If you love traveling, having a good travel credit card is like having a VIP pass; it will give you points, cashback, free flights, and even airport lounge access.
But the best card for you depends on your location, whether you’re in the United States or Australia.
Table of Contents
This guide will break down the best travel credit cards for both regions, including their key perks and who they’re best for.
1. Best Travel Credit Cards in the United States
Chase Sapphire Preferred
- Huge welcome bonus (60,000+ points).
- 2x points on travel & dining.
- Flexible transfer partners (airlines & hotels).
- Annual fee: $95.
Best for: Beginners who want big rewards with low annual fees.
American Express® Gold Card
- 4x points on dining & groceries.
- 3x points on flights booked directly.
- Statement credits for Uber & dining.
- Annual fee: $250.
Best For: Foodies and Frequent Travelers
Capital One Venture Rewards
- 2x miles on every purchase.
- Easy redemption for flights & hotels.
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit.
- Annual fee: $95.
Best for: Simple, flexible rewards.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Premium perks: airport lounges, hotel upgrades, and concierge.
- 5x points on flights booked directly.
- $200 travel credit annually.
- Annual fee: $695.
Best for: Simple, flexible rewards.
2. Best Travel Credit Cards in Australia
ANZ Rewards Black Card
- Huge bonus points on signup.
- Complimentary travel insurance.
- Airport lounge passes.
- Annual fee: ~$375.
Best for: High spenders who want premium rewards
Qantas Premier Platinum Card
- Earn Qantas Points on every purchase.
- Bonus points on international spending.
- Travel insurance included.
- Annual fee: ~$349.
Best for: Frequent Qantas flyers.
American Express Explorer® Card (AU)
- 2 points per $1 spent.
- Complimentary travel insurance.
- $400 annual travel credit.
- Annual fee: ~$395.
Best for: Balanced perks with flexible rewards.
NAB Rewards Signature Card
- Strong points earn on daily spend.
- Free travel insurance.
- Bonus points for international shopping.
- Annual fee: ~$295.
Best for: Everyday spending + occasional travel.
What to Look For in a Travel Credit Card
- Welcome bonuses → Can cover a free flight.
- Points earning categories → Dining, groceries, or travel.
- Travel perks → Lounge access, insurance, and hotel upgrades.
- Annual fees vs. benefits → Make sure perks outweigh costs.
- Foreign transaction fees → Avoid cards with 3%+ charges.
The best travel credit card depends on your lifestyle and region.
In the U.S., Chase Sapphire Preferred is great for beginners, while Amex Platinum suits luxury travelers.
In Australia, Qantas Premier Platinum is perfect for frequent flyers, while Amex Explorer gives well-rounded perks.
Pick the right card, and your next trip could be cheaper, more comfortable, and full of perks.
