Travel rewards credit cards are a game-changer for frequent travelers and those who want to make the most out of their everyday spending. In 2024, credit card companies are offering more competitive rewards, perks, and sign-up bonuses than ever before. Whether you’re looking to earn free flights, hotel stays, or exclusive travel benefits, the right card can help you maximize your value. In this post, we review the top 5 credit cards for travel rewards in 2024, focusing on their features, rewards rates, and why they might be the best fit for your travel goals.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has long been a favorite among travelers, and it remains one of the best choices in 2024. With a strong blend of rewards flexibility, generous sign-up bonuses, and valuable point transfers, it’s a go-to card for both casual and frequent travelers.
Key Benefits:
Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first three months. That’s equivalent to $1,000 toward travel when redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal.
Rewards Rate: 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, and 2x on other travel purchases.
Point Transfers: Transfer points at a 1:1 ratio to 14 travel partners, including airlines like United and Southwest, and hotel chains like Marriott and Hyatt.
Annual Fee: $95.
Why It’s Great for Travel Rewards: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® offers excellent value for its low annual fee. With versatile point transfers and enhanced earnings on travel and dining, it’s a top choice for those looking to stretch their points for maximum travel rewards.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
For those seeking simplicity and straightforward rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a strong contender. It offers flat-rate rewards on all purchases and flexible redemption options that cater to a wide range of travelers.
Key Benefits:
Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months, equivalent to $750 in travel.
Rewards Rate: 2x miles on every purchase, every day. Plus, earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
Flexible Redemption: Redeem miles for travel purchases or transfer them to over 15 travel loyalty programs.
Annual Fee: $95.
Why It’s Great for Travel Rewards: The flat-rate rewards structure makes the Capital One Venture card ideal for those who want to earn miles without worrying about bonus categories. The ability to transfer miles to airline and hotel partners adds flexibility for savvy travelers looking to maximize value.
3. The Platinum Card® from American Express
For luxury travelers, the Platinum Card® from American Express delivers unmatched premium benefits and travel perks. While it comes with a steep annual fee, the extensive benefits can far outweigh the cost if you frequently travel in style.
Key Benefits:
Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 in the first six months.
Rewards Rate: 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel (up to $500,000 annually), and 5x on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel.
Travel Perks: Complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, up to $200 in annual airline fee credits, $200 in Uber Cash annually, and up to $240 in digital entertainment credits.
Annual Fee: $695.
Why It’s Great for Travel Rewards: The Platinum Card® is all about luxury and convenience. The extensive lounge access, generous travel credits, and high rewards rate on travel make it perfect for frequent travelers who value comfort and exclusive perks.
4. Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card is a versatile option that offers high rewards rates on popular spending categories like travel, dining, and groceries. With the ability to transfer points to airline partners, it’s a solid card for those looking to maximize their points for airfare.
Key Benefits:
Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 ThankYou® points after spending $4,000 in the first three months, worth $600 in travel.
Rewards Rate: 3x points on air travel, hotels, dining, supermarkets, and gas stations, and 1x on all other purchases.
Point Transfers: Transfer points to over 15 airline partners, including JetBlue, Virgin Atlantic, and Turkish Airlines.
Annual Fee: $95.
Why It’s Great for Travel Rewards: The Citi Premier® Card stands out for its generous rewards in everyday spending categories and valuable point transfers. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a single card that offers consistent rewards on both travel and daily expenses.
5. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
If you frequently stay at Hilton properties, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card offers fantastic value with accelerated points earning and exclusive hotel perks. It’s a must-have for loyal Hilton guests looking to boost their rewards and enjoy elite benefits.
Key Benefits:
Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors points after spending $3,000 in the first three months.
Rewards Rate: 12x points at Hilton hotels, 6x at U.S. restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations, and 3x on all other purchases.
Elite Status: Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status, which includes perks like free breakfast and room upgrades.
Annual Fee: $95.
Why It’s Great for Travel Rewards: The Hilton Honors Surpass® Card is packed with value for frequent Hilton travelers. The high rewards rate on Hilton stays, combined with elite status benefits, make it easy to rack up points quickly and enjoy added perks during your stays.
How to Choose the Best Travel Rewards Card for You
When selecting a travel rewards credit card, consider your travel habits, spending patterns, and preferred redemption options. Here are a few tips to guide your decision:
Evaluate Sign-Up Bonuses: If you’re planning a big trip, a card with a substantial sign-up bonus can provide a quick boost to your rewards balance.
Consider Point Transfer Options: Cards with flexible point transfers to travel partners offer more ways to maximize your rewards, especially if you’re strategic about booking flights and hotels.
Look at Annual Fees vs. Benefits: High annual fees can be worth it if you make use of the travel credits, lounge access, and other perks. Make sure the benefits align with your travel style.
Analyze Your Spending Habits: Choose a card that offers bonus rewards in categories where you spend the most, such as travel, dining, or groceries.
Final Thoughts
The best travel rewards credit card for you ultimately depends on your personal travel goals and spending habits. Whether you’re a luxury traveler, a frequent flyer, or someone who wants to earn simple, straightforward rewards, the cards in this list offer great options for 2024. From lucrative sign-up bonuses to flexible redemption options, each of these cards can help you maximize your travel rewards and make every trip more enjoyable.
Before applying for any card, be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions, including interest rates, fees, and any limitations on rewards. With the right card in your wallet, you’ll be on your way to earning more points, miles, and perks for your travels throughout 2024 and beyond. Happy traveling!
