Our Best Travel Credit Cards of February 2026

A solid travel credit card adds valuable perks and miles-earning potential to your wallet. But as our complete Travel Credit Card Guide explains, picking the best one involves more than selecting the first offer you see or applying for a card your friends have. It requires a deep understanding of your own travel needs and spending habits. 

What is a Travel Credit Card?

In a nutshell, a travel credit card gives you miles or points for purchases you make. You can redeem these rewards for travel expenses, like flights, car rentals, and hotel stays. You can also use points for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, or online purchases.

If the travel credit card has transfer partners, you can transfer your points to a partnering hotel or airline loyalty program account. The main draw? Flexibility. Some transfer partners offer a higher redemption rate — think 1:2 points or 1.5:2 points — so your rewards go further.

Travel credit cards also have travel-specific perks like trip delay insurance, car rental insurance, and free checked bags. Each card features its own perks, which can equate to valuable savings.

How do Travel Credit Cards Work?

Travel credit cards let you earn miles or points for your purchases. They fall into three categories: general purpose, hotel, and airline. You can use points from travel cards to book flights and hotel stays. Many let you swap points for statement credits or cash back. 

Each travel credit card has its own rewards structure, ways to earn more points, and added perks. There are also varying interest rates and fees. 

Aside from that, travel credit cards are unsecured, so you don't have to provide a deposit as collateral. You get a monthly statement and are responsible for paying the minimum balance each billing cycle. 

Pros

• Sign-up bonuses: Many travel credit cards let you earn robust rewards if you spend a certain amount within a few months after you open an account. For example, spend $4,000 as a cardholder in the first three months and rack up 75,000 points.

• Rewards: Besides racking up points on travel purchases, a travel credit card might offer bonus points or miles when you spend on restaurants, airfare, hotels, and gas.

• Travel perks: Travel benefits range from free hotel stays to travel credits, trip delay insurance, car rental insurance, and no foreign transaction fees. Using all benefits to make the most of a travel card is a good idea.

• Fraud protection. Fraud can and does happen. Should you spot an unauthorized charge or fishy activity with your transactions, fraud protection can limit your liability. In fact, many card issuers offer zero liability protection. 

Cons 

• Annual fees: Annual fees add to the cost of a credit card, so you'll want to make sure you use the card's perks and points to offset the costs. With travel cards, luxury perks usually come with premium cards with high annual fees. That's not to say you should completely avoid cards with annual fees. Just make sure the cost is worth it.

• Potential for overspending: It's easy to get caught up in a travel card's perks and rack up a balance on your card. Another temptation? You might overspend during your travels.

• High interest rates: Travel rewards cards tend to apply high annual percentage rates (APRs) to a revolving balance. Paying interest on your travel card can negate the value of your rewards.

General Purpose 

General-purpose travel rewards cards can be used for a lot of things. For example, you can pay off your balance with statement credits or trips you make through the card issuer's travel portal. You can also use your points for gift cards or online purchases. 

"General-purpose travel rewards might be better for most folks, especially if they are new to using travel points," says Emily Maretsky, a fee-only fiduciary financial planner and founder of Educated Financial Planning. 

The beauty of a general-purpose card is in its versatility.

"These cards earn points that can be redeemed across various airlines, hotels, or even for cash back, and are great for people who want flexibility," says Daniel E. Milks, a CFP® and co-founder of Fiduciary Young. 

So, if you don't want to be tied to a particular hotel or airline or like the option of using your points for purchases beyond travel, a general-purpose card might be the way to go as you'll earn the same points no matter where you book. Conversely, you might earn points quicker through travel cards partnered with popular hotels or airlines. 

Hotel 

If you're loyal to a particular hotel or hotel group, a hotel travel credit card might be more your speed. These cards are co-branded with hotel chains, and you can earn rewards specific to that brand. With a hotel card, you might rocket to elite status or get free hotel perks, such as flexible check-ins, room upgrades, and complimentary breakfast. 

"These cards are ideal for frequent hotel guests looking to rack up points for free stays," says Milks.

Airline

Like a hotel travel card, an airline credit card is co-branded with an airline to offer robust bonuses and attractive perks. Many of the top cards that provide airline lounge access fall into this category, also offering benefits like free or discounted companion passes and free checked bags. 

Miles you earn through these airline-specific cards get deposited into your account through the airline's loyalty program. If you have a preferred airline and fly frequently, an airline travel card could suit your needs. 

Points Multipliers

An attractive travel credit card offers different ways to earn multipliers of points. For example, you can earn 10X points on hotels if you book through the card issuer's travel portal. You can also earn 3X points on restaurants and 2X on grocery stores.

To maximize points multipliers, Kullberg recommends picking a card that allows you to earn a lot of points from your current spending habits. 

"Before you start comparing cards, get an idea of what you typically spend every month," says Kullberg. "Do you spend a lot in a few categories like food and travel, or is it more spread out across a lot of categories? "

A top card will offer multiple points in your major spending categories.

Transfer Partners 

Transferring your miles or points to a transfer partner has a one-two punch. First, it widens your possibilities on where to spend your points. Second, certain transfer partners feature higher redemption values. So you might get a 2X redemption value — or even higher. 

You’ll want a card with transfer partners that give you the highest redemption value and are a good fit for your travel needs.

Also, bear in mind any expiration policies and block-out dates. Transferring points is a one-way street. Once you move over your points, they're locked into that account. 

Generous Sign-Up Bonus

Opening a travel credit card with a solid welcome offer can help you rack up points quickly. 

"This is the fastest way to earn a lot of points with the least amount of spend," says Kullberg. "Some offers can go up to 250,000 bonus points."

However, says Kullberg, make sure you can comfortably hit or even exceed the minimum spend within the specified time limit. It's not worth going into debt to get bonus points.

If you're eyeing a card with a welcome bonus, consider timing your spending or planning to put a large-ticket expense within the bonus window, usually the first few months after opening your account. 

Robust Travel Perks

The value of a travel perk is whether you'll use it. For example, understanding the common credit card travel insurance coverage is key, as benefits like trip delay insurance and car rental insurance can be incredibly handy.

Other perks, such as complimentary room stays or elite status with a hotel group, may be specific to a hotel or airline. Free checked bags, airport lounge access, and trip delay insurance can also be valuable benefits. 

No Foreign Transaction Fees 

A foreign transaction fee is usually 1% to 3% of the transaction amount. So, if you've put $4,000 on your travel card when vacationing abroad, that's an extra $120 in fees. A card with zero transaction fees can be a boon if you plan on international travel. 

Low Annual Fee 

Some of the best travel rewards cards have a fee, so don't let that scare you, says Kulberg. 

"Typically, travel rewards cards with fees have valuable perks such as travel insurance, baggage delay coverage, and even airport lounge access," she says.

But if you're new to travel credit cards, a card with a low annual fee could be a better fit. That way, you're not scrambling to make purchases to offset the annual fee. You can also learn how to get the most out of a travel card without the looming yearly fee. 

Look at the Redemption Options 

"Make sure the points or miles are flexible and easy to redeem without restrictions or blackout dates," says Milks. 

Another thing to keep an eye out for? Look for preferred or premium transfer partners linked with a particular travel card. 

Look for Reward Categories that Work for You 

The reward categories only make sense if you spend in categories that reap the most points. For example, if you spend on flights, bonus points for airfare might be in order. Or, if you tend to put your grocery purchases on a credit card, consider a card where you reap higher points at supermarkets.

Spend time thinking about reward categories that are in step with your financial habits. That way, you can make the most of the reward structure and categories and won't have to change your spending habits to rack up miles. 

Make Sure the Perks Offset the Annual Fee 

"This step especially rings true if you've got your eye on a credit card with a high annual fee," explains Kullberg. 

For example, if you get a card with a $300 annual fee and it gives you airport lounge access valued at the same amount, the fee could be offset. 

"But, if you don't care about the airport lounge access or the airports you [frequent] don't have a lounge you can use, that perk is of no value to you," says Kullberg. 

Consider the Welcome Bonus 

If you want to reap many points for a minimum spend, fold in the sign-in bonus when shopping for a travel card. While a large sign-up bonus has its allure, you'll want to ensure you can meet the spending threshold. Otherwise, the welcome bonus won't matter. 

For example, consider timing your application to coincide with a large-ticket purchase, recurring bill, or vacation to get points on charges you're already planning. 

Factor in Added Perks 

Airline-specific and hotel-co-branded credit cards usually have more robust perks tied to flights or hotel rooms, respectively. Other perks include travel insurance, car rental insurance, TSA Precheck, Global Entry, and airport lounge access. 

Not all perks are equal. Figure out which are most valuable to you and which ones you'll likely use the most. For instance, if you fly in and out of certain airports, are there airport lounges you can access with a particular card? 

Optimize Miles and Points 

"To make the most of your travel card's rewards, start by reading through the benefits of each card," says Maretsky.  For example, note whether they feature perks like travel insurance, rental car insurance, or priority boarding. 

Try to make the most of special benefits that disappear if you don't use them each month. For example, some cards give you monthly credit toward a food delivery app. 

"A lot of people don't remember to use it monthly," says Maretsky. "But keeping in mind that you've got this little bit each month will make sure you take advantage and will make up for fees you might be paying for that card." 

Try to Pay Your Card Balance in Full Each Month 

"Ideally, you want to pay off your credit card completely each month," says Jay Zigmont, a certified financial planner (CFP®) and founder of Childfree Wealth. 

"If you ever pay an interest fee, you may pay more than the benefits are worth," he says. 

While travel can add up quickly, to avoid racking up a high card balance, establish a vacation savings fund and aim to stash enough in your designated fund so you have enough to cover as much of your trip as possible. If you aren't able to pay your card in full, create a plan to pay off your balance in a timely fashion. Create a debt payoff plan to knock down your balance to zero. 

Make Sure You’ll Recoup the Annual Fee

While travel cards with high annual fees can offer premium perks, high reward-earning rates, and sign-up bonuses, consider keeping your annual fees low. 

"That way, you aren't paying more in fees than what you're gaining in benefits,” says Zigmont.

Still, a high annual fee card could be worth it if the perks justify the yearly cost. For example, a travel card might offer a free monthly food delivery or rideshare credit, free checked bags or travel credit, or a complimentary hotel stay on your card anniversary. If you use these perks, they can justify the costs. 

"The key is that the features have to be worth it to you and cover the annual fee," says Zigmont. "Cards with points tend to have more flexibility in redemption, but you may get more miles from other cards if there is an airline or similar points program you already use." 

Pay Attention to Changes

Card perks and added benefits may be subject to change. Stay on top of these updates and any changes to a card's terms and fees.

Zigmont recommends keeping a spreadsheet of all the card's features and perks to note any changes or updates to your benefits, terms, and fees. 

Combine Points from Multiple Cards 

"Non-travel cards often let you transfer points between cards," explains Leibel Sternbach, an EA, NSSA, ChFC, APMA®, and founder of Yields4U.com. "That way, you can combine points to use them for travel."

This strategy requires doing some homework across credit cards you’re considering or already own.

Transfer Points for Higher Value 

Strategically transferring points in a mastermind fashion can help you get a greater transfer ratio for your earned points. For example, when you swap points for statement credit or cash, the transfer ratio is usually one cent per point earned. 

But when you transfer your points to a partner airline or hotel, you can redeem two cents per point earned. Sometimes, you might find yourself with a 10X the usual points value.

"For example, let's say you have a Chase Sapphire Card," says Maretsky. "Instead of booking through the Chase Travel portal," she recommends, "transferring those points to the World of Hyatt portal as they’re usually worth more." 

That said, be mindful of various point thresholds before you can transfer. For example, you might need to accrue 5,000 points before transferring to a specific partner airline portal. There are also expiration policies to watch for. 

You have options if you're unsure whether a travel credit card is right for you. Consider these alternatives.

Cash Back Credit Cards  

A cash-back card is a good fit if you want a credit card for everyday purchases. Instead of using your rewards toward travel, a cash-back card lets you redeem rewards for cash back, statement credits, or gift cards. 

A cash-back card might have points multipliers in specific categories. Or there might be bonus categories that rotate every quarter. For example, you can scoop up 5X cash back on restaurants for three months, then switch to warehouse stores and specific big-box chains. 

Related: Our Best Cash Back Cards

Retail Credit Cards 

A store credit card can come in handy if you're loyal to a specific retailer. These cards give you reward points, exclusive discounts, promotions, and special financing at the store. For example, you might be eligible for interest-free payments if you pay off your balance within a window of time. 

Retail cards usually only have perks for a retailer or group of retailers. While they're generally easier to qualify for, they can have steeper interest rates. You'll want to weigh the pros against the cons to choose your best option.

Balance Transfer Cards 

Balance transfer cards let you move your existing card balance to a new one with a zero- or low-interest introductory APR for a set timeframe, usually six to 18 months. 

If you can pay off your balance before the standard APR kicks in, you can save a significant chunk of change. Balance transfer cards also have a transfer fee, usually from 3% to 5% or a flat fee — whichever is greater — of the amount you transfer to the new card.

Related: Our Best Balance Transfer Cards

Secured Credit Cards

A secured credit card requires an upfront deposit. It is designed for people who are building or establishing their credit. Should they fall behind on their payments, the lender uses the deposit to pay off the balance.

Your line of credit usually matches the security deposit. So, if you pay $250 upfront, your credit limit is $250. While secured cards typically have lower minimum credit requirements, they also tend to have lower limits and higher interest rates.

Student Card Cards

These cards are designed for young adults with limited or no credit history who aren't making much money. Some cards don't require a credit score whatsoever.

Student credit cards often have no annual fee, and some have cash-back earning potential. They can be a great way to build credit over time. However, perks on student cards may be limited or nonexistent.

Business Credit Cards 

Consider opening a business credit card if you own a small business. These cards may have points multipliers for specific spending categories, such as travel, office supplies, and marketing and advertising. You can also get perks like cell phone protection and extended warranties. 

A business credit card helps keep your personal and business expenses separate, making financial housekeeping easier. Another benefit? You can also use points to put "money" back into your business. 

Related: Our Best Business Credit Cards  

To help you pick the most suitable cards for your needs and deliver on our mission to help you make the most informed decisions, our seasoned writers, editors, and experts evaluated and rated credit cards across four categories using detailed criteria. 

These criteria included rates and fees, such as purchase and promotional APR, annual fees, annual balance transfer fees, and foreign transaction fees. We also researched features and benefits, including the base reward program, sign-on bonus, recurring bonus, and additional bonuses. Security, customer experience, and user experience were also factored into the selection process. 

Wells Fargo

Disclosure: This content is not provided by the issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of BestMoney alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer.

Bank of America

Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.