5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024

5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - Capital One Venture X Card Offers 75,000 Mile Signup Bonus

The Capital One Venture X card continues to entice travelers with its generous 75,000-mile welcome bonus. To unlock this bonus, new cardholders need to spend $4,000 within the initial three months of account opening. Beyond the signup bonus, the card earns a minimum of 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, potentially leading to a steady stream of miles for everyday spending. The card also provides a yearly 10,000-mile bonus on account anniversaries, a nice perk for long-term cardholders. A $300 annual travel credit, usable on Capital One Travel, is a further benefit that can help offset travel expenses.

While the Venture X's earning potential is appealing, it's important to remember that mile redemption options are tied to the Capital One platform. The card allows using miles for expenses like ride-sharing and tolls, providing some flexibility beyond traditional travel purchases. However, depending on your travel style, the card's redemption options might not always be the most efficient way to use your points. Despite this, the Venture X stands out for many due to the solid welcome bonus, consistent earning, and added benefits, which can make it a compelling choice in 2024.

The Capital One Venture X card currently presents a 75,000-mile signup bonus, which is a decent starting point for accumulating miles for travel. This bonus, when used strategically, can potentially cover a couple of round-trip domestic flights within the US or even a transatlantic journey, but that obviously depends on the selected airline and trip duration.

It's noteworthy that Capital One utilizes its own mile transfer system, connecting cardholders to more than 15 travel partners, including prominent airlines like Emirates and Singapore Airlines. This transfer feature potentially unlocks greater value per mile when booking with these partners.

The card offers a base earning rate of 2 miles per dollar on all purchases, making it relatively simple to build up a balance, even with everyday spending. While not category-specific, like some competitors, this strategy makes for consistent mile accumulation, especially for those whose spending is distributed across diverse categories.

Another enticing feature is the $300 annual travel credit that offsets the annual fee for those who spend a significant portion of their budget on travel. It acts as a built-in discount when utilizing Capital One's travel portal.

Though the 75,000 mile sign-up bonus has been consistent for a while, with the last notable increase occurring at launch in 2021, there are still methods to potentially find higher offers, like keeping an eye out for periodic promotions, targeted mailers, or referral programs. These opportunities may be worth investigating if you're looking for a more generous deal.

It's worth exploring the card's potential for flexible redemption. While the portal is convenient, it's good to be mindful that the redemption rates for things like flights, rental cars, or hotels on the Capital One portal might not be consistently the best value compared to booking independently.

Capital One's Venture X card offers 5X miles for flights and vacation rentals, and 2X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. However, I often question if that's necessarily more valuable than the simple 2x per dollar for all purchases. Some people will find the portal a massive plus, but this is a feature that might not be relevant to everyone.


The sister card, Capital One Venture Rewards, is also currently offering 75,000 bonus miles for a similar spend requirement, indicating that this 75,000-mile bonus may be a standard promotional offering for Capital One cards at this time.

There's potential for a decent travel rewards program in this card, but careful observation and mindful booking is advised for travelers looking to extract the most value from their accumulated miles. It's important to evaluate its features and assess whether they align with your personal travel preferences and spending habits.

What else is in this post?

1. 5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - Capital One Venture X Card Offers 75,000 Mile Signup Bonus
2. 5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - Bilt World Elite Mastercard Rewards Rent Payments
3. 5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - United Explorer Card Provides Airline-Specific Benefits
4. 5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Visa Signature Card Delivers Strong Value
5. 5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - Chase Sapphire Preferred Balances Rewards and Low Annual Fee

5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - Bilt World Elite Mastercard Rewards Rent Payments

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard presents a compelling proposition for renters looking to turn their monthly housing costs into travel rewards. It stands out by offering a unique feature: earning points on rent payments without any fees or annual fee. You earn a basic 1 point per dollar spent on rent, with a cap of 100,000 points annually. While this might not seem like much, consider that in addition, you earn 2x points on travel and 3x on dining. This makes the card more attractive for frequent diners and travelers beyond just rent payments.

The card's linkage with the Bilt Rewards app is a highlight. It streamlines paying landlords, including those who only accept checks, making it a versatile tool for rent payments. And this, essentially, is the core value proposition: earning travel rewards from something you already do – paying rent. It's not a given for many credit cards and in that regard, Bilt is a pioneering choice in the reward card arena.

Though not an overall top-tier travel rewards credit card, it holds appeal for renters, especially younger demographics like millennials and Gen Z. They are more likely to value the unique ability to earn travel rewards out of a core monthly expense like rent. This focus, this niche if you will, has made Bilt a sought-after choice amongst those renters who actively seek out to gain something from a bill many see as just a monthly expense. While the reward structure might not be the most generous amongst the travel rewards cards, it's still a compelling alternative for a segment of the traveler community.

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard presents an intriguing approach to travel rewards by focusing on a typically overlooked expense: rent. It allows users to earn points on their monthly rent payments, a feature not commonly found on other credit cards. This is particularly beneficial for renters who are looking to gain mileage or points for trips, effectively turning a recurring expense into a travel resource.

While you can accrue points from rent, it's important to note that the card has a points cap for this category each month, which arguably helps prevent massive point inflation. Moreover, the Bilt card has no annual fee, a significant benefit compared to many other travel cards, making it appealing to a broader spectrum of users, including those who may not travel often or spend heavily on other travel-related expenses. The card also offers bonus point structures for travel and dining, alongside a standard point rate for general purchases. This diversified point structure ensures cardholders can accrue points even outside of travel and dining, steadily building a stash of points over time.

A major advantage of the Bilt program is that it directly integrates with rent payments. Cardholders can use the Bilt app to pay landlords, including those who only accept checks, streamlining the process and allowing rewards accumulation on a monthly basis. This is a huge benefit compared to cards that necessitate the use of their own travel booking platform to access the benefits. The Bilt points can be redeemed across a variety of travel partners through the Bilt program, providing some flexibility for those who might prefer a particular airline or hotel chain.

Bilt also provides a marketplace that lets cardholders redeem points for non-travel related items or experiences, an added feature which expands the redemption options beyond just airfare and hotels. Notably, Bilt doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, making it an option for those who frequently travel internationally.

The card's design also hints at a focus on encouraging responsible financial behavior. The card offers bonus points for timely rent payments, providing a unique incentive for renters to manage their financial obligations consistently. The appeal for travelers lies in the potential to leverage this reward structure to maximize the value of their travel rewards by transferring points to various airline and hotel partners.

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard appears to be designed with the budget-conscious renter in mind, providing a means to accumulate travel rewards through a typical monthly expense without any annual fees. While the potential for point accrual is linked to the amount of rent payments, its broader design is quite appealing for renters who want to convert those costs into something tangible like airfare, hotels, and travel related purchases.

5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - United Explorer Card Provides Airline-Specific Benefits

The United Explorer Card stands out for travelers who frequently use United Airlines, offering a range of benefits specifically tailored to their needs. Features like complimentary checked bags and a couple of annual United Club passes can elevate the overall travel experience, particularly for those who prioritize comfort and convenience. Furthermore, the card removes the headache of foreign transaction fees, allowing cardholders to rack up miles on purchases abroad without worrying about extra costs. You can also get a chunk of money back towards fees for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or NEXUS, which can save you some money. The card's earning structure, potentially rewarding you with up to 7 times the miles on United-related purchases, creates a strong incentive for frequent flyers. While a $95 annual fee is part of the deal, it's waived during the first year, allowing new cardholders to give the benefits a shot before committing. It might be worth a look.

The United Explorer Card caters to those who fly United frequently, offering a set of benefits focused on the airline's ecosystem. One standout feature is the complimentary checked bags for the cardholder and a companion on the same booking, a perk that can be quite valuable, especially when traveling with family. The savings on luggage fees, which can easily run into the hundreds of dollars on a round trip, can significantly offset the card's annual cost.

Furthermore, cardholders gain access to a dedicated pool of MileagePlus award availability, often overlooked by the general public. This exclusive access can be a significant advantage when trying to find flights with miles, a process that is sometimes difficult with standard award searches. They also benefit from priority boarding, which can be especially useful during busy travel seasons when you want to avoid the chaotic rush to board.

The United Explorer Card grants two annual single-use passes to United Club lounges, which can be useful for longer layovers or to simply relax before a flight. These passes can save a considerable amount of money versus paying the usual per-visit fees, often around $60. While the card primarily benefits those who use United frequently, it also waives foreign transaction fees, a feature that is relevant for travelers who frequently venture outside the country.

The card's welcome bonus, often a significant chunk of miles after fulfilling a spending requirement, could potentially cover a round-trip domestic flight or even an international flight to select destinations, though usually in economy class. It is worth investigating these bonuses, as they fluctuate and can change. United has recently announced new routes to Portugal and Japan, indicating the carrier's focus on expanding its reach, opening new travel opportunities for cardholders to redeem miles and explore.

The card's 2x miles on purchases directly with United can be very lucrative for frequent travelers, essentially creating an accelerated mileage accumulation mechanism when booking trips. The Explorer card integrates into United's MileagePlus program, a robust platform that allows travelers to manage their accrued points. The program itself is quite versatile, giving cardholders flexibility when it comes to booking different flights and classes of service.

While the card offers a decent selection of travel-related benefits, its overall attractiveness will depend on how frequently you fly with United and whether the associated features and benefits provide enough value compared to similar cards. For frequent travelers on United, this card offers a range of benefits, and the associated savings can be significant if these benefits are effectively utilized. But ultimately, each traveler needs to weigh the annual fee against their individual travel needs to determine if it's the right card for them.

5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Visa Signature Card Delivers Strong Value

The PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Visa Signature Card presents a compelling option for travelers seeking a strong value proposition in 2024, particularly those who frequently spend on travel. Its earning structure is a highlight, rewarding cardholders with a generous 4 points per dollar on travel purchases if they are also a PenFed Honors Advantage member, or 3 points for non-members. This potential for quick point accumulation makes it an attractive choice for accumulating rewards for upcoming travel. Additionally, the card offers a solid 50,000-point signup bonus after meeting a spending threshold within the first three months. However, the $95 annual fee, while waived for some members, might deter certain individuals.

Beyond the lucrative earning rates, the card includes added benefits that enhance its appeal, such as access to airport lounges and comprehensive travel insurance, features frequently sought by those who travel often. While user feedback suggests improved reward redemption options, including more diverse travel packages and flights, it's crucial to evaluate if the available redemption methods fit individual travel needs and preferences. The PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Visa Signature Card deserves consideration for those seeking a travel rewards credit card with a potentially strong return on spend and a valuable array of travel-focused benefits, but one that requires careful assessment of its annual fee in relation to your individual travel patterns and habits.

### The PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Visa Signature Card: A Closer Look

The PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Visa Signature Card has garnered attention for its potentially appealing travel rewards structure. While not as widely discussed as some other options, it offers a compelling set of features for certain travel patterns.

One notable characteristic is its tiered earning structure, with PenFed Honors Advantage members earning 4 points per dollar on travel purchases and 3 points for everyone else. This highlights a potential incentive to consider becoming a member to maximize returns, although that membership's specific perks should be evaluated separately.

The signup bonus of 50,000 points after spending $3,000 within the first 90 days presents a potential starting point for accruing rewards. This bonus could translate into a couple of shorter domestic flights depending on the redemption options, but a close look at how those points are utilized is crucial. However, a $95 annual fee is a part of the equation. Fortunately, it's waived for PenFed Honors Advantage members, potentially adding further value to the membership.


Beyond the welcome bonus, the card earns 1.5 points per dollar on all other spending, including those not related to travel. This allows the card to build up rewards for everyday spending, potentially providing a steady stream of points over time. This broad, yet lower-yielding, reward rate might not be competitive for some, particularly when compared to specialized options with bonus rates in defined categories.


A key benefit, especially for frequent travelers, is the inclusion of various travel insurance features. These perks could become valuable if travel plans hit unforeseen delays or cancellations. Additionally, the card comes bundled with complimentary airport lounge access via Priority Pass, enhancing the experience, particularly at busier airports.


The card's interest rate, like many credit cards, can be quite substantial at a variable APR of 17.99%. This emphasizes a responsible use of credit is crucial to avoid escalating debt. Positive feedback suggests a broader range of options for redeeming points, with more choices for flights and travel packages. Moreover, the points are easily redeemable for travel through a dedicated PenFed portal.


While the Pathfinder appears to be a solid option with a generous rewards program and appealing travel benefits, the specific features resonate more for some travelers than others. Travelers who prioritize flexible rewards, utilize United frequently, and are looking for a travel-centric card with a decent signup bonus might find this a strong choice. However, travelers with frequent international travel, who can benefit from the no foreign transaction fee, or those who are PenFed members might find the overall value proposition compelling. Ultimately, each traveler needs to consider their individual preferences, spending habits, and travel frequency to determine if it truly aligns with their needs within the current rewards landscape.

5 Underrated Travel Rewards Cards That Deserve Your Attention in 2024 - Chase Sapphire Preferred Balances Rewards and Low Annual Fee

The Chase Sapphire Preferred stands out as a travel rewards card with a relatively low annual fee of $95, appealing to a wide spectrum of travelers. It offers a straightforward rewards structure, granting 5 points per dollar on travel booked through Chase's travel portal and on Lyft rides. Furthermore, cardholders receive 3 points per dollar on dining, selected streaming services, and online grocery purchases, excluding some major retailers. For all other purchases, you earn 2 points per dollar.

Each year, cardholders get a $50 hotel credit when booking through Chase Travel, which helps offset the annual fee's cost. The card also allows points transfer to over a dozen airline and hotel loyalty programs, offering increased flexibility for maximizing your earned rewards. Launched in 2009 and updated in 2021, the Chase Sapphire Preferred has retained its position as a popular option in the travel rewards scene. While it's a solid contender, it's crucial to be aware of the variable APR, which can be as high as 28.49% depending on individual creditworthiness.

Its simple rewards system and the ability to earn rewards readily make the card a compelling choice for both new and experienced travelers. It remains a competitive card in the travel rewards market, offering a strong value proposition in 2024, especially for those who primarily value travel and dining rewards.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card, introduced in 2009 and refreshed in 2021, remains a popular choice among travelers, both new and experienced. One of its attractive features is the relatively low annual fee of $95, making it accessible to a broader range of users. The card shines with its straightforward points system, rewarding cardholders with 5 points per dollar on travel booked via Chase's travel portal and Lyft rides, a feature that may be valuable for those who rely on ride-sharing services frequently. Dining and select streaming services, along with online grocery stores excluding major retailers, also bring in 3 points per dollar. For all other spending, the card offers 2 points per dollar.

The card's flexibility comes into play with its ability to transfer points to over a dozen airline and hotel loyalty programs. This feature, which arguably maximizes the value of the rewards earned, allows users to potentially snag better travel deals with specific airlines or hotels. It's worth noting that the card also provides a $50 annual hotel credit when you book through Chase Travel, which further reduces the effective annual fee.

While the points-earning potential is attractive, it's vital to factor in the associated costs. The APR for the card is variable, ranging from 21.49% to 28.49%, depending on individual creditworthiness. It's essential to use the card responsibly and pay off the balance in full each month to avoid high interest charges.

The simplicity and generosity of the earning potential are a key reason why this card is a strong contender in the travel rewards market. It's ideal for those who appreciate a straightforward rewards structure with solid earning opportunities for travel and dining. Whether you are a seasoned traveller or just beginning to explore travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred can be a worthy choice for building a robust rewards pool, provided you carefully analyze your spending habits and travel patterns. While the card lacks a high-value signup bonus compared to some competitors, it consistently provides a reliable structure for building up rewards and achieving travel goals over time. However, its long-term value is inherently linked to how those points are utilized, as it does not feature a dedicated portal like some other cards in this comparison. The potential for the earned points is there, but users need to carefully review if the redemption options work with their personal travel preferences.