Travel credit cards can be a game-changer if you want to earn rewards, unlock perks, and save money on your next trip. But let’s face it — $400-plus annual fees can be downright painful. The good news is you don’t need to spend hundreds to get serious value.
These three travel cards all cost less than $100 per year and come loaded with benefits. Whether you’re a casual traveler or a points optimizer, there’s a low-fee card here that can help you travel smarter.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card — Annual fee: $95
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) continues to be one of the most recommended travel credit cards under $100 a year — and right now, it’s offering one of its best-ever welcome bonuses.
Limited-time bonus: New cardholders can earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months. That’s worth up to $1,250 in Chase Travel℠ value when redeemed through the Chase portal.
Why it’s worth it:
- Earn 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3X on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries, and 2X on all other travel
- Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- Built-in travel protections, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance and primary rental car coverage
And this is your last chance to earn such a massive sign-up bonus. Act fast — apply today for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) for a chance to earn up to $1,250 in Chase Travel℠ value upon approval.
2. Citi Strata Premier℠ Card — Annual fee: $95
If you want to maximize everyday spending while still earning big travel rewards, the Citi Strata Premier℠ Card (see rates and fees) is a standout pick. It offers generous 3X points across multiple categories and gives you access to valuable airline and hotel transfer partners.
Why it’s worth it:
- Earn 3X points at restaurants, supermarkets, at gas stations, for air travel, and other hotel purchases
- Transfer points to over a dozen travel loyalty programs, including JetBlue and Singapore Airlines
- No foreign transaction fees
Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com. Apply for the Citi Strata Premier℠ Card today (see rates and fees).
3. Wells Fargo Autograph® Card — Annual fee: $0
The Wells Fargo Autograph® Card (see rates and fees) brings high rewards with a $0 annual fee, making it one of the best low-maintenance travel cards on the market. You’ll earn bonus points in categories you probably already spend in, like gas, dining, and transit.
Why it’s worth it:
- Earn 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans
- Includes cellphone protection when you use the card to pay your bill
- No foreign transaction fees
Welcome bonus: Upon approval, new cardholders can earn 20,000 bonus points by spending $1,000 in the first 3 months. Apply for the Wells Fargo Autograph® Card today (see rates and fees).
What are you waiting for?
Travel rewards don’t have to come with a premium price tag. These three cards offer serious perks — think big sign-up bonuses, flexible rewards, and valuable protections — all for $100 or less per year.
Whether you’re looking to redeem rewards for a flight, protect your trip, or just get more from your everyday spending, one of these credit cards can help get you there faster.
