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If you love to explore the world, having the right credit card in your wallet can make a huge difference. The best credit for travel offers more than just points—they provide lounge access, free checked bags, travel insurance, and no foreign transaction fees. In 2025, credit card companies are competing harder than ever to win over savvy travelers with premium perks and rewards. Whether you travel for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, we’ve got the perfect card for you.

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the best travel credit cards of 2025, broken down by type of traveler so you can find the one that fits your lifestyle and spending habits.

Why You Need the Best Credit for Travel

best credit for travel

best credit for travel

Before we dive into the top picks, let’s look at why choosing the best credit for travel matters. These cards help you:

  • Earn travel rewards faster
  • Enjoy VIP experiences
  • Save on fees and travel expenses
  • Access emergency travel assistance
  • Get protection for your purchases and trips

With the right travel credit card, you can save money and enhance your adventures without added stress.

1. Best Overall Travel Credit Card: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Why it’s great: A favorite for years, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card continues to dominate with solid rewards, flexible point transfers, and travel protections.

Key Benefits:

  • 2X points on travel and dining
  • 60,000-point welcome bonus after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
  • Points transfer 1:1 to airline and hotel partners
  • No foreign transaction fees

Annual Fee: $95

Best for: Everyday travelers who want flexibility and value.

2. Best Premium Travel Card: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Why it’s great: Luxury travelers love the perks, from airport lounge access to hotel upgrades.

Key Benefits:

  • 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels
  • Access to Centurion and Priority Pass lounges
  • $200 airline fee credit annually
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit

Annual Fee: $695

Best for: Frequent flyers who want VIP treatment.

3. Best No Annual Fee Travel Card: Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

Why it’s great: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who still want great rewards.

Key Benefits:

  • Unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent
  • 25,000-point bonus after $1,000 spent in 90 days
  • No foreign transaction fees

Annual Fee: $0

Best for: Occasional travelers or beginners.

4. Best for Flexible Rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Why it’s great: Simple to use with flat-rate rewards and easy redemption.

Key Benefits:

  • 2X miles on every purchase
  • 75,000-mile bonus after spending $4,000 in 3 months
  • Redeem miles for any travel purchase

Annual Fee: $95

Best for: Those who want an easy-to-manage travel card.

5. Best for Business Travel: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Why it’s great: Designed for small business owners with serious travel perks.

Key Benefits:

  • 3X points on travel, shipping, and advertising
  • 100,000-point bonus after spending $8,000 in 3 months
  • Cell phone protection included

Annual Fee: $95

Best for: Entrepreneurs who travel frequently.

6. Best for Airline Rewards: Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

Why it’s great: Fans of Delta Airlines will love the travel benefits.

Key Benefits:

  • 2X miles on Delta purchases, restaurants, and groceries
  • First checked bag free
  • Priority boarding on Delta flights

Annual Fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $99

Best for: Loyal Delta travelers.

7. Best for Hotel Rewards: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless™ Credit Card

Why it’s great: Frequent Marriott guests can rack up points fast and enjoy elite status.

Key Benefits:

  • 6X points at Marriott hotels
  • Free Night Award every anniversary
  • 15 Elite Night Credits yearly

Annual Fee: $95

Best for: Hotel lovers and Marriott loyalists.

8. Best for International Travel: HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard®

Why it’s great: Designed with global travelers in mind.

Key Benefits:

  • 3X points on travel
  • Complimentary Boingo Wi-Fi and LoungeKey access
  • No foreign transaction fees

Annual Fee: $395 (waived for Premier clients)

Best for: International jet-setters.

9. Best for Students: Discover it® Student Chrome

Why it’s great: A solid start for students learning about credit and travel rewards.

Key Benefits:

  • 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants
  • Dollar-for-dollar cashback match for the first year
  • No annual fee

Annual Fee: $0

Best for: Students new to credit cards.

10. Best for Cashback Travel Rewards: Wells Fargo Autograph™ Card

Why it’s great: A mix of cashback and travel-friendly features.

Key Benefits:

  • 3X points on travel, gas, dining, and more
  • 20,000-point welcome offer
  • Cell phone protection

Annual Fee: $0

Best for: Travelers who like cash rewards.

How to Choose the Best Credit for Travel

When deciding which card is right for you, consider:

  • Your travel frequency
  • Preferred airlines or hotels
  • Spending habits
  • Whether you want cashback or travel points
  • If you need travel insurance or lounge access

Using the best credit for travel is all about aligning benefits with your lifestyle.

Tips to Maximize the Best Credit for Travel

Once you’ve chosen your travel credit card, use these tips to get the most out of it:

  1. Always pay your balance in full to avoid interest.
  2. Use your card for travel and dining to earn extra rewards.
  3. Take advantage of welcome bonuses by meeting spending requirements.
  4. Sign up for travel partners’ loyalty programs to stack rewards.
  5. Use travel portals to book with extra point multipliers.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best credit for travel in 2025 depends on your needs, but the options on this list provide amazing value no matter how often you fly. From luxury perks to flexible redemptions and even student options, there’s a travel credit card out there designed just for you. Use this guide to make a smart choice and unlock the benefits that come with your dream adventures.

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