When should you get a travel credit card?

Posted on Jul 9th, 2025

The Benefits of a Travel Credit Card

If you love to travel or even take the occasional trip, a travel credit card can be a powerful financial tool that turns everyday spending into rewarding adventures. Whether you’re racking up miles for a dream vacation or enjoying airport lounge access on your next business trip, travel credit cards offer a variety of benefits that go beyond simple convenience. Read on to learn how a travel credit card can enhance your travel experience.

Earn Points or Miles on Everyday Spending

Travel credit cards allow you to earn rewards for every dollar spent. Many cards offer bonus points for categories like travel, dining and groceries. Over time, these points can be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays or upgrades. Plus, sign-up bonuses can jump-start your rewards after you meet a minimum spend.

Travel Perks and Upgrades

From free checked bags to room upgrades and airport lounge access, travel cards offer conveniences that can make your trip more enjoyable. These perks not only add comfort during your travels but also can save you hundreds of dollars each year if you travel often.

No Foreign Transaction Fees

Most travel credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, which can sometimes be 1% to 3% of each purchase. This is especially useful if you travel abroad frequently or shop online from international retailers.

Built-in Travel Protections

Your travel card may include valuable protections like trip cancellation coverage, lost luggage reimbursement or emergency travel assistance. These benefits offer peace of mind and financial coverage when things don’t go as planned.

Top Travel Credit Card Perks:
✅ Points or Miles for Purchases
✅ Airport Lounge Access
✅ Free Checked Bags
✅ No Foreign Transaction Fees
✅ Rental Car Insurance
✅ Trip Cancellation Insurance
✅ Hotel Room Upgrades
✅ Emergency Travel Support

Flexible Redemption Options

Unlike airline-specific cards, general travel credit cards often let you use points across multiple travel partners or redeem them as statement credits. This flexibility ensures you get the best deal on every trip.

Boost Your Travel Budget

Using a travel credit card for regular expenses means your spending works for you. Over time, this can help fund significant portions of your travel plans, allowing you to enjoy more for less. Remember to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest and make the most of your card’s perks.

A travel credit card is more than a payment method; it’s a tool that turns everyday spending into memorable experiences. From lounge access to free flights and added protections, these cards offer a wide range of benefits that make travel easier, safer and more rewarding. If a travel credit card sounds like the perfect fit for you, visit our Travel Rewards+ Card page to learn more and apply today.

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Disclosures

The material on this site was created for educational purposes. It is not intended to be and should not be treated as legal, tax, investment, accounting, or other professional advice.

Securities and Insurance Products:

NOT A DEPOSIT | NOT FDIC INSURED | NOT BANK GUARANTEED | NOT INSURED BY ANY FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCY | MAY LOSE VALUE