A recent survey by Airbnb suggests that many travelers are opting for more local and budget-friendly destinations this summer.
As the summer travel season ramps up, consumers are feeling more confident in their spending. Using the right travel credit card can provide significant discounts and perks, which can ultimately stretch a travel budget further.
Experts in travel told Fox Business that while there’s no single “best travel credit card,” the ideal choice really depends on personal travel habits and preferred airports. There’s a wide array of cards available, each offering unique advantages tailored to different kinds of travelers—whether they’re experienced point collectors or those just seeking to save a bit on a getaway.
Chris Henderson, who is the editor-in-chief of The Points Guy, mentioned that having a premium card that allows points transfer across various airline and hotel programs is typically a smart move for most people.
He himself holds about 27 cards, but he definitely knows how to make the most of them.
“Choose a card that offers versatility and a range of perks you can actually use,” he advised.
If someone is loyal to a specific airline, it makes sense for them to get a co-branded card with that airline.
Cards for Different Preferences
American Express Platinum
Henderson rates the American Express Platinum card as one of the top options, although he acknowledges its hefty annual fee.
Sally French from Nerd Wallet Travel pointed out that this card is suited for those who want to travel like VIPs, implying it’s not for everyone due to its nearly $700 fee.
That said, Henderson argues that the substantial benefits can justify the cost, including various sign-up bonuses.
For the Amex Platinum, cardholders benefit from $200 in ride-share credits, $200 in digital subscription credits, another $200 for hotel stays, and $200 for airline fees. Additionally, the card offers elite status for hotels and car rentals, and access to luxury accommodations where points can be earned and additional perks accessed. Points can also be transferred to 18 different airline and hotel partners.
The card includes access to the Amex Centurion Lounge Network, which enhances the travel experience further.
Chase Freedom Unlimited
Sally emphasized that this is a cashback card rather than a travel-specific one, but it can still be beneficial for travelers, especially when paired with a Chase Sapphire card.
This card offers 1.5% cashback across certain categories and doesn’t charge an annual fee. Points accrued can be transferred to travel partners or redeemed at a higher value through Chase’s travel interface.
Capital One Venture Rewards
“Some people just want to book their trips and reap the rewards without getting bogged down by awards charts,” noted French.
This card earns double miles on purchases, which can act as a “travel eraser” for expenses like flights and hotel stays.
Chase Sapphire Preferred
French recommends this card especially for beginners who want solid point value for travel and dining. Notably, points can be worth 25% more when booked through the Chase Travel Portal, and there’s currently a sign-up bonus of 100,000 points available, which is quite enticing.
Capital One Venture X Rewards
French considers this card a solid middle ground for those who want valuable benefits without going overboard on costs.
With $300 in annual travel credits and an anniversary bonus of 10,000 miles through Capital One Travel, the $395 annual fee might be offset significantly. Cardholders also gain access to unlimited priority passes and Capital One lounge facilities.
