Best Travel Credit Cards Reviewed 2025
Travel credit cards can unlock a plethora of benefits, including bonus points, free flights, and exclusive perks. In 2025, a variety of travel credit cards stand out for their impressive features, rewards structures, and consumer satisfaction. This article will delve into the best options available, helping you to make an informed decision.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Annual Fee: $95
Sign-Up Bonus: 100,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card remains a top pick for travelers due to its lucrative rewards program. Points earned can be transferred to over 14 travel partners, including major airlines and hotel chains, offering exceptional value. With 2x points on travel and dining and 1 point per dollar on everything else, this card is perfect for those who enjoy eating out while traveling. Additionally, it features no foreign transaction fees, providing peace of mind for international travelers.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Annual Fee: $95 (waived in the first year)
Sign-Up Bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
Capital One’s Venture Rewards Credit Card is straightforward and offers an excellent rewards structure. It provides unlimited 2 miles per dollar on every purchase. This simplicity makes it easy to earn rewards quickly. The flexibility to redeem travel purchases through a one-to-one ratio with miles adds to its attractiveness. The card also provides up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
3. American Express® Gold Card
Annual Fee: $250
Sign-Up Bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 6 months
The American Express® Gold Card appeals to foodies and frequent travelers alike. With 3x points on dining and 4x points at restaurants worldwide, this card rewards travelers who love experiencing local cuisines. Additionally, 1 point per dollar on all other purchases ensures you can continue accumulating points. The $120 dining credit for eligible purchases enhances its value, making it a solid choice for those who often dine out.
4. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Annual Fee: $695
Sign-Up Bonus: 80,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months
The Platinum Card® from American Express is unmatched when it comes to luxury travel perks. Cardholders benefit from complimentary access to airport lounges, including Centurion lounges and Priority Pass. Earn 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, and enjoy various travel protections. The extensive benefits extend to hotel loyalty programs, premium car rental privileges, and a robust concierge service.
5. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
Annual Fee: $0
Sign-Up Bonus: 25,000 online bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card stands out for those seeking a no-annual-fee option. It offers 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases, making it easy to accrue rewards with every purchase. Points do not expire, and the card includes no foreign transaction fees. While not as lucrative as others in the premium segment, its straightforward rewards structure is favorable for casual travelers.
6. Discover it® Miles
Annual Fee: $0
Sign-Up Bonus: Unlimited match of all miles earned in the first year
Discover it® Miles is another excellent no-annual-fee card. It offers 1.5x miles on all purchases and features an attractive first-year bonus match, meaning your rewards will double after the first year. Cardholders benefit from no foreign transaction fees and a straightforward redemption process for travel purchases. Additionally, Discover is known for its excellent customer service and free credit score tracking.
7. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
Annual Fee: $450
Sign-Up Bonus: 150,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
For Hilton fans, the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card offers remarkable hotel-related benefits. Cardholders earn 14x points on Hilton purchases and 7x points on flights booked directly with airlines, car rentals, and restaurants. The card includes a complimentary weekend night reward every year, and the ability to earn Diamond status boosts your benefits significantly when staying at Hilton properties.
8. United℠ Explorer Card
Annual Fee: $95 (waived the first year)
Sign-Up Bonus: 60,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months
The United℠ Explorer Card is ideal for frequent United Airlines travelers. It offers 2x miles on United purchases and dining, plus 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases. Among its standout features is the ability to earn 25% back on in-flight purchases, which enhances its appeal. Cardholders also benefit from priority boarding and two free checked bags on United flights, which can make a significant difference on family trips.
9. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
Annual Fee: $149
Sign-Up Bonus: 50,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is perfect for those who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. The card offers 2 points per dollar on Southwest purchases and 1 point for all other purchases. Notably, cardholders earn a $75 annual travel credit, helping offset the annual fee. The card also provides benefits like 20% back on in-flight purchases, priority boarding, and earning tier qualifying points toward A-list status.
10. Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card
Annual Fee: $95
Sign-Up Bonus: 100,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months
For Marriott loyalists, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card shines. It offers 2x points on all Marriott purchases and 1 point on every other dollar spent. Cardholders benefit from a free night award each year after their anniversary, along with no foreign transaction fees. Its rewarding structure is particularly beneficial for frequent guests at Marriott brand hotels, allowing for increased value in loyalty.
Choosing the Right Travel Credit Card
When selecting a travel credit card, consider your travel habits, preferred airlines or hotel chains, and how you plan to redeem your points or miles. Analyze the annual fees against potential benefits and rewards earnings. Whether you’re looking for luxury or straightforward earning potential, the cards reviewed in this article provide varied options for every type of traveler in 2025.
