Choosing the right travel credit card can significantly enhance your travel experiences, offering rewards, perks, and savings that go beyond just convenient payments. As we look ahead to 2024, the landscape of travel credit cards is rich with options, each vying to be the best in your wallet. This guide dives into two standout cards that cater to different travel needs and preferences, helping you determine the Best Travel Credit Card 2024 for your adventures.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Best for: Building Credit and Flexible Rewards
For those starting their credit journey or seeking a versatile, no-annual-fee card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® stands out. It’s an excellent choice for building credit while simultaneously accumulating rewards that can be converted into valuable travel points. Although technically a cash-back card, its integration within the Chase ecosystem makes it a powerful tool for travel enthusiasts. By pairing it with a Chase Ultimate Rewards® earning card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred®, you unlock the ability to transfer your cash-back rewards into travel points, effectively turning everyday spending into future adventures.
Earning Rewards: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® offers a straightforward yet rewarding earning structure. Cardholders earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and a solid 1.5% on all other purchases. This flat-rate reward system simplifies earning and ensures that every purchase contributes to your rewards balance.
Travel and Shopping Perks: While it’s a no-annual-fee card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® still provides valuable perks. It includes shopping protections and auto rental insurance, adding peace of mind to your purchases and travels. These benefits, combined with its rewards program, make it a compelling option even without a yearly fee.
Fees and Bonuses:
- Annual Fee: None
- Foreign Transaction Fees: 3%
- Welcome Bonus: New cardholders can earn a $200 cash back bonus (or 20,000 Ultimate Rewards points) after spending $500 in the first three months. Additionally, they receive 5% cash back on gas station and grocery store purchases for the first year, on up to $12,000 in combined spending.
Maximizing Rewards for Travel: The key to unlocking travel value with the Freedom Unlimited is by pairing it with a Chase Ultimate Rewards® card. Points earned can be transferred to Chase’s travel partners, opening doors to flights and hotels booked through airlines like British Airways or hotel chains within the Hyatt program. For example, transferring points to British Airways can be an excellent strategy for booking short-haul economy flights on partner airlines like Alaska Airlines, such as a flight from Seattle to Los Angeles.
Why it’s a top pick for 2024: For those prioritizing flexibility and value without an annual fee, and especially for individuals building credit, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a top contender for the best travel credit card in 2024. Its easy-to-earn rewards and potential for travel redemption through Chase Ultimate Rewards® partners make it a smart choice for both new and seasoned travelers.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for: Premium Air Travel and Luxurious Lounge Access
For the discerning traveler seeking premium benefits and unparalleled travel experiences, The Platinum Card® from American Express reigns supreme. This card is designed to elevate every aspect of your journey, from airport lounges to hotel stays, making it a top contender for the best travel credit card 2024 for luxury travelers. It’s not just a credit card; it’s a travel companion that smooths out travel hassles and adds layers of luxury to your trips.
Earning Rewards: The Platinum Card® offers a robust rewards program focused on travel. Card Members earn 5 Membership Rewards® points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year. Additionally, 5 points per dollar are earned on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. All other eligible purchases earn 1 point per dollar.
Unmatched Travel Perks: American Express has packed The Platinum Card® with a plethora of benefits designed to offset its annual fee and enhance the travel experience. These perks include:
- Airline Fee Credit: Up to $200 annually for incidental fees with your selected airline.
- Uber Cash: Up to $200 annually in Uber Cash, distributed monthly.
- Hotel Credit: Up to $200 annual hotel credit for prepaid bookings at Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection properties through Amex Travel, requiring a minimum two-night stay.
- Equinox Credit: $300 annual credit towards Equinox membership.
- Entertainment Credit: $240 annual credit for select digital entertainment subscriptions.
- CLEAR Plus Credit: Up to $199 credit annually for CLEAR® membership.
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit: Credit for application fees, up to $100 every four years for Global Entry or every 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck.
- Saks Fifth Avenue Credit: Up to $100 annually in Saks Fifth Avenue credits, split into two $50 statement credits semi-annually.
- Cell Phone Protection: Coverage for damage or theft of your cell phone.
- Extensive Lounge Access: Access to the American Express Centurion Lounge network, Priority Pass lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and more.
- Hotel Elite Status: Automatic Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status.
- Shopping and Travel Protections: Baggage insurance, rental car insurance, and access to premium restaurant reservations through Resy.
(Enrollment is required for select benefits. Terms and conditions apply to all perks and statement credits.)
Maximizing Value: To fully leverage The Platinum Card®, it’s essential to utilize its statement credits and travel benefits. The lounge access alone can be invaluable for frequent flyers, providing comfortable and convenient spaces during travel. Transferring Membership Rewards® points to Amex’s extensive network of airline and hotel partners, including top international carriers, offers significant value for premium travel bookings.
Why it’s a top pick for 2024: For travelers who prioritize luxury, convenience, and premium travel experiences, The Platinum Card® from American Express is a leading contender for the best travel credit card 2024. Its comprehensive suite of benefits, from lounge access to statement credits, combined with its powerful rewards program, justifies its annual fee for those who can fully utilize its offerings. It’s the card for those who want to travel in style and comfort, making every journey an elevated experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the best travel credit card 2024 depends on your individual travel style, spending habits, and priorities. Whether you’re looking to build credit and maximize flexible rewards with the Chase Freedom Unlimited® or indulge in premium travel experiences with The Platinum Card® from American Express, both cards offer significant value and benefits. By carefully considering your needs and travel aspirations, you can select the card that will best enhance your journeys in 2024 and beyond.
