximize earnings.

• You earn the same 1.5 miles per dollar on every purchase you make.
• All rewards you earn will be matched by Discover at the end of your first year, effectively doubling your earnings.
• Discover does not have any hotel or airline program partners you can transfer miles to.
• You might not earn as much in rewards without any bonus categories.

The Discover it ® Miles can be a lucrative no-annual-fee card, especially in the first year. But after the intro offer ends, it’s harder to take as much value from the card.

• Unlimited Bonus: Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. You could turn 35,000 Miles to 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.
• Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase
• No annual fee
• Turn Miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% - 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
• Terms and conditions apply.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Comparing the best airline miles credit cards

Editor’s picks: airline rewards credit card details, best general airline credit card: capital one venture rewards credit card.

• Best features : You can really rack up travel rewards with this popular travel credit card from Capital One . The Venture Rewards Credit Card offers unlimited 2X miles on every purchase and 5X miles on hotel stays and rental cars booked through the Capital One Travel portal (miles are currently valued at 2 cents per mile*). That means you can earn rewards from everyday purchases that you can use toward flights with a wide range of airlines, including over 15 partners that allow you to transfer points 1:1. You can also use your rewards for statement credits for other travel purchases.
• Biggest drawbacks : The current list of airline travel partners doesn’t include other large U.S. carriers. There’s a $95 annual fee not waived the first year ( See Rates and Fees ).
• Alternatives : The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card   offers a higher rewards rate in several spending categories, including restaurants, gas stations and supermarkets, at 3X points. Plus, you can earn a total of 10X points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel portal. While general purchases only earn 1X points, those who spend more in higher-rate rewards categories could do well.
• Bottom line : If you travel frequently but don’t always fly the same carrier, this general-purpose travel credit card might give you the most bang for your buck. That said, airline loyalists may prefer to go with a co-branded airline card.

Read our Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for luxury travel perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

• Best features : The popular premium card from American Express comes fully loaded with luxury travel benefits, including top-tier travel insurance, perhaps the most comprehensive airport lounge access available and elite hotel perks like complimentary hotel loyalty status with Marriott and Hilton. However, the Amex Platinum card’s features stand out because they include one of the most valuable lists of annual statement credits on the market.
• Biggest drawbacks : The $695 annual fee is a big commitment, so carefully consider whether you travel enough to justify the price. You must redeem travel rewards through American Express Travel – and, unlike with many Chase credit cards, you won’t get a bonus for doing so. Some of the travel credits come with caveats that make them a bit tricky to track or maximize. For instance, the Platinum comes with up to a $200 Airline Fee Credit per calendar year but the credit can only be used at one select qualifying airline.
• Alternatives : The American Express® Gold Card comes with similar perks but at a lower annual fee.
• Bottom line : This card ticks off all the boxes for big spenders and frequent travelers looking for luxury travel perks, particularly complimentary airport lounge access. But the sky-high annual fee is tough to justify if you only fly a handful of times a year, rarely dine out and hardly ever stay at hotels.

Read our The Platinum Card® from American Express review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for unlimited miles on purchases: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Best features : This premium rewards card offers the best way to earn unlimited travel miles from Capital One, including an impressive 10X miles on hotel stays and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5X miles on Capital One Travel flights and a flat-rate 2X miles on all other purchases. Beyond rewards, the Venture X adds extra value to your wallet with high-end benefits like a $300 annual travel credit, complimentary airport lounge access and a credit worth up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
• Biggest drawbacks : The $395 annual fee ( See Rates and Fees ) is a bargain compared to other premium credit cards, but it might still be too much for some.
• Alternatives : While the Chase Sapphire Reserve® does have a higher annual fee than the Venture X, it also offers more in terms of redemption value. You’ll get 50% more value from your points when you redeem for travel with Chase (1.5 cents per point).
• Bottom line : This card is a great fit for travel enthusiasts with excellent credit who plan to take advantage of enough premium benefits to make the annual fee worth it but prefer streamlined travel miles.

Read our Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for no annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

• Best features : There’s a lot going for this travel card, including considerable rewards and few restrictions – and that’s with no annual fee. For example, earn 1.5X points on all purchases. No annual fee means that you don’t have to track your earnings to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth.
• Biggest drawbacks : You won’t get a boost by redeeming points for travel through the Bank of America Travel center. If you redeem points for cash, your points are only worth 0.6 cents each.
• Alternatives : The Discover it® Miles card carries a similar 1.5X miles rewards rate on all purchases for no annual fee. However, less frequent travelers will also be able to redeem their miles for cash back without losing rewards value.
• Bottom line : If you’re committed to avoiding an annual fee, this general-purpose travel card is one of your best options so long as you’re all right forgoing fancy travel perks.

Read our Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for rewards value: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

• Best features : Frequent fliers can rack up rewards pretty quickly with this solid general-purpose travel credit card from Chase. It offers 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 2X points on other travel purchases and 3X points on dining, select streaming services and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs). Plus, you’ll receive 10% of your total purchases last year back as annual bonus points. All of these points can then be redeemed for 25% more value toward Chase Travel℠, or they could even be worth 2 cents apiece on average* with the right Chase transfer partner .
• Biggest drawbacks : The card’s $95 annual fee might price this card out of a frugal flier’s budget.
• Alternatives : If you have a tendency to spend heavily on travel, the Chase Sapphire Reserve card is a higher-end version of the Sapphire Preferred. Cardmembers receive a $300 travel credit that can be applied to airfares, baggage fees, and more. Yes, its $550 annual fee is steep but the perks could be worth it for some.
• Bottom line : If you travel frequently but don’t often fly with a specific carrier, this general-purpose travel rewards credit card will net you a nice return on flights  – and then some! But despite its broad appeal, travelers on tighter budgets may still prefer a no-annual-fee card. Everyday spenders may want to consider pairing no-annual-fee Chase cards with the Sapphire Preferred to squeeze more value from their rewards.

Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for Southwest airlines: Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

• Best features : It not only earns 2X points on Southwest purchases (plus partner hotel and rental car bookings), but it also offers the same rewards rates for a few popular everyday purchases, including local transit (including rideshares), select streaming services and cable, phone and internet services. Luckily, yearly perks such as 3,000 bonus points and two EarlyBird Check-Ins can more than make up for the card’s $69 annual fee.
• Biggest drawbacks : Southwest doesn’t have airline partners, so the only rewards flights you can book are with Southwest.
• Alternatives : The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card offers a similar rewards value, and Delta’s expansive flight network may be a more attractive option to some travelers.
• Bottom line : The Rapid Rewards Plus is an excellent starter Southwest card if you’re not sure you’ll be able to take advantage of the higher-tier Southwest credit cards . But if you don’t fly Southwest often, don’t live near a Southwest hub, or mostly travel internationally, this card isn’t a match for you.

Read our Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for less frequent travelers: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Best features : This straightforward travel rewards credit card lets you earn 1.25X miles on general purchases without paying an annual fee ( See Rates and Fees ). Cardholders also earn 20,000 miles if they spend $500 in your first three months, which is equal to $200 in travel rewards. There’s no minimum to start redeeming rewards.
• Biggest drawbacks : Capital One is thin on major U.S. airline partners. You could conceivably earn more with the Venture Rewards Credit Card, even though it charges a $95 annual fee ( See Rates and Fees ). (Learn how to decide between the Capital One Venture cards .)
• Alternatives : Big spenders may find the Discover it® Miles to be a better short-term value. It matches miles earned at the end of your first year, and there’s no cap on how much you can potentially earn. When it comes to long-term value, you can redeem Discover miles for cash back at an equal 1 cent per mile if you don’t travel often.
• Bottom line : If you like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, but can’t stomach its annual fee or aren’t quite sure if you’ll travel enough to justify the charge, consider this card a solid alternative. That said, frequent travelers may be better off with a higher flat-rate rewards card or one with bonus categories that allows them to maximize earnings.

Read our Capital One VentureOne review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for American Airlines: American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp®

• Best features : For no annual fee, you can earn 2X miles on both American Airlines and grocery store purchases. Plus, American Airlines offers one of the largest travel networks in the world, and AAdvantage miles (valued at 1 cent*) can be transferred to dozens of airline, hotel and car rental partners.
• Biggest drawbacks : Redeeming AAdvantage miles can be complicated; you’ll have to navigate blackout dates and award seats are limited.
• Alternatives : The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card also has no annual fee and doesn’t limit you to just one airline. Cardmembers earn 1.5X points on all purchases, which can add up quickly.
• Bottom line : While this is a great starter airline credit card for people who fly American Airlines, those who do not fly American or even live near an American hub may want to keep looking.

Read our American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card

• Best features : There’s a rewarding limited-time online bonus that lets you earn 60,000 bonus miles plus Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days. You’ll also receive a companion fare from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each year on your account anniversary, (after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year).
• Biggest drawbacks : The card carries a $95 annual fee, so be sure you fly Alaska Airlines enough for the long haul to justify adding it to your wallet.
• Alternatives : With a slightly lower annual fee ($69 versus $95), the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card can help you earn a Companion Pass if you aren’t able to fly with Alaska Airlines often. However, it’ll take much more work since you’ll need to earn 135,000 qualifying points or fly 100 qualifying one-way flights with Southwest per calendar year to be eligible for the airline’s Companion Pass offer (beginning Jan. 1, 2023). You’ll earn a 10,000 qualifying point head start each year as a Southwest cardholder.
• Bottom line : If you fly Alaska Airlines with a companion even once or twice a year, you’re likely to appreciate this card’s benefits.

Read our full Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for airline miles flexibility: Discover it® Miles

• Best features : You’ll enjoy a wide range of travel redemption options, including airfare, hotels, car rentals, travel packages, taxis and public transportation – and can even redeem miles for cash back (Discover it® Miles are worth 1 cent each*).
• Biggest drawbacks : On the flip side, you can’t transfer your miles to airline partners. This means the card’s value drops significantly after the first-year match compared to cards with transfer partners.
• Alternatives : Those who travel less frequently may prefer the no-annual-fee Capital One VentureOne card ( See Rates and Fees ) which earns 1.25X miles on general purchases and can redeem rewards through Capital One transfer partners .
• Bottom line : Anyone on the hunt for a straightforward, general-purpose travel rewards credit card should enjoy the Discover it® Miles card. But frequent travelers may get less mileage since miles cannot be transferred to airline frequent flier programs.

Read our Discover it ® Miles review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

What are airline credit cards and how do they work?

Airline credit cards are typically aligned with airlines to bring you rewards specific to that brand, although there has been a movement in the last year to offer boosted general rewards as well. Called co-branded cards, these products reward you for loyalty to that brand through in-flight purchases and tickets, as well as brand-specific benefits.

Keep in mind that you’ll want to pick a card partnering with an airline you’ll actually use, or there’s no point in earning all those miles. For example, American Airlines has a hub in Charlotte, while United has a hub in Houston, and Delta is based out of Atlanta. Where you live and go should factor into your decision.

“Airline cards are especially valuable when you’re loyal to a particular carrier,” says Ted Rossman, CreditCards.com’s industry analyst. “The miles you earn through a sign-up bonus and your ongoing spending can quickly earn you a free trip. Plus, airline cards often offer additional perks such as free checked bags and priority boarding. Many of them charge annual fees, but they can be recouped quickly. For example, a $95 annual fee equals roughly three checked bags. A family could come out ahead after just one flight.”

In addition to co-branded cards, there are general-purpose travel credit cards that partner with airlines for redeeming points or miles, such as Capital One Venture Rewards and Chase Ultimate Rewards.

What is the difference between an airline credit card and a general travel credit card?

Though they are both handy for travelers, there are clear differences between an airline card and a general-purpose travel card. For starters, an airline card offers rewards for loyalty to one specific carrier or alliance whereas a general-purpose travel card partners with multiple airline brands. If your closest airport happens to be a designated hub for a particular airline, you might find that airline’s branded credit card to be the most convenient.

With an airline credit card, you can often earn boosted rewards on travel and in-flight purchases. A general-purpose travel credit card tends to reward for a variety of categories, sometimes even offering rewards for all purchases. More recently, airline credit cards have begun to reward for everyday spending in categories such as groceries, although it isn’t nearly as common as with general-purpose cards. General travel cards also offer benefits such as Global Entry or TSA Precheck credits, while airline cards might offer complimentary checked baggage, seating upgrades and lounge access.

Pros and cons of an airline credit card

• Travel value. The points and miles you earn can be put towards future travel, and they’re especially valuable when used to book business class seats. However, you’ll still be on the hook for applicable taxes and fees.
• Travel perks. Airline credit cards come loaded with valuable perks such as complimentary checked baggage, lounge access and priority boarding, as well as coverage for lost luggage and trip cancellation.
• Rewards are easy to earn. Depending on your spending habits, it’s relatively easy to rack up rewards. Plus, generous welcome bonuses give cardmembers a leg up on accumulating miles and earning status.
• Points can be difficult to redeem. Airlines sometimes restrict the number of seats available per flight for those booking with rewards. Blackout dates also restrict exactly when travelers can redeem points for travel, particularly during peak travel periods.
• Loyalty can be limiting. If you have an airline-branded card, you’re limited to that particular carrier and its network of partner airlines. That’s why it’s so important to choose an airline that is convenient for you to fly.
• Perks often include caveats. While benefits like trip protection and lounge access can be helpful when plans go awry, some of these benefits come with a lot of fine print you need to be familiar with in case there’s a hitch in your travel plans.

Delta SkyMiles

While the SkyMiles program is forever moving the finish line with fluctuating point values and rules, its range of redemption options and lack of blackout dates make it a crowd-pleaser. The average point value is 1.2 cents, according to Bankrate*, and rewards don’t expire. There are more than 20 airline partners, so you can go pretty much anywhere in the world on Delta and its SkyTeam partners. Loyal Delta flyers and international travelers will certainly find a lot to love about this program.

United MileagePlus

The United program award tickets are one-way, which opens up your options in terms of how you choose to redeem. You can select seats in a different class in each direction; or you can travel out with a lesser Saver ticket when your plans are flexible, and with an Everyday ticket on the return with firmed-up plans.

You can use miles to request upgrades to a premium cabin, which allows you to benefit from free alcoholic beverages, as well as priority check-in, security line access, boarding, and baggage handling. The average point value is 1.1 cents each*.

Southwest Rapid Rewards

With this loyalty program of Southwest Airlines , flight options are primarily limited to domestic destinations which now include service to Hawaii. It’s also worth noting that its short-haul international service is rapidly expanding. Families with a tendency towards overpacking will appreciate the complimentary additional checked baggage.

Booking is flexible and there aren’t a ton of hidden fees. Southwest Rapid Rewards are, on average, worth 1.5 cents a piece*. While there are no blackout dates and one-way trips are permitted, it’s not the largest of airlines. Southwest currently serves about 120 destinations, and only 11 countries.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

OneWorld member Alaska Airlines offers travelers excellent value across the board, particularly in terms of earning potential, average airfares, and general service. Alaska is the fifth largest airline in the U.S. with a focus on West Coast service, underserved markets in the Pacific Northwest, as well as Canada, Mexico, and Central America.

By Alaska’s math, Mileage Plan members earn 30% more miles than with other domestic loyalty programs. While Alaska’s fees are on par with other domestic carriers, its flexibility around ticket changes and rebookings makes it a favorite among flyers. The average point value is 1.1 cents each*.

American Airlines AAdvantage

With about 350 destinations to more than 50 countries, American Airlines , with regional carrier American Eagle, is one of the largest airlines in the world. Its network of OneWorld partners makes it a strong choice for world travelers. The airline partners with OneWorld Alliance carriers as well as other partners.

While there’s the MileSAAver awards, which means you can book award flights at a low number of miles, there are downsides, such as some quirky rules and the need for flexibility when booking. American Advantage points are worth 1 cent each* on average.

British Airways Executive Club

OneWorld partner British Airways can eat up your miles, called Avios, but the experience is superior. There is a feature called Reward Flight Savers, advertised as the best value reward flights, which is available on return flights in Europe and southern Africa. Like other loyalty programs, you can use Avios to upgrade, for a hotel stay or getting a rental car. Avios points are worth 0.7 cents each* on average.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Flying to roughly a dozen countries, Virgin Atlantic is a 35-year-old British airline with a number of stops in the U.S. Flying Club, Virgin Atlantic’s loyalty program, offers dozens of partners, including Delta. You can redeem as few as 7,500 Virgin Points for a one-way flight through Delta. Other partners include KLM, Air France and other international airlines, as well as hotels such as Hilton and IHG.

The Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Virgin Points are worth a whopping 2.6 cents on average*. You can also convert rewards into Virgin Points through some of the top card issuer programs, such as Citi ThankYou and Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Do airline miles expire?

When it comes to airline rewards, few things are more frustrating than seeing your hard-earned points and miles expire before you’ve had a chance to use them. Unfortunately, only a few airline rewards programs offer miles that never expire, with the vast majority requiring you to either earn or redeem miles within one or two years or risk forfeiting the miles in your account. In some cases, you can have expired miles restored to your account, but don’t be surprised if you’re asked to pay a reinstatement fee.

Here’s how airline point and mile expiration breaks down with some of the most popular airline rewards programs:

Who should get an airline credit card

• Airline loyalists . If you often use a specific airline, an airline card can deliver boosted rewards and superior redemptions.
• Frequent flyers . Want to earn lots of points or miles? You’ll earn more if you’re often traveling with your favorite airline.
• Big shoppers . Many airline cards have an annual fee, so you’ll need to plan on using your card enough to recoup the cost of that fee.
• Fine print readers . The rules of an airline rewards program can be tough to navigate, so make sure you are prepared to follow them.

Who should skip an airline credit card

• Last-minute travelers . Airline rewards programs often have blackout dates and seating restrictions, so airline cards may not suit the procrastinator.
• Balance carriers . If you carry a balance to the next month, you will incur interest charges, negating the benefits of rewards. If you are prone to carrying a balance, consider a top low interest credit card instead.
• Those who live far from an airline hub . If you live in a midsize city, the airline of your choice may not fly there, making it more difficult to earn rewards.
• Infrequent travelers. If there are only airline reward offered, it may be difficult to earn enough rewards to make the card worth your while.

How to make the most of an airline credit card

Consider how frequently you fly.

Simply put, if you don’t fly more than a couple of times a year, you probably don’t need an airline credit card. While some airline credit cards let you earn miles on everyday purchases, like gas or groceries, you generally get the most bang for your buck by redeeming for free flights. And while many cards have moved away from blackout or expiration dates on miles, you’re not likely to recoup the annual fee associated with most of these cards if you’re not cashing in your rewards each year or taking advantage of the ancillary perks a card entitles you to.

If your spending tends to vary, consider a general rewards credit card or a cash back credit card instead.

Identify your carrier of choice

If you do fly frequently, consider next whether you tend to do so on the same carrier. (That’s generally dictated by whether you live near an airline hub or a major airport serviced by carriers with a large flight network.) If so, that brand’s airline credit card could help you earn award flights more quickly, qualify for elite status and receive perks that let you travel in style.

If you’re more likely to fly on a variety of carriers throughout the year or you like to comparison-shop for deals across travel providers, consider a general-purpose travel credit card. We’re partial to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, which offers 2X miles on general purchases and lets you redeem rewards as statement credits for a wide variety of travel expenses.

Account for a card’s transfer partners

Many general-purpose travel credit cards let you transfer your points to partnering airlines. Review their list of current partners to see if they’re in line with your travel habits. Transferring points is often a great way to get a bit more bang for your buck. Learn other ways to maximize credit card rewards .

Ask yourself if you check a bag

Most airline’s charge $30 for a first checked bag and $40 for a second, so if you frequently travel with a suitcase, an airline credit card that lets you skip that charge can save you money or, at least, cover a card’s annual fee before you factor in the rewards.

Decide if you’re looking for lounge access

Some premium travel rewards credit cards offer access to a large number of airport lounges, irrespective of brand. The Platinum Card from American Express, for example, grants cardholders access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection®, which includes more than 1,400 airport lounges around the world. The Chase Sapphire Reserve, meanwhile, comes with complimentary access to Priority Pass lounges in more than 1,300 locations around the world.

Are airline credit cards worth it in 2024?

If you travel frequently and tend to fly the same carrier each time, a good airline credit card could help you earn loyalty points (and, by extension, award flights) faster. They could also entitle you to benefits that make flying more enjoyable or cost-effective, like priority boarding, a free checked bag, elite status and upgrades, when available.

Although travel restrictions have relaxed compared to the past few years, it’s important to carefully consider how often you plan to fly in the future before deciding on whether to get an airline credit card.

Of course, if the card has no annual fee , we say it’s a no-brainer. While you’re waiting around for your next trip to roll around, you may as well be accumulating points or miles to fund future getaways. If the card has an annual fee, you should make sure that your estimated yearly rewards and perk value makes up for the annual fee .

When assessing whether or not an airline credit card is a good option for you, here are five things to consider:

• You plan to regularly fly with the same airline – If you live near a hub of the airline partnering with the card you are eyeing, that might be a good card for you. Also, if you find yourself often turning to a specific airline for your travel needs, this card might be the right choice.
• You will use the card’s perks – You’ll want to look at the travel features beyond just the miles offered. TSA PreCheck, free first checked bags, lounge access, cancellation insurance: These are a few of the features strong airline cards may offer.
• The perks outweigh the annual fee – There’s often an annual fee with airline cards, so you’ll need to assess whether the rewards and the perks make the card worthwhile once the annual fee has been charged.
• You have the credit score for the card – Airline cards typically require good or excellent credit (a FICO score of at least 670). There’s no point in applying for a card if you don’t have the required credit score, because applying will temporarily impact your score even if you don’t get the card.
• You can pay the full balance each month – If you get any type of rewards card, airline cards included, it’s important to make sure you can pay your balance in full each month. Otherwise, any earned points or miles are basically eaten by the interest you’d owe.

How we picked the best airline credit cards

Research methodology : We analyzed 148 airline credit cards to identify the best ones currently on the market. The major factors we considered in making our Editor’s picks include:

• Rewards rates : The best airline credit cards offer at least 2X points on purchases with their specific carrier. General-purpose travel credit cards might offer between 1.25X to 2X miles on all purchases.
• Rewards value : Not all miles are created equal. We looked at how much each mile was worth when redeemed for airfare. We also considered how much each mile was worth across additional redemption options, when available.
• Ancillary airline perks : The best airline credit cards offer extra benefits, like a free checked bag, priority boarding, automatic elite status, airport lounge access or more. Many offer travel credits for items like Global Entry or TSA Precheck . We weighted cards more heavily if they offered these types of benefits.
• Rates and fees : Many airline credit cards charge annual fees and, as a rewards credit card, they tend to carry higher APRs than low-interest counterparts. However, we still considered if these costs were reasonable relative to the category and the benefits each card carried.

Full criteria used : Rewards rates, rewards categories, airline alliance partners, other transfer partners, sign-up bonus, point values, redemption options, redemption flexibility, elite status, annual fee, travel credits, airport lounge access, miscellaneous travel benefits, rates and fees, customer service, credit needed, upgrade and downgrade options. For more detail on our review scores, see our ratings process for airline cards.

More information on airline credit cards

For more information on all things travel cards, continue reading content from our credit card experts:

• How do airline credit cards work?
• How to earn frequent flyer miles without flying
• How to get reimbursed from a canceled trip
• How to change travel plans booked with rewards
• Best credit cards for travel insurance
• Guide to airline companion passes
• Guide to airport lounges
• A guide to flying for people with disabilities
• Airline credit card reviews

* All values are based on Bankrate’s latest point and mile valuations .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you get an airline credit card with bad credit + –.

Typically a travel card requires good to excellent credit, and that includes airline and hotel credit cards.

If you have your eye on an airline card, but don’t have the needed credit score, look into getting a card that’s designed for your credit level and build your score. Although it’s hard to find an airline card available for a low credit score, there are several secured rewards cards that you can use until your score improves. At that point, you may qualify for a general-purpose travel card for fair credit, such as the Capital One VentureOne or the Credit One Bank Wander® Card .

How long does it take to receive my miles? + –

Once you’ve earned your miles, you would think you could access them quickly, but that isn’t always the case. The length of time for rewards to post to your account varies depending on the issuer:

• American Express. Within 72 hours of receiving the payment (or, up to eight to 12 weeks after qualifying for the welcome offer)
• Bank of America.  Rewards post right away, but may take until after the billing statement closes to be redeemable (or, up to eight to 12 weeks after qualifying for the welcome offer)
• Capital One. Rewards post within 10 days, but may take up to two billing cycles to be redeemable (or, within one to two billing cycles after qualifying for the welcome offer)
• Chase. Rewards quickly appear as “pending,” but may take until after the billing statement closes to be redeemable (or, within six to eight weeks after qualifying for the welcome offer)
• Citi. Rewards post within a few days (or, within eight to ten billing weeks after qualifying for the welcome offer)
• Discover. Rewards post within two billing cycles, but may take up to two billing cycles to be redeemable (or, within two billing cycles after qualifying for the first-year offer)

How do you earn airline miles? + –

Like other rewards cards, you can earn airline points or miles through airline credit card spending. You’ll typically earn rewards through airline or other travel purchases, although many airline cards also offer everyday categories so you can earn miles without flying . Some airlines also allow you to earn additional miles through airline loyalty and partner merchant programs connected to your account.

Check out our guides for the following airlines:

• Earning American Airlines miles
• Earning Delta Airlines miles
• Earning Southwest Airlines points
• Earning United Airlines miles

How do you redeem airline miles? + –

Airline miles can be redeemed through your credit card issuer or directly through an airline. When logged in to the airline’s website with your loyalty account, you’ll find that flights are generally listed both by their dollar amount and by amount in miles, or sometimes you may have to toggle between the two.

Miles redeemed through your issuer’s rewards portal can be booked for flights or hotels as well as other rewards such as cash back, gift cards, statement credits, or donations.

Can you transfer miles between airlines? + –

You can’t transfer points between frequent flyer programs in most cases, even if the airlines are partners. Partnerships such as OneWorld, Star Alliance, and SkyTeam typically allow you to earn miles when you fly on one airline, and redeem those miles you earn for flights on a carrier within the same network. However, most of those airlines won’t allow you to transfer miles directly from one carrier to another, because there is no financial benefit to them for doing so.

But there are some exceptions to the rule. British Airways and Iberia share the Avios frequent flyer program. So while your points in each program remain separate and distinct, you can transfer them freely between the two.

Just because you can’t transfer points back and forth, however, doesn’t mean that you are stuck with a single carrier for life. Most airlines within the major alliances will allow you to use your mileage stash with that brand to book award flights on partner airlines. For example, an American Airlines frequent flyer can use AAdvantage miles to book a flight on British Airways, and the cost of that ticket will be based on the American Airlines mileage award chart.

About the Author

Tracy Stewart

Tracy Stewart is a personal finance writer specializing in credit card loyalty programs, travel benefits, and consumer protections. He previously covered travel rewards credit cards, budget travel, and aviation news at SmarterTravel Media. His money-saving tips have appeared in the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, Consumer Reports, MarketWatch, Vice, People, the Zoe Report and elsewhere.

About the Editor

Jeanine Skowronski

Jeanine Skowronski is a credit card expert, analyst, and multimedia journalist with over 10 years of experience covering business and personal finance. She has previously served as the Head of Content at Policygenius, Executive Editor of Credit.com, Deputy Editor at American Banker, Staff Reporter at TheStreet and a columnist for Inc. Magazine.

About the Reviewer

Stephanie Zito

Stephanie Zito is a professional traveler, humanitarian and credit card points collector sharing savvy travel tips she has learned firsthand from more than 20 years of circling the globe as a backpacker, expat and premium traveler in more than 125 countries and all seven continents.

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17 best rewards credit cards of June 2024

If you’re looking to optimize your spending and save on every purchase, we recommend these top picks for the best rewards credit cards. Each card on this list was carefully selected by our team of experts to help our readers get the most out of their spending. Whether you’re looking to earn the most cash back on your spending or to pay for your next vacation with points and miles, we’ve got you covered.

At The Points Guy, we aim to provide comprehensive insights and expert analysis on credit cards to help our readers make the right choice for their wallets. So, check out our curated selection and comprehensive guide on finding the best rewards cards from our partners below.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for beginner travelers
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for airline rewards
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for airline rewards
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card : Best for maximizing business purchases
• American Express® Gold Card : Best for dining rewards at restaurants
• Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card : Best for freelancers
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best for unlimited point earning
• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Best for flat-rate earning
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for luxury benefits
• Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express : Best for U.S. streaming rewards
• Citi Double Cash® Card : Best for no-frills cash-back rewards
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best for bonus categories
• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for travel rewards beginners
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for no annual fee
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best for entertainment rewards
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for travel perks
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Best for cash back beginners

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Comparing the best credit cards, more details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly, what is a rewards credit card, helpful tools, how we rate cards, how to maximize rewards credit cards, how to choose the best rewards credit card, ask our experts, pros + cons of rewards credit rards, frequently asked questions, chase sapphire preferred® card.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit cards on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full  review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card .

• You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases, 2 points per dollar on all other travel and 1 point per dollar on everything else.
• Annual $50 hotel statement credit when booked through Chase Travel
• Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance
• The card comes with a $95 annual fee
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn earns 2x miles on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our full  review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .

• This flexible rewards card delivers a solid sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, valued by TPG at $1,388.
• You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories
• Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for any hotel or airline purchase for a statement credit or transferred to 15+ travel partners
• Highest bonus-earning categories only on travel booked via Capital One Travel
• Capital One airline partners do not include any large U.S. airlines
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

If you can maximize the $300 credit towards bookings through Capital One Travel, the Venture X’s annual fee effectively comes down to $95, the same annual fee pegged to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see Venture rates and fees ). Add in a 10,000-mile bonus every account anniversary (worth $185, according to TPG valuations ) and lounge access, and the card may become the strongest option out there for a lot of travelers. Read our full  review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card .

• 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
• $395 annual fee
• The $300 back annual credit only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full  review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card .

• One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening
• Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption
• No travel perks
• Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications
• Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

American Express® Gold Card

This isn’t just a card that’s nice to look at. It packs a real punch, offering 4 points per dollar on global dining and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar). There’s also an up to $120 annual dining statement credit at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar, and select Shake Shack locations, plus it added an up to $120 annually ($10 per month) in Uber Cash, which can be used on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. All this make it a very strong contender for all food purchases, which has become a popular spending category. Enrollment required for select benefits. Read our full  review of the American Express Gold Card .

• 4 points per dollar on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
• 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel
• Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first six months of card membership
• Weak on travel and everyday spending bonus categories
• Not as effective for those living outside the U.S.
• Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits
• Few travel perks and protections
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.
• Terms Apply.
• See Rates & Fees

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited’ sign-up gives you a generous $750 cash back spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening plus unlimited 1.5% cash back on every business purchase. It fills in rewards gaps not covered by the Ink Business Cash Credit Card and the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card. You can maximize this card by pairing it with cards including the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card. Read our full review of the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card .

• No annual fee
• A generous $750 cash-back sign-up bonus
• Flat 1.5% cash back on all purchases
• Higher spend to receive sign-up bonus
• No conversion to Chase points without holding the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred or Ink Business Preferred
• Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
• No Annual Fee
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
• Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
• 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card offers healthy reward earning rates on top of uncapped point-earning meaning the sky's the limit — especially if you strategize and spend in popular categories.

• No foreign transaction fees
• Uncapped earning potential
• $50 annual statement credit
• Solid point earning rates in popular categories
• This card features an annual fee
• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

The Wells Fargo Active Cash card delivers simplicity to cardholders who want to pay for their purchases without worrying if you’re maximizing every last dollar. With a 2% cash rewards rate, you’ll rest easy knowing that you’re earning bonus points whether you’re online shopping or paying your hairdresser. Plus, enjoy other benefits like cell phone protection and access to the Visa Signature® Concierge and Luxury Hotel Collection. Read our full review of the Wells Fargo Active Cash .

• There’s no annual fee, meaning that you can keep your costs low while focusing on earning rewards.
• Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases — no bonus categories to track or remember.
• Get up to $600 in cell phone protection (with a $25 deductible) against covered damage or theft when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with this card.
• Don’t take this card abroad with you, as this card incurs a 3% foreign currency conversion fee.
• Other cash rewards cards can offer better welcome bonuses.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• $0 annual fee.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full  review of the Platinum Card from American Express .

• The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
• This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and more than $1,400 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more.
• The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway.
• The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
• Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories.
• The annual airline fee credit and other statement credits can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards.
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred Card is one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. You’ll get a great return across a wide range of bonus categories, a solid welcome bonus and a low annual fee. Read our full  review of the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express .

• This card has one of the best earning structures out for among cash-back credit cards
• The card comes with access to Amex Offers (activation required), which can save you even more money on specific purchases.
• There is a $6,000 spending cap on the U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may not work for those with large grocery budgets
• You’ll have to pay a foreign transaction fee on international purchases, so it’s not a great choice when you’re traveling abroad
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.

Citi Double Cash® Card

The Citi Double Cash Card caters to beginners establishing good credit habits, since users will earn 2% cash back; 1% when they buy and 1% when they pay their statement. The Citi Double Cash is a great pick for those looking for the utmost simplicity and want cash back in their pocket. Read our full review of the Citi Double Cash here .

• Earning 2% back on every purchase is an industry-leading return on everyday spending for a no-annual-fee credit card.
• Now that you have the ability to convert rewards to ThankYou points with an eligible card, your redemption options are even more flexible.
• It’s great for those looking to consolidate debt, since it offers new cardmembers 18 months of 0% intro APR on balance transfers made. After that, the variable APR of 19.24% - 29.24% applies.
• Those looking to make a balance transfer will have to pay 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
• Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
• Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
• If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a surprisingly powerful card that earns at least 1.5% back on everything. However, it becomes a standout card if you pair it with a card that earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points, doubling their potential value. Read our full  review of the Chase Freedom Unlimited .

• At least 1.5% back on every purchase, with up to 5% or 3% back on select categories
• There is no annual fee
• Perfect for everyday, non-bonused spending
• Incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card
• There is a 3% foreign transaction fee so the card shouldn't be used abroad
• Limited card perks and benefits
• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is a great starter card thanks to its no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees when you travel internationally. Earning and redeeming is effortless, with no confusing bonus categories to keep track of and the ability to redeem your points for all of your travel needs. Read our full review of the Bank of America Travel Rewards card here .

• 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases
• Bank of America does not offer airline or hotel transfer partners like other banks such as American Express, Chase or Capital One.
• No travel and purchase protections.
• Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph card packs a punch for a no-annual-fee product, with an array of bonus categories plus solid perks and straightforward redemption options. Read our full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph here .

• This card offers 3 points per dollar on various everyday purchases with no annual fee. It also comes with a 20,000-point welcome bonus and an introductory APR offer on purchases. Plus, you'll enjoy up to $600 in cellphone protection against damage or theft when you pay your monthly bill with the card. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Despite the lucrative earning structure, Wells Fargo doesn't offer any ways to maximize your redemptions — you're limited to fixed-value rewards like gift cards and statement credits.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One SavorOne is a great cash back credit card for beginners looking for a solid rewards structure and no annual fee. Dining, entertainment and groceries are high-value bonus categories, and it’s rare for a card to hit all three. Read our full  review of the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card .

• Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
• The intro APR offer that comes with this card makes it a solid choice for those looking to finance a large purchase. You’ll get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after, there's a 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months or at the promotional APR offered at any other time. No fee for amounts transferred at the Transfer APR).
• The sign-up bonus isn’t anything to write home about (though it is easy to earn)
• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• No foreign transaction fee

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more. Read our full  review of The Business Platinum Card from American Express .

• Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels; access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection (enrollment required)
• Up to $100 credit for Global Entry every 4 years or up to $85 TSA PreCheck application fee every 4 1/2 years.
• International Airline Program; and Cruise Privileges Program.
• Steep $695 annual fee.
• High spend needed for welcome offer.
• Limited high bonus categories outside of travel.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Everyday card is a good option for people who want a simple cash back structure with no annual fee. You’ll earn bonus cash back rewards on popular bonus categories, including U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. Read our full review of the  Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express .

• 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets.
• No annual fee.
• There is a $6,000 spending cap on the U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may not work for those with larger annual grocery spend.
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.

This is one of the most popular beginner travel rewards cards out there. You can earn a lot of points on a broad range of categories, and the low $95 annual fee makes this card worth keeping both in the first year and beyond.

This card is an ideal choice for someone who takes a few trips a year and wants to maximize their earning on travel and dining purchases.

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has been in my wallet for 5-plus years and is the midlevel rewards credit card that I recommend to people. It usually has a pretty solid sign-up bonus, with points that can be transferred to some of my favorite loyalty programs, like British Airways Executive Club and World of Hyatt. The strong earn rate on dining and travel as well as streaming services makes it a good choice for a millennial like me. Finally, I like using this card when renting cars, as it provides primary car insurance and a little more piece of mind.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers a flat 2 miles per dollar spent on most purchases, with bonus miles when booking hotels and rental cars through Capital One’s travel portal. Both cards have the same $95 annual fee (see Venture rates and fees ).

The main attraction of this card is its flat earning structure of 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases. You’ll also get access to 15-plus travel loyalty partners and up to $100 TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit, all for a low $95 annual fee (see rates and fees ).

This card is suited to travelers who take a few trips a year and want a simple miles-earning structure with the potential to maximize their rewards.

“The Capital One Venture is a great card that can add value to pretty much anyone's wallet. I use it to earn 2 miles per dollar on the purchases that fall outside my other cards' bonus categories. The annual fee is low, Capital One miles are easy to redeem and the card does come with a few nice perks, including TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” — Madison Blancaflor , senior content operations editor

The main competitor to this card is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , which earns more points on dining, streaming and online grocery purchases. However, it earns half the rate of the Venture Rewards on everyday purchases and does not include any lounge passes.

This is one of the best value premium travel rewards cards out there. It offers lounge access to you and two guest, all for a reasonable $395 annual fee (see rates and fees ). Most of that is offset by a $300 annual travel credit, and you’ll receive 10,000 bonus miles each year, which more than covers the rest.

This card is suited to frequent travelers who want lounge access and transferable miles for maximum-value travel redemptions.

“With an annual fee that is $300 less than The Platinum Card® from American Express (see Amex Platinum rates and fees ), the Capital One Venture X is my favorite travel credit card. The card comes with an annual $300 Capital One travel portal credit, which I use to book flights. That effectively brings the annual fee down to $95 per year (see rates and fees ). Cardholders enjoy a Priority Pass Select membership. I use my Venture X to earn 2 miles per dollar (a 3.7% return, based on TPG's valuations) in spend categories where most cards would only accrue 1 point, such as auto maintenance, pharmacies and medical bills.” — Kyle Olsen , former points and miles reporter

The popular Chase Sapphire Reserve® earns more bonus points on travel and dining purchases but comes with a higher $550 annual fee. Chase Ultimate Rewards points are worth slightly more than Capital One miles.

This card offers one of the highest sign-up bonuses of any business card and has a low $95 annual fee. Plus, it earns valuable Ultimate Rewards points on a variety of business expenses.

This card is geared toward small-business owners who want to maximize points-earning on business expenses. It’s also great for those who regularly run into problems with their cellphone, as it provides cellphone protection.

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I've found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.”  — Katie Genter , senior writer

This card’s main competitor is the American Express® Business Gold Card , which offers 4-points-per-dollar in select bonus categories that automatically reflect your highest spending areas, such as transit purchases, dining at U.S. restaurants, and U.S. gas station purchases. However, its biggest downside is its relatively high $375 annual fee (see rates and fees ).

This is the best card for those looking to earn bonus points at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants. You have an array of valuable transfer partners, while the dining and Uber statement credits help offset the considerable $250 annual fee (see rates and fees ).

This card is a great addition to the wallets of those who want to earn a lot of points when dining out and grocery shopping.

  “Groceries and dining at restaurants are two of my top spending categories, and I love that the Amex Gold rewards those purchases with 4 points per dollar (up to $25,000 in spending at U.S. supermarkets). When you factor in the $10 dining credit and $10 in Uber Cash each month, the $250 annual fee is a net cost of $10.” — Senitra Horbrook , former credit cards editor

There are few direct competitors to this card, but it’s worth checking out the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® , which offer more points for travel purchases but fewer bonus points for groceries and dining.

This is one of the best business cards with no annual fee because it earns 1.5% back on every purchase without needing to keep track of bonus categories.

This card is a good match for anyone who doesn’t want to expend mental energy juggling spending categories.

“I have the Chase Ink Business trilogy — the Ink Business Cash Credit Card, Ink Business Preferred Credit Card and Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card. The first two cards maximize my points-earning on things like office supply, internet and phone purchases, while the Ink Unlimited covers everything else with a flat 1.5% earn rate. The fact that I have the Ink Preferred means I can convert my cash back from the Ink Unlimited into more valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points. This no-annual-fee card will stay in my wallet for years to come.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express is the only no-annual-fee (see rates and fees ) business credit card that can potentially be more valuable. It offers 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent (on up to $50,000 in annual spending, then 1 point), and these points are immediately transferrable to partners; you don't need to carry another card to enable this functionality.

The Autograph Journey offers cardholders the chance to earn elevated rates across travel categories including 5 points per dollar spent on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airline purchases and 3 points per dollar on restaurants and 'other travel' which includes timeshares, car rentals, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites and campgrounds. On top of this, cardholders also get the added benefit of earning a flat rate of 1 point per dollar on other purchases for a $95 annual fee.

If you travel frequently and are looking for a card to help you rack up points you can redeem for future travel, this card is a decent option. Additionally, those looking for a way to fill gaps in their points earning strategy will benefit from the flat 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases outside of the main travel categories.

Another great perk the Autograph Journey features is an annual $50 statement credit triggered by an airline purchase of at least $50. This is on top of elevated earning rates in the certain travel categories and a solid welcome offer for new applicants. There's also no foreign transaction fees on the Autograph Journey card making it a good first travel card as well as a decent supplemental card to add to your travel credit card roster.

If you're looking for a more general use credit card with no annual fee, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see  rates and fees ). It earns a flat rate of 2% cash rewards on purchases making an excellent choice to help fill gaps in your reward earning strategy. The best part? Like the Autograph Journey card, the Active Cash Card doesn't put a cap on the amount of cash back you can earn.

The Active Cash card (see rates and fees ) is a great beginner card since it features a flat 2% cash rewards on purchases. The card features a simple earning strategy, includes cellphone protection and has no annual fee.

Credit card beginners should consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash if they’re looking for a simple cash back card.

"This card offers a generous 15 months of 0% APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers (then a variable APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% applies) and 2% cash rewards. When the time came to pay my daughter’s preschool tuition, I got the card. I figured I could split the expense up monthly and pay a service fee to the school, or I could spread it out with the introductory APR and get 2% cash rewards. It was a no brainer for me!” — Eileen Sullivan, senior UX researcher

New credit card users who are looking to earn cash back but want the option to transfer their cash back into travel points should consider the Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees ). It features a similar simple earning strategy as the Wells Fargo Active Cash but when combined with select Citi cards, the cash back can be transferred into Citi ThankYou points.

This card offers the best lounge access options of any premium travel rewards card and a high earn rate on airfare. It also comes with a plethora of statement credits that can offset the high $695 annual fee (see rates and fees ).

This card is ideal for frequent travelers who spend a lot on airfare purchases and want access to a wide range of lounges along with a large number of lifestyle perks.

“While this card has a high annual fee, it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all my flights — whether bought with cash or points — on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year) and trip protection insurance*. I make sure to take full advantage of the Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, Hulu/Disney+ and Clear Plus credits (enrollment is required). And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

* Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® earns more points on travel (except flights) and dining purchases and comes with a lower $550 annual fee. However, the Amex Platinum has better lounge access options.

This is a lucrative cash-back card for those who spend a lot on groceries, gas, transit and streaming. You’ll also earn statement credits for select monthly subscriptions with Disney and Equinox (enrollment required; subject to auto-renewal; terms apply).

This card is best suited to someone looking for a lot of cash back on groceries, gas, transit and streaming.

“The Blue Cash Preferred Card is the card I recommended to my parents when they were looking for a new cash-back rewards card for their groceries. My parents prefer the simplicity of cash-back rewards, and I knew they'd benefit from earning 6% cash back on up to $6,000 per year in purchases at U.S. supermarkets, then 1% back after that. Compared to the 1.5% cash back they were earning on these purchases, the elevated earnings easily justified adding the Blue Cash Preferred to their wallet.” — Katie Genter , senior points and miles writer

If you want a flat cash-back rate on all purchases, then the Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees ) is a great option, offering 2% back on every transaction — 1% when you buy and another 1% when you pay your bill.

One of the simplest and most rewarding cash-back cards out there is the Citi Double Cash Card. It awards 1% cash back when you buy and then another 1% as you pay off your bill. You can even convert the cash back to ThankYou points via a linked ThankYou card, such as the Citi Prestige® Card. 

The information for the Citi Prestige has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

This card is best for two groups of people: those who want to keep rewards lucrative but simple, earning 1% cash back as you buy things and 1% cash back as you pay them off, and those who want to ramp up rewards-earning by converting these rewards to Citi ThankYou points, which TPG values at 1.8 cents each .

“ I wasn’t the biggest fan of this card previously, thinking it was just average, but I am a big fan now that it earns Citi ThankYou points. Paired with my other Citi cards, it unlocks huge earning potential on everyday spending. The fact it has no annual fee means it’s a long-term keeper for me.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you want an even simpler rewards-earning structure, also with no annual fee, check out the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see rates and fees ), which earns 2% back in cash rewards on purchases.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is one of the most popular no-annual-fee cards at TPG because it has a good mix of elevated everyday earning and bonus categories that go as high as 5%. But perhaps even better is that the Chase Freedom Unlimited can be paired with a premium Chase credit card, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve®, to amp up the value of the rewards when used for travel. In fact, it makes up one-third of what we call the Chase Trifecta .

This card is unique in that it’s a great match for those new to credit card rewards and those looking to squeeze all possible value out of every dollar charged. This makes it a good match for almost anyone, but especially for those who want to one day use some of their rewards for travel.

“ The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a great option, especially for anyone with a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve. It has solid bonus categories but also gives 1.5% back on all other purchases. And, if you have a higher-end Chase card, you can effectively convert these cash-back earnings into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you like the idea of a no-annual-fee card in the Chase credit card ecosystem but want even more bonus categories, check out the Chase Freedom Flex℠ , which has unique, rotating 5% bonus categories (up to $1,500 in total spending each quarter, activation required).

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card operates similarly to the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . You’re earning flat-rate rewards across all spending, and then you can use those rewards as a statement credit to cover eligible travel purchases.

It’s perfect for low-budget beginner travelers who want a card with no annual fee and a simple way to earn and redeem points.

  “I’m happy earning 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases on a card without an annual fee. I can’t pay for everything in life with transferable points, and it’s nice to have a card with fixed-value points for those situations. I use this card for travel purchases where I need to pay in cash, then I can reimburse myself with the points.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

If you’re interested in a card with transferable miles that still has no annual fee (see rates and fees ), consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card .

The Wells Fargo Autograph is a great no-annual-fee card that offers quality earning categories and travel and shopping protection.

Travel card beginners who are looking to get into points earning should consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which offers a welcome bonus, 3 points per dollar on a variety of everyday spending categories and cellphone protection.

If you’re just getting into the travel credit card world and are not sure travel cards are for you, consider the Wells Fargo Autograph, which will allow you to earn bonus points on travel spending without the commitment of an annual fee.

If you're looking to earn in similar bonus categories but prefer Chase Ultimate Rewards points, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card could be a solid alternative. The Sapphire Preferred earns 5 points per dollar on travel booked through Chase Travel℠, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery purchases and 2 points per dollar on all other travel purchases.

This card earns excellent cash back on meals, groceries and entertainment without having to pay an annual fee (see rates and fees ). Additionally, if you also have a card like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, you can transfer your cash-back rewards from the SavorOne into fully transferable miles.

This is a good starter card for enthusiastic foodies, avid streamers and regular concertgoers — especially for international travelers, since the card has no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ).

For no annual fee, you’re getting an excellent return on a variety of purchases — both in and out of the U.S (see rates and fees ).

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ offers 5% back on travel purchased through the Chase portal and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases. It also has valuable rotating quarterly categories, earning 5% cash back (on up to $1,500 in combined purchases each quarter) after activation.

While its $695 annual fee (see rates and fees ) may appear jarring at first, the Business Platinum Amex offers unmatched benefits, including lounge access, plus other value-added perks that can easily offset the card’s annual fee each year. Not to mention, it has an earning structure that can add up quickly for those who travel frequently. If you want to be rewarded for travel spending with American Express Travel and want extra comfort on your trips, this card provides both. New applicants can earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on eligible purchases in the first three months of card membership.

You don’t have to be a high spender to find value in this card. It’s well suited for those who travel frequently, will enjoy airport lounge access , will benefit from automatic elite status with Marriott and Hilton (enrollment required) and can maximize the card’s various statement credits. Plus, the card’s return on spending for travel purchases is very strong — as is the return in select business categories and purchases totaling more than $5,000. You’ll also enjoy a 35% points rebate on eligible flights booked with Amex Travel on up to 1 million points back per calendar year.

“I find that the annual perks and credits vastly outweigh the large annual fee. And that's even without using some of them. By using the benefits with Priority Pass and Amex lounges, the airline incidental credits, plus the statement credits for Clear, our cellphone plan and restocking my home printer with ink and paper from Dell, I get more value out of the card than it costs to keep it. Plus, it earns my favorite points — American Express Membership Rewards — earning 5 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked with Amex Travel.” — Ryan Smith , former credit cards writer

Enrollment is required for select benefits.

If you have a business banking relationship with Capital One, consider the Capital One Venture X Business Card . It comes with a lower annual fee and access to Priority Pass lounges and Capital One Lounges. Additionally, it earns at least 2 Capital One miles per dollar spent on all purchases.

This is a great card if you want to bonus cash back on groceries, gas and online shopping with no annual fee (see rates and fees ). Rewards are easily redeemed at a fixed rate, eliminating guesswork on whether you're getting good value from your earnings. You’ll also earn statement credits with Disney and Home Chef (enrollment required; subject to auto-renewal; terms apply).

This is a solid cash-back card for many, especially students and credit card beginners with low monthly budgets.

If groceries, gas and online shopping are among your largest spending categories, this is a great starter card to help you dip your toes into the world of credit card rewards.

If you want higher earning rates on a similar card, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express may be a better choice. You’ll get expanded bonus spending categories and additional perks, though you’ll want to be sure the card’s $95 annual fee (see rates and fees ) starting in year two is worth it.

Rewards credit cards are credit cards that earn rewards, typically in the form of points, miles or cash back, on your spending that is charged to the card. There are a wide variety of rewards credit cards (with an array of annual fee price points) that offer all sorts of rewards currencies in various amounts on different spending categories.

How do rewards credit cards work?

When you charge a purchase with a rewards credit card , you will earn rewards on your spending. You can then redeem those rewards for options such as travel, statement credits, gift cards, etc.

How to redeem credit card rewards

Once you have decided on your rewards credit card and earned the welcome bonus, it is time to see what you can do with those credit card rewards. How you should redeem your rewards will depend on the type of your rewards card and your goals. 

Cards that earn transferable points can provide the most valuable rewards but can also be the most difficult to utilize when learning how to redeem rewards for maximum value . If you have a trip coming up and are hoping to use transferable points to book your flights or hotels, you can use TPG’s monthly valuations to determine if a redemption you have in mind is worth your points. TPG also has redemption guides to help get you started with most of the main loyalty programs. Some travels are better booked with cash or with cashlike equivalent rewards. 

Cash-back cards offer the easiest redemption option, as it is typically a cash amount that can either be redeemed on your statement balance or directly deposited into your account.

What are credit card points or miles worth?

The value of a point or mile varies widely across the many travel brands out there. TPG uses a combination of the cash cost of a mile, the average cost of awards in a given program, and our own expertise from decades of earning and redeeming rewards to determine the value of a point or mile. 

TPG’s monthly valuations are a great guide to understand the average valuation of the various points and miles currencies.  

What types of credit card rewards can you get?

There are a variety of rewards credit cards geared toward different spending categories. All of the cards listed below earn some type of rewards, but the rewards differ from card to card.

This type of rewards card generally earns rewards in the issuer’s currency, which can then be transferred to certain partners to maximize value. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earns Ultimate Rewards points , which can be redeemed in multiple ways via the Chase portal but can also be transferred to one of Chase’s travel partners , such as United Airlines, Southwest Airlines or Hyatt. Rewards cards that earn transferable points and miles are highly valued because of their redemption flexibility.

This is the most straightforward type of reward. With a cash-back rewards card, you will earn a percentage back on each purchase that you make with the card. This reward can be redeemed for cash (via a statement credit, check, etc.) at a later date, hence the “cash-back” name. Although cash back has a fixed value, unlike some of the transferable currencies, it can be lucrative if you have aligned your cash-back card’s earning rates with your spending patterns.

For example, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express earns 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). If you are already spending $6,000 on groceries a year, having the Blue Cash Preferred can help you get up to $360 back on your current spending. The card also offers a higher rate of cash back on U.S. streaming subscriptions, on transit and at U.S. gas stations. Cash back is received in the form of reward dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

Hybrid cards are a newer type of rewards credit card. These cards earn cash back when used alone but can be paired with other cards to convert those cash-back rewards to more valuable points. 

A prime example of the type of card that can earn hybrid rewards is the Chase Freedom Unlimited® . You’re earning cash back on purchases with that card, but those rewards can be converted to more valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points when you pair the Unlimited with an eligible premium Chase card that earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points.

If you are a frequent traveler with a specific hotel brand or airline, a rewards card aligned with its loyalty program may be a good fit for you. Most of the time, these cards also come with brand-specific benefits like complimentary elite status (for hotel cards ) or priority boarding and waived fees for checked baggage (for airline cards ). These currencies aren’t as flexible as transferable currencies in that they generally have to be used within that one program, but they can still be highly valuable — especially if the benefits associated with having the card save you money or help you earn a higher elite status within a program.

What are the most popular credit card rewards programs?

There are many credit card rewards programs available, but major players in the rewards credit card space are American Express, Capital One, Chase, Citi, Wells Fargo and Bank of America.

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Chase Ultimate Rewards is one of the top rewards programs for good reason. TPG values these points at an average of 2 cents each when used with travel partners such as United Airlines and Hyatt. You can also use the points at a fixed value (at a rate that depends on which Chase cards you hold) to book travel via the Chase travel portal.

American Express Membership Rewards

Another top rewards program is American Express Membership Rewards , where points are also valued at 2 cents each when used with travel partners. Amex has the most extensive network of airline and hotel transfer partners — 22 — of the top issuer programs, and you can sometimes find transfer bonuses available for some of these partners. Of course, you can also redeem points through Amex’s travel portal, though often at a lower rate than maximizing a transfer partner.

Citi ThankYou

Citi ThankYou Rewards points aren’t quite as valuable on average as Chase and Amex points in the eyes of TPG ( we value the points at 1.8 cents each ), but there is still a lot to like about this program. There are some great transfer partners available through Citi ThankYou, including Avianca LifeMiles, Etihad Guest and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.

Capital One 

Capital One has 15-plus airline and hotel program partners , including high-value options like Air Canada Aeroplan, Avianca LifeMiles and Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles.

Cash-back rewards cards honorable mentions

Not all rewards cards require transfer partners. A great cash-back rewards card is a great wallet addition for people who want to keep their rewards simple but still be rewarded for everyday spending. 

What TPG readers have to say about their favorite rewards credit cards

We asked TPG readers what their favorite rewards credit cards are and why. From elevated bonus earnings to great redemption options, these are the top reward credit cards, according to TPG readers. 

Note: Responses have not been edited.

“Venture X since it pays for itself and gives you 2 points per $1 spend [sic].”  — Christian J via Facebook

“Just transferred my Amex Plat points to Delta and was able to purchase 8 round trip tickets from Sam [sic] Diego to Atlanta. Easy process and cost me less than $100 in fees not covered by points.”  — Tim A via Facebook

“Allows be [sic] to buy as much groceries as I want for 4x.*” — Robert E via Facebook

* On up to $25,000 in purchases at U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar thereafter.

• Awards vs cash calculator Compare the cost in points or miles to cash.
• CardMatch™ Get prequalified offers in less than 60 seconds.

Have a reward strategy in mind

Choosing the best rewards credit card and then maximizing the rewards you earn will vary depending on your personal goal(s). Thankfully, whether your goal is cash back to offset everyday expenses or points and miles that can fund your next trip, there is a card that will fit your reward strategy.

Start by considering what rewards you’re hoping to earn from your spending. Then, you can narrow down your choices and begin looking for the best cards for your wallet .

Card pairing

Good card pairing is crucial to any reward strategy. Popular card groupings like the Chase Trifecta and the Amex Trifecta are very popular due to their ability to maximize your earning potential.

A good card pairing generally is a group of cards that help you earn the same type of rewards by having different elevated reward categories. This allows you to get the most out of your spending across various categories of spending. Card pairing helps you earn more rewards than utilizing only one card.

Know the value of your rewards and redemption options

How you redeem your rewards is a critical part of your reward strategy and can further increase the value of the points. Cash-back earnings typically offer a percentage of the spending back in the form of statement credits or gift cards. Meanwhile, most travel cards allow you to earn points or miles for your spending. These can still be used for cash-back rewards, but they’re often most valuable for travel.

There are some programs — like Chase Ultimate Rewards — that allow you to pool all of your points or miles in a single account. This allows you to effectively convert your cash-back earnings into much more flexible travel rewards.

It’s important to consider how much your rewards are worth in order to get the best redemption from your rewards. TPG’s monthly valuation guide can help give you a starting point for this decision, but remember that everyone’s definition of “value” is different. If you’re happy with a specific use of your points and miles, then that’s a good redemption.

• 1 Sign-up bonus Choose the best rewards card for your wallet by opting for a card that offers a welcome bonus that you can transfer to certain rewards like free night certificates at hotels. This plays a large part in the card’s value.
• 2 Annual fee Many of the cards on this list feature an annual fee. To determine if an annual fee is worth it, you should consider if the card’s benefits and perks outweigh the fee.
• 3 Bonus categories The best rewards cards on this list feature various bonus categories to match anyone’s spending.

What's your favorite rewards credit card — and why?

• Using rewards credit cards responsibly can help you build your credit score.
• Rewards credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend.
• Many rewards redit cards provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
• Some rewards credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and more.
• Rewards credit cards can encourage overspending.
• Carrying a balance and using your rewards card irresponsibly can damage your credit score.
• The cost of borrowing on rewards credit cards is higher than traditional loans.
• Having too many rewards card applications can negatively affect your credit score

Reward redemption options vary based on the type of rewards credit card you have. Cash-back rewards can be redeemed via options such as a statement credit, direct deposit to your account, check, etc.

Points and miles rewards are typically redeemed for flights or hotels. Other redemption options, such as gift cards and merchandise, also exist but redeeming for travel is often the way to get maximum value out of travel-focused rewards cards.

The best credit card for rewards will depend on you, your spending habits and rewards strategy. Some cards offer great cash back on grocery store purchases, while others offer bonuses for travel. There is no rewards credit card that will be the best fit for everything. The one that will result in the best value for your goals and your spending patterns is the best rewards credit card for your wallet.

Typically, the answer is no. You should consult an accountant for more information , but if you are using your purchases to earn a welcome bonus and/or rewards, it is generally considered a rebate on spending and not taxable income. However, bonuses you may earn outside of your own spending (such as referring friends to the card) may be considered taxable.

Yes, for most people. If you have a good credit score and pay off your balance every month , a rewards credit card is a great addition to your wallet. You can earn points and miles or cash back on everyday purchases you were going to make anyway.

Generally, credit card rewards do not expire as long as your card is open and in good standing. It is still good practice to check the terms and conditions of your specific rewards credit card to see if your rewards can expire. And if you ever plan to close an account, make sure to utilize all of your rewards before closing the card.

The rewards credit card world can be confusing with rotating rewards, bonus categories and points and miles transfers. Which is what makes fixed-rate rewards credit cards so valuable. 

With a f ixed-rate rewards credit card , you can earn flat rewards rates on all purchases without the need to track rotating categories or activate certain offers on a monthly or quarterly basis. With this streamlined method, you can earn rewards on every purchase while maintaining an easy and straightforward reward-earning process. 

Many credit cards offer a  bonus category , which is a spending category that earns elevated reward rates. For example, the Amex Platinum has airfare as a bonus category and earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with an airline or via Amex Travel. All other purchases, like dining or online shopping, earn just 1 point per dollar.

Top 5: The Most Rewarding Skyteam Alliance Airline Credit Cards In The US

• The SkyTeam alliance blends loyalty programs, runs 750 lounges, offers many co-branded US credit cards.
• The Delta SkyMiles Gold Card offers a 40,000-mile welcome bonus, $150 annual fee, and other perks.
• SkyTeam co-branded US credit cards provide various accrual schedules, alongside other benefits for cardholders.

Founded in June 2000, the SkyTeam alliance was the last of the world's three major alliances to form. Today, it has expanded to include nearly 20 different airlines. The organization serves over 1,000 different airports, flies to 166 countries, and transports over 400 million passengers annually.

As the alliance has grown over the past few decades, the loyalty programs of all nineteen members have become increasingly intertwined. The alliance operates over 750 different lounges worldwide and helps support customers' experiences across its entire network. Today, one can easily earn miles for one SkyTeam carrier and redeem them for award travel on many others.

As a result, it is unsurprising that the SkyTeam alliance members have begun to offer more and more co-branded credit cards in the United States, which are tied to their loyalty programs. However, choosing which of these many cards is right for you can prove challenging and requires you to consider everything from signup bonuses to accrual schedules and flight benefits. In this article, we will look at the five most rewarding Star Alliance credit cards offered in the United States.

Delta SkyMiles Gold Card

Offered through: american express.

Accrual schedule:

• 2 miles per $1 spent on Delta Air Lines purchases
• 2 miles per $1 spent at restaurants
• 2 miles per $1 spent at US supermarkets
• 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases

Get all the latest aviation news right here on Simple Flying!

Across the board, the Delta American Express Gold Card is a favorite of US-based SkyTeam travelers and is extremely conducive to first-time cardholders . With a generous accrual schedule and numerous inflight benefits, including free checked bags and priority boarding.

For an annual fee of $150, cardholders can enjoy a variety of statement credits and TakeOff 15, which allows loyalty program members to redeem award miles at a hefty discount. Currently, the card offers a welcome bonus of 40,000 miles, which can easily help justify that annual fee for at least the first few years. These reasons help contribute to Simple Flying's designation of the Delta American Express Gold card as the best airline credit card of 2024 .

Air France-KLM World Elite Mastercard

Offered through: bank of america.

• 3 miles per $1 spent on purchases directly with Air France, KLM or other SkyTeam airlines
• 1.5 miles per $1 spent on all other purchases

This travelcard, which is offered through the joint loyalty program of both Air France and KLM, allows passengers to rapidly rack up miles to help support their next trip to France, the Netherlands or beyond. This card, commonly referred to as the Flying Blue credit card, is one of the most rewarding to be offered by a European airline to the US market, with a unique base accrual rate of 1.5 miles per $1 spent.

The card's low annual fee of $89 also helps you make sure that you get the best bank for your buck. The organization behind the card is currently offering 70,000 bonus miles as a welcome offer, alongside an additional status-earning 40 experience points, which can help one accelerate their goals of achieving SkyTeam status.

5 Unique Credit Cards Offered In The US By European Airlines

Delta skymiles reserve card.

• 3 miles per $1 spent on Delta Air Lines purchases
• 1 mile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases

With a $650 annual fee and a relatively limited accrual schedule, it may seem relatively counterintuitive for the Delta American Express Reserve Card to make it so high up in our rankings. Nonetheless, with lounge access, the ability to earn status quickly and access to complimentary upgrades, this card sure brings a lot to the table.

For starters, the latest welcome offer from Delta brings an impressive 90,000 bonus miles along after a new cardholder makes $5,000 in purchases on the card within the first six months. In addition, the latest Delta SkyMiles reserve cards are made from metal that has been sourced from Delta's retired Boeing 747s, offering each cardholder a small piece of aviation history to keep in their wallet.

5 Unique Benefits Of The Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card

Skypass visa signature card, offered through: us bank.

• 2 miles per $1 spent on Korean Air ticket purchases
• 2 miles per $1 spent on hotel bookings
• 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, including eligible takeout and delivery services

This Visa card, which is offered by the loyalty program of Asian airline Korean Air, comes along with a fair amount of benefits. For starters, passengers can earn an impressive 40,000 bonus miles while spending $4,000 on the card within 90 days. Additional benefits include a 5% discount on Korean Air tickets, 2 Korean Air lounge coupons and much, much more.

The Future Of Korean Air's Airbus A380s As Dismantling Begins

Delta skymiles platinum card.

• 2 miles per $1 spent on dining (including eligible delivery services)
• 2 miles per $1 spent on groceries

The Delta American Express Platinum Card is the third Delta cobranded credit card to make its way onto our list, and with good reason. With an extensive accrual schedule and benefits such as the aforementioned TakeOff 15, it's not difficult to justify the card's $350 annual fee. The card's two major selling points are its ability to allow passengers to accrue status-earning Medallion Qualifying Dollars (MQDs) and the offer of a companion certificate, which allows one to book a free companion ticket while just paying the fees on their ticket .

Which of these cards do you think offers the best value for its annual fee? Let us know in the comments!

Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card benefits guide

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Key takeaways

• The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card offers a respectable cash back rate, as well as the ability to select and change your top-earning bonus category.
• Members of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program can earn additional cash back on top of the card’s standard rewards.
• However, quarterly spending caps and a lower welcome bonus mean this card may not be the best choice for all consumers.

Earning cash back from your rewards credit card is always a good thing — being able to customize your cash back bonus categories from month to month is even better. The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card makes it possible to do just that and with no annual fee to boot.

While having the chance to choose your top rewards category is a major plus, there are other reasons to consider adding this card to your wallet. In fact, Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card benefits can be a major draw, particularly if you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards member.

Read on to learn about Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards travel benefits and consumer protections, plus other perks you get just for being a cardholder.

Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card travel benefits

While the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card is not a high-end travel credit card, it does come with a range of Visa Signature benefits that can be useful for frequent travelers. While you’ll want to read over your card’s terms and conditions to find out which level of benefits your card comes with, the main Visa Signature travel benefits that come with this card include the following:

Visa Signature concierge

Visa Signature concierge service makes it possible for cardholders to get help with dining reservations, tickets for shows and events and general travel planning. Cardholders call a hotline to receive all kinds of personalized assistance for free, and this help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Roadside dispatch

Roadside dispatch is available through a hotline cardholders can call. This hotline connects drivers with various types of assistance, including a gas fill-up, flat tire replacement, towing services and more. While the roadside dispatch hotline is free, cardholders are required to pay a standard price for any services received.

Travel and emergency assistance

Cardholders also get access to a travel and emergency assistance hotline they can turn to for various kinds of help. For example, they can call in for medical referrals or legal referrals when running into issues away from home or for emergency transportation assistance.

Again, while the use of this hotline is free, cardholders are responsible for paying for any services they receive.

Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card consumer benefits

While the rewards offered by the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card are generous, there are additional perks consumers can benefit from.

0% intro APR period

Applicants who are approved for the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card automatically qualify for a 0 percent intro APR that applies to purchases and balance transfers. Specifically, consumers get a 0 percent intro APR for 15 billing cycles on both purchases and balance transfers (balance transfers must be made in the first 60 days). Note that a 3 percent balance transfer fee applies (balance transfer fee is 4% thereafter). After the introductory offer ends, the variable APR will be between 18.24 percent to 28.24 percent.

Free FICO score

This card also offers a free FICO credit score for cardholders, which is updated monthly and available online or within the Bank of America mobile app. Having a free credit score can help cardholders track their credit progress over time.

Bank of America notes that opt-in is required to receive this perk.

Extended warranty protection

As another Visa Signature benefit, your card may come with extended warranty protection. This perk adds up to one additional year of warranty protection on items that come with a manufacturer’s warranty of three years or less. Note that you have to pay for the item with your Bank of America credit card for this coverage to apply.

$0 liability protection

Bank of America will block fraudsters and notify you of any fraudulent activity thanks to its $0 Liability Guarantee. You can also customize fraud alerts within your online account or mobile app.

Museums On Us

For over two decades, Bank of America credit cards and debit cards have given cardholders free general admission to 225+ cultural institutions during the first weekend of every month. All you have to do is present your Bank of America card and a valid photo ID to gain free entrance.

BankAmeriDealsⓇ

BankAmeriDeals® is a card-linked, limited-time offer program similar to Amex Offers and Chase Offers . When you activate certain promotional offers within your account, you can earn 5 percent to 15 percent extra cash back at select restaurants and other participating merchants. You won’t make a lot of cash back with BankAmeriDeals, but it will help boost what you earn.

Benefits for Bank of America Preferred Rewards members

While the rewards rate on this card is solid on its own, it’s worth noting that you can boost your earnings rate by as much as 75 percent depending on your status as a member of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program. To qualify as a member, you must own or co-own an active and eligible Bank of America, Merrill or Merrill Edge account and hold a minimum three-month combined average daily balance of $20,000 or more across eligible Bank of America account types.

Here’s how much you could boost your cash back rate based on the Preferred Rewards tier you fall into:

• Preferred Rewards Gold: 25 percent
• Preferred Rewards Platinum: 50 percent
• Preferred Rewards Platinum Honors: 75 percent
• Preferred Rewards Diamond: 75 percent
• Preferred Rewards Diamond Honors: 75 percent

As a Preferred Rewards member, you’ll gain access to other benefits, including discounts on investment services, mortgage origination fees, HELOC and car loan interest rates, as well as no charge for select banking services.

Maximizing the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card

To get the most out of the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card, you’ll want to take the following steps:

• Change your top earning category periodically based on your spending plans . The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card lets you change your top earning category once each calendar month, and it makes sense to do so if your normal spending patterns fluctuate throughout the year. If you have a travel or online shopping purchase coming up, for example, you can switch your 3 percent back category that month and boost your rewards haul that way.
• Make sure you earn the welcome offer . Make sure you spend at least $1,000 on purchases within 90 days of account opening in order to earn $200 in bonus cash back. This will require spending at least $334 over three 30-day periods in a row, which you can reach by charging your regular expenses and bills to the card.
• Avoid paying interest. While the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card offers an intro APR for purchases and eligible balance transfers, remember that this offer won’t last forever. Make sure you pay off the balance before the offer ends , or else you’ll wind up paying off debt at this card’s higher variable APR.

The bottom line

The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards card doesn’t offer the highest rates of cash back out there, as there are some rotating category cards that offer as much as 5 percent back on select bonus categories. However, getting 3 percent back on your category of choice (up to $2,500 in combined 3 and 2 percent category purchases each quarter, then 1 percent) is much better than the 1.5 to 2 percent back offered by other flat-rate cash back cards on the market — so long as you’re not spending over $2,500 in a quarter.

With no annual fee, a decent welcome bonus and a generous introductory APR offer as ancillary perks to its respectable cash back rate, this Bank of America credit card deserves serious consideration for a spot in your wallet.

Is the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card worth it ? Doing your research and comparing it to other cards is the only way to know for sure.

The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card information was last updated on Sept. 27, 2023.

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