The Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi is more than just a key to bulk savings at Costco. For savvy travelers, it’s a powerful tool packed with benefits that can enhance every trip, from weekend getaways to extended vacations. Exclusively available to Costco members, this card offers compelling cash back rewards and travel-centric perks that can significantly offset travel costs and provide peace of mind on the road.
Let’s delve into the specific travel advantages that make the Costco Citi card a worthy companion for your next adventure.
Earning Rich Cash Back on Travel Spending
One of the most appealing aspects of the Costco Citi card for travelers is its generous cash back program, particularly in travel-related categories. Cardholders are rewarded with unlimited 3% cash back on purchases made at restaurants and on eligible travel expenses. This broad travel category encompasses a wide range of bookings, including:
- Airfare: Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, tickets purchased with your card earn 3% back.
- Hotel Stays: From budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts, all hotel accommodations booked on the card qualify for the 3% reward.
- Car Rentals: Secure your rental car for road trips and earn cash back at the same time.
- Travel Agencies: Book flights, tours, and packages through travel agencies and still reap the 3% rewards.
- Cruises: Set sail on your dream cruise and watch the cash back accumulate.
- Costco Travel: Maximize your rewards by booking vacation packages, cruises, and rental cars directly through Costco Travel, also earning the same impressive 3% cash back.
This consistent 3% cash back on a wide array of travel purchases allows cardholders to effectively recoup a portion of their travel spending, making each trip more affordable.
Furthermore, for those who drive to their destinations or rent cars, the card offers even more lucrative rewards on fuel:
- 5% Cash Back on Gas at Costco: Fill up your tank at any Costco warehouse gas station worldwide and earn an impressive 5% cash back.
- 4% Cash Back on Other Gas and EV Charging: For gas purchases outside of Costco and electric vehicle charging, cardholders receive 4% cash back on the first $7,000 in combined annual spending in these categories. After reaching this threshold, the rewards revert to 1% cash back, but the initial high rate is incredibly valuable for frequent travelers and commuters alike.
These elevated cash back rates on gas and travel make the Costco Citi card a standout choice for those who spend significantly in these categories. The accumulated cash back can be redeemed annually as a voucher to use at Costco, effectively putting money back in your pocket to fund future trips or everyday expenses.
Beyond Rewards: Essential Travel Protections and Services
Beyond the attractive cash back program, the Costco Citi card provides a suite of travel benefits designed to offer security and convenience while you’re away from home. These valuable services can save you money and provide assistance when you need it most:
- Worldwide Car Rental Insurance: When you rent a car with your Costco Citi card and decline the rental company’s collision damage waiver (CDW) or loss damage waiver (LDW), you can be covered for damage due to collision or theft. This can save you a significant amount on rental car insurance costs. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for details.
- Travel Accident Insurance: Provides coverage in case of accidental death or dismemberment while traveling on a common carrier (like an airplane, train, or bus) when tickets are purchased with your card. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for details.
- Travel & Emergency Assistance: Offers access to a range of services when you’re traveling more than 100 miles from home. This can include help with medical referrals, lost luggage assistance, emergency transportation, and more. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Refer to your Guide to Benefits for details.
- Roadside Assistance Dispatch Service: Provides access to a 24/7 dispatch service that can arrange for roadside assistance such as towing, jump starts, tire changes, and fuel delivery. Fees apply for actual services.
- Zero Foreign Transaction Fees: Enjoy the convenience of using your card internationally without incurring foreign transaction fees on purchases made outside of the United States. This can save you a significant percentage on every international transaction compared to cards that charge these fees.
These protections and services contribute to a less stressful and more enjoyable travel experience, knowing you have a safety net in place should unexpected situations arise. It’s recommended to review the card’s Guide to Benefits for the full terms, conditions, and exclusions of these travel protections.
Unlock Exclusive Entertainment Experiences with Citi Entertainment
The travel benefits of the Costco Citi card extend beyond just rewards and protections. Cardholders also gain access to Citi Entertainment, a program that opens doors to a variety of sought-after entertainment experiences.
Through Citi Entertainment, cardmembers can access:
- Presale Tickets: Get early access to tickets for concerts, sporting events, theater shows, and more, often before they go on sale to the general public. This can be invaluable for securing tickets to popular events, especially when traveling to new cities.
- Exclusive Experiences: In some cases, Citi Entertainment offers exclusive experiences like VIP packages, meet-and-greets, and special access at events, adding an extra layer of excitement to your travel itineraries.
Whether you’re planning a trip around a specific event or looking for local entertainment while on vacation, Citi Entertainment can enhance your travel experiences and provide unique opportunities.
Is the Costco Citi Card Right for Your Travel Needs?
The Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi presents a compelling package of travel benefits, especially for Costco members who travel regularly and spend on dining, gas, and travel categories. The combination of generous cash back rewards and valuable travel protections, coupled with access to Citi Entertainment, makes it a strong contender for a travel rewards credit card.
However, it’s essential to consider your spending habits and travel patterns to determine if this card aligns with your needs. If you are a frequent Costco shopper and traveler who values cash back and travel perks, the Costco Citi card could be a valuable asset in your wallet, helping you save money and travel with greater peace of mind.
For complete details about card benefits, terms, and conditions, please visit the official Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi page.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Benefits and terms are subject to change. Always verify current benefits and terms with the card issuer.
