I’m starting the year by diving into Digital Nomad Life, gearing up for three months of travel across South America. At the moment, I’m getting ready for a summer in Europe. And I’m wondering, which credit cards offer the best benefits when abroad?
I’ve had to rethink which credit cards provide the most value while on the go. In the past, I’ve paired my Chase Sapphire Reserve with the Capital One Venture X Rewards card. But I was surprised to find that the world of Hyatt credit cards has taken the lead over my Venture X.
This is the reason for my switch.
Chase Sapphire Reserve remains my top choice
Most of my travel spending falls into two main categories: travel and food. Think vacation rentals, tours, and dining out.
My approach to these expenses hasn’t changed. I’m still leaning heavily on the Chase Sapphire Reserve. According to TPG’s April 2025 rating, I earn three Chase Ultimate Rewards points for every dollar spent in these categories.
But what about everyday purchases overseas—like groceries or clothes? That’s where my strategy has shifted.
I used to rely solely on Venture X.
For a while, my go-to was the Capital One Venture X Rewards card for anything that wasn’t travel-related. Generally, it offers one mile per $2 spent, which gives a return of about 3.7% (based on the April 2025 rating).
It worked—until my priorities evolved.
Why the shift to Hyatt cards?
A month after my last trip, I had a revelation: why not explore the world of Hyatt cards to access elite perks?
Here’s why this switch seemed logical:
- This year, I’m aiming for elite status
- I want to hit $15,000 in annual card spending
That spending benchmark unlocks valuable rewards.
Currently, I’m at 28 out of the 60 nights I need for globalist status. Achieving this would grant me benefits like complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, and late checkouts at Hyatt properties. That $15,000 spend would bring me six nights closer to my target.
Crunching the numbers
Consider placing $15,000 in everyday expenses on both cards.
With the Venture X, I can earn:
- 30,000 Venture Miles (equivalent to about $555*)
On the Hyatt cards, I gain:
- 15,000 Hyatt Points (about $255*)
- A Category 1-4 Free Night Certificate (valued at up to $306)
- 6 Qualified Night Credits (no dollar value)
*Based on the April 2025 assessment.
Wrapping it up
This year saw a shift in how I use my credit cards for international travel. While I still use the Chase Sapphire Reserve for most expenses related to travel and dining, I’ve moved from the Venture X to the Hyatt cards for all non-bonus spending until I reach that $15,000 threshold. At that point, I’ll have six qualified night credits and a free night certificate to show for it.
After that, I’ll reassess: if I still need qualifying nights, I’ll stick with Hyatt; otherwise, I might switch back to Venture X for better everyday rewards.
For digital nomads seeking both points and perks, the Hyatt Cards have become my new favorite this year.
