Traveling in 2025 is all about convenience, rewards, and making every dollar count. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a road trip enthusiast, or a luxury traveler, the right travel credit card can transform your journey. With so many options available, choosing the best travel credit card can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated a list of the 16 Best Travel Credit Cards of 2025 to help you earn points, save money, and enjoy exclusive perks.
In this guide, we’ll break down the top travel credit cards, their benefits, and how to choose the one that aligns with your travel goals. Plus, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to ensure you’re well-informed before applying.
Why Use a Travel Credit Card in 2025?
Travel credit cards are more than just a payment tool—they’re your gateway to unforgettable experiences. Here’s why they’re worth it:
- Earn Rewards on Every Purchase: From flights to hotels, dining, and even everyday expenses, travel credit cards reward you for spending.
- Travel Perks: Enjoy benefits like airport lounge access, free checked bags, travel insurance, and concierge services.
- Save on Fees: Many travel cards waive foreign transaction fees, saving you money on international trips.
- Flexible Redemption Options: Use your points or miles for flights, hotels, car rentals, or even cashback.
16 Best Travel Credit Cards of 2025
Here’s our curated list of the top travel credit cards for 2025, categorized to suit different travel styles and budgets:
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Best for: Beginners and flexible rewards
- Key Features:
- Earn 2x points on travel and dining
- 25% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- No foreign transaction fees
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Best for: Luxury travelers
- Key Features:
- Access to 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide
- $200 airline fee credit
- 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines
3. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
- Best for: Frequent travelers
- Key Features:
- 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- $300 annual travel credit
- Complimentary Priority Pass membership
4. Citi Premier® Card
- Best for: Earning points on everyday spending
- Key Features:
- 3x points on air travel, hotels, and dining
- No foreign transaction fees
- Flexible point transfers to airline partners
5. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
- Best for: No annual fee
- Key Features:
- Unlimited 1.5x points on all purchases
- No annual fee or foreign transaction fees
- Simple redemption process
6. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
- Best for: Delta loyalists
- Key Features:
- Free checked bags on Delta flights
- Companion certificate annually
- Earn 3x miles on Delta purchases
7. Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
- Best for: Budget travelers
- Key Features:
- 7,500 anniversary points each year
- $75 Southwest travel credit
- 2x points on Southwest purchases
8. Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
- Best for: Hotel stays
- Key Features:
- Earn 6x points at Marriott hotels
- Free night award annually
- 15 elite night credits toward status
9. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
- Best for: Hilton enthusiasts
- Key Features:
- 12x points at Hilton properties
- Complimentary Gold status
- Free weekend night reward after spending $15,000 annually
10. Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card
- Best for: West Coast travelers
- Key Features:
- Annual companion fare
- 3x miles on Alaska Airlines purchases
- Free checked bag
11. United℠ Explorer Card
- Best for: United Airlines flyers
- Key Features:
- Free checked bag and priority boarding
- 2x miles on United purchases
- Two one-time United Club passes annually
12. Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
- Best for: No annual fee with travel rewards
- Key Features:
- 3x points on travel, dining, and gas
- No annual fee
- Cell phone protection
13. Barclays AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
- Best for: American Airlines flyers
- Key Features:
- Earn 2x miles on American Airlines purchases
- First checked bag free
- In-flight discounts
14. Discover it® Miles
- Best for: Cashback lovers
- Key Features:
- Unlimited 1.5x miles on all purchases
- No annual fee
- Miles match at the end of the first year
15. U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
- Best for: Road trippers
- Key Features:
- 4x points on travel and gas stations
- $30 annual streaming credit
- No foreign transaction fees
16. IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- Best for: IHG hotel stays
- Key Features:
- Earn 25x points at IHG hotels
- Free night award annually
- Platinum Elite status
How to Choose the Best Travel Credit Card
When selecting a travel credit card, consider the following factors:
- Travel Habits: Do you fly frequently, stay in hotels, or prefer road trips?
- Rewards Structure: Look for cards that align with your spending patterns.
- Annual Fees: Weigh the cost against the benefits.
- Sign-Up Bonuses: Many cards offer lucrative bonuses for new cardholders.
- Additional Perks: Lounge access, travel insurance, and concierge services can add significant value.
FAQs About Travel Credit Cards
1. What is the best travel credit card for beginners?
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent choice for beginners due to its flexible rewards, low annual fee, and valuable sign-up bonus.
2. Do travel credit cards have foreign transaction fees?
Most premium travel credit cards, like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, waive foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel.
3. Can I use travel points for anything other than flights and hotels?
Yes! Many travel credit cards, such as the Citi Premier® Card, allow you to redeem points for car rentals, cashback, or even gift cards.
4. Are travel credit cards worth the annual fee?
If you travel frequently, the benefits—such as lounge access, travel credits, and elite status—often outweigh the annual fee. For example, the Platinum Card® from American Express offers over $1,000 in annual credits and perks.
5. How do I maximize my travel rewards?
To maximize rewards, use your card for everyday purchases, take advantage of bonus categories, and always pay your balance in full to avoid interest charges.
Final Thoughts
The 16 Best Travel Credit Cards of 2025 offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for luxury perks, flexible rewards, or no annual fee options, there’s a card that fits your needs. By choosing the right travel credit card, you can turn your everyday spending into unforgettable adventures.
Ready to elevate your travel experience? Compare these cards, consider your travel goals, and apply for the one that suits you best. Happy travels!