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5 Things to Know About the Universal Rewards Credit Card

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The Universal Rewards credit card, issued by the First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO) , earns rewards you can use during your next adventure to Universal Studios theme parks and attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Unfortunately, the card’s not all magic.

Sure, cardholders can earn a sign-up bonus and receive exclusive perks and discounts at Universal parks. But the rewards are inflexible, and the redemption process is clunkier than a poorly oiled Transformer. Most Minions would do better with a general rewards credit card .

Here are five things to know about the Universal Rewards card.

» MORE: Best credit cards for entertainment spending

1. There are 2 versions of the card, both with mediocre rewards

The Universal Rewards Credit Card comes in two varieties:

The Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature Card has a $99 annual fee and earns 4% back in rewards on qualifying Universal purchases; 2% back in rewards on travel, gas and dining purchases; and 1% back in rewards on everything else.

The Universal Rewards Visa Signature Card has a $0 annual fee and earns 2% back in rewards on qualifying Universal purchases and 1% back in rewards on everything else.

While earning elevated rewards on Universal purchases may be nice for superfans, overall those are underwhelming reward rates — especially for the $99-annual-fee version, as you can find any number of no-annual-fee credit cards that earn 2% back on all purchases , not just in a few categories. It's also worth keeping in mind that with either Universal card, you're earning reward points, not cash back. Those points are worth a solid 1 cent each (100 points = $1 in rewards), but your redemption options will be severely limited. More on that later.

For people with excellent credit (FICO scores of at least 720), the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card would be a better choice. For an annual fee of $95 , you'll earn an unlimited 4% cash back on entertainment (including theme parks), dining and streaming services; 3% cash back at grocery stores; and 1% cash back on all other purchases. New cardholders can also grab a big sign-up bonus: Earn a one-time $300 cash bonus once you spend $3,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening. And since it's true cash back you're earning, you can spend it on anything you like.

Speaking of which ...

2. Redemption will have you exhausted before you hit the park

Redeeming your Universal credit card rewards is a horror straight out of "Stranger Things." Consider the work it requires:

Do some math, ugh

For starters, there’s a $25 minimum redemption amount , and reward points have to be redeemed in $25 increments — so you're very likely to find yourself stuck with "orphan points" that you can't do anything with because they don't meet those thresholds.

And it gets worse from there.

Request a physical prepaid card, double ugh

To redeem your reward points, you’ll have to request a physical Universal FUNds Visa Prepaid Card, either through the FNBO website or by calling the 800 number on the back of your credit card. That's a highly unusual and inconvenient step — but wait, there's more.

The prepaid card you'll get isn't reloadable, so you’ll need to request a new card for each redemption.

Wait for the mail to arrive, sigh

Prepaid cards can be used at select Universal locations and for flights and hotel stays booked directly with airlines and hotels — but you'll want to hold off on heading immediately for the Universal Studios front gate. That's because it can take up to 10 days to receive a prepaid card in the mail, according to FNBO.

Juggle expiration dates and terms, OMG are we there yet?

Any unredeemed rewards will expire on or after the third anniversary from the date on which they were awarded. Prepaid cards themselves are valid for up to 24 months, and while the funds on your card never expire, a fee may apply to access those funds after 24 months. Oh, and the prepaid card can only be used to purchase park tickets online if your balance on it covers the full cost of the tickets. The only way to split a payment using the prepaid card is through purchasing tickets in-person at the park, using the prepaid card at select retailers within the park or by purchasing a vacation package online through Universal Parks and Resorts.

Those kinds of hurdles are enough to suck the fun out of any theme park, and it's more than anyone should have to deal with in a rewards card.

A less limiting option would be the Chase Freedom Unlimited® . You’ll earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase, 3% back at restaurants and drugstores and 1.5% back on everything else. You'll have multiple redemption options, rewards never expire and there’s no minimum redemption amount. New cardholders also qualify for the following introductory offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

» MORE: How to purchase theme park tickets with points

3. You'll get some park perks

With the $99-annual-fee card, every year you spend $6,000 on it you’ll receive a park pass to Universal Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida or Universal Studios Hollywood. That benefit could be worthwhile if you're committed to using the card frequently enough to earn it, especially since you'll avoid the arduous redemption process above.

Both versions of the Universal credit card also get you 10% off merchandise, food and beverage purchases at select locations throughout Universal theme parks and Universal CityWalk in Orlando and Hollywood.

Both versions also allow Universal die-hards to show off their fandom each time they swipe their card. Cardholders can choose from one of three card designs: a Minion from "Despicable Me," a dinosaur from "Jurassic Park" or a standard Universal logo.

The $99-annual-fee version of the Universal credit card also advertises that in-park lounge access is "coming soon." That benefit would allow holders of the more expensive card to access the Visa lounge at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Studios Florida.

4. There's a modest sign-up bonus ...

Both versions of the Universal credit card let new customers qualify for an introductory bonus. As of this writing, the $99-annual-fee version earns a $100 statement credit after spending $100 within the first billing cycle, while the $0-annual-fee version earns a $50 statement credit after spending $100 in the first billing cycle.

While those are relatively easy spending thresholds to hit, you can do better than those bonuses.

The instance, the $0 -annual-fee Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card lets new cardholders grab the following introductory bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value. You’ll also earn 3 points per $1 spent on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, streaming services and phone plans, plus 1 point per $1 spent on everything else.

And if you're willing to pay an annual fee similar to what the Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature Card charges? In that case, you can find sign-up bonuses worth hundreds of dollars more.

» MORE: How to get cheap and discounted Universal Studios tickets

5. ... And a poor 0% APR offer

Both the no-annual-fee and the $99-annual-fee varieties of the Universal Rewards Credit Card let you finance your vacation with a 0% APR offer for six months on eligible purchases over $1,000 made directly with Universal. Eligible purchases include annual passes, park tickets, vacation packages and more.

But there are better options if you’re trying to finance a Universal vacation. The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card lets new cardholders qualify for a 0% intro APR on Purchases for 15 months and 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers 15 months from account opening on qualifying balance transfers, and then the ongoing APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR . There’s no minimum transaction amount to qualify for special financing, nor is the offer limited to purchases only with Universal. You’ll also earn an unlimited 2% cash back each time you use the card.

» MORE: Best 0% APR and low-interest credit cards

Information related to the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer or provider of this product or service.

On a similar note...

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• Benefits and financial support if you're on a low income

Universal Credit

Financial help and support.

If you need financial support, you can get help and advice from the government, local councils and other organisations.

If you get Universal Credit, you could be eligible for other benefits or financial support. You should check what you can get .

You might be able to get different support in Scotland .

If you need money urgently

If you do not have enough to live on while you wait for your first Universal Credit payment, you can ask for an advance payment after you’ve made a claim.

If you got a sanction and now cannot pay for rent, heating, or food, you can also ask for a hardship payment. You should check if you are eligible .

You will need to pay this back. Your Universal Credit payments will be lower until it’s repaid.

How to get an advance in an emergency

You might be able to get a Budgeting Advance to help with:

• emergency household costs such as replacing a broken cooker
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You’ll repay it through your regular Universal Credit payments - these will be lower until you pay it back. If you stop getting Universal Credit, you’ll have to repay the money in another way.

How much you can borrow

What you get will depend on how much you need - you’ll agree the amount with your work coach.

The smallest amount you can borrow is £100. You can get up to:

• £348 if you’re single
• £464 if you’re part of a couple
• £812 if you have children

Eligibility

To get a Budgeting Advance, you’ll need to either:

• have been getting Universal Credit, Employment and Support Allowance, Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance or State Pension Credit for 6 months or more
• need the money to help you start a new job or stay in work

You will not be eligible if either:

• you’ve earned more than £2,600 (£3,600 together for couples) in the past 6 months
• you have not paid off any previous Budgeting Advance loans

How to apply

To apply, you can do any of the following:

• update your journal in your Universal Credit account
• contact your nearest jobcentre
• call the Universal Credit helpline

Universal Credit helpline Telephone: 0800 328 5644 Textphone: 0800 328 1344 Relay UK (if you cannot hear or speak on the phone): 18001 then 0800 328 5644 British Sign Language (BSL) video relay service if you’re on a computer - find out how to use the service on mobile or tablet Welsh language: 0800 328 1744 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm Find out about call charges

How to change your monthly Universal Credit

If you’re having financial difficulties or you’re behind on your rent, you can ask to change the way your Universal Credit is paid.

You or your landlord may be able to apply for an Alternative Payment Arrangement ( APA ) .

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When you’re working or starting work, you may have to pay for something that you were not expecting, for example, a uniform or equipment.

If your employer does not pay for something, you should speak to your work coach. They can tell you if you can get the money upfront or claim it back.

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If you need help to manage your budget or bills, you can get free advice .

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The best credit cards for Universal vacations

From Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando to Dollywood , Knott's Berry Farm in California and beyond, there are more than 500 million annual visits to theme parks worldwide in a normal year.

Tickets to big-name parks often top $100 per day — or much more on holidays. In fact, theme park ticket prices are at an all-time high . Then, there are the other costs: hotels, food, parking, skip-the-line passes and getting yourself (and your family) from wherever you live to whatever park you're visiting.

Luckily, you and your crew of Avengers can assemble at Universal's parks for less, thanks to credit card points. Here's a look at the best credit cards for Universal Studios trips.

Related: How Universal is stepping out of the mouse's shadow to become the hottest theme park

Where you buy Universal tickets matters

Before we jump in, it's worth explaining a few key terms. The best credit card for theme park ticket purchases depends on how the purchase will code on your credit card bill. Thus, where you buy your theme park tickets matters. The most likely bonus categories for theme park tickets are entertainment or travel .

When purchasing park tickets directly from the theme park, the charge should code as an entertainment purchase. On some credit cards, entertainment will code as a travel charge; most often, it doesn't.

Related: The best travel credit cards

However, if you purchase park tickets from a travel agency (such as Undercover Tourist ), charge them to your on-property hotel room or include them as part of a larger vacation package, that purchase will likely code as travel.

This matters because if you pay with the Chase Sapphire Reserve , a $500 ticket purchase that codes as travel will earn 1,500 Ultimate Rewards points (3 points per dollar). If the purchase codes as entertainment, you'll earn just 500 points since the card doesn't have an entertainment bonus category.

Related: The best credit cards for entertainment spending

The best credit cards for Universal Studios

A mix of credit cards will be the best strategy for most people. Here's a quick overview of the cards we'll consider:

• Bilt Mastercard® : Best no-annual-fee card (see rates and fees ) for using points toward tickets and hotels.
• Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card *: Best for cash back on theme park ticket purchases.
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for using a travel credit and earning on ticket purchases.
• Chase Sapphire Reserve : Best for using points and travel credits to defray trip costs.
• Citi Premier® Card : Best for earning points on ticket purchases and a discount on Universal hotels (see rates and fees ).
• Citi Prestige® Card *: Best for earning points on ticket purchases and a fourth night free at Universal hotels.
• Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card *: Best for luxury perks at Hilton hotels near Universal.
• Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card : Best for using Hilton points at hotels near Universal.
• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card : Best for using IHG points at hotels near Universal
• Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card : Best for using Marriott points at hotels near Universal.
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card : Best for luxury perks at Marriott hotels near Universal.
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for using a hotel credit near Universal.
• Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature® Card :* Best for a free ticket when you spend $6,000 or more in a year.
• World of Hyatt Credit Card : Best for using Hyatt points at hotels near Universal.

*The information for these cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Best credit cards for using a travel credit at Universal Studios

If you want to use the $300 Chase Sapphire Reserve credit on a Universal trip, it's easiest to use it either for a hotel-only or a hotel + tickets package you book directly with Universal or via a travel agent.

If you only want Universal tickets, you can use your Sapphire Reserve travel credit to get those through a site like Undercover Tourist.

To use the annual, $300 travel credit from Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, you need to book eligible travel via Capital One's travel site . Luckily, this site often shows Universal hotels for booking.

The Platinum Card® from American Express also offers up to $200 in annual hotel credits for bookings with Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection . You can use your credits at Universal properties and those nearby. Enrollment is required.

If you have the Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ) or Citi Prestige® Card (no longer open to new applicants), you can use your annual cardholder benefits at Universal hotels and those nearby. Premier cardholders can get $100 off a hotel reservation of $500 or more , available once per year. Prestige cardholders can get a fourth night free on stays of four or more nights, available twice a year. Both benefits require booking in the Citi Travel portal .

Best credit cards for using points on Universal Studios tickets

Luckily, multiple options exist for using your credit card points to pay for Universal tickets. Let's start with the highest-value option and work our way down.

You can use the Chase travel portal to buy tickets with points. The card you have determines how much your points are worth. Those with the Chase Sapphire Reserve get a value of 1.5 cents per point. With the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and Ink Business Preferred Credit Card , points are worth 1.25 cents apiece. If you have other cards, you can use points at 1 cent each toward the cost of park tickets.

Related: How to use points to save money at Universal Orlando

With Bilt Rewards , you can buy theme park tickets with points worth 1.25 cents apiece. See the full rewards and benefits terms .

If you have Citi ThankYou points , you can use them at 1 cent each to buy Universal theme park tickets through Citi Travel . This option is available even to those with no-annual-fee cards like the Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees ) and Citi Rewards+® Card (see rates and fees ).

Unfortunately, Capital One miles and American Express Membership Rewards points can't be used to buy theme park tickets in their travel portals. However, these are still good credit cards for Universal because of the hotel options we'll cover next.

Best credit cards for using points on Universal Studios hotels

On top of booking hotels with the travel credits mentioned above, you can book Universal's on-property hotels using points in several portals.

Again, the best value for your points is 1.5 cents per point, assuming you have the Chase Sapphire Reserve. You can get 1-1.25 cents per point for your redemptions with other Chase cards, booking through Chase's travel portal.

Points from the Bilt Mastercard are worth 1.25 cents apiece for hotels in the Bilt Rewards portal.

Your Capital One miles are worth 1 cent each for hotel bookings in Capital One Travel.

Your Citi ThankYou points are worth 1 cent each in the Citi Travel portal, regardless of which credit card you hold. It's worth mentioning the Premier and Prestige cardholder benefits again. Premier cardholders get $100 off a $500 hotel stay (once per year); Prestige cardholders get a fourth night free (twice per year). These benefits can be used at Universal hotels and those nearby, booked through Citi's portal.

There are numerous hotels located near Universal Orlando and Universal Hollywood, as well. It's worth mentioning hotel programs like Choice Hotels, Hilton Honors, IHG One Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, World of Hyatt and Wyndham Rewards. Earning points from a credit card sign-up bonus in these programs could lead to multiple free hotel nights during your Universal vacation.

Consult the following for additional ideas:

• These are the best hotels at Universal Orlando
• The best hotels near Universal Studios Hollywood

Best credit cards for Universal Studios meals

You've got to eat during your trip. Unfortunately, you can't transfer your rewards points to the restaurant. However, there is good news.

Restaurant and dining purchases at Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure should trigger the restaurant/dining category on your credit card if it has one. Consult our list of the best credit cards for restaurant purchases for ideas on which cards to use for extra earnings here.

Best credit cards for flights to Universal parks

Obviously, you can use points and miles for free or discounted flights to Universal's parks. Most of us don't live near Hollywood or Orlando, after all.

For more on this topic, see the following:

• TPG's guide to getting started with points, miles and credit cards
• How I decide when to redeem points for a flight or pay cash
• 12 tips for using frequent flyer miles for family travel
• How (and why) you should earn transferable points
• 6 apps and websites that make award redemptions easier
• From newbie to expert: 6 ways to up your mileage redemption game

How to choose the best credit card for Universal Studios

After considering the many parts of your upcoming trip to Universal, you've probably realized there isn't the best credit card for Universal Studios. You should probably consider the best credit card s for Universal Studios.

Consider the following: A sign-up bonus from one credit card could provide the points and miles needed to fly to a Universal theme park. The bonus from another credit card could provide a few free hotel nights. Another credit card is the best for your meals at the park.

If you don't have points for purchasing your tickets, know that how you buy them matters.

Your best bet for buying tickets is the Citi Travel portal, thanks to its elevated earning rates through December 31, 2025:

• 10 points per dollar on reservations for hotels, rental cars and eligible attractions with the Citi Prestige® Card (no longer open to new applicants)
• 5 points per dollar on these same bookings with the Citi ThankYou® Preferred Card (no longer open to new applicants) and the Citi Rewards+® Card .

If buying tickets directly from Universal, the purchase should code as "entertainment." The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card earns 4% cash back on entertainment purchases and has a $95 annual fee. Similarly, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card earns 3% back on entertainment purchases and has no annual fee. The Marvel Mastercard® also earns 3% back on entertainment and theme park tickets; it has no annual fee, but it's currently closed to new applicants.

The information for the Citi Prestige, Savor Cash and Marvel Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

If you don't have these cards, consider your best credit card for everyday spending . These can provide a good return on spending for ticket purchases.

* Value of rewards based on TPG valuations and not provided by the issuer.

Another option is to buy your Universal tickets with a gift card.

Consult your local office supplies, warehouse clubs (such as Sam's Club or Costco), grocery stores and even home improvement stores to see if they sell Universal gift cards. These may or may not be on sale, which is another discussion, but there are ways to make these purchases rewarding beyond just discounts.

Related: How to save money buying discounted Disney gift cards

The Ink Business Cash Credit Card earns 5% back on the first $25,000 spent at office supply stores, internet services, cable services and phone services each cardmember year (then 1% back). You can turn those earnings into Chase Ultimate Rewards points if you have a card that earns those points.

The American Express® Gold Card earns 4 points per dollar on your first $25,000 in annual spending at U.S. supermarkets (then 1 point per dollar). That's an 8% return on spending, per TPG's valuations .

Buying Universal gift cards in this way provides extra points or cash back; then, you can use the gift cards to pay for park tickets — though only at the gate and not online.

For other options, check out the following:

• The best grocery credit cards
• The best office supply credit cards
• The best credit cards for home improvement stores

Is there a Universal Studios credit card?

There are two Universal Studios credit cards . The no-annual-fee Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature® Card earns 2% in rewards on qualifying Universal purchases and 1% on all other purchases.

The $99-annual-fee Universal Rewards Plus Visa Signature® Card earns 4% rewards on qualifying Universal purchases; 2% on travel, gas and dining purchases; and 1% on all other purchases. It also offers one single-day theme park admission ticket to Universal's Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida or Universal Studios Hollywood that you'll earn on your annual card anniversary when you spend $6,000 or more in a year.

In our opinion, you will get better value from a more general cash-back card .

The information for the Universal Rewards Plus and Universal Rewards cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Are credit cards accepted at Universal Studios?

Universal has made a big push for guests to use Universal Pay, part of its app for park visitors. This advertising might make you think Universal Pay is the only payment method you can use, but Universal still accepts all major credit cards, gift cards and cash in the parks.

Bottom line

It's easy to have fun at a theme park. What's trickier is bringing down the costs. Thankfully, your credit card rewards can go a long way toward taking the pain out of your vacation costs.

Options exist for using your credit card points to pay for Universal theme park tickets, hotels (both on and off property) and flights, plus there are good options for the right credit card to maximize earnings whenever you need to pay for elements of your trip.

See Bilt Mastercard rates and fees here . See Bilt Mastercard rewards and benefits here .

Additional reporting by Ryan Smith.

Updated 12/06/2023

The highest cash-back credit card with no annual fee

How the freedom flex works, how much could you earn, what happens once the rewards rotate, push your rewards even higher with the chase sapphire preferred or reserve, the bottom line, the chase freedom flex just became spring’s best travel card.

This card's rotating categories hit the sweet spots to potentially help you earn up to $320 on your next trip.

Evan Zimmer

Staff Writer

Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.

Tiffany Connors

Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money with a focus on credit cards. Previously, she covered personal finance topics as a writer and editor at The Penny Hoarder. She is passionate about helping people make the best money decisions for themselves and their families. She graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism and has been a writer and editor for publications including the New York Post, Women's Running magazine and Soap Opera Digest. When she isn't working, you can find her enjoying life in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her husband, daughter and a very needy dog.

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

There are a lot of great travel credit cards you could bring with you on your spring trips, but few have the same breadth as the Chase Freedom Flex℠ *. 

The card has potentially the highest cash-back rates when you activate on two of the best parts of traveling: food and board. It doesn’t charge an annual fee, either, helping you maximize your savings.

But you’ll need to act quickly. These rewards will only last through June 2024.

Chase Freedom Flex℠

What makes the card’s current offer so enticing is its unparalleled cash back rate at restaurants and hotels -- so long as you can book the latter through Chase Travel℠. 

The Freedom Flex typically offers 3% cash back at restaurants, but combined with its rotating 5% cash back (on the first $1,500 spent in quarterly combined purchases, then 1%) bonus categories when you activate, the Freedom Flex boosts that number to 7% cash back.

And, since the card earns 5% cash back for travel booked through Chase Travel already, combined with its current 5% cash back offering for hotels, you could earn 9% cash back on your hotel booking if you can make it through Chase. 

The math doesn’t quite add up -- if you earn 3% cash back on dining at restaurants and the bonus categories typically earn 5% cash back, shouldn’t that be 8% cash back on dining?

Here’s a breakdown of how Chase explained the rewards rates:

• Hotels booked through Chase: Earn 4% cash back from rotating rewards and 5% back from the standard bonus category -- 9% cash back total .
• Hotels booked directly: Earn 4% cash back from rotating rewards and 1% from the card’s base rate -- 5% cash back total .
• Restaurants: Earn 4% cash back from rotating rewards and 3% from the standard category -- 7% cash back total .
• Amazon.com: Earn 5% cash back from rotating rewards.
• Drug stores: Earn 3% cash back from the standard bonus category.
• All other purchases: Earn 1% cash back.

However, there are a few caveats. First, these rates won’t last -- the Freedom Flex only offers 5% cash back at Amazon.com, hotels and restaurants when you activate from April to June 2024.

Second, the rotating reward category has a spending cap of $1,500 in combined quarterly purchases. So once you hit that limit, your restaurant rewards will fall to 3%, your Amazon.com purchases will fall to 1%, and your hotel rewards rate will fall to 5% for hotels booked through Chase Travel and 1% for hotels booked directly through the hotel brand.

The Chase Freedom Flex offers rotating rewards that change quarterly , or about every three months. Its current rotating bonus categories cover purchases made at Amazon.com, hotels and restaurants. Keep in mind you’ll need to manually activate these rewards each time they change.

Luckily, you can set alerts to inform you when it’s time to activate. And, if you do forget, you can still activate by June 14, 2024. You’ll even earn retroactive rewards for any purchases made in the featured categories before you activated -- something that gives this card an edge over the Discover it® Cash Back* .

In addition to its rotating rewards, the Freedom Flex offers a few static bonus categories. These categories cover restaurants, drug stores and travel booked through Chase.

With its spending cap of $1,500 in combined purchases, you could earn a total of $75 across the quarter at the 5% cash-back rate when you activate, before it falls to 1%. 

However, even once you hit that cap, you’ll still earn 5% cash back on hotels booked through Chase and 3% cash back at restaurants, which is among the best rates found on a cash-back credit card with no annual fee .

As an example, suppose you spent $750 on both your hotel and restaurants, making a combined total of $1,500, the Freedom Flex’s spending cap:

You could earn upwards of $120. Remember, these are merely estimates. How you spend might not be an even split, so your rewards could look different.

The Freedom Flex also features a welcome bonus -- you can earn $200 after you spend $500 on purchases in your first three months from account opening. Based on the example above, you’d hit the required spending threshold, adding another $200 to your rewards. That totals $320, which should be enough to help cover some part of your travel, whether it’s a night at a fancy hotel, your rental car or a good dinner out.

Once the Freedom Flex’s bonus categories change on July 1, you’ll still have a powerful rewards credit card to use for whichever purchases Chase decides to feature next. Past categories have included Target, fitness memberships, groceries and gas, among others.

Chase offers the opportunity to increase how much your rewards are worth by pooling them with other credit cards in its Chase Ultimate Rewards family.

You could earn the Chase Freedom Flex’s higher cash-back rates, for example, and then pool your rewards with either the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Note that both of those credit cards charge an annual fee , the Preferred comes in at $95 and the Reserve at $550. However, they both offer annual travel credits that help soften the blow of their fees. They have two other great perks -- a 1:1 point transfer rate to Chase’s hotel and airline partners , as well as a 25% and 50% point redemption bonus respectively for travel booked through Chase Travel.

It’ll take a bit more work, and an additional credit card, but if you can use the Chase Trifect strategy , you could increase the return you earn on your travel spending exponentially.

If you’ve got travel plans this spring, you should consider adding the Chase Freedom Flex to your card collection. 

Even if you don’t want to take the extra step of using it in tandem with a Chase Sapphire card, it’ll be a rewarding and inexpensive choice. You might even earn an extra $320 to spend on your travels.

*All information about the Chase Freedom Flex and Discover it   Cash Back has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

CNET editors independently choose every product and service we cover. Though we can’t review every available financial company or offer, we strive to make comprehensive, rigorous comparisons in order to highlight the best of them. For many of these products and services, we earn a commission. The compensation we receive may impact how products and links appear on our site.

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• Business travel services

Universal Air Travel Plan

The industry standard

Make tracking and managing business expenses simple.

Our UATP Corporate Card is a charge card for business travel. Use it at more than 340 airlines, rail and travel agency merchants and you’ll get a payment and billing solution that helps you stay on track with your travel expenses.

UATP site Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

UATP is a free program, with no application, annual, foreign exchange, commission or per-card fees.

Choose the plan that’s right for your business. As it’s designed to complement your existing program, you can continue to use your current corporate card for other expenses.

Get fast and accurate reporting with the DataTrac SM and DataMine ® tools. Track itinerary-level data, customize reports and reconcile travel expenses quickly.

With DataTrac, you can create a personalized reference so you can find your trip quickly and make accounting that much easier.

Create a billing program that works with your company’s accounting systems. Plus, you can sort billing statements the way you want and decide when you’ll get them.

UATP helps you keep travel expenses separate from others, simplify cost control and discourages expense account abuse.

• No need to use personal credit cards on business trips
• Get travel insurance including delayed baggage coverage
• Choose from UATP’s Travel Protection Plans for extended coverage

UATP travel protection plans Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Joining is easy, and approval only takes 5 business days

• Download the application and Subscriber's Contract forms
• Include 2 years audited financial statements or annual reports with the completed application
• Email completed forms and accompanying documents to [email protected] or mail them to us at:

American Airlines UATP Program 4000 E. Sky Harbor Blvd. Attn: PHX-RWE-ACR Phoenix, AZ 85034

• Download credit application Opens in a new window
• Download Subscriber's Contract Opens in a new window

Any questions?

Call or email us.

• 1-800-528-3819
• [email protected]
• 6:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. MST Monday - Friday

Should You Use a Credit Card Travel Portal?

Unlock the details of credit card travel portals and learn how to maximize your benefits.

Using a Credit Card Travel Portal

Getty Images

Using a credit card portal to book travel could help you save money and help you earn more points or redeem travel credits.

Key Takeaways

• Credit card travel portals search across multiple travel options, giving you the power to compare prices.
• You can use your credit card or rewards to book travel with your credit card issuer's travel portal.
• Some cards may offer travel credits and benefits when you book using the associated travel portal. 

You have many options for booking travel, whether you want to book directly with airlines and hotels, use an online travel agency or book with your credit card's travel portal. Using a credit card travel portal may allow you to take advantage of cardholder benefits and credits and give you additional choices for your booking.

Understand how to use credit card travel portals to save money on your next trip and maybe get some elevated perks along the way – but also recognize when it doesn't make sense.

What Are Credit Card Travel Portals?

Similar to online travel agencies, such as Expedia or Booking.com, credit card travel portals are online travel booking platforms. Cardholders can use credit card travel portals to browse and book travel options, including flights, hotels, rental cars and experiences using your credit card or rewards.

Credit card travel portals include:

• American Express Travel.
• Capital One Travel.
• Chase Travel.
• Citi Travel.

Some credit cards offer cardholder savings or perks when you book travel using the issuer's credit card portal, such as travel credits or cardholder privileges, including free breakfast or late checkout.

How Credit Card Travel Portals Stack Up

When you use a credit card travel portal, the amount and method of payment may be the deciding factors in how you book. Using a credit card travel portal to book travel can save you money, but not always.

We compared a midweek economy flight from Los Angeles to New York and a weeklong stay at a three-star hotel in Manhattan. In some cases, credit card travel portals were competitive, but Expedia had the lowest overall price for flight and hotel costs on this test trip.

Still, this is just one example, and travel prices can fluctuate depending on how you book. It's always a good idea to compare all of your options.

Benefits of Credit Card Travel Portals

Booking your travel with a credit card travel portal can help you earn more points or redeem travel credits. Some examples:

• Cardholders of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card get a $300 annual travel credit for bookings through the Capital One Travel site. When booking on the Capital One Travel site, cardholders earn unlimited 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars and 5 miles per dollar on flights. ( See Rates and Fees )
• With The Platinum Card ® from American Express , cardholders get a $200 annual hotel credit for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel and earn five points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. ( See Rates and Fees )
• Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card holders get a $50 annual Chase Travel hotel credit and earn five points per dollar on Chase Travel purchases.

"Using the travel credits is huge," says JT Genter, editor in chief of rewards and travel tracking tool AwardWallet. "Card issuers are leaning more towards those only being accessible through the portal."

Credit card travel portal bookings may help your points go further, too. "Because I have a Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, when I use the (Chase) portal to book travel, my points get an extra 25% bump," says Chip Chinery, personal finance blogger at Chip's Money Tips. For example, you'd only pay 100,000 points for a flight or hotel that would require 125,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points to book without the points boost.

Helpful features can add up to savings on credit card travel portals. For example, Capital One Travel offers a price match guarantee. Genter used the Capital One Travel price match feature on a flight from Cairo to Marrakech, Morocco. Although he booked with Capital One Travel, an online travel agency had a better price. He was able to price match with Capital One Travel to get a travel credit.

Genter points out that cardholders of The Platinum Card from American Express can take advantage of the International Airline Program for potential savings on international flights in first, business or premium economy.

You may also get benefits for booking with credit card travel portals, particularly when booking hotels. For example:

• Cardholders of The Platinum Card from American Express get elite benefits at participating hotels, including early check-in, room upgrades, breakfast for two, a $100 experience credit, complimentary Wi-Fi and guaranteed 4 p.m. check-out.
• If you have a Chase Sapphire Reserve ® , you can book The Edit properties through Chase Travel and receive benefits, including daily breakfast for two, a $100 on-property credit, room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Drawbacks of Credit Card Travel Portals

Travel credits and on-property perks are compelling reasons to use a credit card travel portal. However, it pays to compare pricing among your card's portal, direct booking or an online travel agency, because the lowest-priced option depends on the trip you're taking. Also, you may forfeit some benefits, as credit card travel portals are third-party bookings.

With a third-party booking, you'll have less flexibility in customer service and cancellation than you would if you booked directly. For example, if you're dealing with a delayed flight and need service from the airline, you may be directed to the travel portal customer service. You may have limited options for cancellation and how you get your money or rewards back.

Another major point to consider with third-party bookings: You generally won't be able to earn points or miles with the airline or hotel, though you can earn points with your card. Additionally, you may not be able to use elite benefits for any status you hold. For example, if you have Hilton Honors status that entitles you to a daily food and beverage credit, you're not likely to get it when you book a stay with your credit card travel portal.

When to Use a Credit Card Travel Portal

Booking travel with a credit card travel portal can make sense in some scenarios. For instance:

• You want to compare your travel options across multiple airlines or hotels in the portal.
• You have a travel credit available that can only be redeemed through the issuer's travel portal.
• You have rewards you want to redeem on the portal, and booking this way offers a good redemption value.
• You want to take advantage of benefits, such as elite hotel perks that you can get when using a credit card travel portal.
• Your booking options on the portal are priced lower compared with other options.
• Booking on the portal earns elevated rewards, and the prices and benefits are comparable to those of other booking options.

"It makes sense if you want to take advantage of the credits but also to earn bonus points," says Genter. "And sometimes, they have promotions such as hyper-targeted offers."

Tags: credit cards

Comparative assessments and other editorial opinions are those of U.S. News and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by any other entities, such as banks, credit card issuers or travel companies. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired.

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The best credit cards for your universal studios vacation [2024].

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The Citi Double Cash ® Card and Chase Freedom Unlimited ® are two of the best credit cards to use for a Universal Studios vacation. That’s because they offer great rewards rates, and you can redeem your points for Universal tickets.

For additional travel benefits and the same option to redeem rewards for theme park tickets, we recommend the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card and Citi Premier ® Card .

See how you can maximize your rewards by choosing the right card for Universal Studios.

Key takeaways

The 7 best credit cards for universal studios vacations, compare the best credit cards for universal studios vacations, how to choose the best credit card for universal studios, earn the most rewards with multiple credit cards, faq about credit cards for universal studios, best credit cards for universal studios: bottom line, methodology.

• Credit card transactions at Universal Studios typically come in various categories, such as entertainment, travel, or dining spending. Depending on the credit card you use and your credit card issuer, you may earn elevated rewards rates on some of these categories.
• The Citi Double Cash has a $0 annual fee and a simple rewards rate, making it easy to earn rewards you can put toward theme park tickets, flights, or hotel stays.
• The Chase Freedom Unlimited has a $0 annual fee and provides elevated rewards in multiple everyday categories. If your spending habits align with its bonus categories, you could quickly rack up rewards to use on your Universal vacation.
• The Chase Sapphire Preferred has a $95 annual fee and earns rewards that can be used for travel, including theme park tickets, through Chase Travel℠. Even better, you get a 25% bonus on your Chase travel redemptions, giving you more bang for your buck with your points.
• The Citi Premier Card has a $95 annual fee and earns high rewards in multiple categories, including 3X points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel and hotels; and 1X points on all other purchases. You can quickly earn rewards and then redeem them for theme park tickets or other types of travel.

Citi Double Cash ® Card

Chase freedom unlimited ®, chase sapphire preferred ® card, citi premier ® card, capital one venture rewards credit card, hilton honors american express card, the world of hyatt credit card.

• Rewards redeemable for theme park tickets
• Simple rewards rate
• $0 annual fee
• Has foreign transaction fees

The Citi Double Cash is an excellent card for earning simple cash back on everyday purchases.

Why we like it

There’s a $0 annual fee and you can earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases; plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.

Additionally, you can earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

And you can easily turn your cashback rewards into Universal Studios theme park tickets through the Citi Travel portal under “Attractions.” A $200 park ticket would cost 20,000 ThankYou Points.

You can also redeem your rewards for other aspects of your vacation, including flights and hotel stays.

What we don’t like

There’s typically no welcome offer for new cardmembers. You also have to pay foreign transaction fees on applicable purchases, making the Double Cash a poor choice if you want to visit Universal Destinations & Experiences locations in other countries.

Apply now or learn more in our Citi Double Cash ® Card (Rates and fees) review .

• Elevated earning on everyday purchases

The Chase Freedom Unlimited has elevated earning potential on multiple everyday categories.

There’s a $0 annual fee and you can earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

On top of that, you can earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).

You can then redeem your rewards for Universal Studios theme park tickets through the Chase Travel℠ portal. A $200 park ticket would cost 20,000 Ultimate Rewards points.

You can also redeem your rewards for flights or hotel stays for your Universal Studios trip.

Increase the value of your rewards

You have to pay foreign transaction fees, so you wouldn’t want to use the Freedom Unlimited at Universal parks abroad.

Apply now or learn more in our Chase Freedom Unlimited review .

• 25% more value when you redeem rewards for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Up to $50 in annual statement credits for hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel℠
• $95 annual fee

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a terrific rewards card for all sorts of travel, including trips to Universal Studios.

You can earn 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠; 3X points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries; 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points on all other purchases.

You can also earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

You can then redeem your rewards for flights, hotel stays, and experiences through Chase Travel℠. For these types of redemptions, which include Universal theme park tickets, you get a 25% bonus to your points value.

For hotel stays, you can earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel℠.

As a Sapphire Preferred cardholder, you have to pay a $95 annual fee.

Apply now or learn more in our Chase Sapphire Preferred review .

• Elevated rewards in everyday categories
• $100 off $500 hotel stay benefit

The Citi Premier Card has excellent spending categories and a useful hotel savings perk.

You can earn 3X points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel and hotels; and 1X points on all other purchases. The higher earning rate might apply to restaurant or dining purchases you make to get tasty Universal Studios foods .

This card also helps you earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening; Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.

Your points can be redeemed for travel, including flights, hotel stays, and theme park tickets, through the Citi Travel portal.

If you have a big hotel stay planned for your trip, take advantage of the Citi Premier hotel savings benefit. You can enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more, excluding taxes and fees, through thankyou.com, once per calendar year.

You have to pay a $95 annual fee each year for your Citi Premier card membership.

Apply now or learn more in our Citi Premier ® Card (Rates and fees) review .

• Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

The Capital One Venture Rewards makes it easy to earn valuable travel rewards on all your eligible purchases.

You can earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, every day, 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5 miles per dollar on Capital One Entertainment purchases through 12/31/25.

You can maximize your rewards by aiming to earn a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.

You can redeem your miles for travel through Capital One Travel or you can use them to cover past travel purchases. If you want to use your miles for theme park tickets, you would need to buy your tickets from a merchant that codes the purchase as “travel” and then use your miles to cover the purchase.

Keep in mind

The Venture Rewards also provides up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®, which could be useful if you’re traveling through airports for your vacation.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Card has a $95 annual fee.

Learn more in our Capital One Venture Rewards review .

• Rewards redeemable for lodging near Universal Studios
• $ 0 annual fee (terms apply)
• Doesn’t have many travel benefits

The Hilton Honors American Express Card makes sense if you’re a Hilton enthusiast and want to help offset your lodging expenses.

It has a $ 0 annual fee and earns 7X points at participating hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio; 5X points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations; and 3X points on all other eligible purchases.

On top of that, you can earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after spending $2,000 in purchases in the first 6 months.

You can redeem your points for stays at Hilton properties worldwide, including near different Universal Studios locations.

For example, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel at the Entrance to Universal Orlando is across the street from Universal Studios Orlando. You can take the complimentary shuttle to the park or walk, making it easy to attend a theme park holiday event .

Apart from the opportunity to earn and redeem Hilton Honors points, the Hilton Honors Amex Card doesn’t have many other travel benefits. You can enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors Silver elite status, but that doesn’t get you much other than a fifth night free on reward stays.

Learn how to apply or find out in our Hilton Honors American Express review .

• Free anniversary night

The World of Hyatt Credit Card makes sense if you’re a Hyatt enthusiast and want to cover some of your lodging expenses.

You can earn up to 9X points on stays at Hyatt hotels (4 bonus points plus 5 base points as a World of Hyatt member); 2X points on restaurants, airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships; and 1X points on all other purchases.

You can also earn up to 60,000 bonus points: 30,000 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 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.

You also receive a free night at any category 1 to 4 Hyatt hotel or resort every year after your cardmember anniversary.

There are multiple Hyatt properties that are category 4 or below within easy driving distance of Universal Studios Orlando. You could also walk or take a shuttle to the park from the Hyatt House or Hyatt Place across from Universal Orlando Resort. This makes it easy if you’re planning a trip to any part of the park, including Super Nintendo World Florida .

For Universal Studios Hollywood in California, there aren’t as many Hyatt properties that are category 4 or below. But there are still a couple that are within driving distance of Universal and Universal CityWalk Hollywood.

There’s a $95 annual fee for cardmembers. However, your free anniversary night can more than offset this cost starting with your second year of card membership.

Learn more in our World of Hyatt Credit Card review .

There are a few key considerations when choosing which credit card is best to use whether you're headed for Universal Studios Hollywood or a Universal Orlando vacation.

First things first, you need to figure out how your Universal transactions will be categorized by your credit card provider. This matters because different cards offer bonus rewards for different kinds of spending. In general:

• Theme park tickets are usually classified as entertainment spending
• A stay at a Universal hotel or resort would likely be considered travel spending
• Airline tickets to travel to Universal would typically be considered travel spending
• Purchases at Universal Studios restaurants would generally be classified as spending on dining

Consider the most expensive aspects of your trip to Universal so you can find a credit card that gives you the most rewards for that spending type.

And in some cases, your focus may not be just on earning the most rewards for spending you do on your Universal trip but also on redeeming rewards to reduce your travel costs. Because of this, the right card for you will depend on whether your priorities are to earn the maximum rewards on things you buy at Universal, whether your goal is to redeem your card points for Universal tickets, or whether you want to score cool discounts and special perks once you're actually at the park.

There are several different credit cards that you could use to earn the most rewards at Universal Studios. But, because some cards offer bonus points for travel and dining and others for entertainment, it can actually make a lot of sense to use different cards strategically.

You could, for example, book your hotel with the Hilton Honors card, use your Citi Premier Card for theme park tickets, and use your American Express card to pay for WiFi and baggage fees on your flight. Or you could redeem your Chase points for Universal tickets, redeem Amex points for plane tickets to Orlando, and redeem Hilton Honors points for hotel stays.

The key is to know what cards offer the best rewards on different kinds of spending and which programs provide the most value for points redemptions. That way, you can match the right card to the right purchases to maximize the value each card provides.

Is there a Universal Studios credit card?

There is no specific credit card for Universal Studios, but you do have options for credit cards that can help you save on a trip to Universal. This includes many of the best travel credit cards that can help offset the costs of your flights and hotel stays. In addition, using one of the best credit cards for dining could help you offset expensive food purchases in and around Universal.

What is the cheapest way to go to Universal Studios?

One of the cheapest ways to go to Universal Studios is by using credit card points and miles. Using the best rewards credit cards on a daily basis for everyday purchases you were already planning on making is an easy way to earn valuable points or miles. These rewards that you earn can typically be redeemed for different things, often including travel or cash back.

If you choose to redeem your rewards for cash back, you’ll have extra cash on hand to cover trip expenses. If you choose to redeem your rewards for travel, you’ll help offset your trip’s costs, potentially even including the expensive flights and hotel stays.

Does Universal accept Amex?

Not only does Universal accept Amex cards, but you can also take advantage of special American Express perks on your next Universal Studios Florida or Orlando trip.

For example, you can book your stay at an Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts (FHR) location to be near the park in a luxurious location. FHR benefits typically include a complimentary room upgrade and free daily breakfast for two.

Ultimately, you should consider your own unique situation —including how often you'll use these cards after your Universal trip— to decide which credit card is best for you.

The most important thing is to pick a card that helps make your trip as affordable as possible or that allows you to earn the maximum rewards for your Universal visit.

Compare credit cards to find the right credit card offer for you.

When choosing the best rewards credit cards for Universal Studios, we reviewed rewards programs to options offering the most points on airfare, hotels, theme park tickets, and dining.

We also looked for cards that provide special perks to make your trip more enjoyable, including cards offering lounge access and other in-park perks at Universal, or cards that offered statement credits for fees incurred on the plane.

Finally, we looked for cards that provide points you can redeem to make your Universal trip cheaper, allowing you to defray the cost of your vacation and earn more rewards on that vacation to redeem in the future.

Easy-to-Earn Unlimited Rewards

Card Details

Earn 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 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases
• Longer intro APR on qualifying purchases and balance transfers
• No foreign transaction fees
• 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 18.24% - 28.24% 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%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• 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.

FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.

on Bank of America’s secure website

Intro Offer

The Bank of America ® Travel Rewards credit card is great for individuals who enjoy earning rewards and traveling.

Cardholders will enjoy the flexibility to redeem points with no blackout dates and receive a statement credit to pay for travel and dining purchases.

Earn 1.5X points on all purchases everywhere, every time.

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Moscow and St. Petersburg present a new tourist pass

Russia has introduced a new tourist pass called PassCity , which will be of use not only to foreign travelers who have come to Russia for a few days, but also to students from overseas and expatriates whose stay extends to a few months and more. PassCity has apps available for Android and iOS with free audio guides in English and Chinese.

PassCity has become Russia's first pass which is valid in two cities at once and covers all the major museums of Moscow and St. Petersburg. The price for a tourist pass for 3/5/7/10 days varies from $80 (1 person, 3 days - 5190 rubles ) to $230 (2 people, 10 days - 14,390 rubles ). A 90/180/360-day pass costs from $ 64 (1 person, 90 days -  3990 rubles  ) to $160  (2 people, 360 days - 9990 rubles ).  The package for several days was designed for tourists and includes an unlimited number of museum visits per day, as well as public transit. The 3/6/12-month card is meant for temporary residents of the cities and covers one museum visit a day, without access to public transit.

Apart from admission to museums, the pass gets you free coffee in the DoubleB chain of coffee shops , several trips on the airport express in Moscow, and subway rides in St. Petersburg or by taxi ordered through the Yandex.Taxi service.  

For the practical and the cautious

The Voxxter team spent more than two years developing the pass; while working on it, they established partnerships with Mastercard, Yandex.Money , Yandex.Taxi (a Russian taxi service similar to Uber ), and DoubleB , a popular chain of coffee shops in St. Petersburg and Moscow.  

PassCity is as easy to use as a regular credit card: It uses the Mastercard payment system, and the chosen package of services is activated upon purchase. You can deposit money on the card and use it to pay for other goods and services: Using an extra credit card instead of your primary card when traveling is a sensible security measure.

Cards are delivered through a system that has recently gained popularity among Internet banks. "You can order the pass online or through the app, and our courier will deliver it where and when you decide, for instance, your hotel, or the railway station where the airport express arrives. Our customers have confirmed that this is a lot more convenient than having to look for a sales office in an unknown city," explains Maksim Ivlev, Voxxter CEO.

Voxxter believes the pass could be useful for tourists who come to Russia to watch upcoming sporting events, including the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

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Best travel credit cards of April 2024

Fortune Recommends™ has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Fortune Recommends™ and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.  

Travel credit cards make it possible for you to earn free and discounted travel with your everyday spending. What's more, some of the best travel credit cards also offer valuable perks that elevate your trip experience.

At the same time, each card has its own set of rewards rates, intro bonuses, annual fees and other terms, so take your time picking one that aligns well with your travel and spending habits.

The best travel credit cards of April 2024

• Best premium card: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Best flat-rate rewards card: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Best mid-range card: Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card
• Best for lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Best for airline loyalists: United Explorer Card
• Best for hotel loyalists: IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
• Best $0 annual fee travel card: Bilt Mastercard

Best 0% intro APR card: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Best for earnings: U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

Best for fair credit: Credit One Wander

• Best for credit building: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best premium card: Capital One Venture X Card

The Venture X packs a lot of travel rewards into a card that costs hundreds of dollars less than its competitors.

Why we like it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers rich rewards and travel perks, and unlike many other premium travel credit cards, the Venture X doesn't make you jump through many hoops to earn back the cost of its steep annual fee. In addition to a Capital One Travel credit and bonus miles each year, you'll also get complimentary access to a number of airport lounge networks with more than 1,300 locations around the world. 

The card also offers ultimate flexibility when it comes to redeeming your rewards for travel. You can book with miles through Capital One Travel, or if you want more options, you can use your card to pay for travel-related expenses and request a statement credit. If you're feeling ambitious, you can even transfer your rewards to various frequent flyer and hotel rewards programs and potentially get more value from your miles.

The Venture Card puts the power into your hands by earning miles that you can either use against your travel purchases or transfer to travel partners.

Travel rewards can get complicated, which is why the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card feels like a breath of fresh air. The card offers a high, flat rewards rate on your everyday spending, so you don't need to keep track of different bonus rewards categories. It also offers extra miles on select travel booked through the Capital One Travel platform.

You can redeem your miles by booking travel through Capital One Travel or by using your card to pay for travel on your own and requesting a statement credit. Alternatively, you can transfer your miles to airline and hotel rewards program partners for more dynamic redemptions. The card also comes with complimentary Hertz Five Star status, which lets you skip the rental counter and get access to a wider selection of vehicles. When you use it to pay the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, Capital One will reimburse you.

Best mid-level card: Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers both robust earnings on travel and a useful suite of travel protections. Plus, Chase's dozen-plus transfer partners offer flexibility in travel redemptions.

Why we like it: If you're looking for a way to maximize your travel rewards without paying a steep annual fee, look no further than the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card . The card offers an impressive welcome bonus and several opportunities to earn bonus points on your everyday spending. Annual perks include a $50 credit toward hotel stays booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, a 10% points bonus on your spending throughout the year and benefits with partners like Lyft, DoorDash, Instacart, and Peloton.

The card offers flexible redemption options, including cash back, but you'll get 25% more value if you use your points to book travel through Chase. Alternatively, you can transfer your rewards to one of the card issuer's airline or hotel rewards program partners and potentially squeeze more value out of your points. 

Best for lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express 

Why we like this card.

The Platinum Card® from American Express charges an annual fee that some will find hard to stomach. But if you're a frequent flyer, it may well become your favorite travel companion. The card offers access to more airport lounge networks than any other credit card. At larger airports, you may even have your pick among several lounge options. 

The card also comes packed with more than $1,500 in annual travel and lifestyle credits, elite status with select hotel and car rental rewards programs and many other perks that touch just about every aspect of your travel experience. That said, many of the credits are doled out in increments and are for specific vendors, making them harder to redeem.

Pro tip: Credits only have value if you use them in your daily life. If a credit or benefit is causing you to make purchases you don't usually make, you might want to reconsider whether it is worth it for you.

Best for airline loyalists: United SM Explorer Card

The United Explorer card makes sense if you are one of the over 140 million passengers that flew United last year.

Why we like it: If you like the idea of enjoying rewards and perks with an airline rather than general travel rewards and benefits, you can't go wrong with the United Explorer Card . The card offers a sizable welcome bonus and a few different bonus rewards categories, and with a strong domestic and international presence, you'll have plenty of options when it comes to redeeming your miles for award flights.

You'll get some standard airline card benefits, such as a free checked bag for you and a companion, priority boarding, and a discount on select inflight purchases. But you'll also get some perks that most mid-tier airline cards don't offer, including expanded access to Saver award tickets, premier upgrade eligibility on award tickets, two one-time passes to the United Club lounge each year, and an application fee credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

Best for hotel loyalists: IHG One Rewards Premier Card

The IHG One Rewards Card offers a free night upon card renewal along with a slew of other benefits, making it well worth the modest annual fee

Why we like it: If you want to focus your efforts on earning free hotel stays, the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offers an impressive array of benefits. The card makes it easy to earn points quickly, though it also requires a lot of points to get free stays with IHG. 

Where it really shines, though, is in its perks, which offer value that far outweighs the card's modest annual fee. You'll get a free night reward each year worth up to 40,000 points, plus a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points if you spend $20,000 in a calendar year. When you stay at IHG hotels, you'll enjoy Platinum Elite status, which includes perks like the fourth night free on award bookings, reward night discounts, complimentary upgrades, and a welcome amenity. You'll also get an application fee credit toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS.

Best $0 annual fee card: Bilt Mastercard

The Bilt Mastercard not only has no annual fee, it has a robust set of travel transfer partners. Even better, it lets you earn rewards for paying rent.

Why we like it: While it technically isn't billed as a travel credit card, the Bilt Mastercard®—the only credit card that offers rewards on rent payments—offers travel benefits that are hard to ignore. Most importantly, the card allows you to transfer your points to several airline and hotel loyalty programs, a rare feature for a travel card with no annual fee. You'll also pay no foreign transaction fees and get a few trip protections, including trip cancellation and interruption reimbursement, trip delay protection and auto rental collision damage waiver.

If your vacation plans stretch farther than your budget, the VentureOne has an extended 0% APR period on purchases so you can enjoy the sun without getting burned with interest.

Most travel credit cards don't offer introductory 0% APR promotions, but if that feature is a top priority and you don't want a cash-back card, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card may be worth a look. 

The card offers an introductory 0% APR promotion on both purchases and balance transfers, giving you plenty of time to pay off a large chunk or all of a significant purchase or high-interest debt from another card. 

The card's rewards rate isn't very exciting, but it does offer flexible travel redemption options, including access to transfer partners.

Best for earning on travel: U.S. Bank Altitude Connect

If cash back is your preference, the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect has a robust rewards rate on travel purchases plus a selection of perks unusual for a sub-$100 annual fee card.

Interestingly enough, many travel credit cards don't offer great rewards on travel spending unless you're booking through the card issuer's travel portal. If you want a card that offers best-in-class rewards on all of your travel spending, the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is your best bet. 

The card also offers great rewards on other everyday spending categories, along with four free visits to Priority Pass lounges each year, an application fee credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and an annual bonus when you use your card to pay for an eligible streaming service.

The Credit One Wander card flies under the radar but is worth a look for its strong earnings on travel, dining and gas in addition to its more lenient credit score requirements.

Why we like it: You typically need good or excellent credit to qualify for one of the best travel credit cards, but if you're not quite there yet, the Credit One Bank Wander® Card should be on your radar. The card offers great rewards on select travel purchases and other everyday spending. 

Points can be redeemed in a variety of ways, but to get a consistent redemption rate, statement credits are your best option.

Best for credit building: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Card

You aren't out of options if you need to build your credit score before getting a standard travel card. The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Card is a rewarding option while you get on track.

Why we like it : If you're looking to build or rebuild, you'll be hard-pressed to get approved for a true travel credit card. However, the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card can be a solid alternative until you have the chance to establish a good credit score.

The card doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good choice for international travel, and you'll earn a solid rewards rate on every purchase you make. While you need to make a security deposit equal to your desired credit limit when you get started, you don't have to wait to close your account to get your money back. With responsible use, you can start earning unsecured credit line increases after six months, and you can also qualify for an upgrade to an unsecured Quicksilver card down the road, at which point you'll get a deposit refund.

Our methodology

The Fortune Recommends TM team analyzed more than 50 travel credit cards across various issuers to come up with the top picks.

Here are the key elements we ranked each card by:

• Annual fee: Some card issuers require cardholders to pay an annual fee for cards with rewards and extra features or benefits. For most of our rankings, we rated cards with lower or zero-dollar annual fees higher.  
• Rewards: Travel cards typically provide rewards in the form of points or miles. For some rankings, we rated cards with better rewards rates higher on our list. 
• Insurance and protections: When you use your card to make purchases, you may be eligible for different types of protections on those purchases. Some cards offer insurance on travel-related expenses, like trip cancellation insurance, baggage delay insurance, trip delay reimbursement, and more. Some cards also provide non-travel-related reimbursements like cell phone protection. For some rankings, we rated cards higher based on the number of protections they offered.
• Welcome bonus: When you sign up for a new credit card, you may be eligible for a one-time welcome bonus in the form of points or miles. You’ll need to spend a certain amount within a few months of card opening to earn the bonus. We ranked cards with higher bonuses and lower spending requirements higher on our list. 
• Perks: Travel credit cards may offer a variety of perks—like statement credits for TSA PreCheck, airport lounge access, a free checked bag, and more. We rated cards with more perks higher for some of our rankings. 
• Foreign transaction fees: Some cards charge a flat rate on purchases when you use your card abroad. We rated cards with no foreign transaction fees higher.  

How do travel credit cards work?

Unlike cash-back rewards, which tend to work the same regardless of the card issuer, travel rewards can get complicated quickly. Ultimately, your redemption options and the value of your points and miles will vary depending on the rewards program.

Flexible travel rewards

Flexible travel rewards credit cards offer points or miles through the card issuer's proprietary rewards program. Some examples include Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Capital One Miles. 

With flexible travel rewards, you'll typically get several redemption options, and your rewards are worth a set amount — usually between 0.5 cents and 1.5 cents apiece — depending on how you redeem them. Travel redemptions typically get more value, but that can vary by program.

Many of these programs also allow you to transfer your points to airline and hotel loyalty programs, giving you access to more dynamic redemptions. If you're savvy enough, you could get more value with a transfer partner than if you were to redeem through the card issuer's rewards program.

Airline rewards

Airline miles , or points in some cases, are designed primarily to help you earn award flights with your favorite airline, such as United, Delta , or Southwest. But unlike general points or miles, airline rewards typically don't have a set value. 

In some cases, the number of points or miles required for a flight may be linked to the cash value of the ticket, but they may be unrelated. As a result, the value of your rewards will vary based on your flight dates, itinerary, cabin choice, and other factors. 

In some cases, you may be able to redeem your airline rewards in other ways, but you typically won't get as much value that way.

Hotel rewards

Hotel points allow you to book free hotel stays with a single hotel chain, such as IHG, Hilton, or Marriott. Like airline rewards, hotel points have dynamic value, so your redemption rate will vary based on your destination, the property, your stay dates, and other variables.

Hotel loyalty programs may also allow you to redeem your rewards in other ways, but it's generally best to stick to free nights.

Should you pick a travel credit card?

If you frequently travel or you're looking for opportunities to travel more in the future, a travel credit card can make it easier to earn free or discounted flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and more. 

What's more, some of the top travel credit cards also offer perks that can save you more money or give you a better overall experience at the airport, in flight, or throughout your trip. 

That said, most travel credit cards don't offer as much redemption flexibility as cash-back credit cards. If you're not sure you want to go all in on travel rewards, a cash-back credit card may be a better choice. 

Also, most of the top travel credit cards charge an annual fee. While many of them make it easy to offset that cost with rewards and perks, the fee is still an out-of-pocket cost. If you're on a tight budget or you're generally fee-averse, think carefully about whether you can afford that yearly cost and make sure you can get enough value from a card to make its annual fee worthwhile.

How to choose the best travel credit card

With so many different options available, there's no single travel credit card that's best suited for all travelers. To determine which one is best for you, you'll want to think about your travel habits, spending profile, and general preferences.

Travel habits

Consumers who travel frequently may benefit more from a premium travel card that offers a broad range of perks, while more casual travelers may be better off with a mid-tier or no-annual-fee travel card. 

If you're loyal to a specific airline or hotel chain, it could make sense to get an airline or hotel credit card, but if you don't want to be tied down to a single brand, a general travel card might be the right move.

You'll also want to think about how you travel and which travel card benefits would give you the best experience. For example, if your home airport has one or more airport lounges, it can make sense to get a card that offers lounge access. 

Spending profile

Most travel credit cards offer tiered rewards, meaning you'll earn bonus rewards on certain spending categories. If you spend a lot in certain areas of your budget, try to find a card that will reward you more for those purchases. 

However, if you don't spend a lot in any single category or you don't want to earn a low rewards rate on most of your spending, consider a card that offers a high, flat rewards rate on everything.

General preferences

Consider other features you're looking for in a travel credit card. Options may include transfer partners, straightforward benefits, redemption options, 0% APR promotions, and more. 

As you research and compare travel credit cards, familiarize yourself with all of their benefits to determine which one feels like the best fit based on your needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Which card is better for international travel.

Generally speaking, you'll want a credit card that doesn't charge a foreign transaction fee. With cards that do charge this fee, you'll typically pay an extra 3% on all of your purchases made abroad.

Additionally, Visa and Mastercard credit cards tend to be better for international travel because they're more widely accepted than American Express and Discover credit cards. If you have an Amex or Discover card, consider bringing a Visa or Mastercard as a backup.

Is Visa or Mastercard better for travel?

Mastercard boasts acceptance in more than 210 countries, while Visa says it operates in more than 200 countries. So, if you're traveling to a country that's off the beaten path, so to speak, Mastercard may be a better choice. But for most major international destinations, you're likely fine with either Visa or Mastercard.

What is the best credit card to accumulate travel miles?

Miles have historically been associated with airline frequent flyer programs, but some card issuers, including Capital One and Discover, use the miles nomenclature for their rewards currency. 

With that said, the best miles credit card for you depends on your travel habits and preferences. If you want to earn miles with a particular airline, check out that airline's co-branded credit cards to see which one offers the best fit. If you want more general rewards, consider a card that offers miles or points with more flexible redemption options.

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

Best no annual fee travel credit cards of April 2024

Fortune Recommends™ has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Fortune Recommends™ and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.  

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.  

Travel rewards cards are a lot like gyms. The best ones may come with tons of added benefits (saunas, yoga class, etc.) but they also cost a lot, usually with a big financial commitment upfront. 

As a result, whether you’re considering a Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card (with its $95 annual fee) or a CrossFit membership, you probably have the same question on your mind: will I really use it enough to justify paying for it? 

While there aren’t any free gyms we know of, there thankfully are plenty of no-annual-fee travel rewards cards that require essentially zero commitment. And just like an ab roller or a Richard Simmons DVD, you can simply use them a few times, forget about them, and put them in a drawer until beach season. Or, you can stick with it and make them part of your daily routine—whatever works for you.

You’re also far more likely to see “instant results” with these cards, too. From 100,000-point welcome bonuses to rewards for paying rent, free travel insurance to 3X on gas, these cards offer way more than you’d expect for a fee of $0 per year. 

The best no-annual-fee travel cards for April 2024

Best overall: bilt mastercard, best for hotel rewards: ihg one rewards traveler credit card, best for airline rewards: united gateway℠ card, best for travel earnings: wells fargo autograph℠ card, best for flat-rate earnings: capital one ventureone rewards credit card.

The Bilt Mastercard allows you to earn points from paying rent and transfer them 1:1 to well over a dozen different travel partners including United MileagePlus and Marriott Bonvoy. Toss in some surprisingly robust travel insurance and you have our unconventional—yet logical—choice for the best overall no-annual-fee travel card of 2024.

Bilt Mastercard®

Special feature.

Rewards Rates

• 1x Earn 1X points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year
• 1x Earn 3X points on dining
• 2x Earn 2X points on travel
• 1x Earn 1X points on other purchases
• Use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points.
• Uniquely earns points on rent
• Rent Day bonus every first of the month offers double points (excluding rent)
• Robust travel transfer partners
• Cash redemption rate is poor
• No traditional welcome bonus
• Travel perks: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection, Trip Delay Reimbursement, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
• See this page for details
• Foreign Transaction Fee: None

Why we like this card: As mentioned, the Bilt Mastercard’s most compelling feature is that it allows you to pay rent with a credit card—even if your landlord doesn’t take plastic—and avoid the transaction fee paying rent by credit card would typically incur. Then, as long as you complete five transactions each month, you’ll trigger 1X rewards on your rent payments. 

Note that rewards on rent are capped at 100,000 points per year.

In terms of earning potential, if you pay the median ~$2,000 rent in the U.S., you could earn approximately 24,000 points per year which can be used to book travel in Bilt’s portal at a value of 1.25 cents per point or transferred to any of Bilt’s airline or hotel partners at a 1:1 ratio. In other words, you could likely earn a domestic flight with United or a weekend stay at Hyatt, all for simply paying rent on time.

The Bilt card also provides trip cancellation and interruption protection, trip delay reimbursement, and primary rental car insurance (terms apply)—perks you wouldn’t typically find on a no-annual-fee credit card.

If you’re looking for a hotel rewards card that offers the most free nights for no annual fee, wait until you read about the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card. With a six-figure welcome bonus, up to 17X on stays and other compelling rewards, it’s currently the gold standard for no-fee hotel rewards.

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

Intro bonus.

• 17x Earn up to 17X points when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts 
• 3x Earn 3X points on dining, utilities, internet, cable, and phone services, select streaming services, and at gas stations
• 2x Earn 2X points on all other purchases
• Generous welcome bonus not typically seen in a $0 annual fee card
• Travel protections that are unusual for a no-annual-fee card
• Fourth night free on award bookings
• Limited redemption options outside of IHG
• IHG points are worth less than some other rewards currencies
• Silver status granted with the card has limited benefit
• Additional perks: Trip cancelation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, purchase protection, ability to spend to Gold status
• Foreign transaction fee:None

Why we like this card: We like calling the IHG One Rewards Traveler card the “Liam Hemsworth” of travel rewards cards because it lives in the shadow of its big brother—the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card —but still delivers plenty of quality and substance in its own right (with no annual fee, to boot). 

For starters, you can get a welcome bonus of 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening, potentially worth around $500 to $700 in IHG redemption. 

Plus, enjoy up to 17X points when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts, instant Silver Elite status and a handy bonus where you redeem points for three consecutive nights and get the fourth night in your stay free. So, if you book a three-night stay using your welcome bonus, you’ll essentially be getting a complimentary four-night stay at a nice IHG property for no annual fee. The IHG One Rewards program could be very rewarding for the right traveler.

Check out our full review of the IHG One Rewards Traveler .

As a no-annual-fee airline card, the United Gateway℠ Card currently edges out its rival the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card by offering a more generous welcome bonus and travel insurance that the Delta card does not provide. If you fly occasionally and would like to earn miles, but aren’t willing to make the commitment of $95 or more for a mid-tier airline card with more perks, the Gateway is a strong choice. 

United Gateway℠ Card

• 2x 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, including tickets, Economy Plus, in-flight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, baggage service charges and other United purchases.
• 2x 2 miles per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, taxicabs, train tickets, tolls, and mass transit.
• 1x 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• No annual fee or foreign transaction fee
• Reward bonus categories outside of United Airlines
• Robust travel protections for a no-annual-fee card
• No baggage or expanded award availability benefits like with other United cards
• Subject to Chase 5/24 rule.
• United perks: 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
• Other perks: Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Trip Cancellation/Interruption insurance, Purchase Protection, Extended Warranty
• Foreign transaction fee: None

Why we like this card: The United Gateway card offers 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting plus 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Considering a United Mile is worth roughly around 1.2 cents these days, effectively earning 2.4 cents back on everyday purchases is a solid value proposition. 

You’ll also get a welcome bonus of 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. And, you can save with a discount of 25% back on United in-flight and Club Premium drink purchases. 

New cardholders will enjoy a 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months, after 21.99%–28.99% variable applies.

If the United Gateway card has a small lead on the Delta Skymiles Blue Amex at this point, it soars ahead (pun intended) when you look at the included travel and shopping protections. Both cards offer secondary rental car insurance, but only the Gateway includes trip cancellation and interruption insurance, purchase protection and extended warranty protection. 

So, if you’re seeking a no-annual-fee card you can use to rack up miles—and you either tend to fly United most of the time or you’re at minimum not devoted to a competing airline—the United Gateway is the card to beat.

Check out our full review of the United Gateway Card for more info.

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card, see this page  

With a generous welcome bonus in exchange for an attainable spend amount, 3X on travel, and a fancy name, you’d think the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card would command an annual fee of at least $95. But it doesn’t, making it a superb candidate for general travel use.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Intro bonus.

• 3X 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans
• 1X 1X points on other purchases
• No annual fee
• 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months (that's a $200 cash redemption value)
• Points transfer to partners
• Car rental insurance is secondary
• No travel insurance
• Transfer partners are limited
• Additional perks: Cell Phone Protection: Provides up to $600 in cell phone protection when you pay your monthly cell bill with your Wells Fargo Autograph card. Coverage is subject to a $25 deductible and limited to two claims every 12-month period.
• Foreign transaction fee: N/A

Why we like this card: The Wells Fargo Autograph offers unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans and even your landline bill too if you have one, plus 1X points on other purchases—all without charging an annual fee. And, to make traveling a little cheaper/less stressful, you’ll also get $600 worth of cell phone protection (minus a $25 deductible) as long as you pay your phone bill with this card and secondary rental car insurance. 

Cardholders can transfer points at a 1:1 ratio to Wells Fargo’s first wave of transfer partners including Air France‑KLM Flying Blue, Avianca Lifemiles, British Airways Executive Club, AerClub, and Iberia Plus and 1:2 to Choice Privileges. 

But even if you aren’t a member of those loyalty programs, earning 3X on dining, travel, gas, and more is hard to pass up. You can redeem points at a value of 1 cent each to offset past purchases on your account, meaning you can wield the Autograph either as a no-annual-fee travel card or as a cash-back card effectively earning unlimited 3% back in a wide swath of useful categories. 

Check out our full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph .

Sometimes, you just want a card that offers a little more than 1X on every purchase—without having to worry about what this quarter’s rotating rewards are, or whether a specific merchant qualifies as “groceries” for the purposes of your card’s rewards. If you value simplicity and the lack of an annual fee in your travel card, you’ll probably be a fan of the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card and its straightforward rewards program.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Reward Rates

• 5x Earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 1.25x Earn 1.25x miles on every other purchase
• Flexible travel rewards
• No foreign transaction fee
• Maximizing Capital One Miles requires a learning curve
• Cash redemption value is limited
• The VentureOne offers travel accident insurance, rental car coverage, extended warranty protection, exclusive access to events through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment

Why we like this card: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards offers 1.25X miles per dollar spent on everyday purchases and 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. That’s pretty much all that you have to remember. You can also get a nice welcome bonus of 20,000 miles after spending $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, which is a solid payout for a very attainable spending target. 

Capital One Miles can be transferred to well over a dozen airline and hotel partners, most at a 1:1 rate. Partners include Air Canada’s Aeroplan, British Airways Executive Club, Choice Privileges, Virgin Red, and Wyndham Rewards, among others. Other ways to book travel include redeeming miles through Capital One’s portal or making the purchase directly, paying with your card like normal, then using miles for a statement credit to cover the transaction. 

The Venture One also offers a 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months (after that, the variable APR will be 29.99%). There’s an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account during the first 15 months that your account is open , then 4% per transfer for any promotional APR offered after. 

Come to think of it, provided you have the excellent credit needed to apply, the VentureOne could make a great travel companion for a grad student given its simplicity, lengthy intro APR period and low spending threshold required to trigger the welcome bonus.

Check out our full review of the Capital One VentureOne Rewards .

Frequently asked questions

Which card is best for international transactions without extra charges.

Zero foreign transaction fees is actually a common benefit among travel rewards cards, including many with no annual fee. For example, neither the Bilt Mastercard nor the United Gateway card charges a foreign currency conversion fee. 

What is the best travel credit card for a young person? 

If you’re still paying rent, the Bilt Mastercard is an excellent choice since it can generate points from rent payments which can then be transferred 1:1 to well over a dozen airline and hotel partners. If you’d prefer a card with a welcome bonus, which the Bilt card lacks, the IHG One Rewards Traveler card currently offers a massive welcome bonus for a no-annual-fee card—potentially worth hundreds of dollars toward a future IHG hotel stay. 

Is a travel card with an annual fee worth it?

Using a travel rewards card with an annual fee can be worth it as long as you’re extracting enough points and benefits to justify paying the fee each year. If you travel infrequently or just want one less fee to worry about, consider one of the no-annual-fee cards on our list above. But, the best perks and protections are typically available on cards with annual fees.

For example, the Capital One Venture X card offers a $300 annual travel credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel. If you use that every year, you’ve gone a long way toward offsetting the $395 annual fee. You also get 10,000 bonus miles, worth at least $100 toward travel, every year starting on your account anniversary.

Methodology

To bring you our top picks for the best travel rewards cards with no annual fee, the Fortune Recommends surveyed more than a dozen cards currently available from today’s top issuers. From there, we ranked each one based on the following core categories and weights:

• Welcome bonus (10%): Some cards—even those with no annual fee—offer welcome bonuses that you can earn once you make enough purchases within a certain time frame, such as spending $1,000 within three months of account opening.
• Travel earnings (25%): These are the point rewards you’d earn by making travel-related purchases (e.g. 3X on hotels, 2X on airfare).
• Car rental insurance (15%): Many, but not all travel-centric rewards cards include an auto rental collision damage waiver, which allows you to decline a portion of the rental company’s insurance and save potentially up to $30 per day. We gave extra consideration to if a card offers primary rental car insurance versus secondary, because primary kicks in immediately in a covered scenario—whereas secondary only applies after your own, personal insurance. 
• Travel insurance benefits (15%): Some travel rewards cards automatically apply trip cancellation/interruption insurance, lost/delayed luggage reimbursement and even travel accident insurance on travel bookings made using the card.
• Gas earning (5%): Since road trips remain a common form of travel, whether or not a card offers points rewards at the pump factored into our rankings.
• Dining earning (10%): If a no-annual-fee travel rewards card offered 2X or more on restaurant purchases it favored well in this category.

The remaining 20% was based on the card’s main focus: hotel, airline or general travel rewards. 

• For general travel—points transferrable to partners (20%): Points are literally worth more if you can transfer them to certain partners, so a card’s ability to transfer rewards to airline and hotel partners factored into our rankings.
• For hotel rewards—free award night with booking (20%): Some hotel rewards cards offer a BOGO-like perk where if you redeem a certain number of nights with points you get an extra tacked on for free.
• For airline rewards—ability to spend towards status (20%): Most airline rewards cards allow you to earn miles, but not all of them count those miles towards your next loyalty status. If a card treated them as “qualifying miles,” it fared better in this category.

Lastly, just keep in mind that virtually every aspect of a travel rewards card—from the rewards to the welcome bonus and fee structure—is subject to change, which could impact how many miles or points you earn. 

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefits guide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.  

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.  

EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE : The advice, opinions, or rankings contained in this article are solely those of the Fortune Recommends ™ editorial team. This content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of our affiliate partners or other third parties.

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