Travel can be expensive, but rewards programs and credit cards can significantly upgrade your travel experience. If used correctly, travel rewards credit cards can help you gain access to airport lounges, luxury stays and first class flights. Here are some of my favorite travel credit cards.
1. Capital One Venture X®️
My favorite all-around travel card is the Capital One Venture X®️.
As someone who travels frequently, the travel credit, lounge access, and Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit are more than enough to make the card worthwhile. In addition, the Capital One®️ travel portal gives access to discounted hotel rates, airfare protection like the 10-day price change guarantee, 10x miles on hotel and rental car bookings, and 5x miles on flights. Other benefits include Hertz Gold Member status, 2x miles on all other purchases, and extended warranty on big ticket items.
But keep reading for more about my favorite perk below…
Lounge Access
I’ve gone from the person who shows up as her flight is boarding, to the person who arrives early to check out the lounge. Layovers have also become much less painful! From tapas in Málaga to Heineken in Amsterdam, the global lounge network has elevated my travel experience!
Priority Pass. The Capital One Venture X®️ includes a complimentary membership to Priority Pass. This network of lounges includes around 1,300 lounges worldwide. The pass allows yourself and one guest unlimited access to any of the lounges in the network, where you can enjoy food, drinks, and some relaxation away from the noise and crowds in a busy airport.
Capital One Lounges. In addition to Priority Pass, the card provides access to Capital One®️ Lounges. This currently includes three US-based lounges, but the network is expanding.
2. Marriott Bonvoy®️ Boundless
No matter where in the world you are, you’re never far from a Marriott. Marriott’s expansive hotel portfolio is the biggest reason I love this card. Their points go a long way, especially on international properties. You can also earn 6x points per dollar spent on Marriott properties, and 3x points at gas stations.
For a $95 annual fee, the card can help to fast-track Marriott status, unlocking tons of benefits like late check out, free WiFi, bonus points, and, best of all, complimentary upgrades.
Some of our favorite points redemptions have included a 5-night stay at the St. Regis Mardavall in Mallorca (with a complimentary upgrade to a junior suite), a 3-night stay at the W Hotel in Amsterdam, and an anniversary weekend at the W in Punta de Mita.
3. Amex®️ Gold Card
If you’re like me, most of your non-travel dollars are spent on groceries and dining out. With 4x points on dining and groceries, the Amex®️ Gold is a top choice for foodies. The points add up fast, and can be transferred to an expansive list of airlines and their partners.
Benefits include a $10/month Uber credit and a $10/month dining credit which can be used at Shake Shack, Milk Bar, and other favorite restaurants. These benefits bring the effective annual fee down to just $10, making this card more than worth it.
As with other Amex®️ cards, you can also access presale for concerts and events like the US Open tennis tournament.
The Bottom Line
Find a card (or cards) with benefits that fit your everyday spending. Earning points on basic activities like trips to the gas station or grocery store can be the key to the luxury travel world.
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