Top 10 Travel Cards of 2023
Analyzing the top 10 credits cards and how to choose what’s right for you
Yup, we’re here to talk boring stuff. What are the best travel cards to use for optimum rewards and points? The amount of times I’ve had this conversation is endless, so now, it’s time to write a blog post about it. The good thing is, I did all the research for you, so all you have to do is narrow this list down to what’s best for you, click on the link, and start applying!
First of all, what do I mean when I say travel credit cards? Well, travel cards are a type of credit card that offers rewards points or miles for travel-related purchases or any purchase in genera, depending on the card you get. These cards offer rewards rates on travel-related expenses such as airfare, hotels, and rental cars, as well as dining and entertainment purchases.
The rewards points or miles that you earn from purchase on your card can then be redeemed for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and more. Some travel credit cards also offer additional perks such as free checked bags, airport lounge access, and travel insurance. If you are someone who loves to travel, a travel credit card is a great way to earn rewards and save money on your next adventure.
So buckle in folks, I’m going to share with you some of the top picks in the travel rewards world, as of April 2023.
Top 10 travel cards
Chase Sapphire Preferred card
This is a popular choice for frequent travelers. I use this card the most when I travel. It offers 2x points on travel and dining and 1x points on all other purchases. The card also comes with a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. The points earned with this card can be transferred to several airline partners, including United, Southwest, and British Airways, among others. For more info on the Chase travel card and it’s accompanying Chase Travel Reserve card, see this link: https://creditcards.chase.com/travel-credit-cards
2. American Express Gold Card
If you're more of a foodie, you might want to check out the American Express Gold Card. With 4x points on dining worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets, and a 60,000-point signup bonus, this card is perfect for those who love to indulge in delicious meals. For more info on this card, see this link https://www.americanexpress.com/us/credit-cards/card/gold-card/
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Card
For those who want a straightforward rewards program, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice. With 2x miles on every purchase, plus a 60,000-mile signup bonus, you can easily earn rewards on all your everyday spending. You can also use the points on this card for Amazon purchases, other online stores and restaurants. See the travel reward card here: https://www.capitalone.com/credit-cards/ventureone/
4. Hilton Honors American Express
If you're a Hilton loyalist, the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card might be just what you need. With 14x points on eligible purchases at Hilton properties and a 150,000-point signup bonus, you can earn rewards while enjoying luxurious stays at your favorite Hilton hotels. See the card and the benefits here: https://www.americanexpress.com/us/credit-cards/card/hilton-honors-aspire/
5. Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card
On the other side, if you like The Marriott, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card offers 6x points on eligible purchases at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, plus a 75,000-point signup bonus, making it a great choice for those who love to stay in style. See the Marriott Bonvoy card here: https://www.marriott.com/credit-cards.mi
6. The Platinum Card from American Express:
The Platinum Card from American Express is another great option for frequent flyers. The card offers 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, as well as on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com. Additionally, the card comes with a range of travel benefits, including access to airport lounges, hotel upgrades, and a $200 annual credit for Uber rides or other eligible travel expenses.
See the link to the platinum card here: https://www.americanexpress.com/us/credit-cards/card/platinum
7. Citi Premier Card:
The Citi Premier Card is an excellent option for those looking for a card with a lower annual fee. It offers 3x points on travel, including gas stations, 2x points on dining and entertainment, and 1x point on all other purchases. The card also comes with a sign-up bonus of 80,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. The points earned with this card can be transferred to several airline partners, including JetBlue, Virgin Atlantic, and Singapore Airlines. See the link to the card here: https://www.citi.com/credit-cards/citi-premier-credit-card
8. Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card:
The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card is a good option for those who frequently fly with Delta Airlines. It offers 2x miles on Delta purchases and 1x mile on all other purchases. The card also comes with a sign-up bonus of 70,000 miles after spending $2,000 in the first three months. Additionally, the card offers several travel benefits, including priority boarding and a free checked bag.
See the delta card here: https://www.delta.com/us/en/skymiles/airline-credit-cards/overview
9. United Explorer Card:
The United Explorer Card is an excellent option for United Airlines flyers. The card offers 2x miles on United purchases and 1x mile on all other purchases. The card also comes with a sign-up bonus of up to 70,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months. Additionally, the card offers several travel benefits, including priority boarding and two United Club lounge passes per year.
See the united card here: https://www.united.com/en/us/fly/products/united-personal-credit-cards.html
10. American Airlines AAdvantage Aviator Card
The AAdvantage Aviator Silver Mastercard is an airline miles reward card designed for frequent American Airlines flyers. The card comes with a range of benefits, including a generous sign-up bonus, earning rate, and travel perks. Cardholders can earn 3x miles on American Airlines purchases, 2x miles on hotels and car rentals, and 1x mile on all other purchases. The card offers several travel benefits, including a $99 companion certificate after spending $30,000 in a calendar year, a free checked bag on domestic flights for the cardholder and up to six companions, and priority boarding. Other benefits include a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credit and a 25% discount on in-flight purchases.
See the American Airlines card here: https://cards.barclaycardus.com/banking/cards/aadvantage-aviator-red-world-elite-mastercard/
Well, that’s all for the list, folks. These are the best options for all types of travel, many of the cards above I use as well. Obviously, when choosing a credit card it’s important to consider your spending habits and use it responsibly. It also depends on your travel preferences and styles.
Consider factors such as sign-up bonus, earning rate, annual fee, and travel benefits when selecting the right card for you. The right airline miles reward card can be a huge asset for your travels, allowing you to earn valuable rewards and travel the world for less.
Enjoy!