Top 3 Credit Cards for Travel

When it comes to travel, the right credit card can enhance your experience by offering rewards, perks, and protections. Whether you're a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, there are credit cards that provide exceptional benefits. Here are some of the best credit cards that we use for travel, along with their key perks:

Key Benefits to Look for in a Travel Credit Card:

• Bonus points/miles: Great introductory offers can add a huge value.
• Rewards on travel and dining: Look for cards that earn higher rewards in categories you spend the most on.
• Airport lounge access: For a more comfortable travel experience.
• Travel insurance: Coverage like trip cancellation, baggage delay, and lost luggage protection can save you money in the event of unexpected issues.
• No foreign transaction fees: Avoid extra costs while traveling abroad.

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Benefits:

• Earn 2x points on travel and dining and 1x point on all other purchases.
• Bonus points: 60,000 bonus points if you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months (worth $750 in travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®).
• Travel protections: Includes trip cancellation insurance, baggage delay insurance, and primary car rental insurance.
• Point transfer: Points transfer to over 13 airline and hotel partners, including United, Southwest, and Marriott.

2. Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Benefits:

• Earn 3x points on travel immediately after earning your $300 travel credit and on dining, and 1x point on other purchases.
• Bonus points: 50,000 bonus points if you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months (worth $750 in travel).
• Airport lounge access: Complimentary access to Priority Pass Select lounges.
• Travel protections: Includes trip cancellation insurance, travel accident insurance, and primary car rental insurance.
  Point transfer: Points transfer to travel partners for more flexible redemption.

3. Amex Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card

Packed with premium travel perks, particularly for frequent Delta Airlines flyers. From earning bonus miles on Delta purchases to lounge access, free checked bags, and a companion certificate, this card offers a suite of benefits that can significantly enhance your travel experience. While the annual fee is on the higher end, the rewards and perks are well worth it if you fly Delta often or want to fast-track your way to Medallion Status.

Benefits:

Welcome Bonus - Click to See Offer

Earn SkyMiles on Purchases

• 3x Miles on Delta purchases: Earn 3 miles per dollar spent on Delta Airlines flights, including ticket purchases, upgrades, and in-flight spending.
• 1x Mile on all other purchases: Earn 1 mile per dollar on other purchases, allowing you to accumulate miles for everyday spending.

Delta Sky Club® Access

• Enjoy complimentary access to Delta Sky Club® lounges when flying on a Delta-operated or Delta-marketed flight.

Companion Certificate

• Each year upon renewal of your card, you receive a Domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or Main Cabin Companion Certificate. This allows you to bring a companion on a round-trip domestic flight within the U.S. for only the cost of taxes and fees.

Priority Boarding on Delta flights ensures you can board earlier and settle into your seat faster, making your travel experience more convenient.

Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Fee Credit

• Receive a statement credit of up to $100 for the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, which can expedite your airport security experience and help streamline your travel.

First Checked Bag Free on Delta flights for you and up to 8 companions traveling on the same reservation. This can save you significant baggage fees during your travels.

Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs)

• Earn MQMs towards Delta Medallion Status through your card spend. You can earn 15,000 MQMs after spending $30,000 in purchases in a calendar year (up to 4 times per year), helping you achieve elite status with Delta faster.

Travel Protection and Insurance

• The card offers travel insurance benefits including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, car rental loss and damage insurance, and baggage insurance. These protections can save you from unexpected costs when traveling.

No Foreign Transaction Fees

• You won’t pay any extra fees on purchases made outside the U.S., making it a great choice for international travelers.

Access to Amex Offers

• Enjoy exclusive discounts and offers with Amex Offers, which can include deals for shopping, dining, travel, and more. These can be added directly to your card and redeemed for statement credits.

Additional Travel Benefits

• Concierge service: 24/7 concierge to assist with everything from restaurant reservations to special requests during your travels.
• Roadside assistance: Access to roadside assistance in case of a flat tire, lockout, or other emergencies while driving.

When selecting the best travel credit card, consider your travel habits, spending patterns, and what benefits matter most to you. With the right card, you can unlock exciting rewards and make your travel experiences more enjoyable and affordable.

Happy Travels!

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