Best Credit Cards for Travelers
Traveling frequently? A great travel credit card can help you earn rewards, save money, and enjoy VIP perks like airport lounge access, no foreign transaction fees, and exclusive travel insurance. In this guide, we’ll explore the best credit cards for travelers in 2025, helping you choose the right card for your journey—whether you're a frequent flyer, occasional vacationer, or digital nomad.
Why Get a Travel Credit Card?
A travel rewards credit card offers more than just points or miles. Here’s what you can typically expect:
- Free flights and hotel stays
- Airport lounge access
- No foreign transaction fees
- Comprehensive travel insurance
- Rental car coverage
- Priority boarding & upgrades
Top Travel Credit Cards for 2025
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Best for: All-around travel rewards
- Annual Fee: $95
- Welcome Bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in 3 months
- Rewards:
- 2x on travel and dining
- 1x on all other purchases
- Perks:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Trip cancellation insurance
- Points transferable to airline/hotel partners
Why it's great: It's ideal for beginners and frequent travelers alike, with a low annual fee and flexible points system.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Best for: Simplicity and flat-rate earning
- Annual Fee: $95
- Welcome Bonus: 75,000 miles after $4,000 spent in 3 months
- Rewards:
- 2x miles on every purchase
- Perks:
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
- Transfer miles to 15+ travel partners
- No foreign transaction fees
Why it's great: You earn a flat rate on everything—no need to track categories.
3. American Express® Gold Card
Best for: Foodies and frequent flyers
- Annual Fee: $250
- Welcome Bonus: 60,000 points after $4,000 spent in 6 months
- Rewards:
- 4x at restaurants
- 3x on flights booked directly or via Amex Travel
- Perks:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Travel insurance and purchase protection
- Dining credits at partner restaurants
Why it's great: Earn massive rewards on dining and travel while enjoying premium Amex service.
4. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for: Luxury travel perks
- Annual Fee: $695
- Welcome Bonus: 80,000 points after $8,000 spent in 6 months
- Rewards:
- 5x on flights and hotels through Amex Travel
- Perks:
- Access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide
- $200 airline fee credit
- Hotel elite status with Marriott and Hilton
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
Why it's great: It’s the ultimate luxury card for frequent international travelers.
5. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
Best for: No annual fee and flat rewards
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Bonus: 25,000 points ($250) after spending $1,000 in 3 months
- Rewards:
- 1.5x points on all purchases
- Perks:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Flexible redemption for travel purchases
Why it's great: Ideal for casual travelers who want value without an annual fee.
How to Choose the Right Travel Credit Card
When comparing cards, consider the following:
- Spending habits – Do you spend more on dining, hotels, or flights?
- Travel frequency – Frequent flyers benefit most from premium cards.
- Perks vs. fees – Make sure the perks outweigh the annual fee.
- Airline/hotel loyalty – If loyal to a brand, co-branded cards offer extra rewards.
Are Travel Credit Cards Safe to Use Abroad?
Yes! In fact, travel credit cards are safer than cash. They offer fraud protection, zero-liability policies, and 24/7 global support. Always choose a card with:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Chip + contactless payments
- Travel assistance services
Final Thoughts
A travel credit card is more than a payment method—it’s a tool to save money, enjoy convenience, and upgrade your travel experience. Whether you're planning a European vacation, a tropical escape, or a business trip, there's a card that fits your needs.
Ready to travel smarter in 2025? Pick the card that matches your lifestyle and watch the rewards take flight.