Best Travel Credit Cards of December 2024
Planning your next big adventure? Whether you're jet-setting to the Maldives or hopping a quick flight for a weekend getaway, the right travel credit card can make all the difference. Not only can you rack up points and rewards, but the perks – like airport lounge access and waived baggage fees – can make travel smoother and way more enjoyable.
But which card should you pack in your wallet? We’ve scouted out some of the best travel credit cards for 2024, so you can focus on packing your bags while your card handles the rest.
8 Best travel credit cards
1. Best for luxury travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
2. Best for budget travelers: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
3. Best for flexible points: American Express® Gold Card
4. Best for hotel stays: Hilton Honors American Express Card
5. Best for no annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
6. Best for airline miles: Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
7. Best for business travelers: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
8. Best for international travel: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
How do travel credit cards work?
How to choose a travel credit card: 5 factors to consider
1. Rewards
2. Annual fee
3. Foreign transaction fees
4. Sign-up bonus
5. Travel benefits
How to compare travel credit cards
1. Assess your spending needs and financial goals
2. Utilize comparison tools
3. Scrutinize the fine print
4. Align with your lifestyle
Should I get a travel credit card?
You should get a travel credit card if:
- Earn rewards: Travel credit cards often offer rewards like points or miles that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or other travel expenses. This can significantly reduce the cost of your trips.
- Enjoy travel benefits: Many travel credit cards come with perks such as airport lounge access, priority boarding, and travel insurance. These benefits can enhance your travel experience and provide peace of mind.
- Build credit: Responsible use of a travel credit card can help improve your credit score, which can help open doors to better financial opportunities in the future.
You shouldn’t get a travel credit card if:
- Annual fees: Some travel credit cards have high annual fees. If you don't use the card frequently or don't take advantage of the benefits, the annual fee may not be worth it.
- High interest rates: If you carry a balance on your travel credit card, you'll be charged interest. High interest rates can quickly accumulate, making it difficult to pay off your debt.
- Risk of overspending: Travel credit cards can make it easier to spend money, especially when you're not paying cash upfront. It's important to be mindful of your spending and avoid overextending yourself.
Elevate your travel game
You've got questions. We have answers.
What is the best travel credit card?
The best travel credit card depends on your preferences, but the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card are top choices for many travelers.
What credit cards offer travel insurance?
Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, American Express® Gold Card, and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card can include travel insurance.
What is the world's most prestigious travel credit card?
The Centurion® Card from American Express, also known as the Amex Black Card, is often regarded as the most prestigious travel credit card globally.
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