Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024
Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Chase Sapphire Reserve Card for Ultimate Rewards flexibility
The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is a popular choice among frequent travelers, offering exceptional flexibility and value through its comprehensive travel rewards program.
With the ability to earn 5x points on flights and 10x points on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel, the card provides ample opportunities to maximize rewards for those who travel often.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve's $300 annual travel credit can be used not just for flights, but also for a wide range of travel expenses, including hotels, rental cars, taxis, and even some restaurant purchases, making it a highly versatile perk.
Cardholders can earn a whopping 10x points on Lyft rides through March 2025, which is an exceptionally generous rate compared to the typical 1-2x points earned on rideshare transactions.
The card's Priority Pass Select membership grants access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, allowing cardholders to enjoy a more comfortable and productive travel experience, even on long layovers.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve's trip delay reimbursement coverage kicks in after only 6 hours of delay, compared to the industry standard of 12 hours, providing an extra layer of protection for frequent flyers.
The card's partnership with DoorDash offers a complimentary DashPass subscription, which can save cardholders up to $99 on eligible delivery fees for two years, making it a valuable perk for foodies on the go.
While the Chase Sapphire Reserve's $550 annual fee may seem steep, the card's effective annual cost can be as low as $150 after factoring in the $300 travel credit, making it a surprisingly affordable option for frequent travelers.
What else is in this post?
- Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Chase Sapphire Reserve Card for Ultimate Rewards flexibility
- Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - American Express Platinum Card with 5X points on flights
- Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Capital One Venture X Rewards Card for flat-rate miles earning
- Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Citi Premier Card with 3X points on air travel and hotels
- Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - United Explorer Card for United Airlines perks
- Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card for Delta flyers
- Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card for hotel rewards
Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - American Express Platinum Card with 5X points on flights
However, the recent cap of $500,000 on annual flight purchases eligible for 5X points has somewhat dampened enthusiasm among ultra-high spenders.
The 5X points earning rate on flights is capped at $500,000 in purchases per calendar year, which equates to a potential maximum of 5 million points annually from this category alone.
The card's Global Lounge Collection includes access to over 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries, making it the most extensive airport lounge network offered by any US credit card.
Amex Platinum cardholders receive complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, which can lead to room upgrades and late check-out at thousands of properties worldwide.
The card offers a $200 annual airline fee credit that can be used for incidental fees on a selected airline, potentially offsetting baggage fees or in-flight purchases.
Amex Platinum cardholders have access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program, which offers an average of $550 in value per stay at over 1,100 luxury properties globally.
The card's Cruise Privileges Program provides up to $300 in onboard credits and exclusive amenities on select cruise lines, making it an attractive option for frequent cruisers as well as flyers.
Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Capital One Venture X Rewards Card for flat-rate miles earning
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Card stands out as a premium travel rewards credit card, offering a competitive annual fee and a range of valuable perks for frequent flyers.
With a flat-rate earning structure of 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases, the card provides a straightforward and rewarding earning experience, making it a compelling option for those looking to maximize their travel rewards in 2024.
Additionally, the Venture X's generous sign-up bonus, combined with its $300 annual travel credit and access to airport lounges, position it as a strong contender among the top travel rewards credit cards for the year ahead.
The Venture X card offers a unique "Uber Visa" style flat-rate earning structure, providing 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, regardless of category.
This simplifies earning and maximizing rewards for cardholders.
The card's $300 annual travel credit can be redeemed for a wide range of travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars, and even Uber rides, giving cardholders significant flexibility in how they use this valuable perk.
Venture X cardholders receive 10,000 bonus miles each year on their card anniversary, effectively reducing the $395 annual fee to just $95 for those who can maximize this benefit.
The card's Priority Pass Select membership includes access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, allowing cardholders to enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and a quiet space to work or relax during their travels.
Venture X offers an industry-leading $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck enrollment, providing a valuable time-saving benefit for frequent travelers.
The card's seamless integration with the Capital One Travel portal allows cardholders to earn 10 miles per dollar on hotel and rental car bookings, significantly boosting their earning potential.
Venture X cardholders can transfer their miles to over 15 airline and hotel loyalty programs, including popular options like Air France/KLM Flying Blue, Etihad Guest, and Wyndham Rewards.
Unlike some other premium travel cards, the Venture X does not impose any foreign transaction fees, making it a cost-effective choice for international travelers.
Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Citi Premier Card with 3X points on air travel and hotels
The Citi Premier Card continues to be a strong contender in the travel rewards space, offering 3X points on air travel and hotels.
This card stands out for its versatile earning structure, which extends beyond travel to include restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations.
The ability to earn 10X points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through the Citi Travel portal adds significant value for frequent travelers looking to maximize their rewards.
While the annual fee remains competitive at $95, savvy cardholders can easily offset this cost through strategic use of the card's bonus categories and redemption options.
The Citi Premier Card allows points transfer to 16 airline partners, including some unique options like Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles and Avianca LifeMiles.
Cardholders can earn up to 100,000 bonus ThankYou points annually by spending $100,000 on the card, making it potentially lucrative for high spenders.
The card offers an annual $100 hotel savings benefit on a single hotel stay of $500 or more booked through ThankYou.com.
Citi Premier cardholders have access to exclusive culinary experiences through the Citi Private Pass program, including chef-led dinners and cooking classes.
The card's extended warranty benefit doubles the original manufacturer's warranty for up to 24 months on eligible purchases.
Citi Premier offers a unique "Round Up" feature, automatically rounding up purchases to the nearest dollar and applying the difference to your ThankYou points balance.
The card provides World Elite Mastercard benefits, including cell phone protection and access to luxury hotel perks at over 3,000 properties worldwide.
Citi Premier's purchase protection covers items against damage or theft for 90 days, up to $10,000 per item and $50,000 per year.
The card offers a complimentary ShopRunner membership, providing free 2-day shipping at over 100 online retailers.
Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - United Explorer Card for United Airlines perks
The United Explorer Card offers a variety of valuable perks for frequent United Airlines flyers, including a free checked bag, priority boarding, and 25% off in-flight purchases.
Cardholders can also earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases, dining, and hotels, making it easy to rack up rewards for travel.
The United Explorer Card provides a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fee credit of up to $100 every 4 years, helping frequent flyers streamline their airport experiences.
Cardholders can earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining and eligible delivery services, making it a lucrative option for foodies who love to dine out or order in.
The card offers two one-time United Club passes per year, granting access to the airline's network of exclusive airport lounges, typically valued at $59 per pass.
United Explorer Card holders receive priority boarding privileges, allowing them to board their flights earlier and secure overhead bin space for their carry-on items.
The card comes with a 25% statement credit for in-flight purchases on United, including food, beverages, and Wi-Fi, providing a nice perk for those who frequently fly with the airline.
Cardholders can enjoy a free first checked bag for themselves and one companion on United flights, a benefit that can save up to $120 per round-trip journey.
The United Explorer Card offers 2 miles per $1 spent on hotels booked directly with the hotel, making it a valuable tool for earning bonus points on accommodations.
Eligible cardholders can receive a waiver on the Premier Qualifying Flight (PQF) requirement to earn United elite status, making it easier to attain higher-tier perks.
The card provides up to $500 in trip delay reimbursement if a covered trip is delayed by more than 12 hours, a valuable protection for frequent flyers.
United Explorer Card holders can earn up to 60,000 bonus miles by spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months, a lucrative sign-up bonus that can be redeemed for free flights or upgrades.
Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card for Delta flyers
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card continues to be a top choice for frequent Delta flyers in 2024.
With its annual companion certificate for domestic and select international flights, this card offers substantial value for those who regularly travel with a partner.
The card's ability to help cardholders earn Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) towards elite status is a unique feature that sets it apart from other airline co-branded cards in the market.
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card offers a unique Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) waiver, allowing cardholders to earn up to 25,000 Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) annually through spending, potentially fast-tracking elite status.
Cardholders receive a companion certificate each year upon renewal, valid for a domestic Main Cabin round-trip flight, which can offset the annual fee if used strategically.
The card provides access to Delta's Pay with Miles program, allowing redemptions starting at 5,000 miles for $50 off the cost of a flight.
Delta SkyMiles Platinum cardholders enjoy priority boarding on Delta flights, even when flying in Main Cabin, potentially securing overhead bin space and reducing stress during the boarding process.
The card offers a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit every 4 years, valued at up to $100, streamlining the airport security process for frequent travelers.
Cardholders receive a 20% in-flight savings on eligible purchases, including food, beverages, and audio headsets, when using the card on Delta flights.
The Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card provides trip delay insurance, covering up to $300 per trip for necessary expenses if a trip is delayed by more than 12 hours.
Cardholders can access Delta Sky Club lounges at a reduced rate of $39 per visit, offering a more comfortable airport experience for those who don't require frequent lounge access.
The card offers cell phone protection for up to $800 per claim when the monthly bill is paid with the card, providing peace of mind for travelers who rely heavily on their devices.
Delta SkyMiles Platinum cardholders receive a complimentary ShopRunner membership, offering free two-day shipping at over 100 online retailers.
The card provides exclusive access to Delta's Fly Now, Pay Later program, allowing cardholders to book flights using a combination of miles and a payment plan for the remaining balance.
Top 7 Travel Rewards Credit Cards for Frequent Flyers in 2024 - Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card for hotel rewards
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card is Marriott's most premium credit card offering, featuring automatic Platinum Elite status, an annual free night award, and up to $300 in annual statement credits for eligible restaurant purchases.
With a high annual fee of $650, the card earns 6X points per $1 spent at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3X points per $1 spent at restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines, and 2X points on all other eligible purchases, making it a valuable option for frequent Marriott guests.
However, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card requires good to excellent credit, with a FICO score of 690 to 850, and is one of five consumer Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit cards available.
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card currently features a sign-up bonus of 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, which is equivalent to approximately $808 in value based on Marriott's point valuations.
The card automatically provides Platinum Elite status, which typically requires 50 nights per year to earn, granting benefits such as guaranteed 4 PM late checkout, enhanced room upgrades, and more.
Cardholders receive an annual free night award valid at a Marriott property costing up to 85,000 points, which can be redeemed for high-end hotels in prime locations.
The card offers up to $300 in annual statement credits for eligible purchases at Marriott properties, effectively reducing the $650 annual fee to just $350 for those who can fully utilize this benefit.
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card earns 6 Marriott Bonvoy points per $1 spent at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, one of the highest earning rates for a co-branded hotel credit card.
Cardholders can earn 3 points per $1 spent at restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines, allowing them to maximize rewards beyond just Marriott stays.
The card is one of only five consumer Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit cards, with the others being the Marriott Bonvoy Bold, Boundless, Bevy, and Bountiful.
Marriott Bonvoy points are valued at around 8 cents each, making the card's sign-up bonus and earning potential highly valuable for frequent Marriott guests.
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card requires a good to excellent credit score, with a FICO score typically ranging from 690 to
Unlike some other premium travel cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card does not charge any foreign transaction fees, making it a cost-effective choice for international travelers.
Cardholders can take advantage of Marriott's Flexible Points program, which allows them to redeem points for a wide range of experiences, including flights, car rentals, and more.
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card offers exclusive access to the Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador Elite program, which provides personal concierge services and additional benefits for the most loyal Marriott guests.