Best Travel Credit Cards of 2025: A Research-Based Analysis

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In this article, we are not promoting or endorsing any specific credit card, nor are we providing financial advice. Instead, our aim is to analyze opinions from users who have found certain travel credit cards to be convenient for their needs. By gathering and reviewing these perspectives, we hope to uncover the features and benefits that make these cards attractive. This compilation represents a research-driven selection of travel credit cards that appear to offer value for travelers in 2025.

When exploring the options below, consider your personal travel habits and financial situation, as these factors play a significant role in determining the excellent travel credit card for you.

List of the Best Travel Credit Cards 2025

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

  • Key Benefits:
    • Earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠ and 2x points on travel and dining purchases.
    • Offers 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in your first 3 months of card membership.
    • Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
    • No foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international travel.
    • Annual fee: $95.
  • Why it stands out: This card is highly regarded for its versatility, rewards rate, and ease of use when booking travel.
  • User Reviews of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: "This card has been great for earning points on travel. The 5x rewards rate on travel purchased through Chase Travel is a nice perk, best travel rewards - and the fact that points are worth 25% more when redeemed through their portal is a bonus, good rewards for travel. The 60,000 points I earned after spending $4,000 in the first three months really helped cover some of my travel costs. The $95 annual fee is fair for what it offers, and no for. transact. fees make it even better for trips abroad."

We have written a separate, detailed article about the customer rewards program of the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card.

2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  • Key Benefits:
    • Earn 2x miles on every dollar spent, with no limits.
    • Receive 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
    • Redeem miles for travel expenses, including flights and hotels booked through Capital One Travel.
    • Includes a $100 credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
    • Annual fee: $95.
  • Why it stands out: It’s a straightforward travel rewards card with flexible redemption options, suitable for both domestic and worldwide travel.
  • User Reviews of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: "Straightforward and reliable card that offers points and miles... credit toward travel. I like the 2x miles on every purchase—no categories or restrictions to worry about. The 75,000 bonus miles I got after hitting the $4,000 spending requirement in the first three months were enough to book a few flights. I’ve also used the TSA PreCheck credit, which was a nice touch. The $95 annual fee is fine, and there’s no hassle with International Purchase Fees when traveling internationally."

3. American Express® Gold Card

  • Key Benefits:
    • Earn 4x points on dining and 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines.
    • Provides a $120 annual dining credit and $100 airline fee credit.
    • Points can be redeemed for travel or transferred to airline and hotel partners.
    • Foreign transaction fees: None.
    • Annual fee: $250.
  • Why it stands out: This premium card provides high rewards rates for dining and travel, along with valuable travel credits.
  • User Reviews of the American Express Gold Card: "This card is solid if you eat out a lot or book flights often. I rack up points quickly with 4x on dining and 3x on flights booked directly with airlines. The dining credit helps offset the $250 annual fee, but you need to make sure you’ll actually use it. No foreign transaction fees is a big plus for me since I travel a lot for work. Overall, it’s a practical choice for people who value dining and travel rewards."

4. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

  • Key Benefits:
    • Earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases with no annual fee.
    • Points can be redeemed for travel purchases, including flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
    • No foreign transaction fees.
    • Introductory APR offer for the first 18 billing cycles.
  • Why it stands out: A great option for travelers seeking simplicity and no annual fees while earning rewards.
  • User Reviews of the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card: "It’s a no-frills card, but it works. The 1.5 points per dollar on everything is simple to keep track of, and I don’t have to worry about an annual fee. Redeeming points - points and miles - for travel expenses like flights and hotels is easy enough. It’s great for international trips too since there aren’t any Currency Conversion Fees. Not the flashiest card, but it gets the job done."

5. The Platinum Card® from American Express

  • Key Benefits:
    • Earn 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel.
    • Includes a $200 annual travel credit and access to airport lounges worldwide.
    • Receive up to $100 credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
    • Annual fee: $695.
  • Why it stands out: This premium card is ideal for frequent travelers who value luxury benefits like lounge access and comprehensive travel credits.
  • User Reviews of the Platinum Card from American Express: "If you travel frequently, this card is worth considering. The 5x points on flights and access to airport lounges are big perks, but the $695 annual fee is steep. For me, the lounge access and yearly travel credits make up for it, but if you don’t travel a lot, it might not be worth it. No foreign transaction fees are great for international trips, and redeeming points for premium travel is straightforward. I think Platinum is best travel rewards credit... use the card also to access premium perks like airport lounges andannual travel reimbursements."

6. Citi Premier® Card

  • Key Benefits:
    • Earn 3x points on air travel, hotels, and dining, as well as at gas stations and supermarkets.
    • Receive 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first 3 months.
    • Points can be redeemed for travel through the Citi ThankYou® program.
    • Annual fee: $95.
  • Why it stands out: Its high rewards rate across multiple categories makes it a versatile option for everyday spending and travel.
  • User Reviews of the Citi Premier Card: "The rewards on this card are pretty good. Earning 3x points on air travel, pay for travel purchases on your new card, dining, and supermarkets has added up faster than I expected. The 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months were a nice boost too. I like that there’s no Global Transaction Charges, but the $95 annual fee feels a bit high for what it offers compared to some other cards. Still, it’s a solid option for everyday spending and travel."

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Credit Card for Travel

  1. Rewards Rate and Redemption Options
    Look for cards offering high rewards rates on travel and food purchases. Cards that allow you to redeem points or miles for various travel expenses, such as flights, hotels, and car rentals, offer better flexibility.

  2. Annual Fee vs. Benefits
    While premium cards often come with higher annual fees, they also provide valuable perks like lounge access, travel credits, or bonus points. Evaluate whether the benefits justify the cost.

  3. Foreign Transaction Fees
    For worldwide travel, a card with no foreign transaction fees is essential to avoid unnecessary expenses on purchases abroad.

  4. Sign-Up Bonuses
    Many travel credit cards provide substantial bonus points or miles after you meet a spending requirement within the first few months. These bonuses can significantly boost your rewards value.

  5. Travel Insurance and Protections
    Some cards include travel protections, such as trip cancellation insurance, rental car insurance, and lost baggage coverage, which can provide peace of mind during your travels.

How to get a travel credit card: A Step-by-Step Guide

Obtaining a travel credit card is a straightforward process, but it can vary depending on whether you're applying for a physical card through a traditional bank or an online travel card provided by neobanks. For citizens and non-citizens alike, the key requirements typically include a valid ID, proof of income, and a credit score that meets the card issuer's standards. Here's how you can get started:

  1. Traditional Banks: For a physical travel credit card, visit a major credit card issuer such as Chase, Bank of America, or Citi. You’ll need to provide documentation like a government-issued ID, Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for non-citizens, and proof of income to demonstrate your ability to pay off the card. Depending on the card, your credit score may need to be in the "good" to "excellent" range to qualify for the best credit card offers.

  2. Online Applications Through Neobanks: Many neobanks and fintech companies offer travel credit cards that can be managed entirely online. These cards tend to have lower annual fees or none at all, and some even allow you to apply without a traditional credit score by evaluating alternative data like your banking history. These options are particularly appealing for frequent international travelers, as they often come with zero Global Transaction Charges and streamlined processes for non-citizens.

  3. For Non-Citizens: If you're not a citizen, you may still qualify for a travel credit card, but the requirements can differ. Neobanks often make it easier for non-citizens to apply by accepting alternative forms of identification, like a passport or visa, instead of an SSN. Some co-branded card provides tied to international airlines or hotel credit chains may also be accessible to non-citizens, depending on the issuer’s policies.

  4. Additional Considerations: Before applying, compare cards to find the best value for your needs. Look for features like rewards rates, yearly travel perks, statement credit, and travel rewards for eligible travel expenses. Also, review terms carefully, as cards typically charge interest on balances carried over and may have different policies for redeeming your rewards for points or miles.

Choosing the best travel card of January 2025

When evaluating the excellent travel credit cards of January 2025, user surveys reveal several standout options that are currently considered the most promising by travelers. These selections are based on a combination of factors, including rewards rate, flexibility for travel purchases, and features like no International Transaction Fees and yearly travel perks.

  1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Consistently ranked as a top travel rewards credit card, it offers 5x points on travel purchased through Chase and an additional 25% boost in value when points are redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Its affordability (annual fee: $95) combined with premium benefits makes it a favorite.

  2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Highly rated for its simple yet generous earning structure of 2x miles on all purchases and perks like a $100 credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. This card appeals to frequent travelers who prioritize flexible redemption options and straightforward rewards.

  3. The Platinum Card® from American Express: With 5x points on flights and access to premium perks like global airport lounges and an annual travel credit, this card is favored by luxury travelers despite its high annual fee.

The preferences highlighted in these surveys indicate that general travel cards with a mix of strong rewards and comprehensive benefits continue to dominate, while premium cards remain appealing for those seeking luxury experiences. The insights from user feedback allow us to identify these top contenders as the ideal travel cards for the current period.

Understanding Rewards Rates, Foreign Transaction Fees, Credit Scores, and Annual Fees for Travel Credit Cards

When considering the top travel credit cards of January 2025, it's essential to be aware of each card's specific limitations and requirements. Here's a detailed overview:

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

  • Credit Score Requirement: Applicants typically need a good to excellent credit score, generally in the range of 700 or higher.

  • Application Restrictions: Chase's 5/24 rule applies, meaning if you've opened five or more personal credit cards across all issuers within the past 24 months, your application may be denied.

  • Geographical Availability: Primarily available to U.S. residents; non-residents may face challenges during the application process.

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None, making it suitable for international travel.

2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  • Credit Score Requirement: A good to excellent credit score is required, typically 700 or above.

  • Application Restrictions: Capital One may limit the number of cards you can hold; existing customers with multiple accounts might face approval challenges.

  • Geographical Availability: Available to U.S. residents; non-residents may encounter difficulties when applying.

  • Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old to apply.

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None, advantageous for international travelers.

3. American Express® Gold Card

  • Credit Score Requirement: Generally requires a good to excellent credit score, around 700 or higher.

  • Application Restrictions: American Express may have limitations on the number of cards per individual; prior relationships with Amex can influence approval odds.

  • Geographical Availability: Primarily issued to U.S. residents; non-residents may find the application process challenging.

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None, beneficial for use abroad.

4. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

  • Credit Score Requirement: Requires good to excellent credit, typically a score of 700 or above.

  • Application Restrictions: Bank of America may consider the number of recent credit inquiries; multiple recent applications can impact approval.

  • Geographical Availability: Mainly available to U.S. residents; non-residents might face application hurdles.

  • Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old to apply.

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None, making it suitable for international use.

5. The Platinum Card® from American Express

  • Credit Score Requirement: Typically requires an excellent credit score, usually 720 or higher.

  • Application Restrictions: Amex may limit the number of charge cards per individual; existing cardholders should review their current accounts before applying.

  • Geographical Availability: Primarily issued to U.S. residents; non-residents may encounter application challenges.

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None, ideal for international travelers.

6. Citi Premier® Card

  • Credit Score Requirement: Requires good to excellent credit, generally a score of 700 or above.

  • Application Restrictions: Citi may have rules regarding the number of cards and recent applications; known as the 8/65 rule (no more than one card every 8 days and no more than two every 65 days).

  • Geographical Availability: Available to U.S. residents; non-residents may face difficulties during the application process.

  • Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old to apply.

  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None, beneficial for use abroad.

General Considerations:

  • Income Verification: All these cards require proof of sufficient income to manage credit obligations.

  • Residency Status: Non-U.S. citizens may need to provide additional documentation, such as an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and may face stricter eligibility criteria.

  • Annual Fees: Be aware of each card's annual fee and assess whether the benefits justify the cost.

Understanding these limitations and requirements can help you make informed decisions when selecting a travel credit card that aligns with your financial profile and travel needs.

Conclusion: Research-Based Insights and Invitation for Feedback

In conclusion, the information provided in this article is research-based and aims to help you in choosing the optimal travel credit cards for your needs. Whether you're considering a general travel card or looking to maximize rewards® points after you spend in the first 6 months of card membership, understanding the benefits each card offers is key to making informed decisions. Cards like the America® Travel Rewards Credit Card or those offering cash back on travel and 5x on travel purchased can provide significant value for frequent travelers. Remember, many travel credit cards offer perks like travel and dining purchases rewards, and some cards even ensure your points don't expire as long as the account is active.

We invite you to share your feedback and experiences, as your insights help us explore the number of points or miles earned and ensure we provide ideal travel advice in the future.

Georgetta F. Palsen

Georgetta F. Palsen

About the author

Georgetta F. Palsen spearheads the Loyalty Programs Project, aiming to unravel the global impact of loyalty programs. Leading a dedicated team, she adopts an interdisciplinary approach to explore these programs' influence on consumer behavior and capitalism, offering critical insights for academics and businesses navigating the complexities of today's societal dynamics. More info