Discover the Best Travel Credit Cards for 2024
Travel rewards credit cards with no foreign transaction fees are perfect for your travel needs. Check out the card offers from our partners below and start earning points or miles for your next international trip!
What to Look for in a Travel Credit Card
Before diving into the top travel credit cards of 2024, it's essential to understand what features make a travel credit card valuable:
- Rewards program: Look for cards that offer generous rewards on travel-related purchases such as flights, hotels and dining.
- Sign-up bonus: Many travel credit cards offer a substantial sign-up bonus if you spend a certain amount within the first few months.
- No foreign transaction fees: Avoid extra charges on purchases made outside your home country.
- Travel perks: These can include access to airport lounges, travel insurance and statement credits for travel-related expenses.
- Annual fee: Some of the best travel credit cards come with an annual fee, but the benefits often outweigh the cost.
Top Travel Credit Cards for 2024
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Key Features
- Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards: 2x points on travel and dining, 1x points on all other purchases.
- Annual fee: $95.
- Travel perks: No foreign transaction fees, 25% more value when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a favorite among travelers for its flexible points system and valuable sign-up bonus. The points can be transferred to numerous airline and hotel loyalty programs, making it versatile for various travel plans.
2. American Express® Gold Card
Key Features
- Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $4,000 in the first six months.
- Rewards: 4x points at restaurants, including takeout and delivery, 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com and 1x points on other purchases.
- Annual fee: $250.
- Travel perks: $120 annual dining credit, $100 airline fee credit, no foreign transaction fees.
The American Express® Gold Card is ideal for foodies and frequent travelers. With high reward rates on dining and flights, plus substantial annual credits, it offers excellent value for those who can maximize its benefits.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Key Features
- Sign-up bonus: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards: 2x miles on every purchase.
- Annual fee: $95.
- Travel perks: Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, no foreign transaction fees.
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is straightforward and lucrative, offering unlimited 2x miles on all purchases. Its simplicity and robust rewards system make it a top choice for travelers who want a hassle-free rewards experience.
4. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Key Features
- Sign-up bonus: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 in the first six months.
- Rewards: 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel.
- Annual fee: $695.
- Travel perks: Access to Centurion Lounges and other global airport lounges, $200 airline fee credit, $200 Uber credit, no foreign transaction fees.
For those who prioritize luxury and exclusive perks, The Platinum Card® from American Express is unmatched. Its extensive list of benefits, including access to premier airport lounges and significant travel credits, justifies its high annual fee.
5. Citi Premier® Card
Key Features
- Sign-up bonus: Earn 80,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards: 3x points on air travel, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and gas stations, 1x points on all other purchases.
- Annual fee: $95.
- Travel perks: No foreign transaction fees, points can be transferred to various airline loyalty programs.
The Citi Premier® Card offers high rewards in several everyday spending categories, making it a well-rounded choice for travelers. Its points transfer capability adds flexibility for redeeming travel rewards.
Choosing the Right Card for You
Selecting the best travel credit card depends on your individual travel habits and financial goals. Here are some considerations to help you choose:
- Frequent flyers: If you often travel by air, a card with high rewards on flights and access to airport lounges, like The Platinum Card® from American Express, might be the best fit.
- Dining enthusiasts: If dining out is a significant part of your lifestyle, the American Express® Gold Card offers excellent rewards on restaurants and dining experiences.
- Simple rewards: For those who prefer straightforward earning and redemption, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card provides a consistent 2x miles on every purchase.
- Flexibility: If you want flexible points that can be transferred to various travel partners, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Citi Premier® Card are strong contenders.
Maximizing Your Travel Rewards
Once you’ve chosen a travel credit card, here are some tips to maximize your rewards:
Meet the Sign-Up Bonus Requirement
Plan your spending to ensure you meet the minimum spending requirement to earn the sign-up bonus.
Use the Card for Everyday Purchases
Put as many of your regular expenses on the card as possible to earn more points or miles.
Take Advantage of Perks
Utilize the card's travel perks, such as airport lounge access, travel credits and fee waivers, to get the most value.
Redeem Points Wisely
Research the best ways to redeem your points or miles for maximum value, whether through direct travel bookings, point transfers or special offers.
Travel Smart
The best travel credit cards of 2024 offer a range of benefits that can significantly enhance your travel experience. From earning generous rewards to enjoying exclusive travel perks, these cards are designed to make your journeys more rewarding and enjoyable. By understanding your travel needs and choosing the right card, you can maximize your rewards and make the most of your adventures in the year ahead.
Read on to learn about some of the best easy-approval credit cards.