12 Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Your Next Trip Amazon Top Picks

As you plan your next trip, you're likely wondering which travel rewards credit card will give you the most bang for your buck. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Amazon's top picks can help narrow down your search. From the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card's generous 60,000-point bonus to the Capital One Venture Rewards Card's unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, each card offers unique benefits that can elevate your travel experience. But which one is right for you? Let's take a closer look at the top 12 travel rewards credit cards to find out.

At a Glance

• Cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred and Barclays Arrival Plus offer generous sign-up bonuses, with 60,000 and 70,000 points, respectively.
• Cards like Capital One Venture Rewards and Capital One Spark Miles offer unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day.
• Travel insurance and protections are offered by cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred, Barclays Arrival Plus, and Wells Fargo Propel Card.
• Cards like American Express Platinum and Hilton Honors Aspire Card provide access to airport lounges for a more comfortable travel experience.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers one of the most lucrative sign-up incentives among travel rewards credit cards, with an impressive 60,000-point bonus after spending $4,000 in the first three months.

You'll earn 2X points on travel and dining purchases and 1X point on all other purchases, making it an ideal choice for frequent travelers.

As a cardholder, you'll enjoy Sapphire benefits like 25% points bonus when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, and a $0 foreign transaction fee. Additionally, you'll have access to travel insurance, which covers trip cancellations, interruptions, and delays.

This extensive coverage provides you with peace of mind when planning your next adventure.

With a reasonable annual fee of $95, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is an excellent option for those seeking freedom to explore the world while earning valuable rewards.

Capital One Venture Rewards

If you're looking for a travel rewards credit card that offers a more straightforward earning structure, the Capital One Venture Rewards card is a great alternative to the Chase Sapphire Preferred, providing unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day.

With the Venture Rewards card, you'll earn miles that can be redeemed for travel purchases with no blackout dates or restrictions.

Some key benefits to weigh:

Easy redemption: Redeem your miles for travel purchases with no hassle or complicated process.

No foreign transaction fees: Travel abroad without worrying about extra fees.

Capital One benefits: Enjoy exclusive benefits like concierge service, travel insurance, and more.

Flexible redemption options: Use your miles to book travel through Capital One or redeem for statement credits towards past travel purchases.

The Venture Rewards card offers a simple and flexible way to earn and redeem travel rewards. With no rotating categories or spending limits, you can focus on earning miles that can be redeemed for your next adventure.

Barclays Arrival Plus Card

You'll earn 70,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first 90 days with the Barclays Arrival Plus Card, a travel rewards credit card that offers a generous sign-up bonus and valuable ongoing rewards.

This card rewards you with 2X miles on all purchases, and you can redeem those miles for travel purchases with no blackout dates or restrictions.

Plus, you'll get 5% miles back to use toward your next redemption, giving you even more flexibility.

As a cardholder, you'll also enjoy travel insurance, which provides protection against trip cancellations, interruptions, and delays.

Additionally, you'll get access to airport lounges, making your travel experience even more comfortable.

With no foreign transaction fees, you can use your card abroad without worrying about extra charges.

The annual fee is $89, but it's waived for the first year, giving you a chance to try out the card and see the benefits for yourself.

Citi Premier Card Benefits

The Citi Premier Card offers a compelling alternative to the Barclays Arrival Plus Card, boasting a unique set of benefits that cater to travelers who prioritize flexibility and rewards.

You'll appreciate the Citi perks that come with this card, which are designed to make your travels more enjoyable and stress-free.

60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, redeemable for $750 in travel booked through Citi's ThankYou Rewards portal.

3X points on travel, including gas stations, cruises, and travel agencies, giving you more opportunities to earn rewards.

Travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, interruptions, and delays, providing peace of mind when you're on the go.

No foreign transaction fees, making it an ideal choice for international travel.

With the Citi Premier Card, you'll enjoy a range of benefits that cater to your travel style, from flexible rewards redemption to extensive travel insurance.

Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional explorer, this card is an excellent choice for maximizing your travel rewards.

American Express Platinum

With its extensive luxury travel benefits and premium rewards, the American Express Platinum card is a top-tier choice for frequent travelers who demand exceptional service and exclusive perks.

You'll enjoy a $200 airline fee credit, a $100 credit towards Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and a $100 credit towards a Saks Fifth Avenue purchase. Plus, you'll get 5x points on airline flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, and 1x point on all other purchases.

One of the biggest perks of the Amex Platinum is access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide, including Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club, and Priority Pass.

You'll also get complimentary hotel status with Marriott and Hilton, and a $200 Uber credit. With a $695 annual fee, this card is definitely an investment, but if you travel frequently, the luxury perks and rewards can easily justify the cost.

You'll also get travel insurance, trip cancellation insurance, and 24/7 customer support, giving you peace of mind on the go.

Hilton Honors Aspire Card

Earning 14x points on Hilton hotel stays, the Hilton Honors Aspire Card offers a slew of premium benefits and rewards that make it an attractive choice for frequent Hilton guests.

As a cardholder, you'll enjoy a free weekend night stay at any Hilton property, plus a $250 annual resort credit to use on qualifying purchases. You'll also get a $100 property credit on qualifying stays of two nights or more at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts and Conrad Hotels & Resorts.

Priority Pass membership gives you access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide.

Diamond status, Hilton's highest level of membership, comes with perks like room upgrades and late check-out.

No foreign transaction fees make international travel a breeze.

Travel insurance provides protection against trip cancellations, interruptions, and delays.

With the Hilton Honors Aspire Card, you'll be treated to luxury stays and premium benefits that will elevate your travel experience. Whether you're a business traveler or a vacationer, this card offers the freedom to explore the world in style.

Wells Fargo Propel Card

You'll score big with the Wells Fargo Propel Card, which offers an impressive 3x points on dining, 2x points on gas, and 1x point on everything else, with no rotating categories or spending limits.

This card is perfect for those who love to eat out and hit the open road. With no annual fee, you can earn points without breaking the bank.

Plus, you'll get a 20,000-point bonus after spending $1,000 in the first three months.

Wells Fargo features like mobile payment capabilities and credit score access make it easy to manage your account on-the-go.

Propel benefits include travel insurance, roadside assistance, and concierge services, giving you peace of mind when you're exploring new destinations.

You can redeem your points for travel, cash back, or other rewards through the Wells Fargo rewards portal.

With no foreign transaction fees, you can take your Propel Card with you wherever you go.

Bank of America Premium

Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card takes your travel rewards to the next level, offering a 50,000-point bonus after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days and 2x points on travel and dining purchases.

This card is perfect for you if you're looking for premium travel perks and flexible redemption options.

Flexible redemption: Redeem your points for travel, cash back, or other rewards with no blackout dates or restrictions.

Travel insurance: Get trip cancellation, trip interruption, and travel delay insurance to protect your travel plans.

Airport lounge access: Enjoy access to airport lounges with a personalized concierge service.

No foreign transaction fees: Make international purchases without worrying about extra fees.

With the Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card, you'll have the freedom to travel where and when you want, with the perks and protection you need to make the most of your trip.

Plus, with bonus redemption options, you can turn your points into real rewards that fit your travel style.

Discover It Miles Card

With the Discover It Miles Card, you can turn your daily purchases into travel miles, redeemable for statement credits towards travel purchases with no blackout dates or restrictions.

This means you can earn miles on every purchase, big or small, and redeem them for travel expenses without any hassle. Plus, you'll get an unlimited 1.5x miles on every dollar you spend, with no rotating categories or spending limits to worry about.

When it comes to miles redemption, you'll appreciate the flexibility of the Discover It Miles Card. You can redeem your miles for travel purchases made within the last 180 days, with no minimum redemption requirement.

And, with no foreign transaction fees, you can use your card abroad without worrying about extra charges.

As an added perk, the Discover It Miles Card also offers travel insurance, which can provide reimbursement for trip cancellations, interruptions, or delays.

This can give you peace of mind when planning your next adventure. Overall, the Discover It Miles Card is an excellent choice for anyone looking to turn their daily purchases into travel rewards with ease and flexibility.

Capital One Spark Miles

Earning unlimited 2x miles on every dollar spent, the Capital One Spark Miles card offers a straightforward rewards program that's ideal for business owners and frequent travelers who want to rack up miles quickly. With no rotating categories or spending limits, you can earn miles effortlessly. Plus, you'll get a one-time bonus of 50,000 miles when you spend $4,500 in the first three months.

Flexible miles redemption: Redeem your miles for travel purchases with no blackout dates or restrictions.

Annual fee waivers: Get a $0 annual fee for the first year, and then $95 annually.

Travel insurance: Enjoy built-in travel insurance, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

No foreign transaction fees: Make international purchases without worrying about extra fees.

With the Capital One Spark Miles card, you'll have the freedom to earn and redeem miles on your own terms. Whether you're a business owner or a frequent traveler, this card offers a simple and rewarding way to earn miles and enjoy your next trip.

United Explorer Card Perks

As a United Airlines loyalist, you'll appreciate the United Explorer Card's generous perks, which will elevate your travel experience and make your miles go further.

With the card, you'll enjoy priority boarding, allowing you to settle in sooner and get settled before takeoff.

You'll also receive 25% more miles when you redeem for United flights, making your rewards go further.

Plus, you'll have access to exclusive Explorer Benefits, such as a $100 credit towards Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and a statement credit for your first checked bag.

When it comes to upgrades, the United Explorer Card has got you covered.

You'll receive two one-time United Upgrades on award tickets, allowing you to upgrade to a higher class of service.

Additionally, you'll have access to last-seat availability on award flights, giving you more flexibility when booking your travel.

With the United Explorer Card, you'll be able to enjoy the freedom to travel more, and in style.

Gold Delta SkyMiles Card

You'll take your Delta travel to new heights with the Gold Delta SkyMiles Card, which offers a slew of perks designed to make your flying experience more comfortable and rewarding. As a Delta Loyalty member, you'll enjoy priority boarding, dedicated check-in, and security lines, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Travel Upgrades: Enjoy first-class upgrades on domestic flights, giving you more legroom and luxury.

Priority Boarding: Get on the plane sooner with Zone 1 boarding, so you can settle in before takeoff.

Free Checked Bag: Save on baggage fees with your first checked bag free, perfect for longer trips.

Anniversary Bonus: Earn 10,000 bonus miles on your card anniversary, redeemable for award travel or upgrades.

With the Gold Delta SkyMiles Card, you'll experience the freedom to travel on your terms, with perks that make every trip more enjoyable. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, this card is designed to reward your loyalty and upgrade your travel experience.

FAQs

Can I Use Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Non-Flight Travel Expenses?

You can definitely use travel rewards credit cards for non-flight travel expenses, allowing you to enjoy travel flexibility and trip customization, like booking hotels or renting cars, while still earning rewards for your next adventure.

Do Travel Rewards Credit Cards Have Foreign Transaction Fees?

When you travel abroad, you'll encounter foreign transaction fees with some credit cards, but many travel rewards cards waive these fees, saving you money on currency conversion and border crossing transactions.

Can I Transfer Points to Airline or Hotel Loyalty Programs?

You can transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs through transfer partnerships, but point valuation varies, so you'll need to research which programs offer the best redemption rates for your travel goals.

Are Travel Rewards Credit Cards Only for Frequent Travelers?

You don't have to be a frequent traveler to benefit from travel rewards credit cards; they're suitable for anyone who can meet credit score requirements and analyze their travel habits to maximize rewards.

Do Travel Rewards Credit Cards Offer Travel Insurance Benefits?

You'll be relieved to know that many travel rewards credit cards offer travel insurance benefits, covering trip cancellations and travel accidents, providing you with financial protection and peace of mind on your journey.