Travel like a pro: The best credit cards for domestic and international adventures
Traveling is exciting, but using the wrong credit card can turn a dream trip into a financial nightmare. Whether you’re exploring the U.S. or venturing overseas, the right card can save you money on foreign transaction fees, earn you miles, and even offer airport lounge access.
The best travel credit cards go beyond simple rewards—they enhance your entire travel experience. Let’s dive into the top options for both domestic and international travelers.
What makes a credit card great for travel?
Not all credit cards are created equal, especially when it comes to travel. Some offer better rewards, while others focus on perks like lounge access, hotel upgrades, or trip protection. Here are the key factors that separate a good travel card from a great one:
- No foreign transaction fees: Many credit cards charge an extra fee of up to 3% on purchases made outside the U.S. The best travel cards eliminate this cost, saving you money on every international transaction.
- Strong rewards program: Whether it’s airline miles, hotel points, or cash back, a good travel card should offer generous rewards that help you save on future trips.
- Travel perks: Some of the best travel cards provide benefits like airport lounge access, free checked bags, priority boarding, and travel insurance. These extras can make traveling more comfortable and stress-free.
- Global acceptance: While Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted worldwide, American Express and Discover may have limited acceptance in certain countries. A good travel card should be reliable no matter where you go.
- Flexible redemption options: The best travel cards allow you to redeem rewards in multiple ways, from booking flights and hotels to transferring points to airline partners or even getting statement credits.
Best travel credit cards for domestic trips
If you mostly travel within the U.S., these cards provide the best value.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
A longtime favorite among travelers, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® offers excellent rewards on travel and dining, along with flexible redemption options through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
- Annual fee: $95
- Foreign transaction fees: None
- Rewards: 5x points on travel booked through Chase, 3x on dining, 2x on other travel purchases
- Welcome bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months (worth about $750 in travel)
- Why it’s great: High earning potential and strong transfer partnerships make it a solid choice for domestic travelers.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
For travelers who want simple and flexible rewards, this card offers a flat-rate earning structure with unlimited 2x miles on every purchase.
- Annual fee: $95
- Foreign transaction fees: None
- Welcome bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
- Why it’s great: Easy-to-use miles that can be applied as statement credits for travel expenses.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
For frequent Southwest Airlines travelers, this card offers benefits that make flying more affordable and enjoyable.
- Annual fee: $149
- Foreign transaction fees: None
- Welcome bonus: 50,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months
- Why it’s great: Ideal for Southwest loyalists who want to earn free flights and enjoy perks like free checked bags and travel credits.
Best travel credit cards for international trips
When traveling abroad, avoiding foreign transaction fees and gaining premium travel perks should be top priorities. These cards are the best for international adventures.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
A premium travel card packed with benefits, including Priority Pass lounge access, trip delay insurance, and 3x points on travel and dining.
- Annual fee: $550
- Foreign transaction fees: None
- Welcome bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
- Why it’s great: The $300 annual travel credit and extensive travel protections make it worth the fee for frequent travelers.
American Express Platinum Card®
This luxury travel card offers unbeatable airport lounge access, hotel upgrades, and exclusive concierge services.
- Annual fee: $695
- Foreign transaction fees: None
- Welcome bonus: 80,000 points after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months
- Why it’s great: Best-in-class lounge access and luxury perks for those who travel frequently.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
A premium travel card with a lower annual fee than competitors, offering 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
- Annual fee: $395
- Foreign transaction fees: None
- Welcome bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
- Why it’s great: A strong mix of rewards, benefits, and a reasonable annual fee for frequent travelers.
Additional travel perks to consider
Beyond rewards and foreign transaction fees, some travel credit cards offer additional perks that can make your trips smoother and more enjoyable. Here are a few to look out for:
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance: Some cards provide reimbursement for non-refundable travel expenses if your trip is canceled due to covered reasons.
- Lost baggage protection: If your luggage is lost or delayed, certain credit cards will cover the cost of replacement items.
- Car rental insurance: Many travel credit cards offer primary or secondary car rental insurance, saving you money on rental coverage.
- Emergency assistance: Some premium travel cards offer 24/7 emergency services, including medical referrals and legal assistance while traveling abroad.
How to choose the right travel credit card for you
The best travel credit card depends on your spending habits, travel frequency, and the type of perks you value most. Here’s how to narrow down your options:
- If you fly frequently: Choose a card with airline-specific perks like free checked bags and priority boarding.
- If you prefer luxury travel: A premium card with airport lounge access and hotel upgrades will enhance your experience.
- If you want simplicity: A flat-rate rewards card like the Capital One Venture makes earning and redeeming miles effortless.
- If you travel internationally: A card with no foreign transaction fees and worldwide acceptance is essential.
Final thoughts
A great travel credit card does more than just earn points—it enhances your entire travel experience. Whether you’re taking short domestic trips or exploring the world, the right card can make traveling more rewarding, comfortable, and cost-effective. Choose wisely, and enjoy every journey to the fullest.
I'm a student who lives in Rio Grande do Sul, who loves to read and takes advantage of her spare time to catch up on her reading and watch my K-dramas.
