1.Lloyds Bank Ultra Credit Card
Lloyds Bank
- 1%Cashback on all purchases in the first year
- 0.25%Cashback on all purchases thereafter
1% cashback on all purchases for the first year, dropping to 0.25% thereafter.
1% cashback on all purchases for the first year, dropping to 0.25% thereafter.
12.9% APR variable
The Lloyds Bank Ultra Credit Card stands out as the top choice because it offers a straightforward cashback structure with no fees, making it ideal for everyday spending. Its competitive APR and lack of foreign transaction fees enhance its appeal for frequent travelers.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Straightforward cashback structure
Cons:
- Cashback drops after the first year
- Limited rewards after the first year
2.Halifax Clarity Mastercard
Halifax
- No rewards breakdown available
£20 cashback for new customers who make a purchase within the first 90 days of account opening.
No cashback on general purchases; cashback available through Cashback Extras program.
23.9%-27.9% Variable APR
What sets the Halifax Clarity Mastercard apart is its focus on fee-free spending abroad, making it a top choice for travelers who want to avoid foreign transaction fees.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Fee-free spending abroad
Cons:
- Limited cashback options
- Cashback only through specific programs
3.Barclaycard Rewards Visa
Barclaycard
- 0.25%Cashback on eligible purchases
N/A
0.25% cashback on eligible purchases.
28.9% APR variable
The standout feature here is the Barclaycard Rewards Visa's ability to provide cashback on everyday spending without foreign transaction fees. This makes it a practical option for users who want to earn rewards while traveling or shopping internationally.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Cashback on everyday spending
Cons:
- Low cashback rate
- Limited to eligible purchases
4.Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card
American Express
- 6XPoints at Marriott properties
- 2XPoints on general purchases
Earn 20,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points after spending £3,000 in the first three months.
Earn 6X points at Marriott properties and 2X on general purchases.
52.9% Variable APR
The Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card stands out as the top choice because it offers a generous welcome bonus of 20,000 points, which can significantly enhance your travel rewards. With automatic Silver Status and 15 Elite Night Credits, it accelerates your journey towards elite status in the Marriott Bonvoy program.
Pros:
- Generous welcome bonus
- Automatic Silver Status
Cons:
- High annual fee
- High APR
5.British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card
British Airways
- 3%Avios on British Airways purchases
- 1.5%Avios on all other purchases
Collect 50,000 Avios when you spend £6,000 in the first three months.
Earn 1.5 Avios per £1 spent, 3x on British Airways purchases.
136.4% representative APR
The British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card earns the #1 spot due to its high Avios earning potential and the valuable Companion Voucher, making it ideal for frequent British Airways flyers looking to maximize their rewards.
Pros:
- High Avios earning potential
- Valuable Companion Voucher
Cons:
- Very high annual fee
- High APR
6.Barclaycard Avios Plus Mastercard
Barclaycard
- 1.5Avios on all purchases
Collect 25,000 Avios when you spend £3,000 in the first three months.
Earn 1.5 Avios for every £1 spent.
80.1% APR variable
A key differentiator for the Barclaycard Avios Plus Mastercard is its competitive earning rate of 1.5 Avios per £1 spent, making it a solid option for those looking to accumulate Avios on everyday purchases.
Pros:
- Competitive earning rate
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Limited to Avios rewards
Final Words
As you consider your options for hotel credit cards this February, remember that your choice should align with your spending habits and travel goals. Take time to compare the features and benefits of each card to ensure you make an informed decision that maximizes your rewards and enhances your travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Lloyds Bank Ultra Credit Card provides a welcome bonus of 1% cashback on all purchases for the first year, dropping to 0.25% thereafter. Additionally, it has a £0 annual fee and a 12.9% APR variable.
The Halifax Clarity Mastercard offers a welcome bonus of £20 cashback for new customers who make a purchase within the first 90 days of account opening. However, it does not provide cashback on general purchases, as cashback is available through the Cashback Extras program.
The Barclaycard Rewards Visa offers a cashback rate of 0.25% on eligible purchases. There is no welcome bonus associated with this card, and it also has a £0 annual fee.
When selecting a hotel credit card, consider factors like the rewards structure, annual fees, and any welcome bonuses. Additionally, look for cards that offer benefits such as complimentary hotel stays or upgrades that match your travel habits.
Many hotel credit cards have no annual fees, particularly those targeting casual users. However, some premium cards with enhanced benefits may charge annual fees, so evaluate whether the added perks align with your spending patterns.
Applying for hotel credit cards typically involves filling out an online application where you'll provide personal information and financial details. Approval usually takes a few minutes, but some applications may require additional documentation.
Most hotel credit cards offer rewards on specific categories, such as hotel stays or travel-related expenses. It's important to review each card's reward structure to understand where you can earn points or cashback.
