Whether you’re planning a big international trip or a quick weekend getaway, the right credit card can save you serious money. From generous welcome offers to travel credits and lounge access, these three travel cards offer a mix of luxury, flexibility, and value.
1. The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for premium travel perks
If you’re looking for luxury benefits and travel perks, you won’t beat the Amex Platinum Card.
Though it carries a $695 annual fee (see rates and fees), you’ll earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, 5X on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, and 1X points on other purchases. Terms apply.
You’ll also get more than $1,300 in annual statement credits, including:
- A $240 digital entertainment credit (includes platforms like Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Peacock, and The New York Times)
- A $200 airline fee credit
- Up to $200 back when you book a prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection stay through Amex Travel
- $200 in Uber Cash
- Up to $199 in statement credits for CLEAR Plus
- A Walmart+ credit of up to $12.95 each month
- A $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit
- Terms apply; enrollment may be required
Another valuable benefit, though one that’s harder to assign an exact dollar figure to, is access to over 1,400 airport lounges globally, including The Centurion® Lounge. Terms apply. Spending your time in an airport lounge before takeoff can set the whole mood for your travel experience.
Ready to start traveling like a pro? Apply for the Amex Platinum Card now. You could earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new card in your first 6 months of card membership. Terms apply.
2. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for flexible travel rewards
When it comes to travel credit cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) is one of the reigning champs. For just a $95 annual fee, you’ll earn:
- 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
- 3X points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries
- 2X points on all other travel
- 1X points on other purchases
It also includes solid travel perks like trip cancellation insurance and primary rental car coverage — rare for a card with such a low annual fee.
Apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card now and, upon approval, you can get 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
3. Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card: Best for no annual fee
Finally, if you want simple rewards without worrying about bonus categories or an annual fee, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card gets the job done. You’ll earn:
- 3 points per $1 spent on travel purchases booked through the Bank of America Travel Center
- 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases
While its perks and earning rates aren’t as impressive as some other travel cards, you won’t have to worry about justifying an annual fee — just swipe to start earning easy rewards.
Apply for the Bank of America Travel Rewards today and, upon approval, get 25,000 points after you make $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Final thoughts
Each of these cards brings something different to the table:
- Get the Amex Platinum Card if you want a high-end travel experience and can use the perks.
- Go with the Chase Sapphire Preferred if you want flexible points and strong travel rewards for a modest fee.
- Pick the Bank of America Travel Rewards if you want a $0 annual fee and simple, flexible redemptions.
No matter which one fits your style, the right credit card can help you save hundreds of dollars on your next big trip. Check out our full list of the best travel credit cards today to find the one for you.
