List of Best Travel Credit Card for People Who Love to Travel

A travel credit card is a special kind of credit card made for people who travel a lot. It gives you rewards or points when you use it to buy things. You can use these rewards to pay for your trips, like flights and hotels.

These cards often have good deals, like free access to airport lounges, no extra fees when you buy things in other countries, and help if something goes wrong while you’re traveling.

But you usually have to pay a fee each year for these benefits, and you need to have a good credit score to get one.

List of Travel Credit Cards

Card Name	Issuer	Location
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card	Chase	United States
Chase Sapphire Reserve	Chase	United States
American Express Platinum Card	American Express	United States
American Express Gold Card	American Express	United States
Citi Premier Card	Citibank	United States
Capital One Venture Rewards Card	Capital One	United States
Bank of America Travel Rewards Card	Bank of America	United States
Wells Fargo Propel American Express	Wells Fargo	United States
Discover it Miles	Discover	United States
United Explorer Card	United Airlines (Chase)	United States
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express	Delta Air Lines (American Express)	United States
Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus Card	Southwest Airlines (Chase)	United States
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card	Marriott (Chase)	United States
Hilton Honors American Express Card	Hilton (American Express)	United States
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Card	Alaska Airlines (Bank of America)	United States
HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Card	HDFC Bank	India
Standard Chartered Visa Infinite Card	Standard Chartered Bank	India
Citibank PremierMiles Credit Card	Citibank	India
Axis Bank Miles & More World Card	Axis Bank	India
SBI Card ELITE	State Bank of India (SBI)	India
ICICI Bank Sapphiro Card	ICICI Bank	India
IndusInd Bank Legend Card	IndusInd Bank	India
Kotak Mahindra Bank Privy League Card	Kotak Mahindra Bank	India
HDFC Regalia Card	HDFC Bank	India
YES FIRST Preferred Card	YES Bank	India

Types of Travel Credit Card

There are several types of travel credit cards, each with its own features and benefits tailored to different types of travelers and spending habits. Here are some common types:

Airline Credit Cards: These cards are affiliated with specific airlines and offer rewards, perks, and miles that can be redeemed for flights, seat upgrades, and other airline-related expenses. They often provide benefits like priority boarding, free checked bags, and airport lounge access.

Hotel Credit Cards: Hotel credit cards are associated with hotel chains and offer rewards, points, or free nights for stays at their partner hotels. Cardholders can also receive perks like room upgrades, late check-out, and complimentary breakfast.

General Travel Rewards Cards: These cards offer flexible travel rewards that can be used for various travel expenses, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. They are not tied to a specific airline or hotel chain, providing versatility in travel options.

Co-Branded Credit Cards: Co-branded travel credit cards are issued in partnership with both a credit card company and a specific travel brand, such as an airline or hotel chain. Cardholders earn rewards and benefits tied to that particular brand.

Premium Travel Credit Cards: Premium cards offer enhanced travel benefits, such as access to luxury airport lounges, travel credits for expenses like baggage fees and TSA PreCheck/Global Entry, and higher earning rates on travel spending. They often come with higher annual fees.

No-Foreign-Transaction-Fee Cards: These cards are suitable for international travelers because they do not charge extra fees when making purchases in foreign currencies. This can save money when traveling abroad.

Travel Cashback Cards: While not solely focused on travel rewards, these cards offer cashback rewards on various purchases, including travel expenses. Cardholders can use the cashback to offset travel costs.

Business Travel Cards: Designed for business travelers, these cards provide rewards and benefits tailored to business-related expenses, such as travel, dining, and office supplies. They may also offer expense management tools for businesses.

Student Travel Cards: These cards are designed for students and young adults who want to earn rewards while building their credit. They often have no annual fees and may offer rewards on everyday spending.

Secured Travel Cards: Secured travel credit cards are ideal for individuals with limited or damaged credit histories. They require a security deposit as collateral but still offer travel rewards and the opportunity to rebuild credit.

best travel credit card in United States

Best travel credit card can depend on various factors, including your individual spending habits, travel preferences, and financial goals.

Different banks and credit card issuers offer a range of travel credit cards, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are some well-regarded banks and credit card issuers known for offering competitive travel credit cards:

Chase Bank (United States):

• Chase Sapphire Reserve: Offers generous travel rewards, airport lounge access, and a flexible redemption program.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred: Provides valuable travel rewards and benefits at a lower annual fee than the Reserve card.

American Express (Various Countries):

• American Express Platinum Card: Known for its premium travel benefits, including airport lounge access and travel credits.
• American Express Gold Card: Offers rewards on dining and travel, along with valuable statement credits.

Citi (United States):

• Citi Premier® Card: Provides rewards on travel, dining, and entertainment, along with a valuable points transfer program.

Capital One (United States):

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Offers straightforward miles earning and flexible redemption options for travel expenses.

HSBC (Various Countries):

• HSBC Premier World Mastercard: Comes with travel benefits such as airport lounge access and rewards for international spending.

Barclays (United States):

• Barclays Arrival® Premier World Elite Mastercard®: Provides travel rewards and a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit.

Bank of America (United States):

• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card: Offers travel rewards with no annual fee and flexible redemption options.

best travel credit card in India and Annual Fee

1. Club Vistara IDFC FIRST Credit Card:
   • Issuing Bank: IDFC FIRST Bank
   • This co-branded credit card offers exclusive benefits with Vistara Airlines. Cardholders can enjoy complimentary tickets and lounge access. The annual fee is Rs. 4,999.
2. Axis Atlas Credit Card:
   • Issuing Bank: Axis Bank
   • The Axis Atlas Credit Card is ideal for travelers who want to book flights and hotels using reward points. It comes with an annual fee of Rs. 5,000.
3. Axis Bank Vistara Signature:
   • Issuing Bank: Axis Bank
   • This card is also co-branded with Vistara Airlines, offering benefits like complimentary tickets and lounge access. The annual fee for this card is Rs. 3,000.
4. Air India SBI Signature:
   • Issuing Bank: State Bank of India (SBI)
   • Co-branded with Air India, this card provides benefits such as free tickets and access to premium lounges. The annual fee is Rs. 4,999.
5. Intermiles HDFC Signature:
   • Issuing Bank: HDFC Bank
   • With a focus on earning bonus miles, this card is great for frequent flyers. It comes with an annual fee of Rs. 2,500.
6. Kotak IndiGo XL Credit Card:
   • Issuing Bank: Kotak Mahindra Bank
   • Co-branded with IndiGo Airlines, this card offers benefits like complimentary flights and discounts. The annual fee is Rs. 2,500.
7. Standard Chartered EaseMyTrip:
   • Issuing Bank: Standard Chartered Bank
   • This card partners with EaseMyTrip for travel benefits. It has a lower annual fee of Rs. 350, making it accessible to many travelers.
8. Yatra SBI Card:
   • Issuing Bank: State Bank of India (SBI)
   • Co-branded with Yatra.com, this card provides discounts and rewards for travel bookings. The annual fee is Rs. 499.
9. MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Signature:
   • Issuing Bank: ICICI Bank
   • This card is co-branded with MakeMyTrip and has no annual fee, making it a cost-effective choice for travelers.
10. IRCTC SBI Card Premier:
    • Issuing Bank: State Bank of India (SBI)
    • Focused on railway bookings, this card offers rewards for train travel. The annual fee is Rs. 1,499.

Each of these credit cards has its unique features and benefits, catering to different travel preferences and budgets. When choosing a travel credit card, consider your travel habits and financial goals to find the one that suits you best.

Travel credit card benefits

Travel credit cards are like special cards that can help you when you go on trips. They give you rewards like points or miles when you use them to pay for things. These rewards can be used to get free flights or hotel stays. Some of these cards also give you gifts when you first get them and use them a lot in the beginning.

These cards also come with useful things like travel insurance. This helps you if something goes wrong on your trip, like if your luggage gets lost or you need medical help. Some travel cards even let you relax in fancy airport lounges for free.

When you travel to other countries, these cards don’t charge you extra fees for using them. That’s handy because you don’t lose money when you pay in a different currency.

And there are more benefits, like discounts on travel bookings and protections for things you buy with the card. So, having a travel credit card can make your trips more fun and less expensive.

How to Maximize travel rewards points?

Maximizing travel rewards points can help you get the most value out of your credit card and make your travels more affordable. Here are some tips on how to do it:

Start by selecting a travel credit card that aligns with your travel habits and spending. Look for cards that offer generous rewards for the types of expenses you typically incur, whether it’s flights, hotels, dining, or general spending.

Many travel credit cards offer substantial welcome bonuses if you spend a certain amount within the first few months of card ownership. To maximize points, make sure you meet these spending requirements.

Whenever possible, use your travel credit card for everyday purchases. This includes groceries, dining, entertainment, and other expenses. The more you use your card, the more rewards points you’ll accumulate.

Some travel cards offer bonus points for specific spending categories. Be aware of these categories and use your card for eligible purchases to earn extra points. For example, you might get extra points for dining at restaurants or booking flights.

Many travel credit cards have online shopping portals that allow you to earn additional points when you shop with their partner retailers. Always check if the retailer you plan to use is part of the program.

If possible, use your credit card to pay for monthly bills and recurring expenses like utilities, insurance, and subscriptions. Be cautious about any convenience fees that may apply.

When you redeem your points, aim for maximum value. This often means using points for high-value expenses like flights and hotel stays. Look for opportunities to transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs for better redemption rates.

Credit card issuers frequently offer promotions and limited-time offers. Keep an eye on these promotions, as they can provide opportunities to earn extra points or receive statement credits.

If you have multiple credit cards that earn points or miles, consider combining them strategically to maximize your rewards. This can allow you to earn points faster and access a wider range of redemption options.

To make the most of your rewards, pay off your credit card balance in full each month. Carrying a balance may result in interest charges that offset the value of your rewards.

Join airline and hotel loyalty programs to take advantage of elite status benefits, which can include bonus points, complimentary upgrades, and other perks.

Regularly check your credit card account for any special offers or changes in rewards categories. Staying informed can help you maximize your points.

By following these tips and staying mindful of your spending and redemption options, you can effectively maximize your travel rewards points and make your next adventure more affordable and enjoyable.

Which credit card has the best airline partnership for earning miles?

The credit card with the best airline partnership for earning miles can vary depending on your specific travel preferences and needs. Different credit cards are affiliated with various airlines, and the best choice for you will depend on factors such as your preferred airline, travel habits, and spending patterns.

Here are a few popular credit cards known for strong airline partnerships and earning miles:

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred: While not directly tied to a specific airline, this card allows you to transfer points to several airline partners, including United, Southwest, and British Airways, among others. It offers flexibility in earning and redeeming miles.
2. American Express Platinum Card: This premium card offers Membership Rewards points, which can be transferred to various airline partners like Delta, British Airways, and Emirates. It also provides airport lounge access and other travel perks.
3. Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard: Co-branded with American Airlines, this card is ideal for those who frequently fly with American Airlines or its partners. It offers benefits like priority boarding and a free checked bag.
4. United Explorer Card: Co-branded with United Airlines, this card provides opportunities to earn MileagePlus miles and offers perks like free checked bags and priority boarding for United flights.
5. Delta SkyMiles Credit Cards: American Express offers a range of Delta co-branded credit cards that allow you to earn SkyMiles for Delta Air Lines. These cards often come with benefits like priority boarding and in-flight discounts.
6. Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Cards: Chase offers co-branded cards with Southwest Airlines, allowing cardholders to earn Rapid Rewards points. These points can be used for Southwest flights, and the cards often come with a Companion Pass offer.
7. Alaska Airlines Visa Signature Credit Card: Co-branded with Alaska Airlines, this card offers miles that can be used for Alaska Airlines flights as well as its partner airlines, including American Airlines and British Airways.

Travel Rewards Credit Card

Travel rewards credit cards offer a range of benefits that can make your travel experiences more enjoyable and cost-effective. These cards often come with travel insurance benefits, including coverage for trip cancellations, lost luggage, rental car damage, and medical emergencies during travel.

Additionally, many travel rewards credit cards have partnerships with specific airlines or hotel chains, providing cardholders with benefits like priority boarding, complimentary upgrades, and access to exclusive lounges. To qualify for these cards, a good to excellent credit score, typically around 700 or higher, is usually required.

When comparing different travel rewards credit card options, consider factors such as the rewards structure, annual fees, signup bonuses, foreign transaction fees, and other benefits.

To use a travel rewards credit card responsibly, it’s essential to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges and keep track of your spending.

You can often use your travel rewards to book vacations, cruises, and other travel experiences. Eligibility criteria for applying for a travel rewards credit card may include meeting minimum income requirements and providing personal identification, social security number, and details about your existing credit cards and debts.

Frequent travelers can also enjoy additional benefits with these cards, such as elite status and airport lounge access. Top-rated travel rewards credit cards often include options like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, American Express Platinum Card, and HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Credit Card (in India).

To apply for a travel rewards credit card, visit the card issuer’s website and provide the required documents and information as specified in the application process.

How to Apply for travel rewards credit card?

Start by researching and comparing different travel rewards credit cards. Consider factors such as the airlines or hotel chains they are affiliated with, the rewards they offer, annual fees, and any special benefits or promotions.

Review the card’s eligibility requirements, including minimum income criteria and credit score requirements. Ensure you meet these criteria before applying.

you’ll need personal and financial information to complete the application. Prepare the following documents and details:

• Personal identification (passport, driver’s license, or ID)
• Social Security Number (or equivalent if not in the U.S.)
• Employment and income information
• Information about existing credit cards and debts

You can typically apply for a travel rewards credit card online through the issuer’s website. Alternatively, you can apply in-person at a bank branch if the card is offered by your bank.

Fill out the credit card application form accurately and honestly. Double-check all information to avoid errors. If applying online, submit the application electronically. If applying in-person, hand the completed application to a bank representative.

After you submit your application, the credit card issuer will review your information. This process may take a few minutes if applying online or a few days if applying in-person. Some issuers provide instant approval or denial online.

If approved, you will receive your travel rewards credit card in the mail within a few business days to a couple of weeks.

Once you receive the card, activate it as instructed by the issuer. Typically, this involves calling a phone number or visiting a website.

Use your new travel rewards credit card for purchases to start earning rewards. Follow any spending requirements to qualify for the initial welcome bonus if applicable.