Traveling is an exciting experience, but it can also be expensive. However, if you have the right credit card, you can earn rewards that can offset the cost of your trips.
With so many credit cards available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this article, we will review the best rewards credit cards for travel in the USA in 2023.
What to Look for in a Rewards Credit Card for Travel
When looking for a rewards credit card for travel, there are several factors to consider:
- Rewards program: Look for a card that offers rewards that you can use towards travel expenses, such as flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises.
- Sign-up bonus: Many travel rewards credit cards offer sign-up bonuses, which can help you earn rewards quickly.
- Annual fee: Some rewards credit cards charge annual fees. Make sure that the rewards you earn are worth the cost of the annual fee.
- Foreign transaction fees: If you plan on traveling outside of the US, look for a card that does not charge foreign transaction fees.
- Travel benefits: Some travel rewards credit cards offer additional travel benefits, such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, and concierge services.
Best Rewards Credit Cards for Travel in the USA in 2023 – Top 9
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a popular choice for travelers. It offers 2X points on travel and dining at restaurants worldwide and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal or transferred to airline and hotel partners. The card also offers a sign-up bonus of 100,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, which is worth $1,250 when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- Annual Fee: $95
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Miles can be redeemed for travel purchases or transferred to airline and hotel partners. The card also offers a sign-up bonus of 100,000 miles after you spend $20,000 on purchases in the first 12 months from account opening or still earn 50,000 miles if you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $95
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Read more details here Capital One VentureOne Caredit Card Review
3. American Express® Gold Card
The American Express® Gold Card offers 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery, and 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X). It also offers 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. Points can be redeemed for travel through the American Express® Travel portal or transferred to airline and hotel partners. The card also offers a sign-up bonus of 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases within the first 6 months of account opening.
- Annual Fee: $250
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
4. Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card offers 3X points on travel, including gas stations, air travel, hotels, and restaurants, and 1X points on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel through the ThankYou® Travel Center or transferred to airline and hotel partners. The card also offers a sign-up bonus of 80,000 ThankYou® points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
- Annual Fee: $95
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
5. Discover it® Miles
The Discover it® Miles card offers unlimited 1.5X miles on all purchases, with no annual fee. Miles can be redeemed for travel statement credits, or as cash back. The card also offers a unique feature where Discover will match all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year, with no spending cap.
- Annual Fee: $0
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
6. Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card offers 2X miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, and at U.S. supermarkets, and 1X miles on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed for travel on Delta Air Lines or through Delta Vacations. The card also offers a sign-up bonus of 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months.
- Annual Fee: $99
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
7. Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card
The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card offers 6X points at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, and 2X points on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for free nights at Marriott Bonvoy properties or transferred to airline partners. The card also offers a sign-up bonus of 3 Free Nights (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Annual Fee: $95
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
8. United℠ Explorer Card
The United℠ Explorer Card offers 2X miles on United purchases, at restaurants and eligible delivery services, and hotels, and 1X miles on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed for travel on United Airlines or through Star Alliance partners. The card also offers a sign-up bonus of up to 70,000 miles, including 40,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open, and an additional 25,000 bonus miles after you spend $10,000 in the first 6 months.
- Annual Fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
9. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card offers 2X points on Southwest purchases, and Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partner purchases, and 1X point on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for flights on Southwest Airlines or through the Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards® portal. The card also offers a sign-up bonus of up to 80,000 points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Annual Fee: $69
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Conclusion – Best Rewards Credit Card For Travel
Choosing the best rewards credit card for travel can be a daunting task, but with the right information and understanding of your personal spending habits and travel goals, it can be a rewarding experience. The top rewards credit cards for travel in the USA in 2023 offer a range of benefits, from flexible redemption options to generous sign-up bonuses and points earning potential.
Whether you’re a frequent traveler or a casual adventurer, there is a rewards credit card out there that can help you maximize your rewards and make your travel dreams a reality. By considering factors like annual fees, rewards categories, and redemption options, you can find the best rewards credit card for your needs and start planning your next adventure today.
Don’t forget to read the terms and conditions of each card carefully before applying, and to always use your credit card responsibly. With the right rewards credit card in hand, you can take your travel experiences to the next level and make unforgettable memories along the way.
FAQs on Best Rewards Credit Card For Travel
Q1. How do I know which rewards credit card is right for me?
Ans. To choose the best rewards credit card for your needs, consider factors such as your spending habits, travel goals, and preferred redemption options. Look for cards with rewards categories that match your spending patterns, as well as sign-up bonuses and redemption options that align with your travel plans.
Q2. Are there any downsides to using a rewards credit card for travel?
Ans. While rewards credit cards can be a great way to earn points and miles for travel, they often come with annual fees and high interest rates. Additionally, carrying a balance on your card can negate the value of any rewards you earn. It’s important to use your rewards credit card responsibly and pay off your balance in full each month to maximize your rewards and avoid interest charges.
Q3. Can I use my rewards points to book travel on any airline or hotel?
Ans. This depends on the specific rewards program associated with your credit card. Some programs offer more flexibility in terms of redemption options, while others may require you to book through specific airline or hotel partners. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of your rewards program carefully to understand your options.
Q4. How can I maximize my rewards points for travel?
Ans. To maximize your rewards points for travel, consider using them to book flights or hotel stays during peak travel times or to destinations with high demand. Additionally, look for ways to combine your points with other rewards programs or to earn bonus points through promotions or partnerships.
Q5. Can I earn rewards points for travel purchases made outside of the US?
Ans. This depends on the specific rewards program associated with your credit card. Some programs may offer bonus points for international travel purchases, while others may have foreign transaction fees that negate the value of any rewards you earn. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of your rewards program carefully to understand your options when traveling abroad.