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Delta Gift Cards

This Father's Day gift a Delta Gift Card of $300 or more and enjoy a $20 Starbucks eGift.

Terms apply. Available while supplies last. 

Put Travel Within Reach 

The Delta Gift Card puts travel within reach. Redeemable for any Delta Air Lines flight worldwide, and for any Delta Vacations package that includes airfare, it’s the perfect gift for the travel lover in your life. Have it delivered directly to their inbox or mailbox in time to celebrate – whichever you prefer. 

Fast, Free Wi-Fi is available for SkyMiles® Members. Not a member? Sign up for instant access to free Wi-Fi, and unlock curated experiences and offers from Delta Sync exclusives and other benefits. Available on most domestic flights. Wi-Fi Terms of Use apply. SkyMiles is always free to join. SkyMiles Program Rules apply.

Choose Your Gift Card

INDIVIDUAL DELTA GIFT CARDS

Whether it's for holidays, birthdays, a retirement, wedding or anniversary gift, the Delta Gift Card puts travel within reach for any celebration.

eGift Cards

• Instant delivery
• Choose from our predesigned eGift catalog
• Option to include a custom message
• Planning ahead? Use schedule delivery for important occasions

Personalized Gift Cards

• Receive the same benefits of an eGift Card
• Upload your own photo to create a unique and personal gift

Physical Gift Cards

• Receive a complimentary greeting card carrier
• Option to include a personal message
• Made from eco-friendly paper

Buy a Gift Card

CORPORATE/BULK DELTA GIFT CARDS

Order Delta Gift Cards in bulk to engage prospects, reward clients, or motivate employees with a gift they’ll truly enjoy.

• Easy to order
• Flexible dollar amounts
• No expiration

Buy Bulk Gift Cards

*Delta Gift Cards may be used for travel on Delta Air Lines marketed flights, including those operated as Delta Connection® and by Delta Air Lines codeshare partners with a Delta Air Lines flight number. They can be used on delta.com, at the airport, or through Reservations. They can also be used toward Delta Vacations® packages. Delta Vacations packages must include Delta airfare in order to use Delta Gift Card.

Wi-Fi Terms of Use Apply . All SkyMiles Program rules apply to SkyMiles Program Membership, miles, offers, mile accrual, mile redemption, and travel benefits. To review the rules, please visit delta.com/memberguide  

Use of this eGift Card or physical Gift Card is subject to these terms and conditions:

• The Gift Card Number and PIN / Redemption Code located in the digital Delta eGift Card ("eGift") or on the back of the physical Delta Gift Card ("Card"), as applicable, are required for redemption.
• Cards purchased from retail stores or picked up from Delta Sky Clubs may require up to twenty-four (24) hours after the time of purchase before redemption.
•  At delta.com/redeem.
• Call Delta Air Lines Reservations and advise the agent that you are redeeming an eGift or a Card. In the U.S. and Canada, call 800-225-1366 or 800-225-2525; in Japan, call 0570-077733 or 0476-31-8000; and in all other countries, call the local Delta Air Lines Reservations office. This method of redemption may result in direct ticketing charges.
• At delta.com/vacations or by calling 800-800-1504 for Delta Vacations® packages that include air transportation. (Travel Advisors, call 800-727-1111.)
• In person at a Delta Air Lines City Ticket Office (CTO) or with Delta Air Lines Airport Customer Service (ACS).
• Through a Delta Air Lines General Sales Agent (GSA).

Other Terms and Conditions

• To redeem or check balance, visit delta.com/redeem and enter your gift card information. 
• eGifts and Cards may be redeemed toward the total purchase price of air transportation, including taxes, fees, and surcharges imposed on the air transportation, or on Delta Vacations packages that include air transportation (excluding any cash portion of an Award or Miles + Cash Ticket). They may not be used for any additional fees (including baggage fees) or for any other products or services (including in-flight purchases, class upgrades or premium seating, after the initial plane ticket purchase has already been completed, mileage booster, Delta Cruises, cargo, hotel stays, or car rentals).
• Gift Cards cannot be used to pay for any cash portion of an Award or Miles + Cash Ticket.
• eGifts and Cards may only be used for travel on Delta Air Lines marketed flights, including those operated as Delta Connection® and by Delta Air Lines codeshare partners with a Delta Air Lines flight number.
• eGifts and Cards may be used toward Delta Vacations® packages that include air transportation. 
• eGifts and Cards are issued only in U.S. dollars ("USD"). If an eGift or a Card is used for the purchase of a ticket issued in a currency other than USD, the full value of the eGift or Card will be converted to that currency using the Bankers Rate of Exchange in effect on the date of ticket issuance, and the rate of exchange will be indicated on the ticket.
• Tickets purchased using eGifts and Cards are subject to the applicable Delta Air Lines Contract of Carriage and fare rules (including change penalties).
• If redeemed at www.delta.com, a maximum of five forms of payment (including eGifts or Cards) can be applied towards a single transaction, regardless of the number of tickets purchased as part of that transaction; if redeemed through any other method, a maximum of five forms of payment (including eGifts or Cards) can be applied toward a single ticket. eGifts and Cards can be used with other eGifts and/or Cards, but cannot be used in conjunction with any other certificate, voucher or credit towards a single ticket. If you wish to redeem more Gift Cards for a single purchase, please call Delta Air Lines at 1-800-225-1366 and a Reservations Specialist will be able to assist you.
• If redeemed for a Delta Vacations package at delta.com/vacations, up to four forms of payment (including eGifts or Cards) can be applied towards a single transaction, regardless of the number of tickets purchased as part of that transaction; eGifts and Cards can be used with other eGifts and/or Cards, but cannot be used in conjunction with any other certificate, voucher or credit towards a single ticket. If you wish to redeem more Gift Cards for a single purchase, please call Delta Vacations at 1-800-800-1504 and a Reservations Specialist will be able to assist you.
• eGifts and Cards are not reloadable and do not expire. No service or inactivity fees apply.
• eGifts and Cards, including those that are lost, stolen, or destroyed, will not be replaced by Delta for any reason.
• eGifts and Cards are not credit, debit or charge cards, and have no implied warranties.
• eGifts and Cards are not refundable and cannot be redeemed or exchanged for cash, check or credit except where refund or redemption is required by law. You may not use a Gift Card to purchase other Gift Cards. Gift Cards purchased from delta.com/giftcards cannot be reloaded, resold, or transferred for value. Void if reloaded, resold, transferred for value, or redeemed for cash. Unused Gift Cards may not be transferred other than as a gift. Total purchases on delta.com/giftcards for any one individual may not exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00) in one calendar day.
• Where eGifts or Cards are redeemed for a ticket, but travel is not taken, the value of the redeemed ticket (after any applicable penalties) will be provided in accordance with Delta Air Lines' standard policy regarding ticket refunds.
• eGifts and Cards may only be sold by Delta and Delta-licensed vendors. eGifts and Cards that are for sale or sold by an unlicensed vendor are subject to confiscation or voiding by Delta.
• eGifts and Cards that are altered or obtained fraudulently are subject to confiscation or voiding by Delta.
• Delta is not responsible for eGifts or Cards that are undeliverable or not received due to inaccurate delivery information provided by the purchaser.
• Delta reserves the right to refuse, cancel or hold for review transactions initiated using eGifts or Cards for suspected fraud, incorrect certificate or card denomination, or violations of these terms and conditions.
• Delta may at any time and without notice change these terms and conditions or contract with a third party to administer the eGift program or the Card program.
• Use of eGifts and Cards is subject to applicable law. In the event of a conflict between these terms and conditions and applicable law, applicable law will govern.
• The laws of the state of Virginia, without regard to its conflicts of law provisions, apply to these Terms and Conditions and use of any eGift or Card.
• Delta and its affiliates make no warranties, express or implied, with respect to eGifts and Cards, including any express or implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.
• eGifts and Cards are issued by and are solely the obligation of Delta Gift Cards, Inc. ("DGC"), an affiliate of Delta Air Lines, Inc., that is authorized to issue eGifts and Cards for sale by Delta and Delta-licensed vendors to be redeemed toward the total purchase price of air transportation on Delta Air Lines marketed flights.
• Our Policies Information that you provide when purchasing Gift Cards is subject to Delta’s Privacy Policy .
• Payment Methods To purchase Delta Gift Cards from Delta, you may use a valid American Express Delta SkyMiles Credit Card, VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB credit card, or PayPal or ApplePay on mobile.
• Delivery Information and Requirements for Gift Card Purchasers All orders of Gift Cards are subject to a process that compares purchaser information provided on the web site with information about the purchaser provided by the purchaser's financial institution. If there is a discrepancy, your Gift Card order may be delayed until it can be corrected. If you have concerns about your order, please contact Customer Support at [email protected]
• If a spam filter is blocking Delta emails from getting to an inbox, the email options will need to be modified so that Delta emails are not considered spam.
• Recipient's firewall blocked the email.
• Email inbox is over size limit.
• Invalid email address.
• Upload Your Own Image  Upload Your Own Image is available for Delta eGift cards only. We reserve the right to reject orders with images that infringe upon trademark or copyright law. As part of your gift card purchase, you (or, if you are under 18 years old, your parent or legal guardian) hereby grant to Delta Gift Cards, Inc. and CashStar and their affiliates and agents a nonexclusive, royalty free, worldwide license to use the uploaded image, including all intellectual property rights associated with the uploaded image, to create a gift card of the uploaded image (the "License"). You, (or, if you are under 18 years old, your parent or legal guardian) represent and warrant that (1) your grant of the License does not violate the privacy rights, publicity rights, copyrights, trademarks, contract rights or any other rights of any person or entity, (2) if you are uploading a company logo or other copyrighted materials, that you are authorized to grant the License to use the uploaded company logo or copyrighted materials to create a gift card, and (3) you have full authority and rights to grant the License and to make the representations and warranties contained herein. CashStar reserves the right to cancel any order for an image that it, in its sole discretion, deems potentially unlawful or inappropriate without notice or explanation. We reserve the right to cancel orders that contain inappropriate, offensive, or otherwise objectionable images.
• Personalized Messaging  If you wish to add a personal message to a physical or eGift card, simply type your message in the Message field during the purchase process. Personal messages are limited in length to the space provided on the eGift Card, or to the space provided on the presentation carrier of a physical Gift Card. We do not read every gift message, but if we do find inappropriate, offensive or otherwise objectionable messages, we reserve the right to reject them.
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25 Best Gift Cards for Every Type of Traveler

By Meaghan Kenny

Finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list is no easy feat. Maybe you're shopping for the friend who has everything already or someone you don't know that well—you're stumped on what to buy, but still want their gift to be thoughtful and practical. Or, maybe you've accidentally waited too long to finish up your holiday shopping and need a gift with zero shipping time required. In any case, a gift card is a great idea for travelers. We put together a list of the very best gift cards for travelers, with options for book worms, outdoor enthusiasts, and beauty gurus included. From suitcases to skincare to entire vacation rentals , you can put your gift to good use and rest easy knowing your giftee got exactly what they wanted: something they picked out themselves. Plus, some have physical card options, if sending an email isn't the glamorous gift-giving experience you imagined.

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Meredith Carey.

Find the best gift cards by category:

For the frequent flier, for the sporty traveler, for the outdoor enthusiast, for the fashion-forward friend, for the beauty guru, for the book worm, for anyone on your list, airline gift cards.

Tons of airlines offer gift cards so you can offset someone's flight to their dream destination. You can buy a digital or physical Southwest Airlines gift card from the airline directly or a physical card from Amazon , from $50 to $200. American Airlines offers virtual and physical gift cards from $50 to $1,500. Delta's gift cards range from $50 to $1,000 and can be sent via e-mail or through UPS. Low-cost airline Norwegian offers digital gift cards up to a whopping $11,000, while Ireland's Aer Lingus offers gifted flight vouchers up to $500.

For the person who has everything, there's only one thing to buy: experiences. Think tours, cooking classes, and even entire vacation rentals—all of which you can do with an Airbnb gift card. Of course, the traveler in your life can spend their gift card on some stellar home stays, like this luxe space in Florence with a private terrace, a Colorado cabin with mountain views, or a cozy Copenhagen apartment with an impressive vinyl collection. Giftees can also use Airbnb gift cards to book IRL experiences like azulejo-painting workshops in Portugal, city tours through Paris on a motorbike , or many more of our favorites .

Whether you're shopping for the budding traveler or the frequent flier, the chance to upgrade your luggage will always be appreciated. When it comes to luggage, we often turn to a favorite among our readers , Away. It's known for its lightweight, durable designs, especially styles like The Bigger Carry-On , The Carry-On Flex , and The Medium Flex . Gift a customizable digital card with up to $1,000.

Is sleek, neutral-toned luggage more your giftee's style? They can easily upgrade their collection with new travel essentials from Béis . Choose from the brand's bestsellers like The Weekender , The Carry-On Roller , and The Check-In Roller . In addition to its classic travel bags, Béis also makes thoughtfully designed baby travel bags , kids luggage, and work bags ideal for commuters. Choose an e-gift card amount from $25 to $500.

We're big fans of all things Calpak here at Condé Nast Traveler, so it's no surprise that the brand is on our list of the best gift cards. Whether someone you know could use some new luggage for upcoming travel plans, a duffel bag for weekend getaways, or packing cubes to help stay organized, there's something for every traveler who receives a Calpak gift card. Send a digital gift card for an amount ranging from $25 to $500.

Paravel makes some of our favorite packable duffels , beachy totes , and chic rolling suitcases . But it's more than just quality that draws us to the brand: Paravel's commitment to sustainability—from the recycled water bottles, fabrics, and aluminum used to make some of its best-selling bags to the brand's carbon-neutral outlook on its factories and shipping models—keeps us coming back for more. Pick up a digital gift card stocked with anywhere from $25 to $1,000 to let your giftee upgrade their luggage with the exact pieces they need.

From compression leggings and sports bras to cute matching sets , there's plenty of sporty must-haves to score at Alo Yoga. Whether your giftee is a yogi, hiker, or runner, they'll be more than excited to start shopping for their favorite new workout set. The brand also makes great-quality yoga mats, equipment, and gym bags. Alo Yoga offers e-gift cards for $50 to $1,000.

Girlfriend Collective

Our editors love the supportive leggings , exercise dresses , bike shorts , and sports bras from size-inclusive and sustainable brand Girlfriend Collective. The brand also designs packable jackets that are great for travelers and ultra-warm puffers for winter adventures. Send your giftee a virual gift card from the brand for $25 to $200.

If someone you know is a fan of Lululemon's mega-popular leggings , they'll appreciate a gift card to shop for even more cult-favorite items the athleisure brand. Active travelers can snag any of its bags like the Fast and Free running belt,   the City Adventurer duffel bag for the gym, and of course the Everywhere Belt Bag (when it's not sold out, that is). Choose a digital gift card or have one sent by mail.

The fitness junkie you know will definitely make good use of a Nike gift card. Buying activewear or knowing exactly what running shoes someone likes can be tricky, so a gift card to this iconic brand is a safe bet. It's always a good time to invest in a new pair of sneakers , sweatpants for long-haul flights, or accessories for the gym . Shoppers can choose a custom amount up to $500.

Parks Project

Know someone who absolutely loves the National Park Service? A gift card to Parks Project opens doors to not only rep some of their favorite parks on impeccably designed T-shirts , woodsy candles , and essential camping gear —but to protect the parks, too. The Parks Project supports wildlife restoration, visitor programs, youth initiatives, and clean-ups to keep the parks accessible and maintained for years to come. Load anywhere from $25 to $300 on the gift card.

For insulated, packable jackets , fleece sweaters and zip-ups , fanny packs , and more outdoor gear , we turn to Patagonia. Your giftee will have plenty of options to shop with a Patagonia gift cards, whether they're looking for everyday winter essentials or more specific hiking or camping gear. Our editors love the brand's Black Hole duffels for the adventures that require lots of gear and packing must-haves (these travel bags hold a ton). Choose a custom amount up to $1,000.

Give the outdoorsy traveler in your life the freedom to upgrade their gear however they please, whether they need a new crossover tent, sleeping bag, or hiking boots. Choose between a digital or physical gift card, which comes in dozens of creative designs. Unlike most other options on this list, you can denote a custom amount to put on the card between $10 and $1,000—plus, you can designate exactly when you want the digital card to arrive in the recipient's email inbox.

Anthropologie

There's endless goodies to shop from Anthropologie, from party dresses and cozy loungewear to personalized mugs and unique home decor . The brand makes some of the cutest outfits for special occasions, with options for weddings, vacation, and cocktail parties. Choose from a variety of festive gift cards for amounts up to $2,000.

If your giftee is all about building his or her capsule wardrobe , a gift card to Everlane will be greatly appreciated. The sustainable clothing brand makes some of our editors' favorite travel essentials, from everyday tees and trousers to comfortable loafers and flats. Send a physical or a digital gift card for up to $500.

It's nearly impossible to buy someone other than yourself a pair of jeans. Instead of guessing what you think will fit, treat them to a gift card to Madewell so they can find their new perfect pair. In addition to great denim, Madewell is also known for its soft sweaters, well-made jackets, and versatile bags, like The Sydney crossbody and The Medium Transport tote . Shoppers can purchase e-gift cards or classic gift cards for amounts up to $500.

Choose an amount up to $250 and let your recipient splurge on new makeup must-haves, skincare, and hair care products. This way, the giftee can pick out the exact products they already love or have been wanting to test out, like the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream , the Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm , Rare Beauty Soft Pinch liquid blushes , and the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless setting powder . They can also put this gift card toward the beloved Dyson Airwrap ; this hair care tool is popular for a reason— trust me .

Everyone deserves some time to pamper themselves and practice good self-care . Spa Finder offers spa gift cards for up to $500 in the form of a digital card, via mail, or as a print-from-home gift. Consider this a nudge for any busy traveler to take time out of their hectic schedule for a massage or facial—it'll leave them feeling refreshed and relaxed.

The friend who's always perfecting their skincare routine will love a gift card to Ulta. They can shop travel-size minis of their favorites or try out new products from top beauty brands like Clinique, Tarte, Urban Decay, Dior, and Fenty Beauty. Ulta offers digital and physical gifts in a variety of fun designs for up to $250.

For your friend who keeps saying they want to get back into reading but can't find the time, a gift card to Audible is the perfect way to help them make a dent in their reading list . Audible allows subscribers to listen to audiobooks, podcasts, and other original content on the go. Choose from one month, three months, six months, or one year of credits. Each month is equivalent to one credit, which is good for any book title in Audible's entire premium catalog. You can also gift a specific book title if you already know what vacation read they've been meaning to get to.

Bookshop.org

Some of the best gifts inspire future trips, or let us travel back in time to destinations we visited years ago. New books, cookbooks, and coffee table books often make great gifts—but knowing what book to buy, and what your giftee already has in their personal library can be a challenge. Let them choose for themselves with a Bookshop gift card. Bookshop allows readers to support local bookstores online and gives 100 percent of the profits to local shops if you shop directly ( check out this map to find your nearest indie) or donates 10 percent to a pool split between thousands of stores if you shop the general site. The gift cards come in denominations from $10 to a very generous $1,000. Plus, you can designate a specific send date so the recipient gets their digital gift right on time.

When in doubt, everyone on your shopping list can make use of an Amazon gift card. Travelers will have their choice of just about anything they want—from tech must-haves like Apple AirPods Pro and Kindle Paperwhite to outdoor gear like this portable hammock or the LifeStraw personal water filter. Amazon offers gift cards in various gift boxes and can include a customized message, making them feel a bit more personalized. Select an amount ranging from $25 to $2,000.

Whether someone you know just moved or is refreshing their current apartment, a Brooklinen gift card will certainly be appreciated. Brooklinen's sheet sets and comforters are just as luxurious as the ones at your favorite hotel . The brand's towels and plush robes are also bestsellers, and for good reason: There's nothing quite like putting on a cozy robe and crawling into bed with a fresh set of crisp sheets.

If you're really stuck on what to get someone, a Nordstrom gift card is a great option. There's something for every traveler to buy at Nordstrom—whether it be a new pair of outdoor boots for winter, a home decor gift, or a Hatch Restore 2 alarm clock . Choose a digital gift card for an amount up to $500 for anyone on your shopping list.

Uncommon Goods

If you want to give someone a gift card that still feels unique or just a touch more personalized, a gift card to Uncommon Goods is the way to go. The brand is an expert at curating gifts, ranging from personalized presents in a variety of categories like kitchen and bar, home goods, jewelry, clothing, wellness, and travel gear. Gifts from Uncommon Goods are little bit quirky and show some personality—like these rocks glasses inspired by your favorite city , this pickelball paddle tote bag , and these beer sleeping bags .

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Two Easy Ways To Give The Gift Of Travel

Give the gift of travel.

An American Airlines gift card is the perfect gift for any occasion. You can have your card delivered by mail or email that can be used toward the purchase of a ticket to hundreds of exciting destinations. Terms and Conditions apply.

Choose the right gift card for you:

Virtual Gift Cards

• Available to use in 72 hours
• Sent directly to your recipient through email
• Option to send directly to yourself and forward to your recipient
• Ability to buy multiple cards to be emailed to multiple addresses
• Customizable options for different occasions and personalized messages to your recipient
• No expiration date

Plastic Gift Cards

• Delivery in 4 - 5 business days ($4.95 shipping and handling charges apply)
• Space to add a personalized message to your recipient
• Ability to buy multiple cards and personally deliver them to your recipients (if buying multiple cards in the same order, gift card denominations must be the same)
• Signature required for delivery!

The Best Travel Gift Cards: Just the Ticket When You Need Presents for Travelers

By Veronica Stoddart

April 2, 2022

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18 Travel Gift Cards for a Flexible Last-Minute Gift – 2021 Holiday Gift Guide

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on December 6, 2022
• Published on November 16, 2021

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

Sometimes, buying a gift for someone who loves to travel can be downright frustrating. You need to know their favorite color, shoe size, preferred destination, and whether they’re Team Android or Team Apple. Gift cards have always been a safe bet – especially for a last-minute gift – but did you know there are almost two dozen fantastic options for travelers?

I’ve compiled a great list of all the physical gift cards you can buy that will directly benefit someone who loves to travel. Airfare, hotels, shopping, and services. These would also make excellent stocking stuffers!

2021 Holiday Gift Guides

Before you can buy the perfect Christmas gift, you have to find it. Each year, I publish a series of Holiday Gift Guides to help you find fantastic travel gear, accessories, unique gifts, and awesome items to put under the tree.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest “consistently ranks” as one of Travel & Leisure’s top domestic airlines. Their flights can take people all over the country to amazing destinations at a low cost. One of these gift cards will go a long way toward giving someone a vacation.

Did you know the further in advance you buy an airline ticket, the cheaper it can be? Help someone plan their next trip with a Delta gift card. Delivered via email or UPS, these gift cards are easy to redeem same as cash for flights with Delta.

American Airlines

“The whole wide world, it comes in a card.” American Airlines offers digital or physical gift cards to help someone plan their next getaway. Go big or small, you can set the amount on the card that can easily be redeemed.

Trains, planes, and automobiles – Amtrak is a favorite way for some people to travel. The Amtrak gift card could go a long way – pun intended – toward helping someone plan their next getaway on the railway.

The popular ride share app has become a staple for getting around destinations as people travel. The Uber gift card – physically delivered – can be redeemed easily through the app.

Carnival Cruise Line

Cruising is rising again in popularity, making the Carnival Cruise Line gift card a good choice. Easily redeemed through the website, the gift card is physically delivered and gives you something to put under the tree or stuffed in a stocking.

Now owned by Expedia, Hotels.com is one of the better apps for quickly and easily booking hotel rooms. Competitive on pricing, the greatest advantage of the free account is collection of “reward nights” – after spending 10 nights booked through the app, 1 free night is available equal to the average of those nights.

Know anybody loyal to staying at Hilton properties? When picking the Hilton gift card you can choose between three designs, add any amount you like, and have the plastic card physically mailed just in time for Christmas.

National Park Week 2024

Learn about the annual celebration of the National Park System and read my travel guides to national park units across the country.

Marriott went a little overboard with their gift cards and it’s wonderful! Choose from dozens of designs, add custom text to the plastic card, include any amount you like, and have the physical card mailed and placed under the Christmas tree.

Best Western

At Best Western, they called their gift card the “Travel Card” because of the versatility. Add amounts in USD, CAD, GBP, or EUR denominations for use around the world and thousands of properties.

Airbnb has become well known for the unique lodgings around the world. Buy someone a few nights at a comfy cottage, unique house, or outstanding apartment in their favorite destination.

The Visa gift card is the most versatile, accepted at almost all locations around the world. No account is needed to begin using the gift cards. Pay for lodging, gas, food, or attractions, the Visa gift card can go a long way toward someone’s vacation.

Smartphones, tablets, headphones – Apple makes a lot of great tech to make travel safer and easier. Fortunately, Apple’s designs have finally expanded from the sterile white to include a variety of colors. Get someone an Apple gift card if you’re not sure what particular item to get them for Christmas.

Without a doubt, the most useful gift card you could get a traveler for Christmas would be from Amazon. Easily redeemed online, these gift cards will allow anyone with a free account to make purchases for a wide arrange of travel items. The gift cards are physically delivered in adorable boxes ready for a bow to be placed under the tree.

With coffee shops around the world, a Starbucks gift card could go a long way toward fueling someone’s next adventure. With a free account through the app, patrons can redeem the gift card and begin collecting stars toward rewards in the future.

Barnes & Noble

One thing in abundance on most vacations is time – time that can be spent catching up that novel series or diving into something entirely new. The Barnes & Noble gift card might be a great option for the book nerd to let them choose their own wordy adventure.

Recreation Equipment, Inc. has been a premier resource for outdoor gear and clothing since the company was founded in 1938. Help someone get their next pair of hiking boots, climbing harness, or backpacking tent with an REI gift card. Available in dozens of designs and loadable with up to $1,000, the physical cards can be mailed just in time for Christmas.

From GPS navigation to noise cancelling headphones, a Best Buy gift card can help purchase a lot of travel tech. Order one of their physical cards, load it with a selection of amounts, and it comes wrapped in a box ready to be put under the tree.

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November 2, 2020

Looking for the best travel gift cards to treat someone special? You’ve come to the right place! With almost a year gone by of lockdowns and virtually a complete shutdown of travel, wanderlust-seekers are more desperate than ever to hop on a plane and head to their next destination. It may be a while longer before the return of travel as we once knew it, but that doesn’t mean we can’t start planning (and getting excited) right now. Christmas is around the corner, so we’ve curated this list of the best travel gift vouchers for the travel lover in your life – even if that person happens to be you!

Gift a private tour with a local

Left your gift shopping till the last minute?  We have just the thing to help you out. Frankly, we can’t think of any better gift card ideas than our very own gift cards for travel  to book from over 675 private & personalized tours and experiences with locals around the world. We give you the option either to buy an e-gift card and let the recipient choose their own private tour or experience, or you can choose the experience yourself. You don’t even have to select a date, because a gifted experience is valid for a full 18 months, and the recipient is welcome to reach out to us when their dates have been decided.

BUY A PRIVATE TOUR E-GIFT CARD

Buy now, fly later

The best travel gift cards will always be the ones offering the gift of more travel – and there’s no better way to give it than with an airline gift card! American Airlines, for example, offers gift cards for travel that don’t expire, so your recipient can plan their getaway well into the future. If international travel is off the cards, regional travel might be the way to go. Many low-cost domestic airlines, like Europe’s Ryanair and America’s Southwest Airlines, offer excellent booking flexibility with no hidden costs (plus you can easily get one of their gift cards for travel on Amazon ). 

The gift of freedom

But your gift cards for travel don’t have to limit someone to just one airline. One of the best air travel gift cards comes from Flightgift.com . Why? This card can be cashed in for a flight that departs from 70 countries with any of 300 airlines that range from low-cost to full service. It doesn’t matter where in the world your travel voucher recipient wants to go – a Flightgift will almost certainly get them there. 

A spectacular stay anywhere

Give the travel lover in your life the gift of choice with a Hotels.com gift card. Available on Amazon , this is one of the best gift ideas for people who like to travel – not only because it’s a great gift, but because it gives them total flexibility. A Hotels.com gift card is redeemable on bookings at over 150,000 hotels in 200 countries worldwide! This is also one of the easiest wedding gift ideas for couples who travel. Club together with a group of friends to give them a travel adventure they’ll never forget. 

Long-term living like a local

Is your travel-loving friend a digital nomad or backpacker who stays in a city for weeks at a time before moving on to the next one? A customizable Airbnb gift card could be one of the top gift vouchers for travel. Give them a welcome break from backpackers lodges and cheap hostels with a gift card that allows them to choose from thousands of unique properties all over the world. This is one of the best travel gift cards because the recipient has total control over where and how to use it.

A relaxing retreat

If you really want to spoil someone, travel website gift cards don’t get more opulent than SLH – Small Luxury Hotels of the World. It’s in the name: An SLH gift card is the gateway to a luxury escape in a boutique hotel in more than 90 countries. From spa escapes to opulent suites to ultra-chic spaces renowned for sleek design, these gorgeous hotels will make anyone feel utterly spoiled. If you’re looking for a travel voucher wedding gift, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better one than this.

Give them the world

You don’t even have to give part of a trip – with travel gift vouchers from lastminute.com , you can give an entire trip. These unique gift vouchers for travel are redeemable on flights, hotels, or a flight plus hotel package. Your recipient will be able to create any combination of flights with over 400 airlines and take their pick of virtually any hotel. Lastminute.com offers several variations of these travel gift vouchers, but all of them put the world in the palm of your hand.

Let them lounge around

Make their next trip more memorable with access to airport lounges worldwide courtesy of LoungeBuddy . Lounge access is one of the most unique gift card ideas because it’s one of those nice-to-haves that make air travel even sweeter (and it’s something few people would ever think to get for themselves!). LoungeBuddy offers lounge access for airports worldwide, no elite statuses, or first-class tickets required, so your recipient will have their pick of the bunch. 

Photo credit: commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Eurostar_

An extraordinary travel experience

As a rail service connecting the United Kingdom with three other top European destinations is any travel lover’s dream experience. If you’re looking for travel website gift cards that offer a truly unforgettable experience, a Eurostar e-voucher might be the way to go. These gift cards for travel offer a world of adventure at your fingertips. And why not add in one of City Unscripted’s gift cards for travel, and give them a tailored tour in France , Belgium , or the Netherlands ?

Form and function

Got a friend with a beat-up old suitcase? You could consider giving them gift cards for travel luggage so they can embark on their next adventure in ultimate style. Luggage is one of those things many people neglect to upgrade for themselves, making it the perfect gift for their future trips. There are loads of specialty luggage websites online offering vouchers for beautiful bags, but if you don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, an Amazon gift card is always an easy (and equally great) alternative. 

Hello, curious traveler! Embark on a unique experience with Hello, curious traveler! Embark on a unique experience with City Unscripted London. Our personalized, private tours, led by local hosts, make you feel like you’re exploring the city with a knowledgeable friend. We’ll take you to well-known sights and reveal London’s hidden gems, unveiling stories typically missed by traditional tours. So unscript your journey, and see London through the eyes of our local hosts!

Top private experiences in London

A great British food experience

Half-day heaven: London

Must See: More than meets the (London) Eye

London history experience

Kickstart London: a three-hour crash course

Discover Shoreditch, London’s hip neighborhood

We’ll pair you with the perfect host

There is no better way to see a city than with a friend who lives there. This is why we carefully match guests with their perfect host based on interested, personality and type of experience so they can discover a city beyond the tourist trail.

Find your perfect host and experience using our nifty little tool

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Hopper to Offer Gift Cards on Flights, Hotels, and More for the 2023 Holidays

The gift cards will be available to purchase directly through the Hopper app, website, or through Amazon as well as in stores like Best Buy.

Courtesy of Hopper

Hopper is helping us give the gift of travel this holiday season with new gift cards available to purchase on their site.

The travel booking app will make gift cards for flights, hotels, rental cars, and rental home bookings, the Hopper shared in an announcement to Travel + Leisure.

The gift cards will be available to purchase directly through the Hopper app, on the company’s website , or through Amazon as well as in stores like Best Buy.

Once purchased, the gift cards never expire so travelers don’t have to worry about being on a ticking clock.

“Travel and experiences are a top priority among younger Americans – and in recent years, gifting experiences has become increasingly popular for the holidays,” Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer travel expert at Hopper, told T+L, adding customers “can gift an entire trip to family and friends. No need to stress about finding the perfect present for everyone on your list, give the gift of travel to your loved ones this year.”

Travelers looking to score a good deal can also use Hopper’s tools like Price Freeze in which travelers shopping can lock in a good rate.

Hopper isn’t alone in offering gift cards for travel . Several airlines, cruise lines, and home rental companies like Airbnb also offer similar options, as well as fellow travel booking site Hotels.com.

Hopper’s gift card launch comes as the winter holiday season is shaping up to be busy and pricey — in fact, flights for Thanksgiving are expected to be about 12 percent more expensive than last year. Those looking to save some dough should consider traveling the Friday after Thanksgiving or on Dec. 18 for Christmas, which are the least-expensive days around the respective holidays.

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Which purchases count as travel with Chase Sapphire Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve?

Editor's Note

Thanks to its plethora of premium travel perks, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is well-known in the travel credit card space. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the Sapphire Reserve's mid-tier sibling that features a $95 annual fee — which is also the more affordable card considering the Reserve's annual fee is $550 — and remains a top pick, winning Best Travel Rewards Credit Card for the sixth straight year at the 2023 TPG Awards .

No matter which Sapphire card you have, Chase clearly defines what counts as travel. Both cards generously award for travel booked through Chase Travel℠ and all other travel purchases.

We'll go over the purchases that count (and don't count) toward earning bonus points in this guide.

How many points do the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Preferred cards earn on travel?

The Chase Sapphire Reserve awards 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel and 5 points per dollar on flights booked through Chase Travel.

But suppose you're looking to book directly with the airline, hotel or another company or get awarded for other travel purchases like taxi rides and parking fees. In that case, you'll still earn 3 points per dollar on these purchases.

The Sapphire Preferred earns 5 points per dollar on all travel purchases booked through Chase Travel and 2 points per dollar on other travel purchases.

You'll also earn a boosted rate of 10 and 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft rides on the Reserve and Preferred, respectively (through March 2025).

'Travel,' according to Chase

The Chase Travel portal allows you to book various types of travel. For "all other travel purchases," here's how Chase defines it:

Merchants in the travel category include airlines, hotels, motels, timeshares, car rental agencies, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites, campgrounds and operators of passenger trains, buses, taxis, limousines, ferries, toll bridges and highways, and parking lots and garages.

Compared to bonus categories from other credit cards, Chase's travel category is extremely generous.

While cards such as the American Express® Gold Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express offer bonus points for airfare purchases made directly with the airline (with a spending cap of $500,000 on the Amex Platinum per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar), the Sapphire Preferred and Sapphire Reserve cards let you earn a bonus on virtually every trip-related charge.

The travel category encompasses a wide variety of purchases, from hotels and airfare (which doesn't have to be booked directly with the airline) to cruises, tolls and even parking fees. Uber and Airbnb purchases count as travel as well.

The following purchases do not apply toward the 2 or 3-points-per-dollar bonus categories on these cards, but most of them shouldn't be a huge surprise or disappointment:

Merchants in this category include airlines, hotels, motels, timeshares, car rental agencies, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites, campgrounds and operators of passenger trains, buses, taxis, limousines, ferries, toll bridges and highways, and parking lots and garages. Some merchants that provide transportation and travel-related services are not included in this category; for example, real estate agents, educational merchants arranging travel, in-flight goods and services, on-board cruise line goods and services, sightseeing activities, excursions, tourist attractions, RV and boat rentals, merchants within hotels and airports, public campgrounds and merchants that rent vehicles for the purpose of hauling. Purchases from gift card merchants or merchants that sell points or miles will not qualify in the travel category.

A few notable travel-related charges that have not been posted as travel for the purposes of bonus points with Chase for TPG staffers in the recent past include an RV rental as well as some vacation rentals via Vrbo and similar services. Whether a vacation home rental automatically codes as travel depends on whether an individual or a conglomerate operates it. In the latter case, that charge may code as "professional services" instead of travel.

If you're ever unsure whether a given purchase counts as travel, it could be worth making a small charge and checking whether it earns any bonus points on your online Chase account.

Additionally, suppose you feel like a travel purchase should have earned bonus points but didn't. In that case, you can always try calling or secure messaging Chase and requesting consideration for that charge to be awarded points as a travel charge. Even if you don't get the outcome you're looking for, you'll at least get some clarity on how certain charges are coded and can plan future spending accordingly.

What does Chase typically count as travel purchases?

• Campgrounds
• Car rental agencies (excludes RV and boat rentals)
• Cruise lines
• Discount travel sites
• Parking lots and garages
• Passenger trains
• Toll bridges and highways
• Travel agencies
• Vacation rentals (including some VRBO rentals operated by an individual )

What does Chase typically not count as travel purchases?

• Educational merchants arranging travel
• Gift card merchants
• Inflight goods and services
• Merchants that rent vehicles for the purpose of hauling
• Merchants within hotels and airports
• Onboard cruise line goods and services
• Purchasing points or miles
• Public campgrounds
• Real estate agents
• RV and boat rentals
• Sightseeing activities
• Tourist attractions
• Vacation rentals ( some VRBO rentals operated by a conglomerate rather than an individual )

Bottom line

Cardholders of the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Sapphire Preferred have plenty of opportunities to earn 3 or 2 points per dollar spent, respectively, on "other travel purchases." Based on TPG's valuations , that means you could be getting a return of up to 6.15% on these purchases, and you can put your points to use with Chase's airline and hotel partners .

On top of that, these Chase cards have some of the most generous travel and purchase protections on the market, making either card a valuable addition to your wallet.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve with a 75,000-point sign-up bonus after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred with a 75,000-point sign-up bonus after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.

Best credit cards for international travel in 2024

Dec 29, 2023 • 15 min read

Your next great adventure is never far away when you're maximizing points and benefits with the best cards; Mattertal, Switzerland © mbbirdy / Getty

This series of articles about credit cards, points and miles, and budgeting for travel is brought to you in partnership with The Points Guy .

Advertiser Disclosure:  This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. This relationship may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. All information about the Wells Fargo Autograph Card has been collected independently by Lonely Planet. This card is not available through Lonely Planet.

When traveling abroad, the right credit card can be as crucial as your passport. The best credit card can help you not only earn more rewards, but it can also provide valuable protections and benefits. A credit card can save you money on foreign transaction fees and protect your purchases from fraudulent activity and theft.

Some credit cards can make your travels more comfortable with valuable perks like lounge access, elite status benefits and travel insurance. 

For international travel, you’ll want a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees and offers bonus points on travel along with travel insurance. We’ve taken the guesswork out of this task for you by rounding up the best credit cards for international travel:

How to get started with travel points and airline miles

The best credit cards for international travel in 2024:

• Best overall: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• Best for luxury travel perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express *
• Best for travel insurance: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• Best for tours and activities: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Best for dining around the world: American Express® Gold Card *
• Best for no annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The best credit cards for airline miles

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best overall for international travel in 2024

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent card for international travel because it checks all the boxes regarding benefits you’ll need when traveling abroad. The card provides vital travel protections and earns valuable rewards at a reasonable $95 annual fee. Cardholders earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through the Chase Travel℠ portal and 2 on all other travel purchases. The card also comes with valuable travel insurance, which is vital when traveling abroad. 

Cardholders pay no foreign transaction fees, which hover around 3% for purchases abroad on standard credit cards. Whether paying your hotel bill or doing extra shopping, the waived fee can add substantial savings.

Sapphire Preferred cardholders get up to $10,000 per person in trip cancellation/interruption insurance, primary rental car coverage (in the U.S. and abroad), up to $100 per day in baggage delay insurance (maximum of five days) and up to $500 in trip delay reimbursement per ticket. These protections can be beneficial in case of travel delays or emergencies. While you may consider buying supplemental travel insurance for certain trips, these credit card protections provide excellent baseline coverage.

Welcome bonus: 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℠.

Rewards: Earn 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠ (excluding hotel purchases that qualify for the $50 Annual Chase Travel℠ hotel credit);  3X points on dining at restaurants, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out; 3X points on online grocery purchases; 3X points on select streaming services; 2X points on all other travel; 1X on other purchases.

Travel benefits: Annual $50 Chase Travel℠ hotel credit, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, primary rental car insurance, trip delay reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, travel and emergency assistance services.

Credit score required: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $95. See rates and fees .

• Generous category bonuses.
• Excellent rewards program with a great selection of airline and hotel transfer partners.
• $50 annual travel credit.
• Extensive travel protections, including primary rental car insurance abroad. 
• The card is subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule (meaning you won’t be approved if you’ve opened five credit cards at any bank in the last 24 months).
• The $50 annual hotel credit is limited to Chase Travel℠ bookings (and does not earn bonus points).

How to use points and miles to save money on travel

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

No other credit card can compete with The Platinum Card® from American Express  regarding travel perks. The card offers over $1,500 in annual statement credits for airline fees, hotel bookings and trusted-traveler programs like CLEAR® Plus and Global Entry . Global Entry is particularly useful for international trips, as it expedites the passport control process.

Cardholders can upgrade to Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status without ever stepping foot in a hotel lobby. These higher status levels can provide added perks like room upgrades and complimentary breakfast, enhancing your hotel experience. 

The Platinum Card 's travel protections can provide added peace of mind with trip delay coverage and cancellation/interruption insurance.*

Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 points after $8,000 spent within six months of account opening. 

Rewards: Earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year); 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel; 1X point on everything else.

Travel benefits: Annual airline fee credit up to $200; annual hotel booking credit up to $200 (Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay); annual Uber Cash up to $200; $20 monthly digital entertainment credit for select streaming services; $155 Walmart+ Credit; $300 annual Equinox statement credit; $50 Saks credit issued semi-annually; $189 CLEAR Plus credit; Hilton and Marriott Gold elite status; elite status with Avis, Hertz and National rental car; trip delay insurance; trip cancellation & interruption insurance.

Credit score required: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $695. See rates and fees .

• Wide range of travel credits that offset the annual fee (if you use them).
• Earns valuable Membership Rewards points.
• Exceptional travel protections.
• High annual fee.
• Category bonuses are limited to Amex Travel and direct bookings.
• The current welcome bonus isn’t the highest to date, and the card is subject to the Amex once-per-lifetime rule.

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Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential when traveling abroad – things always go wrong, and you don’t want to incur added expenses on top of your trip. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® provides exceptional travel insurance. Depending on your travel habits, you may not even need to buy a policy. Simply charge your travel expenses to the card, and you’ll be covered in case of trip delays, lost luggage and rental car accidents. The card provides emergency medical services and transportation up to $100,000 and trip cancellation/interruption coverage up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. In case of trip delays of six hours or longer, each passenger will be reimbursed up to $500 per ticket for meals and lodging. 

If you arrive at your destination and discover your luggage is missing, you’ll get up to $3,000 per passenger to buy essentials. This policy also applies to damaged luggage, including carry-ons.

The Sapphire Reserve ’s auto rental collision damage waiver is one of the best in class. It applies to rentals made abroad and covers up to $75,000 in case of theft or collision damage.

Welcome bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Rewards: Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Travel benefits: Up to $300 in annual travel statement credits, including airfare, hotels and rental cars; get 50% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠; Priority Pass Select membership; application fee credit towards Global Entry, TSA Precheck or NEXUS every four years; travel protections including cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, primary rental car insurance, lost luggage reimbursement and emergency evacuation and transportation.

Credit score:  Excellent.

Annual fee: $550 (plus $75 per authorized user). See rates and fees .

• Comprehensive travel insurance when you use the Sapphire Card for booking.
• Application fee credits for Global Entry, TSA Precheck and NEXUS.
• Priority Pass Select membership for access to over 1300 airline lounges worldwide.
• The $300 annual travel credit partially offsets the high annual fee. 
• Approval is subject to the Chase 5/24 rule (ie, you might not qualify for the card if you've signed up for 5 or more credit cards in the last 24 months).
• $75 authorized user fee.

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Capital One Venture Card: Best for international tours and activities 

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is the best card for tours and activities because it offers unlimited 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, making it easy to earn rewards quickly. Plus, the miles can be redeemed for any travel-related expense, so you can use them to book flights, hotels, rental cars and more. 

Additionally, cardholders get six months of complimentary membership to The Cultivist. This subscription platform typically costs $40 per month and provides free admission to over 60 museums, including the New York Met, Paris Louvre and The Art Institute of Chicago. You can bring up to three guests for free, making the Venture Card a terrific credit card for tours and activities.

With its simple reward structure and no-hassle redemption process, the Capital One Venture Card is an ideal choice for travelers looking to save money on their next tour or activity.

Welcome bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 2X miles on all other purchases.

Travel benefits: Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, Hertz Five Star status, rental car insurance and travel accident insurance, Capital One Dining access; complimentary six-month membership to The Cultivist.

Credit score:  Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $95. 

• $100 credit towards Global Entry or TSA Precheck application fees every four years.
• Generous lounge benefit for a $95 annual fee card.
• Simple rewards structure with multiple international airline transfer partners.
• Limited lounge network compared to other credit cards.

Should you book travel with cash or points?

American Express Gold Card: Best for dining around the world

Dining is one of the most significant expenses when you’re traveling abroad. The American Express Gold Card is the best card to pack in your wallet, earning 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants. The card also earns 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel so that you can maximize every dollar spent on vacation. 

The Amex Gold Card also offers up to $10 in monthly Uber Cash and another $10 towards Grubhub, Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Granted, you may not find many Cheesecake Factories abroad, but it’s a nice bonus that could come in handy during domestic travels. The card qualifies for Amex Offers, a rotating list of discounts at popular retailers, restaurants and hotels. You can save hundreds of dollars by taking advantage of dining deals through this portal.

Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 within the first six months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 4X points at restaurants; 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases and then 1x after); 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel; 1X points on all other purchases. 

Travel benefits: Receive up to $10 in monthly Uber Cash (valid for rides or Uber Eats orders); up to $10 in monthly dining credit at Grubhub, Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations; secondary rental car coverage*; baggage insurance plan; Global Assist hotline; access to experience credits and travel perks through The Hotel Collection.

Credit score: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $250. See rates and fees .

• High earnings on popular travel spending categories.
• Up to $240 in annual dining credits.
• Amex Offers provides additional savings on travel.
• Includes valuable travel protections.
• The current welcome bonus isn’t the highest to date. 
• The card is subject to American Express’s once-per-lifetime rule.

American Express Gold Card review: a 'gold' standard with impressive benefits

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card: Best for no annual fee

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is a great option for international travel if you want a card that earns generous rewards and minimal fees. The card waives foreign transaction fees, which is unusual for a card with no annual fee. It also offers generous bonuses on popular travel spending categories like dining, gas, transit, airfare, hotels, rental cars and cruises. With a 0% intro APR for 12 months, this is an excellent choice if you need to finance some purchases in the short term.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first three months.

Rewards: Earn 3X points on travel, gas, restaurant, transit and popular streaming services; 1X points on all other purchases. 

Travel benefits: Secondary rental car insurance in the US., primary rental car coverage abroad, travel and emergency services assistance, emergency cash disbursement and card replacement, cell phone protection (up to $600 per year). 

Annual fee: $0. 

• High earning potential in board travel spending categories.
• One of the few credit cards offering cell phone protection.
• Primary rental car coverage abroad and secondary in the U.S.
• Low welcome bonus.
• Points are not transferable to airline or hotel loyalty programs.
• No travel protections outside of rental car insurance. 

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Who should get a credit card for international travel?

Anyone who frequently travels internationally should consider getting a credit card for international travel. There are added costs and hassles associated with traveling abroad that these credit cards can eliminate. With the right credit card, you’ll earn bonus points in popular spending categories restricted abroad. 

You don’t have to be a frequent traveler to benefit from these cards either. They can provide peace of mind by serving as a backup form of payment if your debit or cash is lost or stolen while abroad. In fact, the right credit card can serve you well even when you’re just going about your daily routine.

Below are some of the features and benefits you should look for when choosing a credit card for international travel:

Traveling to Europe using points and miles

How to choose the best credit card for international travel

When it comes to international travel, selecting the right credit card is essential. The right credit card can save you money on fees and travel expenses and provide you with a range of benefits to make your trip easier and more enjoyable. Here are some tips for choosing the best credit card for international travel: 

No foreign transaction fees:  Many credit cards charge a fee of up to 3% when you use them abroad. Look for a card that doesn’t charge these fees so you can save money when making purchases in other countries. 

Bonus points on travel:  Many cards offer rewards in popular spending categories like travel, dining, groceries and gas. These points can then be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays or other travel perks. Some credit cards limit bonus points on dining and grocery spending to U.S. supermarkets and restaurants only. You’ll want a card in your wallet that offers bonus points in the U.S. and abroad since these expenses add up during travels. 

Trusted traveler programs:  Navigating airports can be a stressful experience both in the U.S. and abroad. Trusted traveler programs like TSA Precheck , Global Entry and NEXUS can eliminate the hassle (and long lines). When choosing a credit card for international travel, consider one that offers an application fee credit for trusted traveler programs. These credits can offset high annual fees and make your next trip abroad much more pleasant.

TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: A guide to picking the best one for you

International credit cards FAQ

Which cards are best for international travel.

The best international travel cards are those with no foreign transaction fees, offer travel protections and earn bonus rewards on travel purchases. Some of the top cards for international travel include the Chase Sapphire Preferred , Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

The best credit cards for airport lounge access

What’s the advantage of using a credit card when traveling internationally?

The main advantage of using a credit card when traveling abroad is its convenience and security. Credit cards offer a secure way to make purchases without carrying large amounts of cash. Some credit cards also earn rewards on travel purchases, offer travel insurance and waive foreign exchange fees.

The best credit cards with no international fees

Is American Express or Visa better for international travel?

It depends on the country you are traveling to and which cards are accepted in that country. Generally, Visa is accepted more widely than American Express, so it may be the better option for international travel.

The best travel credit cards

* Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit  americanexpress.com/ benefitsguide  for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit  americanexpress.com  to learn more.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

This article was first published Aug 2, 2023 and updated Dec 29, 2023.

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The Best Airline Gift Cards for the Holidays

See recent posts by Tracy Stewart

Whatever this year’s advances in neck pillows, nothing can really compete with the gift of travel itself. If you’re stumped as to what to give the globetrotter on your list this holiday, look away from the gadgets and accessories and instead consider an airline gift card.

Not every airline offers them but many do, in one form or another. Load up with the dollar amount of your choosing, which the receiver can then put towards future travel.

Of course, some cards are easier to use than others. Users should be mindful of expiration dates, if there is one, along with any fees that may apply.

As for you, the gift-giver, it doesn’t get any easier than a gift card. Anyone terrible at wrapping can, at the very least, handle sealing an envelope, and in many cases the airline takes care of even that, sometimes offering overnight delivery. Or opt for an e-voucher to be emailed and spare some trees.

Below are some of the better options for airline gift cards currently available.

The Best Airline Gift Cards

Delta air lines.

Point anywhere on the globe and chances are that Delta and its vast partner network can land you there, or at least somewhere very close. Gift cards can be purchased at Delta.com in $5 increments for as little as $50 to a maximum of $5,000. Redeem online, over the telephone, or in person at the airport. Gift cards can only be used towards airfares and not to pay for baggage fees, in-flight purchases, upgrades, or any other extras. Card balances never expire.

Buyers can choose to send an eGift card by email or opt for a physical version to be shipped out via UPS. Personalized messages to the recipient can be included in either format.

Southwest Airlines

For the wishy-washy traveler who constantly changes plans, Southwest offers the most flexibility of any gift card. Tickets that can easily be changed for free. Just pay the fare difference, if there is one. And if for whatever reason the ticket holder is unable to make the trip, the cost of the ticket can be rebanked for use towards a future flight, no biggie. Oh, and don’t forget, Southwest still allows passengers to check two bags for free, unlike other carriers. Something to consider if your receiver tends to overpack.

The only downside? Some may find its international options a tad limited, with just 14 destinations throughout Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.

Southwest gift card values range from $10 to $1,000. Choose an e-card or physical gift card to be overnighted. Cards never expire and may be booked at Southwest.com, via telephone, or at Amazon for lower denominations up to $200.

Hawaiian Airlines

Being gifted a trip to Hawaii is pretty much the best possible outcome of anyone’s holiday. Hawaiian e-gift and gift cards can be purchased online or at certain grocery stores (Hawaii Foodland, Sack N Save, and Foodland Farms) in amounts as low as $50 and no higher than $2,000. Card amounts must be used for airfare only and can’t be applied to lei greetings, trip insurance, travel packages, or any ancillary services.

It’s hard to imagine anyone not using this as soon as possible but in the event that the receiver drags his or her feet in booking, this card will never expire. And in the off chance your recipient doesn’t actually want to go to Hawaii, remind them that Hawaiian also flies nonstop to Australia, New Zealand, American Samoa, Tahiti, Japan, South Korea, and China.

Alaska Airlines

With destinations throughout Mexico and Hawaii, Alaska's route map is probably more extensive than you think. Alaska’s gift certificates range from $25 to $500. Include a personal message and send via email or print out at home. Alaska certificates don’t expire and any remaining balance can be put towards future bookings.

Certificates can be booked at AlaskaAir.com .

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American airlines.

With hundreds of destinations served by American, American Eagle, and Oneworld partners, your card receiver may have a tough time deciding. Send by email or choose a plastic card to be sent in the mail. If opting for a plastic card, try and get your order in by December 17, to ensure it arrives by Christmas.

Choose an amount from $50 to $1,500. Cards never expire and there are no fees associated with booking, no matter how late the user is in redeeming it. Book at Giftcards.aa.com .  

Norwegian Air

Of the current crop of low-cost transatlantic carriers, Norwegian offers the best value with consistently low international fares for nonstop flights to Scandinavia and plenty of other major cities throughout Europe. Gift cards can be purchased in CashPoint increments ranging from 500 (about $53) to 5,000 (about $545), with its mid-tier 2,000 CashPoint (or $218) option being the most popular.

Cards are sent by email and expire exactly one year from the purchase date. Purchase at Norwegian.com/gift-card .

British Airways

Aside from hopping a flight to London or elsewhere in the UK, BA eVoucher recipients can choose from over 200 international destinations.

Flight vouchers are valid for flights only and cannot be used to book rental cars, hotels, or other extras. Any unused amount will be reissued in the form of another voucher, though pay attention to expiration dates.

Voucher-holders should also be aware that there are restrictions for flights originating in certain countries in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. If your traveler is beginning their journey from any of these areas, call BA directly. Book at BritishAirways.com .

Gift vouchers from Irish flag carrier Aer Lingus can be purchased in denominations of up to $500 which would more than cover a cheap roundtrip sale fare. Aer Lingus regularly discounts fares not just to Ireland but along its entire network which includes most of Europe. Best of all, vouchers never expire! Purchase at Aerlingus.com .

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Personal Finance

Best travel credit cards for june 2024.

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

The best travel credit cards unlock a world of free and discounted travel. If you travel a lot, one of these cards could be worth obtaining. Depending on your travel preferences and goals, you may want a card with no annual fee, ultra-luxury premium rewards, or many points per purchase. Here’s a closer look at the best travel rewards cards to help you see the world at a fraction of the cost.

Best Travel Credit Cards: Summary

Best for beginners: card_name, best for premium travel: card_name, best for no annual fee: card_name, best for intro bonus offer: card_name, best for airport lounge access: card_name, best for business: card_name, best for insurance coverage: card_name, best airline credit card: card_name.

• Best hotel credit card: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® credit card

Our recommendations for the best travel credit card

The best travel credit card varies depending on your travel preferences. If you’re loyal to a specific airline or hotel, you may consider that brand’s card. A general miles or points rewards card could be the best choice for travelers looking to get the maximum value across a wider range of redemption options.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Why we like it:, product details:.

• 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(SM).
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel(SM), 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(SM). 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

The card_name is our pick for the best credit card for general travel rewards for beginners. It does a great job of balancing a robust rewards program with a reasonable annual fee. If you’re new to travel rewards cards or want a top card you can use everywhere without spending more than $100 per year, this card should be on your shortlist.

New users who spend at least $4,000 on the card in the first three months get 60,000 bonus points worth $750 when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards . For purchases, you’ll earn five points per dollar spent on travel at Chase Ultimate Rewards; three points for dining and eligible delivery services, online grocery purchases, excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs, and select streaming services; two points for other travel; and one point everywhere else. Points are transferable to airline and hotel partners, including United , Southwest , and Marriott.

The card also provides other perks, including travel and purchase protections. You’ll also get $50 back as a statement credit each year for hotels booked through Chase. While there’s a annual_fees annual fee, it’s easy to see how you’ll get that back and much more every year when using the card regularly.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

One of the newer premium travel cards, card_name , comes with a wide set of travel benefits, including access to Capital One lounges and more than 1,300 additional lounges through Priority Pass and Plaza Premium Group. While the card requires a steep annual_fees annual fee, getting that value back and more is easy. Users get a $300 annual statement credit for travel booked through Capital One Travel, a $100 credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry , and a $100 statement credit with other premium services when booking certain hotels through Capital One.

The card_name starts new users with 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months, and you’ll earn 10,000 bonus miles annually on your account anniversary. For purchases, you’ll get 10x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5x miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel, and 2x everywhere else. Capital One miles are redeemable through Capital One and a list of transfer partners .

Other benefits include premium experiences and museum access through complementary memberships to PRIOR, The Cultivist, and $300 toward a Gravity Hauss membership. If you book a flight when Capital One Travel recommends and the price drops within 10 days, you can get up to $50 credit back.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If you don’t want to shell out $100 yearly just to have a travel rewards card, the card_name could be a winner. With this card, users earn five miles per dollar spent on rental cars and hotels booked through Capital One Travel and an unlimited 1.25 miles per dollar on other purchases.

New users can earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months. There are no foreign transaction fees, either, and the list of travel insurance and purchase coverage is impressive, considering there’s annual_fees annual fee.

Another advantage is that VentureOne starts new users with a intro_apr_rate,intro_apr_duration and balance_transfer_intro_apr,balance_transfer_intro_duration . If you want to consolidate and pay off other cards or make a big purchase interest-free, card_name may be the best choice for you.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

card_name is an excellent card for easy-to-understand travel rewards. You earn 5x miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and a flat 2x miles per dollar on other purchases. These miles can be redeemed through the Capital One Travel site, used to cover the cost of a recent eligible travel purchase, or transferred to a list of partner travel brands. Redeeming them for cash, events, and gift cards is also possible.

Other benefits include a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, two free Capital One lounge visits per year, and the most important travel and purchase protections anyone would want from a travel card.

There’s a annual_fees annual fee, but it’s easy to get that back and more redeeming Capital One miles for travel.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The card_name is an ultra-luxury credit card unlocking a huge heap of benefits, including express lanes and access to lounges at airports, gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels, and about $1,500 worth of various travel, membership, and purchase credits. On top of that, new users can earn 80,000 membership rewards points after spending $6,000 in the first three months.

The card carries a steep annual_fees annual fee ( Rates & Fees ), but it’s easy to see how you get more than that back in a year if you use its benefits fully. Additional users can get free Amex Gold cards or up to three additional Platinum cards at $175 per year. Additional users beyond that cost $175 each.

Benefits include a hotel credit worth up to $200 for prepaid bookings with American Express Travel for Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection, a $189 statement credit annually to cover a Clear membership, a credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, up to $20 per month for select entertainment purchases, up to $300 per year in statement credits for Equinox memberships, $12.95 per month in statement credits for a Walmart+ membership, and $50 in statement credits twice per year when shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue. It also includes $15 monthly in Uber Cash ($20 in December) and Uber VIP status. Users also get Gold-level status with the Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors programs .

The rewards are not all that impressive, however. You earn five points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, hotels booked on Amex Travel, and one point for everything else. Points are redeemable through Amex and transferable to a list of airline and hotel partners. The card is worthwhile for frequent travelers when you add up the massive travel benefits.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The is the best business card for travel due to its rewards flexibility, foreign transaction fees, and protective consumer benefits.

You may like the card_name if you run a business, even a side hustle. The card comes with a huge 100,000-point bonus after spending $15,000 in the first three months. That’s worth $1,250 in travel when redeemed through Chase or potentially more when transferring to travel partners.

The card features 3x points per dollar on shipping purchases, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines, internet, cable and phone services purchases, and travel.

The card also comes with a good list of travel and purchase protections, including cell phone insurance when you use the card to pay your monthly bill. And like most premium travel cards, there are no foreign transaction fees. While it has a huge starting bonus and great benefits, it also requires a annual_fees annual fee.

Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card

This card's generous benefits and flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points make it an excellent deal for those who can use them. Users get a Priority Pass Select airport lounge membership (retail value $469), a $300 annual travel credit that applies to travel purchases each year, 50% more value when redeeming their rewards for travel through Chase, a fee credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership , and a generous suite of travel insurance benefits.

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel(SM).
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel(SM) immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel(SM). For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass(TM) Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck(R)

card_name is a premium travel card loaded with valuable benefits. While it requires a large annual_fees annual fee, you get the first $300 back on travel purchases with the card, up to $100 in statement credits every four years for TSA’s trusted traveler programs, and a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership with access to more than 1,300 lounges.

New users can earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in the first three months. For purchases, you’ll earn 10x points per dollar spent with Chase Dining or when booking hotels or rental cars through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 5x for flights booked through Chase, 3x for travel and dining purchases, including restaurant delivery, and 1x everywhere else.

The package of travel and purchase insurance is also quite valuable. The card includes trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver coverage, lost luggage reimbursement, trip delay reimbursement, and emergency evacuation insurance. For purchases, it includes purchase protection for new purchases for up to 120 days, return protection, and up to an additional year of warranty coverage.

United℠ Explorer Card

If you’re looking for an airline-specific credit card, the card_name Chase is a standout option. The card comes with a list of benefits rewarding United travelers, with bonus miles, free checked bags, and other benefits. New users can earn 60,000 miles after spending $3,000 with the card in the first three months.

You’ll earn 2x miles per dollar for purchases with United. The same 2x rate extends to dining, restaurant delivery, and hotels booked directly through the hotel company. It features 1x mile per dollar on all other purchases.

When flying with United, the cardholder and a companion get their first checked bag free, worth up to $140 per roundtrip. The card also includes an opportunity to earn Premier qualifying points, which get you closer to elite United status. Users also get a one-year complimentary DashPass subscription, offering discounts with DoorDash. It includes excellent travel insurance benefits, purchase protection, extended warranty protection, and complimentary Visa Signature Concierge service access.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card: Best hotel credit card

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card from Chase is a top hotel card. While it has a $95 annual fee, an annual free night award worth up to 35,000 points is easily worth more. When you stack points from the card and Marriott Bonvoy membership, you can earn up to 17x points per dollar on purchases made with Marriott, which has more than 7,000 properties worldwide.

New users can earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first three months after opening a new account. Users get automatic Silver Elite status and credit toward the Gold Elite tier. The card also features a one-year complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership.

Travel insurance benefits are fair and include lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, and trip delay reimbursement. It also includes purchase protection and Visa Signature Concierge service.

Best travel credit card comparison chart

Our methodology.

To choose the best travel credit cards, our team reviewed dozens of cards from multiple issuers. We looked at the best rewards for regular purchases, the best signup bonuses, and the best travel-related benefits. We also considered annual fees and other common costs that you’re likely to incur. We didn’t, however, consider interest rates, as travel rewards cards are best for users who pay off the card in full monthly to avoid interest charges.

How to maximize your rewards with your travel credit card

If you want to maximize your rewards with travel credit cards, follow these quick tips:

• Use your credit card for every purchase: You don’t earn miles or points when you don’t use the card. Use your rewards card for every eligible purchase to earn as much as possible. But be careful not to overspend and get into trouble with high card balances.
• Consider multiple rewards cards: Mixing and matching multiple cards can get you the best rewards. For example, picking one card for restaurants, one for groceries , and one for gas could help you earn more.
• Research each redemption: Don’t redeem your points without considering the value. When transferring to airline partners, getting values well over one cent per point is possible.

How to choose a travel credit card

Everyone has different travel goals, credit histories, incomes, and spending habits. Here are some additional considerations to guide your choice:

• Spending habits: If you always cook at home and never go to restaurants, a restaurant rewards card wouldn’t be practical. Consider your budget and spending habits to find the best card .
• Annual fee tolerance: Some people are okay with annual fees, while others will only tolerate them up to a certain point. With some popular cards requiring over $600 per year, you have to ask yourself what you would be willing to pay and which benefits you’ll use regularly.
• Desired benefits: If you want airport lounges, status with a certain hotel or airline, or fast lines at the airport, find a card with those benefits.
• Brand loyalty: Finally, if you love one airline or hotel—or simply find one most convenient for your travel priorities—its branded card could be a good choice or addition to one of the cards above.

How to compare credit cards

Every issuer offers different benefits and rewards. When comparing travel cards, look at the rewards program to determine if it favors your spending habits. Then look at any costs or fees you expect to pay, such as annual or foreign transaction fees. Next, look at statement credits and other benefits. The card that yields you the biggest net benefits (rewards and benefits minus expected annual fees and other costs) should be your top pick.

Also, consider the card’s credit score and other credit requirements before applying. That information should be available on the issuer’s website or by contacting its customer service desk.

Types of travel credit cards

Our favorite travel credit cards are general miles and points rewards cards. General rewards cards feature points or miles redeemable at a big list of airlines, hotels, and potentially additional travel companies.

Depending on your location and travel preferences, you may also find brand-specific cards helpful. For example, the United MileagePlus Explorer card comes with benefits and rewards miles only for use with United Airlines. Most airlines and hotels offer at least one credit card for loyal customers.

Alternatives to travel credit cards

If you don’t want a travel credit card, cash back credit cards are an excellent choice. Many of them have no annual fee. And, if you’re not into travel, the rewards come in the form of cash or points redeemable for cash.

Most cards with cash back rewards allow you to redeem for statement credits, which lower your credit card balance; direct deposit to a linked bank account; and sometimes for travel, gift cards, Amazon.com purchases, and other redemptions. Merchandise is usually a low-value redemption for your points.

You can also find cards with no rewards, often featuring lower fees and interest rates. A secured credit card may be the right choice for someone with bad credit or no credit.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between points and miles on a travel credit card.

Points and miles on a travel credit card are rewards earned through spending on the card. While they share similarities, there are some major differences between them.

General rewards points tend to offer more flexibility for redemption, as they can be used for various rewards, including flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and even cash back. However, miles are usually restricted to flight redemptions with a specific airline or its partners. Some travel credit cards may allow you to convert miles into points or vice versa, but this typically comes with a conversion rate and may not always offer the best value.

Ultimately, the difference between points and miles on a travel credit card comes down to how they are earned, their redemption options, and their value. Understanding the specific rewards program and choosing a card that aligns with your travel habits and preferences is essential to maximizing your rewards.

How do I know if a travel credit card is right for me?

Determining if a travel credit card is right depends on your spending habits, travel frequency, and personal preferences. First, consider your travel patterns and the type of travel rewards you desire—such as airline miles, hotel points, or more flexible rewards redeemable for various travel expenses. Frequent travelers who can take advantage of perks like lounge access, priority boarding, or free checked bags may find travel credit cards more valuable.

Additionally, assess your spending habits and ability to earn rewards. Travel credit cards often have higher annual fees and interest rates, so ensure that you can offset these costs through rewards, perks, and benefits. The right travel credit card for you should align with your lifestyle, provide valuable rewards, and offer perks that enhance your travel experiences.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

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What to do if your flight is canceled.

Follow these steps in the event your flight is canceled.

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

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Key Takeaways

• Airlines will soon be required to automatically refund travelers for canceled flights.
• You will be eligible for a refund if your domestic flight is delayed by more than three hours, or if your international flight delay exceeds six hours.
• Using the airline's app or calling an international airline number is often the quickest way to rebook a flight.
• The DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard shows what each major domestic airline will or will not provide in the event of a cancellation or delay currently.

In April 2024, the Department of Transportation announced a new series of protections for air travelers , including automatic refunds for canceled flights and, in some cases, flight delays. Airlines in the U.S. have six months until they will be expected to start implementing the new rule.

If your flight has been canceled or delayed, read on for step-by-step instructions on how to rearrange your travel plans and whether or not you are eligible for a refund at this time.

What to do if your flight is canceled

1. get on the airline's app – or make an international call.

First, pull up the airline's app on your phone. Most airline apps allow you to easily rebook your flight for free, provided you can supply your six-character reservation code. Getting in line to speak with an agent and calling the airline while you wait is also a good idea (albeit slower than using an app), and social media messaging, texting or WhatsApp may prove helpful. "During times of mass travel disruption, you should try all different avenues for getting help," says Nick Ewen, director of content at The Points Guy.

Ewen also recommends a lesser-known tactic: calling the airline's international numbers. Airlines have offices in Canada, Mexico, the U.K. and more. "While it can be costly, you can often get through to an agent more quickly," Ewen says.

Note that, depending on why your flight was canceled, finding seats on a new flight may alter your travel plans considerably.

2. Book a hotel

Next, determine if you need overnight accommodations. "If you were originally booked on the last flight of the night and there are no other options, grab a hotel room near the airport before they're all taken," Ewen advises.

3. Ask for a refund

If the airline cancels your flight and you're forced to change your travel plans, you are entitled to a cash refund per federal law . Unfortunately, getting a refund can be a lengthy and frustrating process. Most airlines will instead offer a credit for future travel, but before you accept, note that travel credits can come with restrictions, such as blackout dates

Soon, airlines will be expected to issue refunds within seven business days — either in cash or on the credit card you used to book your flight — if you turn down a travel credit.

4. Reference the DOT Cancellation and Delay Dashboard

While you're entitled to a full refund, other flight cancellation policies may vary by airline. Go to the DOT's Cancellation and Delay Dashboard to see what each major airline will and will not offer in the event of a controllable cancellation.

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What to do if your flight is delayed

Currently, airlines are not legally obligated to give you a refund for a flight delay unless the DOT determines the delay to be "significant," a term that's defined on a case-by-case basis.

The DOT's new rule defines "significant changes" for the first time, and when it goes into effect later this year, you will be eligible for a refund in the following scenarios:

• Departure or arrival times for domestic flights exceed three hours
• Departure or arrival times for international flights exceed six hours
• There's an increase in the number of connections
• Departures or arrivals take place at a different airport than the one(s) you booked
• You're downgraded to a lower flight class than the one you booked
• You have a disability and your connections are at different airports and/or on different flights that are less accessible

Research other flights

Investigate what other flights on that airline are headed to your destination and ask an agent if they can get you on one of them (without charging change fees). Also be sure to look into what's available on other airlines: If your original airline doesn't have any flights available on your departure date, an agent may be able to book you on a flight with a different carrier at no additional cost to you. Note, however, that airlines are not legally required to do this.

Inquire about other compensation

If you've been stranded at the airport for several hours, check in with an agent and reference the Commitments for Controllable Delays section on the DOT's Cancellation and Delay Dashboard – regardless of whether you're able to get on another flight. Some airlines may provide amenities such as vouchers for meals or overnight accommodations.

Frequently Asked Questions

"The main causes for flight disruptions are bad weather, understaffed air traffic control, and factors within the airline’s control,"  says Katy Nastro, a spokesperson at Going.com, formerly Scott's Cheap Flights. She explains the following:

• Weather:  This is outside of the airline's control and is the single biggest reason for why we see flight disruptions. We saw this play out over the winter holidays in 2022, and even to some extent during the 2023 holiday season. Even if the weather is accurately predicted, it cannot be controlled, which means at times flight disruptions are unavoidable.
• Understaffed air traffic control:  The U.S. air travel industry has made strides in pilot hiring year over year, but when it comes to air traffic control, we are still down roughly 1,000 fewer air traffic controllers from a decade ago. New York metro area airports specifically have felt the brunt of this deficit, so much so that airlines were permitted to reduce schedules without penalty from the summer until the end of Q4 in 2023. At its lowest, the decrease in flights in the New York metro area resulted in about 11% fewer flights per day. With less trained staff, current air traffic controllers are stretched to the limit, and schedule reductions only temporarily solve this problem. Even with aggressive hiring efforts, training takes time and will not be a quick fix.

It's almost impossible to avoid canceled or delayed flights these days. But there are a few things you can do when booking flights to lessen your chances for travel disruptions.

Keep tabs on your aircraft: On your departure date, check your flight information before heading to the airport. You can keep a watchful eye on the flight's status – including the aircraft scheduled to operate your flight – using the airline's app or a third-party app such as FlightAware Flight Tracker (which also offers a website ), FlightRadar24 or TripIt Pro.

"As an example, if you're flying from Orlando to New York, and your plane is flying in from Chicago, the initial flight from Chicago to Orlando might be delayed (or canceled) before yours is," Ewen explains. "Airlines will try to find replacement aircraft in that case, but if you can identify a potential cancellation before it officially happens, you may be able to get rebooked ahead of the other 100-plus passengers on your flight."

Consider an alternate airport: When booking your flight, you may consider flying out of a different airport than the one you typically depart from. For example, a small regional airport with limited routes may mean less travel delays and hassle overall – or it may be worth driving further to another international airport for a nonstop flight to your destination rather than opting for a connecting flight close to home.

Fly in the morning: While flight disruptions are unpredictable, historically fewer cancellations and delays occur in the morning.

Avoid weekend travel: Fly on off-peak days like Tuesday or Wednesday. You'll often find cheaper flights on these days, too.

Opt for longer layovers: If you need to take more than one flight to reach your destination, book a flight with a longer layover to provide enough time to make your connecting flight. Keep in mind that at some airports you may need to go through security or customs for your connection. For longer journeys, you can reduce the risk of missing connecting flights by planning a city stopover. For example, Icelandair offers Iceland stopovers for no additional airfare.

Consider a credit card with travel protections: You don't need to be a frequent traveler to take advantage of credit card travel protections and perks. Here are a couple options to consider:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred :  This travel credit card ($95 annually) provides coverage for delays and cancellations when used to book flights. It also provides other travel protections such as delayed baggage coverage. "Even someone who travels just once or twice a year can still get phenomenal value from this card," Ewen says.
• American Express Platinum Card :  This card ($695 annually) offers travel insurance that reimburses some nonrefundable expenses like hotel accommodations, meals and other essentials as long as the trip was purchased using the card.

When choosing a travel credit card, you should also pay attention to other benefits. Even the most basic airline credit cards can offer travel perks like discounts on in-flight purchases and waived baggage fees, while premium travel credit cards (which require a higher annual fee) can include access to an airport lounge with food, drinks and Wi-Fi. Some also provide a concierge service to rebook flights or built-in trip insurance to cover unforeseen expenses.

Purchase travel insurance: If your credit card doesn't include travel protections, consider purchasing insurance with flight coverages – even a cheap travel policy can help protect your investment. Covered reasons include a travel carrier delay and loss or theft of travel documents, among other scenarios. If you're interested in purchasing a policy, you can browse the best travel insurance companies here .

Talk to a travel advisor: "Booking directly with your travel advisor provides more leverage and support if something goes wrong," explains Jessica Parker, founder of Trip Whisperer . "We can advocate for a better outcome should there be cancellations or hiccups in the itinerary."

Charlotte French, owner of Cavatica Luxury Travel , agrees, sharing this recent example: "My clients were booked on a nonstop United Flight from Tokyo (HND) to EWR (Newark) in business class, when it was canceled (due to technical issues). The clients were waiting in line to find other options for their return flight home; however, these were very limited. In parallel, I was able to speak to the United Airlines corporate desk (as a travel advisor) and was able to secure them in business class on a flight out of Tokyo the same day."

Avoid checking luggage: Travelers who only travel with a carry-on bag and/or personal item (such as a backpack or purse) that meet carry-on size restrictions will have the most flexibility in rebooking – and will also avoid the chance of lost luggage, another common issue. Some carriers will try to move checked luggage to a later flight for you and will make every effort to keep you and your belongings together. However, when airlines don't have interline agreements with other carriers, you'll have to allow enough time to retrieve and recheck your own luggage.

The number of canceled flights recently fell to its lowest rate in at least a decade — a welcome change for air travelers, especially following COVID-19-era travel disruptions.

Still, flight cancellations will always be inevitable, especially during the busy summer travel season. Summer 2024 is shaping up to be especially busy. "It was the busiest March on record for air travel according to the TSA," explains Nastro. "It also had the tenth busiest day on record, which is pretty significant since it is not a 'peak period' and is generally considered off-season in the Northern Hemisphere. If this trend continues, we are likely in for the busiest summer on record when it comes to air travel."

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Luggage Trackers
• Is a Travel Agent Worth It? The Pros and Cons
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seatbelt Extender?
• How to Get Airport Wheelchair Assistance
• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

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What’s the cheapest day to book flights?

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Key takeaways

• The price of your flight depends on a variety of factors, not just the day you book it and the day you fly out.
• However, data from Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report shows that consumers can save money by booking on Sundays and flying out on Thursdays.
• To help you save even further, consider using co-branded airline credit cards or travel rewards credit cards that earn miles with every trip you take.

When it comes to the cheapest days to book flights, you should know there’s no single rule that applies all the time. In fact, so many factors go into the cost of flights that it’s hard to know what prices will be from one day to the next, let alone over the course of a year or on any given day of a single month.

That said, there are some recognizable patterns when you look at the costs for airfare over a long enough timeline, and some organizations have done studies to find out the cheapest day of the week to book flights. This includes Expedia’s 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report , which used actual flight data to help consumers decide on the most affordable times to book airfare or fly the friendly skies within the U.S. or overseas.

If you’re hoping to save on airfare this year and are curious when you should book and which days of the week to fly, read on to learn more.

Cheapest day of the week to book a flight

So, what is the cheapest day to book a flight? In order to find out, Expedia used data compiled by the Airlines Reporting Corporation , which has information on 15 billion flights across 490 airlines.

While the cheapest day to actually pay for airfare can vary from one week to the next, Expedia data shows consumers who book airfare on Sundays instead of Fridays tend to save approximately 5 percent on domestic and international economy class flights. For domestic business class flights, consumers can expect to save around 7 percent, and for international business class flights, consumers can expect to save around 24 percent.

Expedia also notes that Sunday was the cheapest day to book flights in 2021, 2022 and 2023, but savings rates have varied year to year.

If you want to save more, data from Expedia’s report shows you should book domestic flights at least a month in advance to save an average of 24 percent compared to those who booked last-minute.

Meanwhile, booking international airfare around 60 days out tends to yield the best results, with Expedia data showing savings of around 10 percent for those who booked around that time. However, because average ticket prices peaked around four months out from departure, they also recommend booking no earlier than four months out. This is a clear change from Expedia’s 2023 report, which recommended booking international flights around six months out from departure date.

Most affordable day of the week to travel

While booking your flight on a Sunday helps you get the lowest price, actually flying on a Thursday may help you save an average of 16 percent off airfare. Data shows that, almost across the board, travelers who flew on Thursdays instead of Sunday saved this much on both domestic and international flights.

However, consumers flying domestically can also see significant savings of around 13 percent if they fly out on Saturday instead of Sunday.

What factors impact flight prices?

A range of factors can impact the cost of flights, but most of it boils down to supply and demand. For example, costs for airfare tend to be less expensive during off-peak season to any destination, whereas prices surge during peak travel times when demand is higher.

Fuel costs can also impact flight costs, along with the cost of labor, labor shortages and other underlying issues for airlines. Ultimately, airlines use complex algorithms to determine pricing for their fares, and these factors are just part of the equation.

Tips for finding cheap flights

To get the best deal on domestic or international airfare in 2024, you should:

• Book airfare on Sunday . As previously mentioned, booking airfare on Sunday is cheaper than other days of the week, especially Fridays.
• Be willing to fly mid-week . Since Thursdays tend to be the cheapest day to fly, see if you can tweak your travel plans so you depart and fly home during the week instead of on weekend days.
• Set price alerts . Use a tool like the app Hopper to set up price alerts that notify you when airfare prices drop significantly, or when their technology says it’s the cheapest day to book. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection in their app for a fee or for free if you’re a Gold or Platinum tier One Key member. If you book a flight that becomes cheaper later on and you have Price Drop Protection, Expedia will refund you the difference.
• Avoid peak travel times . Not only can traveling off-peak help you score significant savings on airfare and hotels, but Expedia data shows that off-peak travel comes with fewer cancellations and delays overall. Booking early morning flights as opposed to afternoon flights will also make it less likely for you to see delays.
• Earn airline miles . Consider signing up for frequent flyer programs that let you book airfare with miles you earn for flying and other activities. You can also start racking up miles for airfare with a co-branded airline credit card or travel credit card .

The bottom line

The cheapest days to book flights may be different from one week to the next, and the same is true for the day you actually travel. However, taking a full view of the data shows that some travel dates tend to be less expensive on the booking end and the traveling end — at least most of the time.

Arming yourself with this information is one of the best ways to save on airfare over the long run, but it’s not the only way. If you combine savvy shopping with a huge stash of airline miles, you can pay even less for airfare all year long.

Article sources

We use primary sources to support our work. Bankrate’s authors, reporters and editors are subject-matter experts who thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate, timely and relevant.

“ Expedia Releases 2024 Air Travel Hacks Report for Smoother Travel ” Expedia. Accessed on January 23, 2024.

“ Our Story ” Airlines Reporting Corporation. Accessed on January 23, 2024.

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