Best Credit Cards For Travel Rewards In the USA

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has long been a favorite among U.S. travelers for its generous rewards and flexible redemption options. Cardholders earn 2X points on travel and dining at restaurants, and 1X points on all other purchases. What sets this card apart is its valuable sign-up bonus; new users can often earn 60,000 to 80,000 bonus points after spending a minimum amount in the first few months. These points can be transferred to a variety of travel partners or redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards® for increased value.The card also includes trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, baggage delay insurance, and purchase protection. With a modest annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, it strikes the perfect balance between value and benefits.Pros:High-value sign-up bonus.Flexible point transfer to travel partners.Comprehensive travel protections.Excellent dining and travel rewards rate.

The Platinum Card from American Express is a premium option designed for travelers who want top-tier benefits. It offers 5X Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, as well as on prepaid hotels. The card’s annual fee is higher than most, but it’s packed with premium features, including airport lounge access through the Global Lounge Collection, up to $200 in airline fee credits, and hotel elite status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors.Cardholders also benefit from Clear Plus and Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credits, making airport navigation faster and more efficient. The Amex Platinum is a luxury traveler's dream, providing incredible value for those who maximize its benefits.Pros:Unmatched airport lounge access.Generous airline and hotel credits.High point earnings on flights and hotels.Premium concierge services and elite status benefits.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a straightforward, flexible travel rewards option ideal for people who want to keep things simple. You earn 2X miles on every purchase, every day, no categories to memorize or rotate. New cardholders can earn a substantial sign-up bonus that can be used to erase travel-related purchases or transferred to Capital One’s list of travel partners.There’s no foreign transaction fee, and the annual fee is reasonable, especially considering the card includes perks like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit. It’s a great card for people who travel frequently and want a hassle-free way to earn and redeem points.Pros:Simple, flat-rate rewards structure.Easy redemption for travel purchases.Transferable miles to airline partners.TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit.

The Citi Premier® Card offers 3X points on a wide range of categories, including air travel, hotels, gas stations, restaurants, and supermarkets. This makes it an excellent choice for travelers who spend broadly across various categories. Points can be transferred to multiple airline loyalty programs, providing strong flexibility for booking travel.New applicants can earn a large sign-up bonus, and there’s no foreign transaction fee, making it travel-friendly. The annual fee is competitive for the benefits you receive, and with the option to book flights through the ThankYou rewards portal or transfer points, users have multiple ways to maximize their rewards.Pros:Broad 3X rewards categories.Strong airline transfer partners.Solid sign-up bonus offer.No foreign transaction fees.

The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card is gaining popularity thanks to its unique mix of rewards and features. It earns 4X points on travel and at gas stations, 2X on dining and streaming services, and 1X on everything else. With an annual fee that’s waived the first year and no foreign transaction fees, it’s a good mid-tier option.Other benefits include up to $100 in credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, access to rental car insurance, and travel protections. It also includes an annual streaming credit and special mobile wallet bonuses for users who pay with digital wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay.Pros:4X rewards on travel and gas.Streaming service credits.TSA PreCheck/Global Entry reimbursement.No foreign transaction fees.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card is an ideal choice for travelers who want a simple, no-annual-fee card that earns solid rewards. You earn unlimited 1.5 points for every dollar spent on all purchases, with no rotating categories or enrollment required. For those who want to earn more for their travels, new cardholders can earn 25,000 online bonus points after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days.This card also offers 0% intro APR on purchases for the first 12 billing cycles, making it easier to pay off larger expenses over time. Best of all, there are no foreign transaction fees, so it’s perfect for international travel.Pros:No annual fee.Simple 1.5X points on all purchases.0% intro APR for the first 12 months.No foreign transaction fees.

The American Express Gold Card is a popular option for foodies and frequent travelers who dine out often. Cardholders earn 3X points on restaurants, including takeout and delivery in the U.S., 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, and 1X point on all other purchases.With a $250 annual fee, the card provides valuable perks like a $120 dining credit (spread across participating restaurants) and a large welcome bonus for new cardholders. Additionally, it offers 0% foreign transaction fees, so it’s a great choice for those who love to travel and indulge in unique culinary experiences.Pros:3X points on dining and travel.$120 dining credit.Flexible reward options.No foreign transaction fees.

For those who are looking for a premium credit card with more advanced perks, the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card stands out. It earns 3X points on travel and dining, with an impressive 50% more value when points are redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus points after meeting a minimum spend, enough for a trip to Europe or Asia.The card also comes with a $300 annual travel credit, access to Priority Pass lounges, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement, and comprehensive travel insurance. With its higher annual fee, it provides top-tier benefits for those who travel often and want a more luxurious travel experience.Pros:3X points on travel and dining.$300 annual travel credit.Comprehensive travel insurance.Access to Priority Pass lounges.