Best Credit Cards With Flexible Currency Points for International Travel
Best Credit Card for International Travel Benefits
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
5.0
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Up to 5x Reward Rate
Earn 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on allRead More
Welcome Bonus
60,000 bonus points
Annual Fee
$95
Regular APR
21.49%-28.49% Variable
Credit Score
Excellent, Good(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
Arguably one of the most valuable travel credit cards thanks to a litany of ancillary benefits, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card includes exceptional transfer partners, travel protections and no foreign transaction fees—all for a very reasonable annual fee.
Why We Like It
Points can be transferred to airline and hotel programs where you can get outsized value from redemptions. A $50 annual hotel credit when booking through Chase Travel℠ is also offered.
The card comes with built-in travel-related protections such as auto rental collision damage waiver, trip cancellation or interruption insurance and emergency assistance services, as well as extended warranty and purchase protection for items bought with this card.
What We Don’t Like
While the card earns 5 Chase Ultimate Rewards® points per dollar spent on bookings made through Chase Travel, hotel reservations booked this way are considered third-party and are ineligible for hotel-based benefits. You’ll have to choose between earning points and taking advantage of elite benefits.
Who It’s Best For
This card is a great option for anyone looking to receive Chase Ultimate Rewards benefits and get some perks for a low annual fee.
Expert Commentary
Julian Kheel
Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert
With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.
Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.
In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.
Julian Kheel
Julian Kheel
Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert
With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.
Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.
In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.
Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert
It’s the granddaddy of travel credit cards, but it still earns its reputation as one of the best around with solid bonus categories, strong travel protections, a great set of domestic and international transfer partners and a reasonable annual fee to boot. You can’t go wrong with it as your first travel credit card.
Pros & Cons
- Earn high rewards on several areas of spending
- Transfer points to travel partners at 1:1 rate
- Many travel and shopping protections
- Annual fee
- No intro APR offer
- Best travel earning rates are only for bookings through the Chase Travel℠ portal
Card Details
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
- Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
- Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
- Member FDIC
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Credit Card for International Travel With the Most Transfer Partners
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
4.9
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Up to 10X Reward Rate
Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases, 5 miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals and 10Read More
Welcome Bonus
Earn 75,000 bonus miles
Annual Fee
$395
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Credit Score
Excellent(750 - 850)
Our Expert Take
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a premium travel credit card packed with benefits like travel protections and points that can be transferred to multiple travel partners, making travel a breeze and helping offset the steep annual fee (rates & fees).
Why We Like It
Capital One miles can be transferred to more than 15 partners at a competitive rate and even used to offset hotel stays, airline tickets and car rental purchases. A $300 annual travel credit is automatically applied to your Capital One Travel account and can be used toward purchases booked through Capital One Travel, as well as a $100 credit toward a TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry membership. Cardmembers can receive complimentary access to Priority Pass lounges as well as Capital One’s own network of lounges.
What We Don’t Like
For such a powerful card that rivals other premium travel credit card competitors, it lacks high-end hotel and domestic airline transfer partners.
Who It’s Best For
The Venture X is best suited for those who enjoy premium travel benefits comparable to those provided by other ultra-premium cards but at a fraction of the annual fee.
Expert Commentary
Julian Kheel
Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert
With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.
Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.
In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.
Julian Kheel
Julian Kheel
Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert
With over 15 years of professional experience studying credit cards and travel loyalty programs, Julian Kheel has served as CNN’s senior editor covering travel and credit cards, as well as the editorial director for The Points Guy, and worked as a consultant for the biggest airlines. He is currently the CEO of Tripsight Inc., an award tools company that recently released Points Path, the first browser extension that automatically adds the prices of flights in miles into Google Flights search results to help travelers decide when to best use their travel rewards.
Julian first learned the ins and outs of credit card rewards and travel loyalty programs while flying more than 200,000 miles a year as a TV producer and director for World Wrestling Entertainment. (And yes, of course it’s all real.) He has previously written about travel and credit cards for U.S. News & World Report, Upgraded Points and Going, and created weekly columns for the travel websites Frequent Miler and Travel Codex.
In addition to appearing as a TV analyst to discuss travel and loyalty programs on national segments for CNN, Bloomberg News, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” Yahoo Finance and Cheddar TV, Julian has also been featured on ABC and CBS Radio, and has been quoted in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and the Chicago Tribune on travel-related topics as well.
Credit Cards and Travel Rewards Expert
If you’re looking for lofty perks without a lofty annual fee (rates & fees), the Venture X fits the bill. While other cards with elite benefits run nearly $700 a year, you’ll only pay a little more than half that for the Venture X. And you’ll still get Capital One and Priority Pass airport lounge access for you and your guests, an annual travel credit and solid earnings on everyday purchases.
Pros & Cons
- Annual fee lower than others in its category
- Annual travel credit through Capital One Travel and anniversary miles alone could justify the annual fee
- Miles are easy to earn and easy to use
- Lack of domestic airline and upscale hotel travel partners
- Capital One lounge network in its infancy
- Lack of hotel status benefits
Card Details
- Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
- Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
- Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
- Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
- Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
- Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Credit Card for Travel Insurance
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
4.9
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Up to 10x Reward Rate
Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel throughRead More
Welcome Bonus
60,000 bonus points
Annual Fee
$550
Regular APR
22.49%-29.49% Variable
Credit Score
Excellent(750 - 850)
Our Expert Take
The Chase Sapphire Reserve®, Chase’s premium travel credit card, offers enough benefits to make up for a substantial annual fee. However, avid travelers can get even more value if they frequently travel internationally.
Why We Like It
Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠ compared to 25% with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and can be transferred to just as many travel partners. Cardholders receive a $300 annual credit toward travel purchases and a $100 credit every four years to offset your TSA PreCheck®, NEXUS or Global Entry membership.
What We Don’t Like
The annual fee on this card might be too high to stomach for cost-conscious travelers. The Sapphire Reserve also charges $75 per authorized user.
Who It’s Best For
The Sapphire Reserve will be a top choice for travelers who want to earn solid rewards on their travel and dining and who can maximize the credits and benefits to help them outweigh the steep annual fee.
Expert Commentary
Lori Zaino
Credit Cards Writer
A credit card enthusiast and avid traveler, Lori has visited more than 60 countries, many of them using credit card points and frequent flyer miles. She has lived in Spain as a freelance writer and editor for around two decades, figuring out the best tips and tricks for using points and miles to live and travel abroad, and writing about it to share her knowledge every step of the way.
Lori Zaino
Lori Zaino
Credit Cards Writer
A credit card enthusiast and avid traveler, Lori has visited more than 60 countries, many of them using credit card points and frequent flyer miles. She has lived in Spain as a freelance writer and editor for around two decades, figuring out the best tips and tricks for using points and miles to live and travel abroad, and writing about it to share her knowledge every step of the way.
Credit Cards Writer
The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is one of the most valuable flexible rewards credit cards thanks to its lucrative bonus categories and easy-to-use travel credit. Cardholders can offset the annual fee and get great value when redeeming Chase Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card, thanks to partnerships with numerous airlines and hotels and its convenient travel booking portal, Chase Travel℠.
Pros & Cons
- $300 annual travel credit is incredibly flexible
- Generous welcome bonus
- Get 50% more value when you redeem points for travel through Chase
- Points transfer to valuable airline and hotel partners
- High annual fee
- High variable APR on purchases
- Excellent credit recommended
Card Details
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
- $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursem*nt for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
- Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
- Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
- 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
- Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Member FDIC
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best for Lounge Access
The Platinum Card® from American Express
On American Express's Website
4.8
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On American Express's Website
5X Reward Rate
Earn 5 Membership Rewards Points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and on flights booked directlyRead More
Welcome Bonus
Earn 80,000 points
Annual Fee
$695
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Credit Score
Good,Excellent(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
The Platinum Card® from American Express (Terms apply, see rates & fees) comes with a steep annual fee, but it includes a bundle of lounge access benefits.
Why We Like It
You can access Priority Pass lounges, American Express Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs when you fly Delta on the same day (effective February 2025 this benefit will be reduced to 10 Sky Club visits per Medallion year unless a minimum spend threshold is met).
The Amex Plat is packed full of additional benefits, as well:
- $200 annual hotel credit for prepaid bookings through Fine Hotels & Resorts with American Express Travel
- $200 in Uber Cash available for use in the U.S. (up to $15 monthly plus a bonus $20 in December, terms apply)
- $200 airline fee credit (charged by your one selected airline)
- $199 CLEAR® Plus credit
- Complimentary Marriott and Hilton Status
- Enrollment is required for select benefits
What We Don’t Like
Though the card comes packed with travel benefits, its annual fee of $695 is considerably steep. Authorized user cards cost an extra $195 and additional guests to the card’s Centurion Lounge network are not free (unless complimentary guest access is unlocked, terms apply). Also American Express Cards are less widely accepted internationally.
Who It’s Best For
The Amex Platinum appeals to discerning travelers who value quiet time at the Centurion Lounge and are willing to put in a little extra effort to maximize the card’s credits.
Expert Commentary
Ben Nickel-D'Andrea
Credit Cards Writer
Ben is a credit cards and luxury travel writer, an immigrant with three citizenships and a husband. He speaks English, Spanish and Italian, has a background in linguistics and languages, and travels the world for the love of it. You'll find him flying up front in first or business class all over the world and enjoying food from fine dining to street fare.Ben unpacks the complex network of loyalty programs across the credit card and travel industries with his simple and easy-to-understand, yet relatable, explanations. A nature enthusiast at heart, he lives in Seattle with his husband Jon and their beagle.
Ben Nickel-D'Andrea
Ben Nickel-D'Andrea
Credit Cards Writer
Ben is a credit cards and luxury travel writer, an immigrant with three citizenships and a husband. He speaks English, Spanish and Italian, has a background in linguistics and languages, and travels the world for the love of it. You'll find him flying up front in first or business class all over the world and enjoying food from fine dining to street fare.Ben unpacks the complex network of loyalty programs across the credit card and travel industries with his simple and easy-to-understand, yet relatable, explanations. A nature enthusiast at heart, he lives in Seattle with his husband Jon and their beagle.
Credit Cards Writer
Being an Amex Platinum cardholder grants access to the International Airline Program, which can save you money on first and business class seats on more than 20 airlines as well as premium economy tickets for you and up to seven traveling companions. Start your search on the Amex Travel website to find international flights departing or arriving in the U.S. on any of those premium cabins.
Pros & Cons
- High reward potential on flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel
- Multiple credits can help justify the fee
- Comprehensive airport lounge access
- Luxury travel benefits and elite status with Hilton and Marriott with enrollment
- Very high annual fee
- Maximizing the statement credits takes some work and could be impractical for many
- Reward rate outside of travel is sub-par for a premium card
Card Details
- Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
- $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peaco*ck, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
- $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
- $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
- Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
- Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
- $695 annual fee.¤
- Terms Apply.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Credit Cards for International Travel for People With Fair Credit
Best for Flat-Rate Cash Back
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.7
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Up to 5% Reward Rate
Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. Plus, earn 5% cash back on hotels and rental carsRead More
Welcome Bonus
N/A
Annual Fee
$39
Regular APR
29.99% (Variable)
Credit Score
Average, Fair, Limited
Our Expert Take
If you’re looking for a flat-rate cash-back card to pack on your travels, the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card (rates & fees) is a solid choice.
Why We Like It
Cardholders can get six months of complimentary Uber One membership through November 14, 2024. You could be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as six months after getting the card.
What We Don’t Like
Other than the flat-rate rewards and the ability to leverage Capital One Travel to maximize earnings slightly, the card doesn’t offer many additional perks.
Who It’s Best For
The Quicksilver One is best for travelers with fair credit who want to improve their scores without sacrificing simple cashback.
Pros & Cons
- Unlimited 1.5% cash-back rewards
- Fair-to-average credit applicants considered
- No foreign transaction fee
- Rewards don’t expire
- High APR
- No boosted rate in common spending categories
- No welcome offer
- No intro APR offer
Card Details
- Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
- No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and cash back doesn’t expire for the life of the account. It’s that simple
- Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months
- Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
- Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card use
- Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
- Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It’s free for everyone
- Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you’re all set
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Travel Card for Fair Credit
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® Card
Apply Now
On Credit One Bank's Website
4.7
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Apply Now
On Credit One Bank's Website
Up to 10X Reward Rate
Earn 10X points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel site; earn 5X pointsRead More
Welcome Bonus
N/A
Annual Fee
$95
Regular APR
29.99% Variable
Credit Score
Fair/Good(650 - 699)
Our Expert Take
Using the Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® Card will allow you to earn bonus points for flights, hotels and rental cars. This is a strong option for those who are building up or repairing their credit profile.
Why We Like It
This card offers a strong rewards earning rate while still being available to those who have average credit. In other words, you don’t have to have excellent credit to earn some exceptional returns on your purchases.
What We Don’t Like
The interest rate on this card makes it prohibitive for anyone who needs to carry balances month over month. Remember that any interest you pay will rapidly negate any rewards you earn. The card also carries a fairly high annual fee considering it offers few benefits beyond rewards-earning and doesn’t offer a welcome bonus.
Who It’s Best For
The Credit One Bank Wander card is designed for people with average or fair credit who want to earn competitive rewards on their travel, gas, and dining purchases.
Expert Commentary
Albert Hsieh
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.
Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.
With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.
His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.
Albert Hsieh
Albert Hsieh
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.
Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.
With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.
His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
The Credit One Bank Wander Card offers lucrative points-earning opportunities within key travel categories, however, its extra perks and benefits fall short when compared to other premium credit cards.
Pros & Cons
- No foreign transaction fees
- High reward potential
- Issuer advertises requiring an average minimum credit rating
- $95 annual fee
- No low introductory APR period
- High 29.99% Variable APR
Card Details
- 10X points on eligible hotel and car rentals booked using the Credit One Bank travel partner.
- 5X points on eligible travel including flights, dining, and gas purchases.
- 1X points on all other purchases.
- Rent a car at Avis, Hertz, or SIXT and receive exclusive Amex Card member discounts, complimentary upgrades, and more.*
- Terms Apply*
- See Rates & Fees
N/A
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Credit Cards for International Travel for Students
Best Travel Card for Students
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students
On Bank of America's Website
4.0
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On Bank of America's Website
1.5X Reward Rate
Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees andRead More
Welcome Bonus
25,000 points
Annual Fee
$0
Regular APR
19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Credit Score
Good/Excellent(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students offers a similar earning structure to the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card but with a focus on students and with no foreign transaction fees, it can be a great travel companion. Expect your approval chances for this card to be improved.
Why We Like It
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students is a $0 annual fee card that doesn’t just help you start building your credit history but also lets you earn rewards on every purchase. Even better—you can use your rewards to offset your international travel expenses. Bank of America Preferred Rewards members can also boost their rewards-earning by 25% to 75%.
The card also offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers made within 60 days of opening the account. After that, a standard APR of 19.24% – 29.24% variable on purchases and balance transfers will apply. A 3% fee applies to all balance transfers for 60 days from account opening, then 4%.
What We Don’t Like
There are no bonus categories outside of travel purchases booked through the Bank of America Travel Center. Also, Preferred Rewards membership may be difficult for many students to attain as it requires a combined Bank of America deposit and Merrill investing balance of at least $20,000.
Who It’s Best For
This card is best for students who want to earn points they can use on travel but don’t want an overly complicated rewards program they need to learn the ins and outs of.
Pros & Cons
- Flexible rewards redemption options
- Unlimited 1.5 points per $1 on all spending
- No foreign transaction fee
- Easy-to-earn welcome bonus
- No bonus categories to boost rewards
- High penalty APR and late fee
Card Details
- Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
- 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening – that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
- Use your card to book your trip how and where you want – you’re not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
- Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% – 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
- When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job. Access your FICO® Score for free within Online Banking or your Mobile Banking app.
- Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Airline Credit Cards for International Travel
Best Credit Card for Air Canada Frequent Flyers
Aeroplan® Credit Card
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
5.0
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Up to 3x Reward Rate
Earn 3x points for each dollar spent on grocery stores, dining at restaurants including takeout and eligible delivery services, andRead More
Welcome Bonus
Earn 70,000 points
Annual Fee
$95
Regular APR
21.74% - 28.74% Variable
Credit Score
Good, Excellent(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
The Aeroplan® Credit Card might not be the first card that comes to mind for your international travels, but Aeroplan points are powerful beyond travel in Canada. Points can be redeemed for Air Canada and Star Alliance partner flights all over the world.
Why We Like It
Add in travel insurance, trip protections and a slew of other benefits that come with your card, and the Aeroplan Credit Card becomes a strong contender for a spot in your wallet.
New card members get automatic 25K status with Aeroplan, and it’s easy to either keep or increase your status through credit card spend. Points can be redeemed as statement credits when using Pay Yourself Back or traveling on travel partners.
This card offers a $100 credit toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS membership every four years. Card members and up to eight travel companions can have their first checked bag fees waived.
What We Don’t Like
The downside to an airline card is you’re only earning miles in that program. You might get better value using a flexible rewards card that can transfer points into Aeroplan.
Who It’s Best For
This card is aimed at Air Canada loyalists who can make use of the benefits that come with the airline’s elite status.
Expert Commentary
Albert Hsieh
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.
Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.
With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.
His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.
Albert Hsieh
Albert Hsieh
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.
Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.
With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.
His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Chase and Air Canada’s co-branded Aeroplan Credit Card will serve as an excellent companion for frequent flyers of Star Alliance and its carriers from United to Lufthansa as you earn valuable Aeroplan points. Maximize your Aeroplan points and redeem for flights and hotels through an extensive partner network. Enjoy additional points-earning opportunities in key everyday categories.
Pros & Cons
- Excellent rewards earning
- No foreign transaction fees
- Travel benefits including perks for Air Canada flyers
- $95 annual fee
- Lacks non-travel-related benefits
Card Details
- Earn 70,000 bonus points
- Earn 70,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
- $95 Annual Fee
- Redeem points for both international and domestic flights with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
- Fly to another continent and travel the world with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
- Earn 3X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and Air Canada directly. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
- 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month – up to 1,500 points per month.
- Member FDIC
Earn 70,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best for United Club Lounge Access
United Club℠ Infinite Card
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
4.4
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Up to 4X Reward Rate
Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases; Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel andRead More
Welcome Bonus
Earn 80,000 bonus miles
Annual Fee
$525
Regular APR
21.99% - 28.99% Variable
Credit Score
Excellent(750 - 850)
Our Expert Take
If you’re interested in access to United Club lounges, the United Club℠ Infinite Card is one you won’t want to overlook. It also offers many valuable benefits to United flyers.
Why We Like It
Cardholders can enjoy:
- Two free checked bags for themselves and a companion
- Up to a $100 credit for a TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry or NEXUS membership
- Up to 10,000 Premier Qualifying Points after hitting spending targets
- 25% back as a statement credit on select United purchases
- Premier Access travel services when traveling with United
- Various travel and purchase protections
What We Don’t Like
Although the card can be very rewarding, it comes with a steep annual fee, particularly for an airline-specific credit card.
Who It’s Best For
This card could be a great fit for United Airlines flyers who enjoy having access to United Club and other Star Alliance lounges as well as those who could use a free first and second checked bag on their United flights.
Expert Commentary
Emily Moore
Credit Cards Writer
Experiencing the world through travel is a privilege, but affordability is a common barrier to entry. By sharing accessible tips on responsible credit card use, rewards programs and rewards hacking, Emily Jane Moore helps people with limited financial resources access meaningful travel experiences.
Emily Moore
Emily Moore
Credit Cards Writer
Experiencing the world through travel is a privilege, but affordability is a common barrier to entry. By sharing accessible tips on responsible credit card use, rewards programs and rewards hacking, Emily Jane Moore helps people with limited financial resources access meaningful travel experiences.
Credit Cards Writer
If reaching a higher status with United is a priority, the United Club Infinite all but guarantees it, as long as the card is used regularly. Cardholders also enjoy frequent seat upgrades (depending on route and availability) plus always-free United Club access. But these perks come with a hefty price tag.
Pros & Cons
- No foreign transaction fee
- United Club membership is worth more than the annual fee
- First and second checked bag free when you pay for your flight with your card
- Very high annual fee
- No intro APR offer
- High regular APR
Card Details
- Earn 80,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases
- Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United®purchases
- Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining
- Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Free first and second checked bags – a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) – and Premier Access® travel services
- 10% United Economy Saver Award discount within the continental U.S. and Canada
- Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points per calendar year (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)
- Member FDIC
Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Card for Earning Avios
British Airways Visa Signature® Card
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
4.4
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Welcome Bonus
Earn 75,000 Avios.
Annual Fee
$95
Regular APR
21.49%-28.49% Variable
Credit Score
Excellent, Good(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
The British Airways Visa Signature® Card gives fans of the carrier a chance to earn Avios on all their day-to-day purchases in addition to credits and rebates to offset flight costs.
Why We Like It
Card members receive 10% off British Airways flights (starting in the U.S.) booked through its dedicated website. When you spend $30,000 each calendar year on the card you’ll also receive a two-for-one Travel Together Ticket or get a 50% discount on the Avios price paid when booking a solo award flight. Cardholders can get up to $600 back in statement credits on reward flight bookings.
What We Don’t Like
As opposed to many other airline credit cards, this one grants you no automatic status with British Airways or any other perks like free checked bags or lounge access.
Who It’s Best For
This card is ideal for travelers who frequently fly with British Airways or other Avios-earning airlines and who can spend large amounts on this credit card to earn a Travel Together Ticket.
Expert Commentary
Ben Nickel-D'Andrea
Credit Cards Writer
Ben is a credit cards and luxury travel writer, an immigrant with three citizenships and a husband. He speaks English, Spanish and Italian, has a background in linguistics and languages, and travels the world for the love of it. You'll find him flying up front in first or business class all over the world and enjoying food from fine dining to street fare.Ben unpacks the complex network of loyalty programs across the credit card and travel industries with his simple and easy-to-understand, yet relatable, explanations. A nature enthusiast at heart, he lives in Seattle with his husband Jon and their beagle.
Ben Nickel-D'Andrea
Ben Nickel-D'Andrea
Credit Cards Writer
Ben is a credit cards and luxury travel writer, an immigrant with three citizenships and a husband. He speaks English, Spanish and Italian, has a background in linguistics and languages, and travels the world for the love of it. You'll find him flying up front in first or business class all over the world and enjoying food from fine dining to street fare.Ben unpacks the complex network of loyalty programs across the credit card and travel industries with his simple and easy-to-understand, yet relatable, explanations. A nature enthusiast at heart, he lives in Seattle with his husband Jon and their beagle.
Credit Cards Writer
Those who spend enough to earn the Travel Together Ticket can get 50% off the price of their award ticket when traveling solo or get a second seat on the same flight and cabin for a companion at no additional cost beyond taxes and fees. Travel Together Tickets are now valid on British Airways, Iberia and Aer Lingus flights and any of their subsidiaries on itineraries from anywhere in the world for both one-way or round-trip flights.
Pros & Cons
- Generous rewards on eligible flights
- Potential to earn a companion ticket
- Lucrative welcome bonus
- No foreign transaction fee
- Rewards rate poor outside of Avios-earning airlines
- Subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule
- No checked baggage or lounge perks
Card Details
- Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
- Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
- Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
- 10% off British Airways flights starting in the US when you book through the website provided in your welcome materials.
- Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, youll earn a Travel Together Ticket good for two years.
- Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
- Simply tap to pay with your contactless British Airways Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!
- Member FDIC
Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Hotel Credit Cards for International Travel
Best Card for IHG Frequenters
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
5.0
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Up to 26X Reward Rate
Earn up to 26 points total per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts; 5 points perRead More
Welcome Bonus
Earn 5 Free Nights
Annual Fee
$99
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Credit Score
Good, Excellent(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
With a massive worldwide footprint, there’s a good chance that you’ll find an IHG hotel near your travel destination. The parent company of Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza, Intercontinental and Kimpton hotels brings a sizable welcome offer in the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card as well as plenty of earning potential to use toward your hotel stays.
Why We Like It
Cardholders receive automatic IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status and an annual free night award, good for a night capped at 40,000 IHG points. Combine that with IHG’s 4th Night Free perk to really maximize your rewards.
The card comes with built-in trip cancellation or interruption insurance. There is a statement credit of up to $100 every four years as reimbursem*nt for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, as well as up to a $50 United TravelBank Cash credit each calendar year when you link to your MileagePlus account.
What We Don’t Like
While the earning rate for stays at IHG hotels is high, the ability to build large amounts of points on other purchases is lackluster at best.
Who It’s Best For
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card could provide great value for travelers who regularly stay at IHG properties and who would love to jump-start their elite status journey.
Expert Commentary
Ben Luthi
Contributor
Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.
Ben Luthi
Ben Luthi
Contributor
Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.
Contributor
The IHG One Rewards Premier blows all other mid-tier hotel credit cards out of the water with perks alone. You don’t even have to use the card regularly to offset its annual fee every year.
Pros & Cons
- Earn up to 26 points per dollar spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts, 5 points on travel, gas stations, and restaurants and 3 points on all other purchases
- Free night award every account anniversary
- Fourth night free on point redemption stays
- Automatic Platinum Elite status
- No worthwhile redemption options outside of IHG properties
- Low overall point value
Card Details
- Our Best Offer Ever! Earn 5 Free Nights
- Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay.
- Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
- Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 every 4 years as reimbursem*nt for the application fee charged to your card
- IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®
- Member FDIC
Earn 5 Free Nights after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
4.7
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
On Chase Bank USA, NA's Website
Up to 9X Reward Rate
Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 bonus points per $1 on qualified purchasesRead More
Welcome Bonus
Up to 60,000 Bonus Points
Annual Fee
$95
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% variable
Credit Score
Excellent, Good(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
The World of Hyatt Credit Card stands out for its reasonable annual fee and ability to earn valuable World of Hyatt points.
Why We Like It
The card comes with an annual free night certificate at any Category 1 to 4 Hyatt hotel, plus cardholders are automatically granted World of Hyatt Discoverist status and get five elite night credits each year toward qualifying for higher status levels.
World of Hyatt Cardholders can also benefit from the ability to earn two tier-qualifying night credits for every $5,000 spent on the card, and after $15,000 in annual spending, cardholders earn a second Category 1 to 4 free night certificate.
What We Don’t Like
The card doesn’t have a lot of use outside Hyatt-branded hotels. While earning is great at Hyatt hotels, your other purchases can earn more using other cards.
Who It’s Best For
This card is best for Hyatt loyalists who would enjoy receiving status-related perks of the program earlier while they earn points faster toward their next award night.
Expert Commentary
Barbara King
Credit Cards Writer
Always dreaming about the next destination, credit cards specialist Barbara King is an avid traveler who optimizes her adventures through the use of points and miles. Barbara has earned and redeemed millions of credit cards points which has enabled her to explore over 50 countries on six continents, enjoying both budget and luxury travel.
Barbara King
Barbara King
Credit Cards Writer
Always dreaming about the next destination, credit cards specialist Barbara King is an avid traveler who optimizes her adventures through the use of points and miles. Barbara has earned and redeemed millions of credit cards points which has enabled her to explore over 50 countries on six continents, enjoying both budget and luxury travel.
Credit Cards Writer
For many Hyatt loyalists, earning Globalist status each year is a priority and this card can help them get there faster by providing five elite night credits annually. Plus the complimentary yearly certificate for a category 1 to 4 Hyatt hotel counts toward elite status too and can offset the card’s annual fee.
Pros & Cons
- Annual free night certificate on card member anniversary
- Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
- High redemption values for points
- Generous welcome bonus
- Limited number of properties
- No worthwhile redemption options aside from Hyatt properties
- No intro APR offer
Card Details
- Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
- Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
- Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
- Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
- Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
- Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
- Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
- Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
- Member FDIC
Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best for Road Warriors
Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card *
4.5
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Up to 6X Reward Rate
Earn 6 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at participating By Wyndham hotels and at gas stations; EarnRead More
Welcome Bonus
45,000 bonus points
Annual Fee
$75
Regular APR
20.99% - 29.99% variable
Credit Score
Excellent/Good Credit(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
Road warriors should consider the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card* due to its considerable earnings on gas and grocery purchases, not to mention a generous welcome offer.
Why We Like It
When cardholders redeem for “go free” awards, it costs 10% fewer points. Cardholders also receive an automatic 7,500 point annual bonus just for renewing their card and automatic Platinum benefits at Wyndham properties.
What We Don’t Like
The card is worth considering for most travelers who can take advantage of Wyndham’s property footprint to earn points and enjoy the loyalty perks. However, the hotel chain generally lacks truly aspirational properties, unless you’re willing and able to find hidden gems outside of the country.
Who It’s Best For
This is a great pick for those who often find themselves using Wyndham’s vast portfolio of roadside motels or unique international properties. Also, since Wyndham has a partnership with Caesars Hotels, cardholders might be able to squeeze some extra value there.
Expert Commentary
Albert Hsieh
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.
Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.
With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.
His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.
Albert Hsieh
Albert Hsieh
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Albert Hsieh is founder and CEO of Foxtrot Dash Inc., a San Francisco-based travel rewards marketplace offering a smart wallet that recommends 30,000 ways to maximize the redemption of hard-earned credit card and travel rewards points. He has proudly redeemed over 30 million reward points, and he and the Foxtrot Dash team boast over three decades of points and miles experience.
Albert has had a lifelong passion for aviation largely sparked by his dad, who retired after 30 years with United Airlines at San Francisco and Oakland. Since childhood, Albert grew fascinated by premium air travel and flew “The Tulip” (the nickname for United's fondly remembered "U" logo) to destinations far and near, with Taiwan, Japan and Egypt ranked as his top favorites.
With an unwavering commitment to the global travel industry, Albert served for 20 years as a commercial and marketing leader at Fortune 500 travel companies including JetBlue, China Airlines, XOJET and Westfield Airports LAX. He later worked as a consultant for Jet Edge, leading a companywide rebrand before their VistaJet acquisition. In recent years, Albert launched his Instagram feed where he captures his global credit card points and airline miles adventures with impeccable photography of luxury airline cabins and beautiful hotels.
His work is regularly featured in social campaigns, and he has drawn mentions in The New York Times and Nob Hill Gazette. On the Money Seed podcast, he has been heard discussing the future of credit card reward points, global travel trends and loyalty programs. When he's not traveling, Albert enjoys life on the West Coast by seeking out new restaurants and world-class wineries, and by spending quality time with loved ones.
Credit Cards and Reward Points Expert
Wyndham loyalists will enjoy the array of perks and benefits offered by the Wyndham Earner Plus card. By providing complimentary PLATINUM loyalty status, this card is primed to ensure an enhanced experience at Wyndham’s 9,000+ properties.
Pros & Cons
- Automatically receive Wyndham Rewards Platinum elite status
- No foreign transaction fee
- Enjoy extra discounts on local attractions when booking “Go Free” awards
- APR can be high, depending on your creditworthiness
- Target and Walmart only earn 1 point per dollar spent
- Only hotel redemptions offer good value
Card Details
- Earn 45,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening
- Earn 6 points per $1 spent on hotels by Wyndham and qualifying gas purchases
- Earn 4 points per $1 spent on dining and groceries (excluding Target and Walmart)
- Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
- Receive Wyndham Rewards PLATINUM membership, which includes early check-in, car rental upgrades and more
- Receive 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year
Earn 45,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Hilton Card With a Free Night Award
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express *
4.2
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Up to 14X Reward Rate
Earn 14X Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio; Earn 7XRead More
Welcome Bonus
Earn 150,000 points
Annual Fee
$550
Regular APR
20.99% - 29.99% variable
Credit Score
Good/Excellent(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
American Express offers a few different Hilton Honors cards, but the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express* is at the top.
Why We Like It
Just by holding the card and paying the annual fee you’ll earn top-tier Diamond status with Hilton Hotels. Combine that with statement credits, foreign transaction fee waivers and strong earnings, and you’ve got a card that will help you earn Hilton Honors points rapidly during your travels.
The card also includes:
- A free night reward
- An up to $200 in airline fee statement credit for incidental charges like baggage fees or in-flight purchases
- Up to $400 in Hilton resort statement credit
- Up to $100 of on-property credit for stays of at least two days when booked through hiltonhonorsaspirecard.com at participating Waldorf Astoria and Conrad Hotels. You will be granted Hilton Honors Diamond status.
- National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive Status
What We Don’t Like
The card comes with rather valuable statement credits, but their value is washed away by the use-it-or-lose-it nature, making you jump through a few hoops to offset some of the annual fee.
Who It’s Best For
This card is a strong choice for frequent Hilton guests who can utilize the statement credits, additional perks and elevated Hilton Honors points-earning on purchases.
Expert Commentary
Jon Nickel-D'Andrea
Credit Cards Expert Writer
For more than 10 years, Jon Nickel-D'Andrea has been a sought-after expert on how to travel the world using rewards points and miles. Jon has been featured in local and national publications and as a speaker at various seminars across the world. Combining his deep knowledge of credit cards, rewards programs, airlines and hotels with his unique style and sense of humor, Jon makes the complex web of these programs more fun and easy to understand. He lives in Seattle with his husband Ben and their 4-year-old beagle pup.
Jon Nickel-D'Andrea
Jon Nickel-D'Andrea
Credit Cards Expert Writer
For more than 10 years, Jon Nickel-D'Andrea has been a sought-after expert on how to travel the world using rewards points and miles. Jon has been featured in local and national publications and as a speaker at various seminars across the world. Combining his deep knowledge of credit cards, rewards programs, airlines and hotels with his unique style and sense of humor, Jon makes the complex web of these programs more fun and easy to understand. He lives in Seattle with his husband Ben and their 4-year-old beagle pup.
Credit Cards Expert Writer
Top-tier elite status from simply holding this credit card is its most endearing quality. Hilton Diamond status–granted every year you hold the card–gets you room upgrades, food and beverage credits, executive lounge access and more. Since there’s no spend requirement for the Diamond status, this benefit even on its own can make the card worth keeping long term.
Pros & Cons
- CLEAR® Plus membership credit with enrollment
- Over $750 in value annually
- Instant Hilton Diamond elite status with rich set of benefits
- Free standard night award with no category limits at participating properties
- High annual fee with no first-year waiver
- High regular APR and penalty APR
- Credits are doled out in increments, making them harder to spend
- Points have a lower value than most rewards programs
Card Details
- Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of card membership
- Earn 14 points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio
- Earn 7 points for every dollar spent on dining and eligible travel purchases including: Flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com and car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
- Earn 3 points per dollar spent on other eligible purchases
- Up to $400 in statement credits each year of card membership ($200 semi-annually) for eligible purchases at participating Hilton Resorts
- Complimentary Hilton Honors™ Diamond status
- Annual free night reward, terms apply
- Up to $200 flight credit ($50 in statement credits each quarter)
All information about Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor
All information about Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor
Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of card membership.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Best Card for Marriott Stays
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card *
4.1
Forbes Advisor created additional star ratings so that you can see the best card for specific needs. This card shines for this use, but overall the star ratings may differ when compared to other cards.
Up to 6X Reward Rate
Earn 6 points for every $1 at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3 points for every $1 spent each year (upRead More
Welcome Bonus
Earn 3 Free Night Awards
Annual Fee
$95
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Credit Score
Good, Excellent(700 - 749)
Our Expert Take
Marriott offers an array of Bonvoy points-earning credit cards in which to earn points. But its intro card, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card*, gives you bonuses on certain categories with no foreign transaction fees and a generous welcome offer.
Why We Like It
Silver Elite status is a nice addition to holding this card, as it gives you the option for priority late checkout and elevated points-earning on each dollar spent at a Marriott property.
With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card*, you will receive:
- 15 Elite Night Credits and automatic Silver Elite status each account anniversary as a card member
- 1 Elite Night Credit toward status for every $5,000 you spend on the card
- Option to earn Gold Elite status is available for high-spenders who can reach $35,000 in purchases each year
Finally, like any worthy travel card, this one comes with baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursem*nt and trip delay reimbursem*nt protections.
What We Don’t Like
While the card offers solid Marriott Bonvoy benefits and travel perks, it does not help you maximize your points earned through credit card spending.
Who It’s Best For
This card is built for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists who want entry-level elite status with some additional benefits.
Expert Commentary
Ben Luthi
Contributor
Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.
Ben Luthi
Ben Luthi
Contributor
Ben Luthi is a freelance personal finance and travel writer. He started earning credit card rewards in 2013 and leveraged his passion into a writing career. He's contributed to dozens of other publications and companies in the financial and travel spaces.
Contributor
The card’s free award night perk alone makes the card worth a spot in any traveler’s wallet. The option to combine the certificate with up to 15,000 points to get more flexibility for your annual stay is a nice touch.
Pros & Cons
- Free night certificate every year (valued at 35,000 points)
- 15 Elite Night Credits per year
- Automatic Silver Elite status
- Stingy earnings structure
- High APR
- $95 annual fee
Card Details
- Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening
- Earn 6 points per dollar on qualifying Marriott Bonvoy hotel stays
- Earn 3 points per dollar spent on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on groceries, gas stations, and dining
- Earn 2 points per dollar spent on all other purchases
- Points don’t expire as long as you make purchases on your credit card every 24 months
Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Here's a summary of Best Credit Cards For International Travel
Credit Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® Card
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students
Aeroplan® Credit Card
United Club℠ Infinite Card
British Airways Visa Signature® Card
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
The World of Hyatt Credit Card
Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card *
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express *
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card *
Credit Card
Best For
Credit Score
Annual Fee
Welcome Bonus
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Best Credit Card for International Travel Benefits
Excellent, Good
$95
60,000 bonus points
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Best Credit Card for International Travel With the Most Transfer Partners
Excellent
$395
Earn 75,000 bonus miles
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Best Credit Card for Travel Insurance
Excellent
$550
60,000 bonus points
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for Lounge Access
Good,Excellent
$695
Earn 80,000 points
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Best for Flat-Rate Cash Back
Average, Fair, Limited
$39
N/A
Credit One Bank® Wander® American Express® Card
Best Travel Card for Fair Credit
Fair/Good
$95
N/A
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students
Best Travel Card for Students
Good/Excellent
$0
25,000 points
Aeroplan® Credit Card
Best Credit Card for Air Canada Frequent Flyers
Good, Excellent
$95
Earn 70,000 points
United Club℠ Infinite Card
Best for United Club Lounge Access
Excellent
$525
Earn 80,000 bonus miles
British Airways Visa Signature® Card
Best Card for Earning Avios
Excellent, Good
$95
Earn 75,000 Avios.
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
Best Card for IHG Frequenters
Good, Excellent
$99
Earn 5 Free Nights
The World of Hyatt Credit Card
Best for Hyatt Stays
Excellent, Good
$95
Up to 60,000 Bonus Points
Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card *
Best for Road Warriors
Excellent/Good Credit
$75
45,000 bonus points
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express *
Best Hilton Card With a Free Night Award
Good/Excellent
$550
Earn 150,000 points
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card *
Best Card for Marriott Stays
Good, Excellent
$95
Earn 3 Free Night Awards
All information about Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor
Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
N/A
N/A
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
Earn 70,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.
Earn 5 Free Nights after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
Earn 45,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of card membership.
Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.
