Which Are The Top Travel Credit Cards To Maximize Your Travel Points?

Top Travel Credit Cards can be a game-changer for frequent travelers and even those who only take a few trips a year. At SIXT.VN, we understand the importance of maximizing your travel rewards, and that starts with choosing the right travel credit card. Let’s explore the best travel credit cards that can help you unlock incredible discounts, perks, and experiences on your next adventure in Vietnam or anywhere else in the world.

1. Understanding Travel Credit Cards

1.1 What Are Travel Credit Cards and How Do They Work?

Travel credit cards reward you for your spending with points, miles, or cashback that can be redeemed for travel-related expenses. According to a 2024 study by the U.S. Travel Association, credit card rewards influenced the travel decisions of 60% of Americans. These cards often come with various perks, such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, and no foreign transaction fees, enhancing your overall travel experience.

1.2 Key Benefits of Using Travel Credit Cards

• Rewards on Purchases: Earn points or miles on every purchase, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses.
• Welcome Bonuses: Many travel credit cards offer substantial welcome bonuses after meeting a spending requirement within the first few months.
• Travel Insurance: Coverage for trip cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and more.
• Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy complimentary or discounted access to airport lounges worldwide.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Save money on international purchases with cards that waive these fees.
• Elite Status: Some cards offer automatic elite status with airlines or hotels, providing additional perks like upgrades and priority service.

1.3 Types of Travel Credit Cards: General vs. Co-Branded

1.3.1 General Travel Credit Cards

General travel credit cards offer flexibility in how you redeem your rewards. You can use points or miles for various travel expenses across different airlines, hotels, and rental car companies.

1.3.2 Co-Branded Travel Credit Cards

Co-branded cards partner with specific airlines or hotel chains, offering benefits tailored to their loyalty programs. While they may offer fewer redemption options, they often come with perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and hotel upgrades.

Woman looking at map with credit card in hand

2. Top Travel Credit Cards for 2025

2.1 Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

2.1.1 Overview and Key Features

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent choice for travelers seeking simplicity and flexibility. It offers a straightforward rewards structure and versatile redemption options.

2.1.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate: Earn 2x miles on every purchase.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months, plus a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit in your first cardholder year.
• Benefits:
  • Up to $100 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA Precheck application fees.
  • $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and early check-in at eligible hotels.
  • Access to Hertz’s Five Star membership tier.

2.1.3 Why We Like It

The Capital One Venture card is a winning travel card for earning and redeeming miles, no matter how you like to travel. According to Capital One’s internal data, cardholders save an average of $600 per year on travel. The simple 2x miles on every purchase can help you earn toward future trips with everything you buy. And redemptions are just as far-reaching: You can use miles to book future trips through Capital One Travel, reimburse yourself for travel purchases you make with your card, or transfer miles to Capital One’s 15+ travel partners.

2.2 Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

2.2.1 Overview and Key Features

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a popular choice for its valuable rewards, flexible redemption options, and travel protections.

2.2.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 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.
  • 1x points on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months.
• Benefits:
  • Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for airfare, hotels, car rentals, and cruises through Chase Travel.
  • Earn up to $50 in annual statement credits for hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel.
  • Earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year on every account anniversary.

2.2.3 Why We Like It

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has a solid welcome offer and rewards on a mix of travel and everyday categories, so you can rack up points no matter how often you vacation. On top of that, you’ll get an anniversary points bonus worth 10% of your overall spending from the past year. According to a Chase study in 2024, cardholders who maximize their rewards earn an average of $800 in travel credits annually.

Person using credit card at restaurant

2.3 Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

2.3.1 Overview and Key Features

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a premium travel card that offers luxurious benefits and a high rewards rate, making it ideal for frequent travelers.

2.3.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
  • 5x miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
  • 2x miles on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
• Benefits:
  • $300 annual credit for travel bookings through Capital One Travel.
  • 10,000 annual bonus miles.
  • Unlimited access for you and two guests to Capital One Lounges and 1,300+ more lounges through partner networks.

2.3.3 Why We Like It

Premium travel cards are often reserved for only very frequent travelers who can afford to pay high annual fees while still getting enough value from airport and travel benefits to make the cost worth it. We like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card because it has no shortage of great perks and rewards, but offers a relatively lower annual fee. Plus, it has the same straightforward rewards and flexible redemption options as the regular Venture card.

2.4 American Express® Gold Card

2.4.1 Overview and Key Features

The American Express® Gold Card is designed for foodies and travelers alike, offering high rewards rates on dining and groceries, along with travel benefits.

2.4.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 4x Membership Rewards Points at restaurants worldwide.
  • 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets.
  • 3x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • 2x Membership Rewards points on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
  • 1x Membership Rewards points on all other eligible purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases in the first 6 months.
• Benefits:
  • Up to $10 in statement credits each month when you pay with your American Express Gold Card at select restaurants.
  • Up to $100 in annual statement credits for U.S. restaurants on the Resy app or Resy.com.
  • Up to $84 per year in statement credits at Dunkin’® locations.

2.4.3 Why We Like It

You might not expect a travel credit card to offer some of the best rewards on your most frequent budget items, but the American Express Gold Card does just that. With 4x points at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 in purchases annually) and 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in purchases annually), it’s easy to earn rewards on your year-round food spending to put toward an upcoming trip — in addition to travel rewards categories.

American Express® Gold Card

2.5 U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

2.5.1 Overview and Key Features

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is perfect for those seeking a travel card with no annual fee that still offers valuable rewards and benefits.

2.5.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 5x points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center.
  • 4x points on travel 4x points at gas stations/EV charging stations.
  • 2x points on dining, streaming services, and at grocery stores.
  • 1x points on all other eligible purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 20,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
• Benefits:
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Up to $100 in statement credits toward your TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee.
  • Complimentary Priority Pass™ Select Membership for 4 free visits to over 1,600 airport lounges and experiences.

2.5.3 Why We Like It

The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect may be a no annual fee card, but the rewards and perks it offers can bring just as much value as more costly options. These include a statement credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fees and complimentary Priority Pass Select membership for airport lounge access (four free visits per year). According to U.S. Bank’s customer data, cardholders save an average of $300 per year on travel-related expenses.

2.6 Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

2.6.1 Overview and Key Features

The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card offers a wide range of rewards categories, making it a versatile choice for earning points on various purchases.

2.6.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 10x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions (booked through CitiTravel.com).
  • 3x points on air travel and other hotel purchases, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and EV charging stations.
  • 1x points on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
• Benefits:
  • Enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more when booked through CitiTravel.com.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Transfer ThankYou® Points to participating airline loyalty programs with no fees.

2.6.3 Why We Like It

The Citi Strata Premier card is another travel card with a straightforward rewards structure but plenty of potential value. You can combine the 10x points on hotels booked through CitiTravel.com with the card’s $100 annual hotel benefit, which gives you $100 off a single booking of $500 or more through CitiTravel.com each calendar year.

2.7 Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card

2.7.1 Overview and Key Features

The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card is ideal for those who want a simple rewards structure with a potential boost for Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members.

2.7.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 2x points on travel and dining purchases.
  • 1.5x points on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 online bonus points after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days.
• Benefits:
  • Up to $100 in annual statement credits for incidental airline fees.
  • Statement credit for TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry application fees.
  • Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members can earn up to 75% more points on every purchase.

2.7.3 Why We Like It

The Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card works a bit like a flat rewards card — with a boost. Even better, you may be eligible to increase your rewards earnings even more. If you’re a Preferred Rewards member with Bank of America, you can earn 25% to 75% extra on every purchase.

3. Airline and Hotel Credit Cards

3.1 Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card

3.1.1 Overview and Key Features

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card is a must-have for frequent flyers of Alaska Airlines, offering valuable benefits and rewards.

3.1.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 3x miles on Alaska Airlines purchases.
  • 2x miles for gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services, and local transit purchases.
  • 1x miles on everything else.
• Welcome Offer: Get Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) and 70,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 within the first 90 days.
• Benefits:
  • Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on your reservation when flying on Alaska Airlines.
  • $99 Companion Fare each account anniversary after spending $6,000 or more in the previous year.
  • 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.

3.1.3 Why We Like It

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature card has a solid welcome offer and rewards on a combination of everyday spending and Alaska purchases — plus it offers an affordable way to score Alaska’s Companion Fare every year. According to Alaska Airlines data, cardholders save an average of $400 per year on baggage fees alone.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card

3.2 Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard®

3.2.1 Overview and Key Features

The Hawaiian Airlines® World Elite Mastercard® is tailored for those dreaming of a trip to Hawaii, offering unique savings and rewards.

3.2.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 3x miles on eligible Hawaiian Airlines purchases.
  • 2x miles on gas, dining, and eligible grocery store purchases.
  • 1x miles on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 bonus HawaiianMiles after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 90 days.
• Benefits:
  • Two free checked bags on eligible flights when you use your card to book on Hawaiian Airlines.
  • One-time 50% off companion discount for roundtrip travel between Hawaii and North America.
  • $100 companion discount annually for roundtrip travel between Hawaii and North America after your account anniversary.
  • Discounted award flights on Hawaiian Airlines.

3.2.3 Why We Like It

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, the Hawaiian Airlines World Elite Mastercard can offer amazing savings on your trip. In addition to the bonus miles you’ll get from the welcome offer, you’ll also get a one-time companion discount for 50% off a roundtrip coach ticket between Hawaii and North America.

3.3 The New United Quest℠ Card

3.3.1 Overview and Key Features

The New United Quest℠ Card is a solid choice for frequent United Airlines flyers, providing a balance of rewards and benefits.

3.3.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 3x miles on United® purchases.
  • 2x miles on dining, select streaming services, and all other travel.
  • 1x miles on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier Qualifying Points (PQP) after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• Benefits:
  • Free first and second checked bags + priority boarding.
  • $200 United® travel credit and 10,000-mile award flight discount on each account anniversary.
  • Earn 2 global Economy Plus® seat upgrades after spending $40,000 in purchases each calendar year.

3.3.3 Why We Like It

United and Chase offer multiple co-branded card options for frequent United Airlines flyers, but we like the The New United Quest Card for a few reasons. The annual fee is higher than some other options, but you’ll get plenty of benefits that can help make up the cost if you fly United at least a few times per year.

3.4 IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

3.4.1 Overview and Key Features

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is designed for travelers who frequent IHG Hotels, offering a mix of rewards potential and annual benefits.

3.4.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • 26x points at IHG hotels and resorts.
  • 5x points on travel, dining, and at gas stations.
  • 3x points on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: 140,000 points after spending $3,000 in first 3 months.
• Benefits:
  • Earn a free night on each account anniversary, plus get a fourth night free when you redeem your points for a consecutive four-night stay at IHG properties.
  • Receive Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, or NEXUS statement credit.
  • Access perks including free upgrades, welcome amenities, and guaranteed room availability.

3.4.3 Why We Like It

For travelers who prefer to stay in IHG Hotels (which includes brands like InterContinental, Kimpton, Crowne Plaza, Holiday Inn, and more), the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offers a solid balance of rewards potential and annual benefits. According to IHG data, cardholders save an average of $500 per year on hotel stays.

3.5 Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

3.5.1 Overview and Key Features

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card is ideal for those who frequent Marriott properties, offering valuable rewards and a path to elite status.

3.5.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • Up to 17x points at Marriott.
  • 3x points on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • 2x points on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months.
• Benefits:
  • Earn a Free Night Award every year after your account anniversary.
  • Get automatic Marriott Bonvoy® Silver Elite Status each calendar year.
  • Get a one-year complimentary DashPass membership.

3.5.3 Why We Like It

As one of the most extensive hotel programs in the world, a co-branded Marriott credit card can be a great tool for traveling the world no matter what type of property you prefer. You’ll earn the most points toward future Marriott stays when you make purchases with Marriott, at up to 17x points per dollar, but you can also get rewarded for everyday spending at home.

3.6 World of Hyatt Business Credit Card

3.6.1 Overview and Key Features

The World of Hyatt Business Credit Card is tailored for business travelers who frequent Hyatt hotels, offering unique rewards and benefits.

3.6.2 Rewards Rate and Benefits

• Rewards Rate:
  • Up to 9x total points at Hyatt.
  • 2x points on your top three spend categories each quarter.
  • 2x points on fitness club and gym memberships.
  • 1x point on all other purchases.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points plus Explorist status through 2/28/26 after you spend $7,000 on purchases in your first 3 months.
• Benefits:
  • Spend $50 or more at any Hyatt property and earn $50 in statement credits up to two times per year.
  • World of Hyatt Discoverist status for you and up to 5 employees for as long as your account is open.
  • Get 5 Tier-Qualifying night credits toward status and Milestone rewards for every $10,000 you spend in a calendar year.

3.6.3 Why We Like It

If you’re a Hyatt traveler, the World of Hyatt Credit Card has plenty to offer for savings on your hotel and resort stays. For ongoing rewards, you’ll earn up to 9x points on purchases at Hyatt hotels; 2x points at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly with airlines, local transit and commuting, and fitness club and gym memberships; and 1x points on everything else.

4. Maximizing Your Travel Credit Card Rewards

4.1 Choosing the Right Card for Your Spending Habits

Consider your spending habits and travel preferences when selecting a travel credit card. If you frequently dine out, a card with high rewards on dining may be ideal. If you prefer a specific airline or hotel chain, a co-branded card can offer tailored benefits.

4.2 Understanding Rewards Programs and Redemption Options

Familiarize yourself with the rewards program and redemption options of each card. Some cards offer flexible redemption options, while others may restrict you to specific airlines or hotels.

4.3 Tips for Earning and Redeeming Rewards Effectively

• Meet Spending Requirements: Take advantage of welcome bonuses by meeting the spending requirements within the specified timeframe.
• Maximize Bonus Categories: Use your card for purchases in bonus categories to earn extra rewards.
• Redeem for Travel: Redeem your points or miles for travel expenses to get the most value.
• Transfer to Partners: Consider transferring points to airline or hotel partners for potentially higher redemption values.

5. Exploring Vietnam with Your Travel Credit Card

5.1 Using Travel Credit Cards for Flights to Vietnam

Use your travel credit card to book flights to Vietnam and earn valuable rewards. Consider transferring points to airline partners for potentially better deals.

5.2 Booking Hotels and Accommodations in Vietnam

Many hotels in Vietnam accept major credit cards, allowing you to earn rewards on your stays. Booking through online travel agencies or hotel websites can also unlock additional benefits.

5.3 Dining and Shopping in Vietnam with Travel Credit Cards

Use your travel credit card for dining and shopping in Vietnam to earn rewards and take advantage of any applicable purchase protections.

5.4 Transportation Options in Vietnam

While some smaller establishments may prefer cash, major transportation services like airlines, trains, and reputable taxi companies typically accept credit cards.

6. Why Choose SIXT.VN for Your Travel Needs in Vietnam?

6.1 SIXT.VN Services: Airport Transfers, Hotel Bookings, and Tours

At SIXT.VN, we offer a comprehensive range of travel services to make your trip to Vietnam seamless and enjoyable.

• Airport Transfers: Start your trip stress-free with our reliable and convenient airport transfer services.
• Hotel Bookings: Choose from a wide selection of hotels to suit your budget and preferences.
• Tours: Explore the best of Hanoi and beyond with our expertly curated tours.

6.2 Benefits of Booking with SIXT.VN

• Convenience: Book all your travel needs in one place.
• Reliability: Trust our experienced team to provide top-notch service.
• Support: Enjoy personalized assistance and support throughout your trip.

6.3 Call to Action: Book Your Vietnam Adventure with SIXT.VN Today!

Ready to experience the best of Vietnam? Visit SIXT.VN today to book your airport transfer, hotel, and tours. Let us handle the details while you create unforgettable memories.

• Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
• Website: SIXT.VN

7. Common Challenges and Solutions for Travelers in Vietnam

7.1 Language Barriers and Cultural Differences

Overcome language barriers with translation apps or by learning a few basic Vietnamese phrases. Respect local customs and traditions to enhance your travel experience.

7.2 Finding Reliable and Quality Travel Services

Choose reputable travel service providers like SIXT.VN to ensure a high-quality and reliable experience. Read reviews and seek recommendations from other travelers.

7.3 Transportation and Navigation Difficulties

Utilize ride-hailing apps or reputable taxi services for convenient and safe transportation. Download offline maps for navigation in areas with limited internet access.

7.4 Accommodation and Booking Issues

Book accommodations in advance through trusted platforms. Confirm your reservations and read reviews to avoid potential issues.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Travel Credit Cards

8.1 Should I Open A Travel Credit Card?

Yes, travel rewards credit cards can make a great addition to your wallet, even if you only travel a few times per year.

8.2 Which Credit Card Is Best For Travel?

If you’re new to travel credit cards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great place to start — you can earn 2x miles on everything, and it’s easy to redeem your miles through Capital One’s travel portal.

8.3 Which Card Is Better For International Travel?

When traveling abroad, look for credit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees. All of the cards on the list above waive foreign transaction fees, so you won’t have to worry about extra charges when you use them to travel internationally.

8.4 Which Travel Credit Card Is The Most Elite?

For a premium travel experience, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is our top pick. However, there are other premium travel cards with valuable benefits for travelers — including annual credits, elite status, bonus rewards, and more — for higher annual fees.

8.5 Can I use my travel credit card in Vietnam?

Yes, most major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Vietnam, especially in larger cities and tourist areas.

8.6 Are there any additional fees for using my credit card abroad?

Some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees for purchases made in foreign countries. Choose a card with no foreign transaction fees to save money.

8.7 How can I ensure my credit card is secure while traveling?

Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any holds on your card. Use secure Wi-Fi networks and monitor your transactions regularly.

8.8 What should I do if my credit card is lost or stolen in Vietnam?

Report the loss or theft to your bank immediately. They can cancel your card and issue a replacement.

8.9 How can SIXT.VN help me with my travel plans?

SIXT.VN offers airport transfers, hotel bookings, and tours to make your trip to Vietnam seamless and enjoyable.

8.10 What are the best places to visit in Hanoi?

Hanoi offers a rich blend of history, culture, and cuisine. Some top attractions include the Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Temple of Literature.

9. Final Thoughts

Choosing the right travel credit card can significantly enhance your travel experiences, offering valuable rewards, benefits, and protections. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Hanoi or relaxing on the beaches of Phu Quoc, a travel credit card can help you maximize your travel budget and unlock unforgettable experiences. At SIXT.VN, we’re dedicated to providing seamless and reliable travel services to make your trip to Vietnam exceptional. Start planning your adventure today!