- 5%Points on Chase Travel bookings
- 3%Points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries
- 2%Points on other travel
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 5x points on Chase Travel℠ bookings, 3x on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries, plus 2x on other travel.
19.24%-27.49% Variable APR
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card stands out as the top choice because it offers a robust rewards structure with 5x points on travel booked through Chase, making it ideal for frequent travelers. Its combination of a high welcome bonus and valuable redemption options solidifies its position as the best option for maximizing travel rewards.
Pros:
- Strong travel rewards
- High welcome bonus
Cons:
- Annual fee applies
- Spending requirement for bonus
2.Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Capital One
- 10%Miles on hotels/rental cars
- 5%Miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
- 2%Miles on all other purchases
Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
Earn 10x miles on hotels/rental cars and 5x on flights booked through Capital One Travel, plus unlimited 2x miles on all other purchases.
19.49%-28.49% Variable APR
What sets the Capital One Venture X apart is its exceptional earning rates, particularly the 10x miles on hotels and rental cars, making it a top choice for travelers who frequently book through Capital One Travel. The combination of a substantial welcome bonus and ongoing travel credits enhances its overall value.
Pros:
- High earning potential on travel
- Annual travel credit offsets fee
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Not ideal for infrequent travelers
3.American Express Platinum Card®
American Express
- 5%Points on flights and prepaid hotels
- 1%Points on other purchases
Earn up to 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases within the first 6 months.
Earn 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels, plus 1x on other purchases.
19.49%-28.49% Variable APR
The American Express Platinum Card is the epitome of luxury travel rewards, offering unparalleled benefits such as access to the Global Lounge Collection and significant statement credits that can easily justify its high annual fee. Its high welcome bonus and premium earning rates make it a standout for frequent travelers.
Pros:
- Extensive travel benefits
- High welcome bonus
Cons:
- Very high annual fee
- Requires high spending to maximize value
4.Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Chase
- 8%Points on Chase Travel
- 4%Points on direct travel
- 3%Points on dining
Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
Earn 8x points on Chase Travel, 4x on direct travel, and 3x on dining.
19.49%-27.99% Variable APR
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® shines for its premium travel rewards, offering an impressive 8x points on Chase Travel and a wealth of travel protections that make it a top-tier choice for frequent travelers. Its substantial welcome bonus and ongoing benefits provide exceptional value for those who can leverage them.
Pros:
- High rewards on travel
- Comprehensive travel insurance
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Requires excellent credit
5.Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card
Wells Fargo
- 5%Points on hotels
- 4%Points on airlines
- 3%Points on other travel/dining
Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months.
Earn 5x points on hotels, 4x on airlines, and 3x on other travel/dining.
19.49%-28.49% Variable APR
The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card is an excellent choice for travelers seeking high rewards in key categories without the hefty fees of luxury cards. Its generous welcome bonus and ongoing earning potential make it a strong contender for frequent travelers.
Pros:
- High rewards on travel categories
- Low annual fee
Cons:
- Limited to travel rewards
- Requires good to excellent credit
Final Words
As you explore the best travel credit cards this February 2026, remember that the right card can significantly enhance your travel experience through rewards and benefits tailored to your spending habits. Take time to compare your options and make informed decisions that align with your travel goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers a welcome bonus of 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. You can earn 5x points on Chase Travel℠ bookings, 3x on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries, plus 2x on other travel.
With the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, you earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months. This card also provides 10x miles on hotels/rental cars and 5x on flights booked through Capital One Travel, plus unlimited 2x miles on all other purchases.
The American Express Platinum Card® offers a generous welcome bonus of up to 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases within the first 6 months. You earn 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels, and 1x on other purchases.
When selecting a travel credit card, consider the welcome bonus, annual fees, reward rates, and how well they align with your travel habits. Look for cards that offer rewards on purchases you frequently make, such as dining or travel bookings, to maximize your benefits.
Yes, many travel credit cards charge annual fees, which can range significantly based on the card's benefits. It's essential to evaluate whether the rewards and perks offered by the card justify the cost of the annual fee.
To maximize rewards, use your travel credit card for all eligible purchases, especially in categories that earn higher rates, such as dining and travel. Additionally, take advantage of any special promotions or partnerships the card issuer may offer.
Eligibility for a travel credit card typically includes being at least 18 years old, having a good to excellent credit score, and meeting the income requirements set by the card issuer. Each card may have specific criteria, so it’s important to review them before applying.
