The best travel rewards credit cards in 2024
Maximize your miles
Story by Gregory P. Thomas
When it comes to choosing the best travel rewards credit cards, travelers are looking for ways to earn free flights, hotel stays and other travel perks more efficiently. The best travel rewards credit cards not only offer great earning potential but also provide additional benefits that can enhance your travel experience. Here’s a rundown of the top travel rewards credit cards available in 2024, considering their earning rates, benefits and overall value.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
This card stands out as a favorite among travel rewards credit cards. It offers an impressive return on both travel and dining expenditures, providing substantial value that justifies its $95 annual fee with ease. Cardholders benefit from the flexibility of redeeming points for travel through Chase at a rate of 1.25 cents each, enhancing the purchasing power of their rewards. Additionally, the option to transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 airline and hotel partners further amplifies the card’s utility, allowing for even greater versatility and potential savings in travel planning.
The Platinum Card from American Express
If you seek luxury travel perks, this card is unparalleled. It provides a lavish suite of benefits, including extensive annual credits, unmatched access to airport lounges worldwide and elite status with Hilton and Marriott. Additionally, it offers robust shopping protections, among numerous other advantages. Although the card carries a substantial annual fee ($695), the wealth of premium perks it offers can significantly outweigh the cost for frequent travelers who maximize its potential.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
This card epitomizes simplicity and robust rewards, making it an excellent option for most travelers. It offers a straightforward rewards structure: earn 2x miles on every purchase, without the need to track specific bonus categories. This makes it the perfect choice for those who prefer a hassle-free approach to earning travel rewards, particularly suitable for busy individuals. The annual fee is $95.
Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card
Ideal for dedicated Southwest Airlines customers, this card goes beyond merely increasing your rewards balance. It significantly enhances your flying experience with the airline. Cardholders enjoy benefits like annual travel credits, upgraded boarding options and bonus points on their cardmember anniversary, which can translate into faster earning of reward flights. The annual fee is $149.
Citi Premier Card
This card is a standout option in the travel-card market with a broad network of travel partners and consistent earning rates across multiple categories. With the same number of points accrued for spending at gas stations, restaurants, supermarkets, airlines and hotels, it’s an excellent choice for beginner travel cardholders seeking a straightforward points system. This card simplifies rewards accumulation without sacrificing the potential for valuable travel experiences. The annual fee is $95.
