Fintechzoom best travel credit card

Choosing the best travel credit card can be a game-changer for savvy travelers. With the right card in your wallet, you can unlock a world of benefits, from free flights and hotel stays to exclusive perks and travel protections. FintechZoom, a leading financial technology comparison platform, has analyzed the top travel rewards credit cards to help you make an informed decision.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:

• The key features of top travel credit cards
• How to maximize your travel rewards
• Tips for choosing the right card for your needs

Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a hotel enthusiast, or a budget-conscious explorer, understanding the ins and outs of travel credit cards is crucial. We’ll break down the complex world of points, miles, and perks, making it easy for you to find the perfect travel companion in credit card form.

Get ready to elevate your travel experience and stretch your vacation budget further. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to choose the best travel credit card that aligns with your lifestyle and goals. Let’s embark on this journey to financial travel savvy together, exploring the top contenders in the world of travel rewards credit cards.

Understanding Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards are powerful tools for savvy travelers. These cards offer rewards for your spending, often in the form of points or miles. You can use these rewards to pay for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses.

How Travel Rewards Work

When you use a travel credit card, you earn rewards on your purchases. Here’s how it typically works:

• Earn points or miles: You get a certain number of points or miles for each dollar you spend.
• Bonus categories: Many cards offer extra rewards for specific types of spending, like travel or dining.
• Redeem rewards: Use your points or miles to book travel, often through the card’s travel portal or by transferring to partner airlines or hotels.

Most travel cards offer at least 1 point or mile per dollar on all purchases. Some cards give 2, 3, or even 5 points per dollar in certain categories.

Types of Travel Credit Cards

There are two main types of travel credit cards:

1. General travel cards: These cards offer flexible rewards that you can use with many airlines and hotels.
2. Co-branded airline or hotel cards: These cards are linked to a specific airline or hotel chain and offer perks with that brand.

General travel cards are great if you want flexibility. You can use your points with different airlines and hotels. These cards often let you transfer points to various travel partners.

Co-branded cards are best if you’re loyal to one airline or hotel chain. They usually offer perks like free checked bags or room upgrades.

Key Features of Travel Credit Cards

When looking at travel credit cards, pay attention to these features:

• Annual fee: Many good travel cards charge a yearly fee, often $95 to $550.
• Sign-up bonus: Most cards offer a large bonus of points or miles when you first get the card and meet a spending requirement.
• Rewards rate: Look at how many points or miles you earn per dollar spent.
• Foreign transaction fees: The best travel cards don’t charge extra fees on purchases made abroad.
• Travel perks: Some cards offer benefits like airport lounge access, travel insurance, or credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

Remember, the right card for you depends on your spending habits and travel goals. A card with a high annual fee might be worth it if you use the perks often. But if you don’t travel much, a no-annual-fee card might be better.

Using Your Travel Credit Card Wisely

To get the most from your travel credit card:

1. Pay your balance in full each month. Interest charges can quickly outweigh the value of your rewards.
2. Use your card for all eligible purchases to earn more points or miles.
3. Take advantage of bonus categories to earn extra rewards.
4. Don’t forget to use your card’s travel perks when you can.

By understanding how travel credit cards work, you can choose the best one for your needs. In the next section, we’ll look at the factors to consider when picking a travel credit card.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Travel Credit Card

Picking the best travel credit card can be tricky. There are many options, each with different features. Here are the key factors to think about:

Annual Fees

Many top travel cards charge yearly fees. These can range from $95 to over $500. Consider these points:

• Higher fees often mean more perks
• Some cards waive the fee for the first year
• Make sure the benefits outweigh the cost

A high annual fee might be worth it if you travel often and use the card’s perks. If you travel less, a card with a lower or no annual fee might be better.

Rewards Rate and Structure

Look at how many points or miles you earn for each dollar spent. Some things to note:

• Most cards offer at least 1 point per dollar on all purchases
• Many cards have bonus categories where you earn more
• Some cards offer tiered rewards based on how much you spend

For example, a card might offer 3 points per dollar on travel, 2 on dining, and 1 on everything else. Choose a card with a rewards structure that matches your spending habits.

Sign-up Bonuses

Many travel cards offer big bonuses when you first get the card. These can be worth hundreds of dollars in travel. Keep in mind:

• You usually need to spend a certain amount in the first few months to get the bonus
• Bigger bonuses often come with higher spending requirements
• Some cards offer tiered bonuses where you can earn more by spending more

A large sign-up bonus can jumpstart your rewards, but make sure you can meet the spending requirement without going into debt.

Foreign Transaction Fees

These are extra charges on purchases made outside your home country. The best travel cards don’t have these fees. If you travel internationally, this feature can save you money.

Travel Perks and Protections

Many travel cards offer extra benefits. These might include:

• Airport lounge access
• Free checked bags
• Travel insurance
• Statement credits for travel expenses
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit

These perks can add a lot of value, especially if you travel often. Think about which perks matter most to you.

Credit Score Requirements

Travel cards, especially those with the best rewards, often require good to excellent credit. Before applying:

• Check your credit score
• Look at the card’s recommended credit score range
• Consider cards that match your credit profile

If your credit isn’t great, you might need to improve it before applying for a top travel card.

Your Travel Habits

Think about how you travel:

• Do you fly with one airline or stay with one hotel chain often?
• Do you prefer flexibility in your travel rewards?
• How often do you travel internationally?

Your answers can help you choose between a co-branded card or a general travel card.

By considering these factors, you can find the travel credit card that best fits your needs and habits. In the next section, we’ll look at some of the top travel credit cards available today.

Top Travel Credit Cards of [Current Year]

Let’s look at some of the best travel credit cards available now. We’ll cover their key features, rewards, and perks.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

This card is great for people new to travel rewards.

• Annual fee: $95
• Sign-up bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
• Rewards:
  • 5x points on travel booked through Chase
  • 3x on dining and online groceries
  • 2x on other travel
  • 1x on all other purchases
• Key perks:
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Travel insurance
  • 1:1 point transfers to airline and hotel partners

The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers good value for its moderate annual fee. Its flexible points are great for travelers who want options.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

This card is known for its simple, flat-rate rewards structure.

• Annual fee: $95
• Sign-up bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
• Rewards:
  • 2x miles on all purchases
  • 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Key perks:
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Travel accident insurance

The Venture card is good for people who want easy-to-understand rewards and flexibility in redemption.

American Express Platinum Card

This is a premium card with luxury travel perks.

• Annual fee: $695
• Welcome bonus: 80,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months
• Rewards:
  • 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel
  • 5x on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
  • 1x on all other purchases
• Key perks:
  • Airport lounge access, including Centurion Lounges
  • Up to $200 airline fee credit annually
  • Up to $200 in Uber credits annually
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Hotel status with Hilton and Marriott

The Amex Platinum is best for frequent travelers who can take advantage of its many perks.

Citi Premier Card

This card offers good rewards on everyday spending categories.

• Annual fee: $95
• Sign-up bonus: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months
• Rewards:
  • 3x points on restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel, and hotels
  • 1x on all other purchases
• Key perks:
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • $100 annual hotel savings benefit
  • Points transfer to airline partners

The Citi Premier is a good mid-range option with rewards on both travel and everyday spending.

Wells Fargo Autograph Card

This is a no-annual-fee card with solid travel rewards.

• Annual fee: $0
• Sign-up bonus: 20,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months
• Rewards:
  • 3x points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, and streaming services
  • 1x on all other purchases
• Key perks:
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Cell phone protection
  • Travel accident insurance

The Wells Fargo Autograph is great for those who want travel rewards without paying an annual fee.

Each of these cards has its strengths. The best one for you depends on your spending habits, travel goals, and willingness to pay an annual fee. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to maximize your travel card benefits.

Maximizing Travel Card Benefits

Once you have a travel credit card, it’s important to use it wisely. Here are some tips to help you get the most value from your card:

Earning More Points or Miles

1. Use your card for everyday spending • Pay for groceries, gas, and other regular expenses with your card • Set up automatic payments for bills like phone and internet
2. Take advantage of bonus categories • Know which categories earn extra points • Use your card when spending in these categories
3. Shop through your card’s online portal • Many cards have shopping portals that offer extra points • Check these before making online purchases
4. Add authorized users • Some cards give bonus points for adding users • Their spending can help you earn more points
5. Time your big purchases • If you have a large purchase coming up, use it to meet sign-up bonus requirements

Redeeming Rewards Effectively

1. Understand point values • Points often have different values depending on how you use them • Travel redemptions usually offer the best value
2. Look for transfer bonuses • Sometimes you can get extra points when transferring to partners • These can increase the value of your points
3. Use points for expensive travel • Points often give more value on pricey flights or hotels • Save your points for these instead of cheaper trips
4. Book through your card’s travel portal • Some cards offer extra value when you book through their portal • Compare prices with booking directly to see which is better
5. Combine points from multiple cards • If you have more than one card, you can pool points for bigger rewards

Using Card Perks

1. Airport lounge access • If your card offers this, use it to relax before flights • Some lounges offer free food and drinks
2. Travel credits • Many cards offer yearly travel credits • Use these for things like baggage fees or in-flight purchases
3. Global Entry or TSA PreCheck • Use your card’s credit for these programs • They can save you time at the airport
4. Travel insurance • Understand what coverage your card offers • Use this instead of buying separate insurance when possible
5. Free checked bags • If your card offers this with an airline, always use it • This can save you money on every flight

Avoiding Pitfalls

1. Pay your balance in full • Interest charges can quickly outweigh rewards • Set up automatic payments to avoid late fees
2. Don’t overspend • Only buy things you would anyway • Chasing points isn’t worth going into debt
3. Keep track of annual fees • Make sure the benefits outweigh the cost each year • If not, consider changing cards
4. Use or transfer points before closing a card • Points often expire when you close an account • Have a plan for your points before cancelling

By following these tips, you can maximize the value of your travel credit card. Remember, the key is to use your card regularly, but responsibly. In the next section, we’ll look at travel credit cards for different types of travelers.

Travel Credit Cards for Different Types of Travelers

Not all travelers are the same. Your travel style affects which credit card is best for you. Let’s look at cards for different types of travelers:

Frequent Flyers

If you fly often, look for cards with these features:

• Airline miles or transferable points
• Airport lounge access
• Free checked bags
• Priority boarding

Good options:

1. Chase Sapphire Reserve • 3x points on travel and dining • Priority Pass lounge access • $300 annual travel credit
2. American Express Platinum Card • 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines • Access to Centurion, Priority Pass, and Delta Sky Club lounges • Up to $200 in airline fee credits annually

Hotel Loyalists

If you often stay at hotels, consider these features:

• Hotel points or transferable points
• Elite status with hotel chains
• Free night awards

Good options:

1. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card • 6x points at Marriott hotels • Annual free night award • Automatic Gold Elite status
2. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card • 14x points on Hilton stays • Diamond status • Weekend night reward

Budget Travelers

If you want to save money on travel, look for:

• No annual fee
• Flexible rewards
• Travel credits or statement credits

Good options:

1. Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card • No annual fee • 1.25x miles on all purchases • No foreign transaction fees
2. Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card • No annual fee • 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases • Points can be used as statement credits for travel purchases

Luxury Travelers

If you enjoy high-end travel, consider cards with:

• Premium travel perks
• Concierge services
• High rewards rates on travel spending

Good options:

1. The Platinum Card from American Express • Fine Hotels & Resorts program • Concierge service • Up to $200 in Uber credits annually
2. Chase Sapphire Reserve • 3x points on travel and dining • Priority Pass Select membership • $300 annual travel credit

Business Travelers

If you travel for work, look for:

• Rewards on business-related spending
• Travel protections
• Employee cards

Good options:

1. American Express Business Platinum Card • 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com • 1.5x points on purchases of $5,000 or more • Up to $200 in statement credits for Dell purchases
2. Ink Business Preferred Credit Card • 3x points on travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services, and advertising • Cell phone protection • Employee cards at no additional cost

International Travelers

If you often go abroad, prioritize:

• No foreign transaction fees
• Widely accepted card network (Visa or Mastercard)
• Travel insurance

Good options:

1. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card • No foreign transaction fees • Visa network • Travel accident insurance
2. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card • No foreign transaction fees • Visa network • Trip cancellation/interruption insurance

Remember, the best card depends on your specific travel habits and financial situation. Consider your travel style and spending patterns when choosing a card. In the next section, we’ll discuss common mistakes to avoid with travel credit cards.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards can be powerful tools, but they can also lead to problems if not used wisely. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Overspending to Earn Rewards

It’s easy to fall into this trap. You might think, “If I spend more, I’ll get more points!” But this is dangerous.

• Only buy things you would normally buy
• Don’t let the promise of rewards lead you to spend extra
• Remember, no amount of points is worth going into debt

If you find yourself spending more just to earn points, stop and rethink your strategy.

Neglecting to Use Card Benefits

Many people get travel cards but forget to use the perks. This is like leaving free money on the table.

• Read through all your card benefits when you get it
• Set reminders to use annual credits or perks
• Check your benefits before booking travel

For example, if your card offers free checked bags, don’t pay for them! If it has travel insurance, don’t buy extra coverage you don’t need.

Carrying a Balance and Accruing Interest

This is perhaps the biggest mistake. The interest you pay will quickly wipe out any rewards you earn.

• Always pay your full balance each month
• If you can’t pay in full, don’t use the card for new purchases
• Consider a balance transfer or a card with a lower interest rate if you’re struggling with debt

Remember, travel cards often have high interest rates. They’re not meant for carrying balances.

Choosing a Card That Doesn’t Match Travel Habits

Getting the wrong card for your needs is a common error. For example:

• Don’t get an airline card if you rarely fly that airline
• A high-fee card isn’t worth it if you don’t travel often enough to use the perks
• A hotel card is only good if you actually stay at that hotel chain

Think about how you really travel, not how you wish you traveled.

Ignoring the Annual Fee

Some people focus on rewards and forget about the annual fee. But fees can eat into your rewards value.

• Calculate if the rewards and perks outweigh the fee each year
• Remember, your travel habits might change over time
• Be willing to switch cards if the fee is no longer worth it

A $95 annual fee means you need to get at least $95 of value from the card each year.

Not Meeting Sign-up Bonus Requirements

Sign-up bonuses can be valuable, but only if you earn them.

• Make sure you can meet the spending requirement before applying
• Keep track of the deadline
• Don’t apply for a card if you can’t reasonably earn the bonus

Missing out on a 50,000 point bonus because you fell $100 short on spending would be frustrating.

Letting Points Expire

Many people earn points and then forget about them. Points can expire if you’re not careful.

• Know your program’s expiration policy
• Keep your account active with regular earning or redemption
• If you’re not using points, consider transferring or sharing them

Even a small purchase every few months can keep your points alive in many programs.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can get the most value from your travel credit card. Remember, these cards are tools. Used wisely, they can unlock great travel experiences. Used poorly, they can lead to financial trouble. In the next section, we’ll discuss how to apply for a travel credit card.

How to Apply for a Travel Credit Card

Applying for a travel credit card is usually quick and easy. But it’s important to do it right. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Check Your Credit Score

Before you apply:

• Get a free credit report from AnnualCreditReport.com
• Check your credit score through your bank or a free service
• Most travel cards require good to excellent credit (670+)

If your score is low, work on improving it before applying.

Research and Compare Cards

Don’t apply for the first card you see. Do your homework:

• Look at several cards that match your needs
• Compare annual fees, rewards rates, and perks
• Read reviews from other cardholders
• Use comparison tools on sites like FintechZoom

Choose a card that fits your spending habits and travel goals.

Gather Necessary Information

Before you start the application, have this info ready:

• Full name, date of birth, and address
• Social Security number
• Annual income
• Monthly housing costs

Having this on hand will make the process smoother.

Fill Out the Online Application

Most card applications are online now. Here’s what to expect:

• Go to the card issuer’s website
• Find the “Apply Now” button for your chosen card
• Fill in your personal and financial information
• Review all information for accuracy before submitting

Be honest on your application. Providing false information is fraud.

Wait for a Decision

After you submit:

• You might get an instant decision
• If not, you may need to wait a few days
• Some applications need manual review, which can take longer

If approved, you’ll usually get your card in 7-10 business days.

What to Do If You’re Approved

Congratulations! Now:

• Activate your card when it arrives
• Set up online account access
• Read through all materials that come with the card
• Make a plan to meet the sign-up bonus spending requirement

Start using your card wisely to earn rewards.

What to Do If You’re Denied

Don’t worry. It happens. Here’s what to do:

• You’ll get a letter explaining why you were denied
• Review this letter carefully
• Work on addressing the reasons for denial
• Consider applying for a different card that better matches your credit profile

You can also call the card issuer to ask for reconsideration.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Don’t apply for too many cards at once. This can hurt your credit score.
• Time your application when you have a big purchase coming up. This can help you meet sign-up bonus requirements.
• If you have a banking relationship with the card issuer, mention it in your application.
• Be prepared to verify your income if asked.

Remember, getting a new credit card is a financial decision. Make sure you’re ready for the responsibility. Only apply if you’re confident you can use the card wisely and pay your bills on time.

Keeping Your Travel Rewards Safe

Your travel rewards are valuable. Thieves might try to steal them. Here’s how to keep your points and miles safe:

Protect Your Account Information

• Use strong, unique passwords for each loyalty account
• Don’t share your account numbers or passwords with anyone
• Be careful about posting travel plans or reward balances on social media

Change your passwords regularly, especially if you suspect any unusual activity.

Watch Out for Phishing Scams

Scammers might try to trick you into giving away your information:

• Be wary of emails asking for your login details
• Don’t click on suspicious links in emails or texts
• If unsure, go directly to the company’s website instead of using email links

Remember, legitimate companies won’t ask for your password via email.

Monitor Your Accounts Regularly

• Check your point balances often
• Look for any transactions you don’t recognize
• Set up account alerts if your program offers them

The sooner you spot a problem, the easier it is to fix.

Keep Your Contact Info Updated

• Make sure your email and phone number are current
• Update your address if you move

This helps the company contact you if they spot suspicious activity.

Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi

• Avoid logging into reward accounts on public Wi-Fi
• If you must, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for security
• Never access financial accounts on public networks

Public Wi-Fi is often not secure and can be easily hacked.

Don’t Let Points Expire

• Know the expiration policy for each of your reward programs
• Keep accounts active with small purchases or point transfers
• Set reminders for when points are close to expiring

Some programs let you restore expired points, but often for a fee.

Consider Pooling Points with Trusted Family Members

• Some programs let you combine points with family
• This can help prevent points from expiring
• Be very careful about who you share points with

Only pool points with people you completely trust.

What to Do If Your Card Is Lost or Stolen While Traveling

• Call your card issuer immediately to report it
• Most issuers have 24/7 customer service for lost cards
• Ask for an emergency replacement card if needed
• Review your recent transactions for any fraud

Many travel cards offer zero liability for fraudulent charges.

Use Digital Wallets for Added Security

• Add your card to a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay
• These use tokenization, which is more secure than swiping your card
• Your actual card number isn’t shared with merchants

This adds an extra layer of protection when traveling.

Be Cautious When Booking Through Third-Party Sites

• Stick to well-known, reputable travel booking sites
• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true
• Double-check bookings directly with the airline or hotel

Sometimes, very cheap deals can be scams.

Keep Physical Records

• Write down your account numbers and store them safely at home
• Keep a record of your card’s customer service number
• Take a photo of your card (front and back) before traveling

This info can be crucial if your card is lost or stolen while traveling.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your hard-earned travel rewards stay safe. Remember, your points and miles are like money. Protect them just as carefully. In the next section, we’ll look at future trends in travel credit cards.

Future Trends in Travel Credit Cards

The world of travel credit cards is always changing. Here are some trends we might see in the coming years:

More Flexible Rewards

• Cards may offer more ways to use points
• Expect to see rewards for things beyond just travel
• Some cards might let you use points for everyday purchases

This flexibility could make travel cards useful even when you’re not traveling.

Focus on Experiences

• Cards might offer more rewards for unique travel experiences
• Look for perks like exclusive event access or custom travel planning
• Some cards may partner with tour companies or activity providers

This trend caters to travelers who value experiences over luxury.

Increased Use of Technology

• More cards may offer virtual card numbers for online shopping
• Expect to see better mobile apps for managing rewards
• Some cards might use AI to suggest the best ways to use your points

These changes could make it easier and safer to use your card.

Emphasis on Sustainability

• Cards made from recycled materials may become more common
• Some issuers might offer rewards for eco-friendly purchases
• Look for partnerships with sustainable travel companies

This trend reflects growing concern about the environment.

Personalized Rewards

• Cards might offer custom reward categories based on your spending
• Some issuers may let you choose your own bonus categories
• Expect more targeted offers based on your travel habits

This could help you earn more rewards on the things you buy most.

Integration with Digital Wallets

• More cards may offer extra rewards for using digital wallets
• Some might be digital-only, with no physical card
• Expect better integration with services like Apple Pay or Google Pay

This could make it easier and more rewarding to pay with your phone.

Focus on Travel Insurance and Protections

• Cards may offer more comprehensive travel insurance
• Look for new types of protections, like for rental cars or home shares
• Some might offer coverage for trip changes due to health issues

These protections could become more valuable in uncertain times.

Emphasis on Everyday Spending

• Travel cards may offer more rewards for non-travel purchases
• Some might have rotating bonus categories like cash-back cards
• Look for cards that reward both travel and daily expenses

This could make travel cards more useful year-round.

Partnerships with Tech Companies

• Some cards might partner with companies like Uber or Airbnb
• Look for rewards tied to streaming services or online shopping
• Expect to see more integration with travel apps and websites

These partnerships could offer new ways to earn and use rewards.

Changes in Sign-up Bonuses

• Sign-up bonuses might become more tiered or personalized
• Some cards may offer bonuses based on spending over a longer time
• Look for creative bonuses like free hotel stays or airline status

This could make sign-up bonuses more attainable for some users.

Remember, these are predictions based on current trends. The actual future of travel credit cards may be different. Always stay informed about your card’s benefits and be ready to switch cards if your needs change.

In conclusion, travel credit cards are likely to become more flexible, personalized, and tech-savvy in the future. By staying aware of these trends, you can choose the best card for your evolving needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the best travel credit card can greatly improve your travel experiences. Let’s recap the key points:

• Consider your travel habits when picking a card
• Look at annual fees, rewards rates, and perks
• Use your card wisely to maximize rewards
• Protect your points and miles from theft
• Stay informed about new trends in travel cards

Remember, the right card for you depends on your personal needs and spending habits. A card that’s perfect for someone else might not be the best for you.

By using travel credit cards smartly, you can enjoy benefits like free flights, hotel stays, and travel protections. But always use credit responsibly. Don’t spend more just to earn rewards.

Keep learning about travel cards and how to use them. As your travel habits change, you might need to switch cards. Stay flexible and always look for the best value.

With the right travel credit card and smart usage, you can turn your everyday spending into amazing travel experiences. Happy travels!

FAQs

• Do I need a good credit score to get a travel credit card? Most travel cards require good to excellent credit (usually 670 or higher). Some cards for average credit exist, but often with fewer perks.
• How do I choose between a co-branded airline card and a general travel card? If you often fly with one airline, a co-branded card might be best. For more flexibility, choose a general travel card.
• Are annual fees worth it? It depends on how much you travel and use the card’s perks. Calculate the value you’ll get from the card and compare it to the fee.
• How can I meet the spending requirement for a sign-up bonus? Use the card for all your regular expenses. Time your application with big planned purchases. Don’t overspend just to get the bonus.
• What should I do if my travel card is lost or stolen while traveling? Call your card issuer immediately. They can freeze your card and often send an emergency replacement.