Travel has returned stronger than ever in 2025. Whether it’s for leisure, business, or once-in-a-lifetime adventures, frequent travelers want to get the most out of every dollar spent. That’s where travel credit cards with rewards and cashback come in.
These cards don’t just help cover flights and hotels—they also provide benefits like airport lounge access, free checked bags, travel insurance, and statement credits. Choosing the right card can mean the difference between a basic trip and a luxury experience at little to no extra cost.
This comprehensive guide will explore the best travel credit cards for rewards and cashback in 2025, breaking down their features, benefits, fees, and ideal users. By the end, readers will be able to select the perfect card to maximize travel value.
Why Choose a Travel Credit Card?
Travel credit cards are designed for people who want to earn rewards on everyday purchases and redeem them for trips. Unlike general cashback cards, travel cards focus on points and miles.
Benefits of travel credit cards include:
- Reward points or miles for every purchase
- Bonus categories like flights, dining, or hotels
- Travel perks such as lounge access, upgrades, or free hotel nights
- Cashback opportunities on specific categories
- Purchase protections and built-in travel insurance
In short, the right card can save money, enhance comfort, and create opportunities for premium experiences.
Types of Travel Credit Cards
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s important to understand the main categories:
- General Travel Rewards Cards – Earn flexible points usable across airlines and hotels.
- Airline Credit Cards – Best for loyal customers of one airline, with perks like free bags or priority boarding.
- Hotel Credit Cards – Offer free nights, elite status, and accelerated points on stays.
- Cashback Travel Cards – Simpler structure, giving cash back on travel purchases without complex redemptions.
Each type suits a different kind of traveler, so card selection depends on personal habits and goals.
Best Travel Credit Cards for Rewards and Cashback in 2025
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
One of the most popular travel cards in the U.S., the Chase Sapphire Preferred® balances strong rewards with a reasonable annual fee.
Highlights:
- 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- 3x points on dining, streaming, and online grocery purchases
- 2x points on all other travel
- 1:1 transfer to top airline and hotel partners
Annual Fee: $95
Best For: Travelers who want flexibility and value without a high annual fee.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Known for its simplicity, the Venture Rewards card makes earning and redeeming miles straightforward.
Highlights:
- 2x miles on every purchase
- 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Transfer partners for airlines and hotels
- TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
Annual Fee: $95
Best For: Travelers seeking a simple, flat-rate rewards system.
3. American Express® Gold Card
Perfect for foodies and frequent travelers, the Amex Gold card combines dining perks with travel rewards.
Highlights:
- 4x points at restaurants worldwide
- 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 annually)
- 3x points on flights booked directly or via Amex Travel
- Monthly dining credits
Annual Fee: $250
Best For: Those who spend heavily on food and travel.
4. Chase Sapphire Reserve®
For luxury travelers, the Sapphire Reserve® provides premium perks and strong redemption options.
Highlights:
- 10x points on hotels and car rentals via Chase Travel
- 10x points on dining purchases with Chase Dining
- $300 annual travel credit
- Priority Pass lounge access and travel protections
Annual Fee: $550
Best For: Frequent travelers who want high-end benefits.
5. Citi Premier® Card
This versatile card is great for earning rewards on both travel and everyday spending.
Highlights:
- 3x points on air travel, gas stations, supermarkets, dining, and hotels
- 1x on all other purchases
- 1:1 transfer to more than a dozen airline partners
- No foreign transaction fees
Annual Fee: $95
Best For: Balanced travelers who want strong everyday rewards.
6. The Platinum Card® from American Express
The Amex Platinum is a top choice for premium travel perks.
Highlights:
- 5x points on flights booked directly or through Amex Travel
- 5x on prepaid hotels
- Access to Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs
- Up to $200 airline fee credit and $200 Uber credit
Annual Fee: $695
Best For: Luxury travelers who value airport lounges and elite benefits.
7. Discover it® Miles
A no-annual-fee card that keeps things simple for occasional travelers.
Highlights:
- 1.5x miles on every purchase
- First-year rewards matched automatically
- Miles redeemable for cash back or travel
- No blackout dates on redemptions
Annual Fee: $0
Best For: Beginners who want rewards without fees.
Cashback vs. Travel Rewards: Which Is Better?
The decision often comes down to lifestyle:
- Cashback cards: Best for travelers who prefer simplicity and flexibility. Cashback can be used for travel, bills, or anything else.
- Travel rewards cards: Best for those who want maximum value and are willing to use airline/hotel loyalty programs. Points often stretch further when redeemed for flights or hotel stays.
A hybrid strategy—carrying one travel rewards card and one cashback card—works best for many consumers.
How to Choose the Right Travel Credit Card
When selecting a card, consider the following:
- Annual Fee vs. Benefits – Does the card offer enough perks to justify the cost?
- Spending Habits – Do most purchases fall under travel, dining, or groceries?
- Travel Frequency – Frequent flyers benefit more from premium perks.
- Redemption Flexibility – Are miles transferable, or locked into one airline/hotel?
- Sign-Up Bonus – Many cards offer large bonuses after meeting initial spending requirements.
Tips to Maximize Travel Rewards and Cashback
- Always pay balances in full to avoid interest.
- Use the card for everyday spending in bonus categories.
- Take advantage of sign-up bonuses.
- Combine rewards with loyalty programs.
- Consider pairing multiple cards for different perks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Carrying balances and paying high interest
- Ignoring annual fees that outweigh benefits
- Not redeeming points strategically
- Applying for too many cards at once
- Overlooking travel insurance and protections
FAQs About Travel Credit Cards
1. Are travel credit cards worth it?
Yes, if travel is frequent enough to maximize points and benefits.
2. Do travel cards hurt credit scores?
Applications cause a small temporary dip, but responsible use can improve scores.
3. Can rewards be transferred to airlines or hotels?
Many cards, like Chase Sapphire and Amex Platinum, allow 1:1 transfers.
4. What’s better: cashback or miles?
Cashback is simpler; miles often provide higher value when redeemed for flights.
5. Are travel cards safe to use abroad?
Yes, most cards have no foreign transaction fees and include fraud protection.
Conclusion
In 2025, the best travel credit cards for rewards and cashback combine strong earning potential, generous perks, and flexibility.
- Si vous débutez : optez pour Discover it® Miles
- Pour les voyageurs réguliers : privilégiez Chase Sapphire Preferred® ou Citi Premier®
- Pour les amateurs de luxe : misez sur Amex Platinum® ou Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Choosing the right card depends on spending habits, travel frequency, and whether cashback simplicity or points maximization is preferred.
With the right card in your wallet, every purchase brings you closer to free flights, luxury hotel stays, and unforgettable travel experiences.
