The Best Travel Credit Card in 2025 – Compare Top Travel Rewards Cards
When I first started looking for the best travel credit card back in 2012, I just wanted to save on my six-week trip to Australia and New Zealand. That’s when I found the Capital One Venture Card—one of the best credit cards for travel at the time—which gave me miles, cashback, and a “Purchase Eraser” feature to wipe out $300 in travel costs.
Since then, I’ve tried and tested multiple best travel cards and found that the right one depends on your travel style. Whether you need the best credit card for travel rewards for luxury trips or a good travel credit card for a single annual getaway, the right choice can turn everyday spending into unforgettable adventures.
How to Pick the Best Travel Reward Credit Card
Before you decide on the best travel reward credit cards, think about:
A credit card with the best travel rewards should match your lifestyle and offer flexible redemption options. For beginners, I suggest starting with one of the best credit cards for travel points and then branching out.
It’s smart to compare travel credit cards using a credit card travel rewards comparison so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® – Best Credit Card for Travelers
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is one of the top rated travel credit cards, popular with both frequent flyers and beginners. With a $95 annual fee, it offers great perks for the price.
Why It’s a Best Travel Reward Card:
Amex Platinum Card – Best Credit Card for Travel Perks
The American Express Platinum Card is often called the best reward credit card for travel thanks to its luxury benefits. While it has a $695 annual fee, the value can easily outweigh the cost for frequent travelers.
Why It’s a Best Travel Benefits Credit Card:
Capital One Venture Rewards – Best Credit Card for Travel Simplicity
If you want a best travel.credit card that’s easy to use, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is perfect.
Why It’s a Good Travel Credit Card:
- Earning: 2X miles on all purchases, 5X on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel.
- Redeeming: Use miles to erase travel purchases, book in the Capital One Travel portal, or transfer to 15+ partners.
- Perks: Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, travel insurance, and no foreign transaction fees.
- Best For: Beginners who want the best credit travel card without tracking categories.
Final Travel Credit Card Comparison
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to what is the best travel credit card—it depends on your spending and travel goals:
Before applying, compare travel rewards credit cards side-by-side. The best credit card to earn travel points will fit your needs, whether that’s overseas travel, everyday spending, or big vacation redemptions.
Quick Travel Credit Card Comparisons Table
| Card | Annual Fee | Best For | Earning Rate | Key Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® | $95 | Balanced rewards | 5X travel, 3X dining, 2X other travel | Primary rental car insurance, hotel credit |
| Amex Platinum | $695 | Luxury travel | 5X flights/hotels | Lounge access, hotel status, big statement credits |
| Capital One Venture Rewards | $95 | Simplicity | 2X all purchases | Purchase eraser, transfer partners, TSA PreCheck |
