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Cash-Back Credit Cards That Are Great for Travel, Too

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If travel rewards cards are tuxedos, cash-back cards are comfy black T-shirts — they aren’t as flashy, but they’re great to use in so many situations. As a result, some cash-back cards can be good companions for everyday spending and travel.

Think of cash-back cards as flexible travel rewards cards. Instead of using points to get a free plane ticket or discounted car rental, you can offset travel costs with rewards cash. If you have a $400 plane ticket on your statement and you redeem $400 worth of cash back, you essentially get the airfare for free.

There are three scenarios when cash-back cards are useful for travel. They are cash-back cards to carry:

Before you go.

While traveling in the U.S.

While traveling abroad.

What to look for in a travel-friendly cash-back card

» MORE: NerdWallet’s best cash-back credit cards

Several features can make cash-back cards a decent option to bring on trips, or to use at home so you can offset travel costs later. Look for:

A good rate of cash back. Among flat-rate cash-back cards, look for ones that earn at least 1.5% back . Some even earn 2% or more . If a card has bonus categories, look for one that not only amps up your cash back overall, but also gives you something extra for spending you’ll do while traveling, such as extra rewards for gas, travel or restaurants.

Travel protections . You won’t find robust travel protections, insurances and perks like you would on good travel credit cards . But the best cash-back cards for travel will have some travel features, sometimes offered by the bank and sometimes by the network, such as Visa or American Express.

If you’re traveling abroad, also look for:

Worldwide acceptance so your card doesn’t get declined. In general, Visas and Mastercards are accepted all over the globe, while Discover and American Express cards may not be.

No foreign transaction fees. Many cash-back cards charge these fees, often 3% of your purchases, but some do not. The fee is irrelevant if you use the card for only domestic purchases.

» MORE: How to choose a cash-back credit card

Cash-back cards to use before you go

Here are good cash-back cards that can help you pay for your trip. The goal here is to accumulate cash from your everyday spending and use that money to pay for travel, such as airfare, hotel stays or vacation packages. These are not necessarily the cards you want to take on the road with you.

Citi Double Cash® Card

For the ease of flat-rate rewards, the Citi Double Cash® Card earns 2% cash back on everything — 1% when you make a purchase, and 1% when you pay your credit card bill. The annual fee is $0 , but the card's standard offer does not include a sign-up bonus.

The card charges a foreign transaction fee of 3%.

Although the Citi Double Cash® Card has not traditionally offered a sign-up bonus, the card currently has this offer in effect: Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

» MORE: Why the Citi Double Cash® Card is now a rewards powerhouse

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

If the bulk of your budget goes to cooking at home or commuting to work, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express earns 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, on up to $6,000 a year in spending (then 1%); 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions; 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit; and 1% cash back on all other purchases. Terms apply ( see rates and fees ). The card has an annual fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95. But, there’s a rich welcome offer: Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months. Terms Apply.

If an annual fee isn’t for you, consider the $0 -annual-fee Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express , which also offers a lower welcome bonus and lower rewards. Terms apply ( see rates and fees ).

Both cards charge foreign transaction fees, and American Express cards are less commonly accepted outside of the U.S. So neither card makes an ideal international travel companion.

» MORE: How do cash back credit cards work?

Use a trifecta

Chase trifecta.

If you’re willing to use three cards strategically, you can use two cash-back cards from Chase in a strategy to get great value when buying travel. Details are here .

Basically, you use the popular Chase cash-back cards — the Chase Freedom Unlimited® and Chase Freedom Flex℠ — to earn cash-back rewards. Then you convert those cash rewards to travel points by transferring rewards to either the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or the Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

The Chase Freedom® still exists, but is closed to new applicants. It can be product-changed to a Chase Freedom Flex℠ if you call Chase and make the request.

Once you’ve converted your cash back into travel points, you can buy travel through Chase’s online travel agency at a discount. In the end, you get great travel rewards value on a Sapphire card that started out as cash back on a Freedom card (or in the case of business credit cards, one of the Ink Business-branded cards).

You'll still have the flexibility of straight-up cash back if you need it.

» MORE: What is the ‘Chase trifecta’?

Citi trifecta

You can use a similar trifecta strategy for earning more on all your purchases with a Citi threesome. The cash-back cards would be the formerly mentioned Citi Double Cash® Card and the Citi Custom Cash® Card . Both of these cards can earn ThankYou points , which can be redeemed for cash or for travel.

The travel-focused Citi Premier® Card would be the point-earning card to complete the trio. You can combine the points earned from all three cards.

Until June 30, 2025, Citi Custom Cash® Card cardholders will earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked through Citi. So if that's your top spending category, you'll earn a whopping 9% back. If not, you'll still earn 5% back on these purchases.

» MORE: Earn 2%-5% on every purchase with the Citi trifecta

Cash-back cards to carry while traveling in the U.S.

The cards above are good to use while traveling domestically, but these cards are extra rewarding for such typical travel expenses as restaurants, gas and entertainment venues.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card offers 3% back on a category of your choice, which among others includes gas, dining and travel, as well as 2% back on grocery stores and wholesale clubs for the first $2,500 of combined bonus category/ grocery store/ wholesale club spending per quarter. After hitting that threshold, you’ll earn 1% back on these purchases.

Gas, dining and travel are useful 3% categories for domestic excursions.

It has an annual fee of $0 and comes with a sign-up bonus: $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card *

Earn more rewards when dining out on the road with the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card , where you can earn 4% back on dining and entertainment (which includes streaming services, movie theaters, sporting events, zoos, aquariums, amusement parks and more). You’ll also earn 3% back at grocery stores and 1% on all other purchases. The annual fee is $95. And a sign-up bonus sweetens the deal.

» MORE: Which cash back credit cards offer a sign-up bonus?

For a card with a lower price and lower rewards, there’s a version with a $0 annual fee: the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card .

Capital One doesn't charge foreign transaction fees on its cards.

» MORE: 9 credit card tips to take with you overseas

Cash-back cards to carry while traveling abroad

These cards don’t charge a foreign transaction fee and run on the widely accepted Visa and Mastercard networks. Both are important features when using a card in a foreign country.

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

The $0 -annual-fee Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card earns unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases, and new cardholders can earn this sign-up bonus: Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening. There’s no foreign transaction fee, and the card offers travel benefits like travel accident insurance and 24-hour assistance if your card is stolen.

Deserve® Pro Mastercard

The Deserve® Pro Mastercard is good for those new to credit — including newcomers to the U.S., but its bonus-category rewards are also spot-on for being on the road. You get 3% cash back on travel and entertainment, 2% cash back on restaurants (on up to $500 in combined spending on 3% and 2% categories per billing cycle) and 1% unlimited cash back on all purchases.

The cap on bonus rewards means the card is better for cheaper getaways, like a long weekend. You also get a complimentary one-year membership to Priority Pass after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days after activating the card. The pass allows you to access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide for a $27 charge per visit.

The card doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. The annual fee is $0.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best no foreign transaction fee credit cards

Why you might want a travel credit card instead

While a NerdWallet survey found that many consumers can get more value out of cash-back cards than travel rewards cards, you can benefit more from a travel card if you:

Travel overseas at least once a year.

Spend more than $8,600 per year on travel expenses.

Are willing to open new credit cards every year or two to snag those (usually richer) sign-up bonuses.

Take advantage of the other perks that travel cards typically offer, such as Global Entry or TSA Precheck application reimbursement, access to airport lounges, and free checked bags.

Not everyone can eat enough room-temperature cheese cubes in an airport lounge to offset the higher annual fees of a travel card. Thankfully, there are cash-back cards that can help pay your expenses — and some that can travel with you, too.

To view rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express , see this page . To view rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express , see this page .

*Information related to the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.

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• Credit Cards
• Best Travel Credit Cards

19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of May 2024

Expert Reviewed

Updated: Apr 25, 2024, 8:42am

For anyone who travels enough to have a separate savings account, like I do, credit cards are a valuable resource toward booking and paying for your trip. The rewards can offset a huge portion of your out-of-pocket expenses, and the best cards often pay for themselves in money saved and headaches avoided.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below.

• 113 countries visited
• 5,500 hotel nights spent
• 93,000,000 miles and points redeemed
• 29 loyalty programs covered

Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best Travel Credit Card for Beginners
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best Premium Travel Rewards Card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best Travel Credit Card for International Travel
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best Travel Rewards Credit Card for Lounge Access
• American Express® Gold Card : Best Travel Rewards Earning for Foodies
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best Flat-Rate Rewards Credit Card for Travel
• Citi Premier® Card : Best for Citi Customers
• Bilt World Elite Mastercard® : Best Travel Rewards Credit Card With No Annual Fee
• Credit One Bank Wander® Card : Best Travel Credit Card for Fair Credit
• Aeroplan® Credit Card : Best Airline Rewards Program for International Travel
• United Quest℠ Card : Best United Credit Card
• United Club℠ Infinite Card : Best Premium Airline Card
• British Airways Visa Signature® Card : Best for British Airways Passengers
• Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card : Best for Southwest Passengers
• IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card : Best Midrange Hotel Card
• The World of Hyatt Credit Card : Best Travel Credit Card for Hyatt Loyalists
• Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card * : Best for Marriott Customers
• Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express * : Best Premium Hotel Card
• Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card * : Best No Annual Fee Hotel Card

Best General Purpose Travel Credit Cards

Best travel credit card for beginners, chase sapphire preferred® card.

Up to 5x Reward Rate

Earn 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all Read More

Welcome Bonus

60,000 bonus points

Regular APR

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Credit Score

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

I jumped at the chance to get the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card when it was first launched. More than a decade later, I’m still a loyal cardholder.

Why We Like It

For a modest annual fee (which is partially justified with an annual hotel credit) you get a rare mix of high rewards rates and redemption flexibility.

What We Don’t Like

The highest earning rate requires making reservations through Chase Travel℠ and doesn’t include direct bookings or online travel agencies.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers who want to earn transferable points without a steep annual fee.

• Earn high rewards on several areas of spending
• Transfer points to travel partners at 1:1 rate
• Many travel and shopping protections
• No intro APR offer
• Best travel earning rates are only for bookings through Chase
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Best Premium Travel Rewards Card

Capital one venture x rewards credit card.

Up to 10X Reward Rate

Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases, 5 miles per dollar on flights and 10 miles per dollar Read More

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Excellent (750 - 850)

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ( rates & fees ) is packed with extras that put it firmly in competition with other upscale credit cards. Just as important, the easy earnings structure is ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to stress over details.

Its annual fee is easily recouped through an annual travel credit and bonus miles, which makes the perks feel almost free.

The flat-rate earnings mean that if you have high spending in a single category, you might be better off with a different card.

Travelers who want premium benefits and are willing to book through Capital One travel at least once a year.

• Annual fee lower than others in its category
• Annual travel credit through Capital One Travel and anniversary miles alone could justify the annual fee
• Miles are easy to earn and easy to use
• Lack of domestic airline and upscale hotel travel partners
• Capital One lounge network in its infancy
• Lack of hotel status benefits
• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

Best Travel Credit Card for International Travel

Chase sapphire reserve®.

Up to 10x Reward Rate

Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Read More

22.49%-29.49% Variable

Earn superior points rates if you spend frequently on travel and dining out with the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . Its greatest selling point, though, is the awesome list of 1:1 transfer partners.

The $300 travel credit compensates for much of the annual fee, and the travel protection benefits have personally reimbursed me more than $1,000.

There’s an extra fee to add an authorized user to your account.

Anyone looking to take advantage of built-in travel insurance protections.

• $300 annual travel credit is incredibly flexible
• Generous welcome bonus
• Get 50% more value when you redeem points for travel through Chase
• Points transfer to valuable airline and hotel partners
• High annual fee
• High variable APR on purchases
• Excellent credit recommended
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more

Best Travel Rewards Credit Card for Lounge Access

The platinum card® from american express.

5X Reward Rate

Earn 5 Membership Rewards Points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and on flights booked directly Read More

Earn 80,000 points

See Pay Over Time APR

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees ) is destined for frequent travelers who intend to fully leverage the rich set of travel benefits. Trust me when I say the perks can make you feel like a VIP. The staggering annual fee for this classic status card won’t be worth it for everyone, but in the right hands the expense can be well justified.

Lounge access with this card extends beyond the Priority Pass membership you see on other premium cards.

Many of the statement credits and other offers have limitations for how you can use them.

Cardholders who will track and maximize the long list of member benefits.

• High reward potential on flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel
• Multiple credits can help justify the fee
• Comprehensive airport lounge access
• Luxury travel benefits and elite status with Hilton and Marriott with enrollment
• Very high annual fee
• Maximizing the statement credits takes some work and could be impractical for many
• Reward rate outside of travel is sub-par for a premium card
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card®. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card®. Learn more.
• $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card®. An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Runner-Up Travel Cards

Best travel rewards earning for foodies, american express® gold card.

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.; Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at Read More

Earn 60,000 points

Foodies and travelers can leverage the American Express® Gold Card (terms apply, see rates & fees ) to the hilt, earning up to 4 points per dollar. The annual fee may seem intimidating—I get that. But my household comes out ahead by taking advantage of the card’s dining credits and rotating Amex Offers.

The grocery earnings on this card are impressive and rare for a travel card. Earn on everyday spending and redeem toward vacation: perfect.

The dining credits and Uber Cash are provided monthly rather than in an annual lump sum.

Cardholders with high spending on food expenses.

• High rewards earnings possibilities
• Points transfer option to many partners
• Add up to 5 authorized users for no additional annual fee
• Can choose from regular or rose gold versions
• No lounge benefits
• Limited options to carry a balance
• High APR for pay over time feature
• High pay over time penalty APR
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.

Best Flat-Rate Rewards Credit Card for Travel

Capital one venture rewards credit card.

Up to 5X Reward Rate

Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5X miles on Capital One Entertainment Read More

Casual travelers who don’t plan to carry a balance will find good value in the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card‘s ( rates & fees ) earnings rates. And if you appreciate the skip-the-line perks of TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry as much as I do, you’ll be grateful for the up to $100 credit toward program fees.

You can earn double miles on every purchase and access transfer partners without ponying up a triple-digit annual fee.

The card is light on big-ticket benefits compared to peers.

Cardholders who want to earn travel rewards at a flat rate.

• Solid rewards rate
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® statement credit (up to $100)
• No foreign transaction fees
• Miles are easy to redeem either via partner transfers or by applying against travel purchases
• $95 annual fee
• No introductory APR on purchases or transfers
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Best for Citi Customers

Citi premier® card.

Earn 3 points per dollar at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, hotels and air travel. 1 point per dollar on all Read More

60,000 points

21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

With 3 points earned per dollar spent on many travel staples and at gas stations, the Citi Premier® Card could be a perfect fit for road warriors and frequent travelers.

Citi ThankYou® Points might be the underdog of flexible rewards programs—there are some hidden values accessible through the program.

The card’s high APR and lack of an intro APR offer make it a poor choice for anyone looking to carry a balance.

Customers looking to earn transferable rewards on everyday purchases.

• Flexible travel redemption options
• No foreign transaction fee
• Add authorized users for no additional cost
• Annual fee with no first-year waiver
• No travel or purchase protections
• Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
• Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
• 60,000 ThankYou® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card

Best Travel Rewards Credit Card With No Annual Fee

Bilt world elite mastercard®.

Up to 3x Reward Rate

1x on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year). 2x points on travel Read More

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

Pay rent, earn rewards and use your earnings for travel. I wish the Bilt World Elite Mastercard® ( rates & fees ) existed when I was still renting, so something positive would have come out of those expenses. Even without a rent payment, the earning rates and redemption options aren’t too shabby.

There aren’t many options to earn transferable miles without an annual fee or a card pairing, especially considering how many partners Bilt has.

There’s no welcome offer on this card whatsoever.

Anyone who regularly makes rent payments.

• Earn rewards on rent
• Primary car rental and cell phone insurance
• Points can be transferred to partners
• Requires five card transactions per statement period to earn rewards
• No welcome bonus
• High regular APR range
• Rewards outside of rent spend are relatively low compared to other cards
• Earn points when you make 5 transactions that post each statement period
• $0 annual fee
• 1x points on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year)
• 2x points on travel (when booked directly with an airline, hotel, car rental or cruise company)
• 3x points on dining
• Plus 1x points on other purchases
• Cell Phone Insurance
• Purchase security (theft and damage protection)
• Mastercard® World Elite Concierge
• Lyft Credits
• No foreign currency conversion fee
• Rewards & benefits terms

Best Travel Credit Card for Fair Credit

Credit one bank wander® card.

Earn 10X points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel site; earn 5X points Read More

29.74% Variable

Fair/Good (650 - 699)

The Credit One Bank Wander® Card is a rare card that combines high-value travel and gas earnings but requires only average credit to apply. Once you get it, I’d recommend working hard to rebuild your credit and apply for a similar card without an annual fee, but it’s a great stepping stone in the meantime.

Almost everyone looking for a travel card will spend on the card’s bonus categories of airfare, gas and dining.

Maximizing the 10x categories requires booking through the Credit One travel partner.

Travelers with fair credit.

• High reward potential
• Issuer advertises requiring an average minimum credit rating
• No low introductory APR period
• High 29.74% Variable APR
• Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site
• Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
• Earn 1x points on all other purchases
• Redeem your reward points for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, flights, hotels, and more
• With $0 Fraud Liability, you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
• Free Online Credit Score and Credit Report summary, terms apply
• If you are a Covered Borrower under the Military Lending Act, you may get a different offer
• See Rates & Fees

Best Travel Cards for Airlines

Best airline rewards program for international travel, aeroplan® credit card.

Earn 3x points for each dollar spent on grocery stores, dining at restaurants including takeout and eligible delivery services, and Read More

21.74% - 28.74% Variable

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

Many people—myself included—might be tempted to overlook this card that seems geared toward Air Canada passengers. But the Aeroplan® Credit Card recently caught my eye for its strong earning potential and the option to redeem miles for award flights on partner airlines, of which there are dozens.

Not only can you earn quickly with this card, but your miles stretch far, too. Cardholders may have access to reduced price award flights.

Learning the ins and outs of Aeroplan rewards requires a little extra attention.

Savvy travelers who mostly fly internationally.

• Excellent rewards earning
• Travel benefits including perks for Air Canada flyers
• Lacks non-travel related benefits
• Earn 60,000 bonus points
• Earn 60,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• $95 Annual Fee
• Redeem points for both international and domestic flights with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
• Fly to another continent and travel the world with the Aeroplan® Credit Card.
• Earn 3X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and Air Canada directly. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
• 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month – up to 1,500 points per month.

Best United Credit Card

United quest℠ card.

Up to 3X Reward Rate

3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases. 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, select streaming services & all Read More

Earn 60,000 bonus miles

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Frequent United Airlines customers will appreciate that the United Quest℠ Card comes with an annual $125 United credit, rewards on travel and dining and travel protections such as primary car rental coverage and trip cancellation insurance.

This card rewards your loyalty. You can earn award flight credits after renewing the card and booking eligible award flights with your miles.

The annual fee on the United Quest is more than double the average airline card.

United flyers who aren’t interested in committing to an ultra-premium card.

• $125 annual United purchase credit
• Earn up to two 5,000-mile award flight credits annually
• Two free checked bags for cardholder and a companion traveling on the same reservation
• Earn up to 6,000 Premier Qualifying Points annually
• Primary auto collision damage waiver for eligible rentals
• Checked baggage benefit only applies to one companion
• Earnings for general purchases are only 1 mile per dollar
• Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 PQP after qualifying purchases
• Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Free first and second checked bags – a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) – and priority boarding
• Up to a $125 United® purchase credit and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply)
• Earn up to 6,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)

Best Premium Airline Card

United club℠ infinite card.

Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases; Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and Read More

Earn 80,000 bonus miles

United’s top-tier card ties up the whole package. A suite of travel perks makes the United Club℠ Infinite Card a compelling value, with the United Club membership alone worth more than the annual fee. If I flew more often, I’d be tempted by the ability to earn Premier Qualifying Points with eligible charges.

Airport lounge access can turn the frustration of airports into an actually relaxing experience.

Many loyal customers may already have elite status with United, making the included Premier Access benefits redundant.

United flyers who want airport lounge access when traveling.

• United Club membership is worth more than the annual fee
• First and second checked bag free when you pay for your flight with your card
• High regular APR
• Earn 80,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases
• Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining
• Free first and second checked bags – a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip (terms apply) – and Premier Access® travel services
• 10% United Economy Saver Award discount within the continental U.S. and Canada
• Earn up to 10,000 Premier qualifying points (25 PQP for every $500 you spend on purchases)

Best for British Airways Passengers

British airways visa signature® card.

Earn 75,000 Avios.

British Airways’ Avios reward currency is looked down upon by lots of travelers, but the British Airways Visa Signature® Card  offers value if you know where to look.

This card makes it even easier to lock in a deal, thanks to flight discounts, statement credits toward award flights and the chance to earn a Travel Together Ticket .

Many British Airways redemptions have really high fees associated with them, which takes some of the fun out of booking award flights.

Travelers who fly British Airways annually or more often.

• Generous rewards on eligible flights
• Potential to earn a companion ticket
• Lucrative welcome bonus
• Rewards rate poor outside of Avios-earning airlines
• Subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule
• No checked baggage or lounge perks
• Limited time offer! Earn 75,000 Avios after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. 5x Avios on up to $10k in gas, grocery stores, and dining purchases for first 12 months!
• Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
• Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
• 10% off British Airways flights starting in the US when you book through the website provided in your welcome materials.
• Every calendar year you make $30,000 in purchases on your British Airways Visa card, you’ll earn a Travel Together Ticket good for two years.
• Pay no foreign transaction fees when you travel abroad.
• Simply tap to pay with your contactless British Airways Visa Signature Card. Just look for the contactless symbol at checkout. It’s fast, easy and secure!

Best for Southwest Passengers

Southwest rapid rewards® priority credit card.

Earn 3X points on Southwest purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare, 2X points on internet, cable, Read More

Earn 50,000 points.

21.49%-28.49% variable

My biggest gripe with Southwest is the lack of assigned seating, but the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card solves that issue with four upgraded boardings per year when available, a $75 annual travel credit toward Southwest purchases (upgrade to an Anytime fare for EarlyBird Check-In) and the chance to earn tier qualifying points. Once you’re A-List, you’ll always get complimentary priority boarding.

Stick with this card and you’ll get a 7,500 anniversary points bonus each year after renewal. Sounds like another free flight to me.

Rapid Rewards doesn’t partner with other airlines, so your redemption options are limited.

Southwest flyers who can consistently maximize the annual travel credit and anniversary points.

• Earn points toward A-list status
• Unlimited reward seats with no blackout dates
• Rewards flights only available on Southwest, no partner airlines
• Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 7,500 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
• Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• $75 Southwest® travel credit each year.
• No foreign transaction fees.

Best Travel Cards for Hotel Points

Best midrange hotel card, ihg one rewards premier credit card.

Up to 26X Reward Rate

Earn up to 26 points total per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts; 5 points per Read More

Earn 140,000 bonus points

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

I stay at IHG properties only a few times a year, but the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a mainstay in my husband’s wallet. Get it for the benefits, not the points potential: We love the Anniversary Free Night—which alone justifies the annual fee—and appreciate the fourth-night-free feature.

High spenders are showered with extra love. You can earn statement credits, bonus points or upgraded elite status when hitting spending thresholds on the card.

The earning rates aren’t as high as they seem once you realize that IHG One Rewards are typically worth less than a penny apiece.

Travelers who stay at IHG properties one or more times per year.

• Earn up to 26 points per dollar spent on IHG hotels worldwide
• Free night award every account anniversary
• Fourth night free on point redemption stays
• Automatic Platinum Elite status
• Poor earnings for everyday and non-category hotel purchases
• Low overall point value
• No worthwhile redemption options outside of IHG properties
• Earn 140,000 Bonus Points
• Enjoy an Anniversary Free Night at IHG Hotels & Resorts. Plus, enjoy a fourth reward night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG® hotel stay.
• Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts
• Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants. Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Automatic Platinum Elite status as long as you remain a Premier cardmember
• Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Statement Credit of up to $100 every 4 years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card
• IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental®, Crowne Plaza®, Kimpton®, EVEN® Hotels, Indigo® Hotels & Holiday Inn®

Best Travel Credit Card for Hyatt Loyalists

The world of hyatt credit card.

Up to 9X Reward Rate

Earn up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 bonus points per $1 when you use Read More

Up to 60,000 Bonus Points

21.49% - 28.49% variable

While Hyatt doesn’t have an extensive network of properties compared to other chains, the value offered by The World of Hyatt Credit Card is outstanding. If you’re a regular at Hyatt, a combination of high redemption values, sweet perks and one free night per year easily covers the annual fee and then some.

The card comes with five qualifying night credits, but cardholders can earn more through card spending to work their way up the elite ladder.

The automatic Discoverist elite status for cardholders is, frankly, uninspiring.

Hyatt loyalists looking to earn extra points and work toward status.

• Annual free night certificate on cardmember anniversary
• Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
• High points redemption values
• Limited number of properties
• No worthwhile redemption options aside from Hyatt properties
• Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
• Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
• Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
• Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
• Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
• Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
• Earn up to 9 points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels & 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
• Earn 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships

Best for Marriott Customers

Marriott bonvoy boundless® credit card *.

Up to 6X Reward Rate

Earn 6 points for every $1 at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3 points for every $1 spent each year (up Read More

Earn 3 Free Night Awards

Overwhelmed by all of Marriott’s credit card options? So am I. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card * is the best value for most customers, given a robust set of perks and rewards potential without an eye-popping annual fee.

The Free Night Award, provided each year after renewal, is valued at 35,000 points and can be topped off if you prefer an upgraded stay.

If you’ve held a Marriott-branded credit card in the past, you may not be eligible for this one. Choose your card wisely before applying!

Marriott Bonvoy members looking for a little extra without a high annual fee.

• Free night certificate every year (valued at 35,000 points)
• 15 Elite Night Credits per year
• Automatic Silver Elite status
• Stingy earnings structure
• Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening
• Earn 6 points per dollar on qualifying Marriott Bonvoy hotel stays
• Earn 3 points per dollar spent on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on groceries, gas stations, and dining
• Earn 2 points per dollar spent on all other purchases
• Points don’t expire as long as you make purchases on your credit card every 24 months

Best Premium Hotel Card

Hilton honors aspire card from american express *.

Up to 14X Reward Rate

Earn 14X Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio; Earn 7X Read More

Earn 150,000 points

20.99% - 29.99% variable

The flagship card from Hilton, the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express * comes with a price tag to match its top-tier status and perks. It’s a perfect fit for big spenders who haunt Hilton properties enough to leverage the rich suite of benefits that come with the complimentary Diamond elite status.

Hilton status is actually meaningful, giving you benefits like food and beverage credits, executive lounge access and room upgrades.

Since the annual fee is $550, you’ll need to travel often to make the perks worth the cost.

Travelers willing to pay for automatic top-tier hotel status and other benefits.

• CLEAR® Plus membership credit with enrollment
• Over $600 in statement credits annually
• Instant Hilton Diamond elite status with rich set of benefits
• Free standard night award with no category limits at participating properties
• High annual fee with no first-year waiver
• High regular APR and penalty APR
• Credits are doled out in increments, making them harder to spend
• Points have a lower value than most rewards programs
• Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of card membership
• Earn 14 points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio
• Earn 7 points for every dollar spent on eligible travel purchases including: Flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies and U.S. restaurants
• Earn 3 points per dollar spent on other eligible purchases
• Up to $400 in statement credits each year of card membership ($200 semi-annually) for eligible purchases at participating Hilton Resorts
• Complimentary Hilton Honors™ Diamond status
• Annual free night reward, terms apply
• Up to $200 flight credit ($50 in statement credits each quarter)

Best No Annual Fee Hotel Card

Wyndham rewards earner® card *.

Earn 5X points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at participating By Wyndham hotels and on gas; Earn 2X Read More

75,000 bonus points

Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card * is for road warriors and frequent stayers at Wyndham properties who are looking for a no annual fee card. You might be surprised at what you can do with Wyndham points.

This can be a backdoor way to earn points for vacation rental redemption options instead of traditional hotels, which opens up a new world of travel opportunities.

Wyndham Guest Rewards expire if you don’t use them, even if you have activity on your account.

Travelers whose trips tend to be U.S.-centric.

• Automatically receive Wyndham Rewards Gold elite status
• Enjoy extra discounts on local attractions when booking “go free” awards
• APR can be high, depending on your creditworthiness
• Target and Walmart are excluded from the grocery bonus and only earn 1 point per dollar
• Only hotel redemptions offer high value
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening
• Earn 5 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases made at Hotels by Wyndham and qualifying gas purchases
• Earn 2 points per dollar spent on eligible dining and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart)
• Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham Timeshare resort down payments)
• Automatically receive a Wyndham Rewards GOLD member level
• Earn 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year if you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases
• Redeem 10% fewer Wyndham Rewards points for go free awards, and earn your free nights faster

Here's a Summary of the Best Travel Credit Cards

More about the best travel credit cards, best travel credit card for beginners: chase sapphire preferred® card.

Travelers looking to dip their toe in the water of travel rewards will appreciate the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card as a place to start. It carries a $95 annual fee but packs in enough value to make it worth it. Cardholders earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards® points for access to transfer partners or for easy, no-strings-attached redemptions in Chase Travel℠. There’s no foreign transaction fee and a wide selection of travel insurances.

Rewards: Earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs), 2 points per dollar on all other travel purchases and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Annual fee: $95

Other benefits and drawbacks: Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed through Chase’s travel portal, transferred to Chase’s airline and hotel transfer partners or redeemed for a statement credit. The card also offers a $50 hotel credit when booked through Chase’s portal and a 10% anniversary points boost. This means that if you spend $10,000 on the card, you’ll earn an additional 1,000 Ultimate Rewards points when renewing your card.

Read more: Chase Sapphire Preferred Benefits and Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Worth It?

Best Premium Travel Rewards Card: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is among the best travel cards on the market in any category. The points are easy to earn and simple to redeem, plus the card comes with a bevy of benefits and credits that easily make the annual fee worthwhile ( rates & fees ).

Rewards: Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases, 5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel, 5 miles per dollar on Capital One Entertainment purchases through 12/31/25 and 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars when booking via Capital One Travel.

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

Annual fee: $395

Other benefits and drawbacks: The annual fee may give you pause, but the card comes with a $300 annual credit for bookings through the Capital One Travel portal and a 10,000 point anniversary bonus worth $100 in travel. A Priority Pass membership also provides value, giving you access to more than 1,400 lounges worldwide.

Capital One miles are easy to redeem as they can either be applied toward travel purchases or transferred to travel partners. The main downside to the Venture X is a lack of domestic airline transfer partners, meaning that points will take a bit more knowledge to redeem than American Express Membership Rewards® or Chase Ultimate Rewards® .

Read more: Capital One Venture X Benefits and Is the Capital One Venture X Worth It?

Best Travel Credit Card for International Travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® makes our list of best travel rewards cards for many reasons. While it does charge a high annual fee, it earns valuable rewards at a solid rate with transfer partners that cover redemption options all over the world. There’s also best-in-market travel insurance benefits and no foreign transaction fee. As a Visa card , it’s also widely accepted worldwide. If you travel at least a couple times per year, this card deserves serious consideration.

Rewards: Earn 5 points per dollar on flights and 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals when purchasing travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3 points per dollar on other travel and dining and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Annual fee: $550

Other benefits and drawbacks: Chase Ultimate Rewards® points earned with the Sapphire Reserve and redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠ are worth 1.5 cents each or points can be transferred at a 1:1 ratio to Chase’s travel partners. Cardholders can also make up for a chunk of the annual fee with the $300 annual travel credit, a Priority Pass Select airport lounge membership and up to a $100 credit every four years to cover your Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS application fee, all of which make far-flung travel easier to bear.

Read more: Chase Sapphire Reserve Benefits and Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Worth It?

Best Travel Rewards Credit Card for Lounge Access: The Platinum Card® from American Express

If you’re looking for a giant welcome bonus to get things started, The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees ) might be for you. After meeting initial spending requirements, you’ll earn valuable Membership Rewards points redeemable toward travel and other options. The downside is it carries the largest annual fee on our list.

Rewards: Earn 5 Membership Rewards Points per dollar for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 per calendar year, 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and 1 point per dollar on other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $8,000 on purchases on the card in the first 6 months of card membership.

Annual fee: $695

Other benefits and drawbacks: If you’re willing to put in the work to get all of the rebates offered on the card, the benefits can easily offset the annual fee and then some. Many of the perks are very specifically applied and may also require enrollment. Examples include statement credits toward Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, select digital entertainment, select hotel stays and airline incidental fees. Industry-leading lounge access to more than 1,500 locations worldwide is another major draw.

Read more: Is The Amex Platinum Worth the Yearly Fee?

Best Travel Rewards Earning for Foodies: American Express® Gold Card

Some cards offer bonuses on dining, some on groceries, but you can earn bonus points on basically anything you eat with the American Express® Gold Card (terms apply, see rates & fees ). This is an appealing option for anyone who wants to redeem travel rewards but doesn’t spend enough on flights or hotels to require elevated earning categories on travel itself.

Rewards: Earn 4 Membership Rewards® points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., 4 Membership Rewards® points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1 point per dollar), 3 Membership Rewards® points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express travel and 1 point per dollar on other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first 6 months of card membership.

Annual fee: $250

Other benefits and drawbacks: Although this card earns Membership Rewards, which are great for travel, it doesn’t pack travel-specific benefits. Instead, it includes monthly credits, some requiring enrollment, that are great for more common expenses, such as Uber Cash and dining credits valid at GrubHub (including Seamless) and more. For someone who wants to transform everyday expenses into a vacation, this card seamlessly blends the experience.

Read more: Amex Gold Benefits and Is the Amex Gold Worth It?

Best Flat-Rate Rewards Credit Card for Travel: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

There are no complicated earning structures with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , just simple, straightforward, flat-rate points in exchange for an easy-to-swallow annual fee ( rates & fees ).

Rewards: Earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5 miles per dollar spent on Capital One Entertainment purchases through 12/31/25 and an unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Expect dialed-back benefits compared to more premium travel cards, though that’s only fair with an annual fee at a fraction of the cost. You’ll still enjoy select trip protections along with no foreign transaction fee. Keep in mind that you’ll want to redeem for travel bookings or transfers to partner programs (cash back is only worth half the rate).

Best for Citi Customers: Citi Premier® Card

The Citi Premier® Card earns cardholders great rewards for its annual fee, but compared to other top-tier travel cards on this list, it comes up short when it comes to extra benefits. For the welcome bonus and the everyday rewards, the card may be worthwhile for those in search of ThankYou® Points .

Rewards: Earn 3 ThankYou points per dollar at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel and hotels, 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases and a total of 10 points per dollar on hotels, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Citi Premier® Card assuages its annual fee with an annual $100 hotel savings benefit on eligible stays of $500 or more when you book through ThankYou.com. For those who use this benefit, the card can otherwise be evaluated as a no-annual-fee card. The reward program’s multiple redemption options includes airline transfer partners but otherwise only offers a small collection of mostly convenience benefits.

Best Travel Rewards Credit Card With No Annual Fee: Bilt World Elite Mastercard®

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard®  offers a unique opportunity to earn rewards on rent without paying processing fees, but it has value for anyone seeking transferable points without an annual fee ( rates & fees ). This card is impressive enough to stand as a travel card on its own even if you don’t pay rent.

Rewards: Earn 1 point per dollar on rent payments without the transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year), 3 points per dollar on dining, 2 points per dollar on travel (when booked through the Bilt Travel Portal or directly with an airline, hotel, car rental or cruise company), and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Welcome offer: This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Bilt World Elite Mastercard® has a few limitations—you’ll only earn points when making at least five transactions per statement period and earnings on rent are capped at 100,000 points per calendar year—but it’s otherwise a strong card.

Bilt points are transferable to a number of valuable transfer partners including World of Hyatt and American Airlines or you can redeem through their travel portal where point values vary with your redemption option. You can also save your points towards a down payment on a home if you decide travel takes a back bench to homeownership.

Best Travel Credit Card for Fair Credit: Credit One Bank Wander® Card

If your credit score isn’t quite ready for a premium travel card, take a look at the Credit One Bank Wander® Card . The card earns at exceptionally high rates on travel purchases and there’s no foreign transaction fee. Sadly, the card isn’t perfect: You’ll miss out on fancy extras like airport lounge access or the ability to transfer points to other programs.

Rewards: Earn 10 points per dollar on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner, 5 points per dollar on eligible travel, dining and gas and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Don’t be fooled by this low-frills card. The earning rates alone will have you traveling in no time. The card is also well-suited to simultaneously work on improving your credit, with options to choose your own due date and track your credit score. Eventually, this could lead you to even more card options in the future.

Best Airline Rewards Program for International Travel: Aeroplan® Credit Card

The Aeroplan® Credit Card provides a generous rewards program, but for those who fly Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge, the card also provides an accelerated route to elite status. Like most airline cards, this card makes the most sense for those who predominantly fly Air Canada.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar spent on dining, takeout and eligible delivery services, grocery stores and each dollar spent directly with Air Canada including vacations and cruises and 1 point per dollar for all other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: New cardholders will enjoy 25K status through the rest of the calendar year after approval and the next. To maintain status thereafter requires $15,000 of spending on the card in a calendar year. Existing status holders can upgrade to 35K status with $50,000 in spending per calendar year. Cardholders receive the first checked bag free for themselves and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation when flying Air Canada.

A $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or NEXUS application fee credit every four years as well as preferred pricing on award flights sweeten the deal, which includes a list of protections such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance , baggage delay insurance, trip delay reimbursement , secondary auto rental collision damage waiver and purchase protection.

Best United Credit Card: United Quest℠ Card

The United Quest℠ Card is a midrange United card. It’s a bit pricier than the Explorer card but not nearly as much as the United Club℠ Infinite Card. But with a $125 annual credit on United purchases, two 5,000 MileagePlus credits earned annually after your first cardmember anniversary valid for eligible flight redemptions (see offer for details) and two free checked bags for you and a travel companion when flying United, the Quest could be just right for you.

Rewards: Earn 3 miles per dollar on United® purchases, 2 miles per dollar on dining, select streaming services and all other travel and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.

Other benefits and drawbacks: In addition to offering extra travel benefits, the Quest card is also a better option for earning miles than the cheaper Explorer card. You’ll earn miles at an elevated rate and can also earn 25 Premier Qualifying Points for every $500 in net purchases (including purchases made by authorized users) up to a maximum of 6,000 PQPs in a calendar year.

Best Premium Airline Card: United Club℠ Infinite Card

As a general rule, if you’re looking for an airline-specific card, you’ll want to get a card with the airline you fly the most. For earnings potential, valuable points and additional useful benefits including lounge access, the United Club℠ Infinite Card comes out ahead.

Rewards: Earn 4 miles per dollar on United® purchases, 2 miles per dollar on all other travel, on dining including eligible delivery services and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Annual fee: $525

Other benefits and drawbacks: The most prominent benefit of the United Club℠ Infinite Card is access to United Club airport lounges and other Star Alliance Gold lounges. You’ll also benefit from two free checked bags for yourself and another person traveling on the same reservation, expedited check-in, security screening and boarding, a trusted traveler application fee reimbursement, expanded access to award flights and Premier Upgrades on award tickets if you have status. Other travel protections and benefits are also included.

Best for British Airways Passengers: British Airways Visa Signature® Card

For those who can make the most of the British Airways’ mileage redemptions , the British Airways Visa Signature® Card makes sense. It offers a sizable welcome bonus, providing solid value against its relatively low annual fee of $95. Big spenders have an opportunity to earn a companion ticket , making it attractive to people who travel regularly back and forth across the Atlantic.

Rewards: Earn 3 Avios per dollar on purchases with Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL, 2 Avios per dollar on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel and 1 Avios per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 Avios after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening, plus 5 Avios per dollar spent on up to $10,000 in gas, groceries, and dining purchases for the first 12 months of account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The British Airways Visa Signature® Card offers Visa Signature benefits such as extended warranties and fraud liabilities, but it also offers several airline-specific benefits. Each calendar year you spend more than $30,000 on the card you’ll earn a Travel Together Ticket, which adds an additional seat on the same flight and in the same cabin when booking a British Airways flight (business-class inclusive).

Cardholders can also earn credits of $100 for economy and premium economy or $200 for business and first class, up to three times per year. Additionally, you can use this card to earn 10% off British Airways flights originating in the U.S. when using a special link provided to cardholders.

Best for Southwest Passengers: Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card beats other Southwest cards in terms of value, rewards and perks, but it may not seem as impressive compared to other options—especially Chase Ultimate Rewards®-earning cards which permit users to transfer their rewards at a 1:1 ratio to Southwest.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar on Southwest purchases, 2 points per dollar on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental purchases, 2 points per dollar on local transit and commuting, including rideshare, 2 points per dollar on internet, cable, phone services and select streaming and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Annual fee: $149

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card provides a $75 annual travel credit, 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year and four upgraded boardings (subject to availability). Cardholders also get 25% back on in-flight drinks and Wi-Fi when they pay with their card, but unlike other airline cards, there’s no need for a baggage credit, since all passengers’ first two checked bags fly for no extra charge. For those seeking companion passes with Southwest airlines (an industry favorite among domestic travel hackers) the card provides 10,000 extra qualifying points as a boost each year.

Best Midrange Hotel Card: IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

For those who frequently stay at IHG properties, the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offers generous rewards on hotel stays for an annual fee of $99.

Rewards: Earn up to 26 points per dollar spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts, 5 points on travel, gas stations, and restaurants and 3 points on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Annual fee: $99

Other benefits and drawbacks: The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card benefits list includes a complimentary fourth night benefit—when booking four consecutive nights with points, you will receive your fourth night free. Additionally, on your cardmember anniversary, you can enjoy a Free Anniversary Night at properties that cost 40,000 points or less per night. You can also qualify for a credit of up to $100 for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or NEXUS membership every four years.

Best Travel Credit Card for Hyatt Loyalists: The World of Hyatt Credit Card

Travelers that love Hyatt, love Hyatt. The World of Hyatt Credit Card isn’t necessarily the best way to earn World of Hyatt points. But between the annual free night and the ability to spend toward status, it’s a good option for people who frequent Hyatt hotels.

Rewards: Earn 9 points total per dollar spent at Hyatt - 4 bonus points per dollar spent at Hyatt hotels and 5 base points per dollar from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member. Earn 2 bonus points per dollar spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening, plus up to 30,000 more bonus points by earning 2 bonus points per dollar spent in the first 6 months on purchases that normally earn 1 bonus point on up to $15,000 spent.

Other benefits and drawbacks: In addition to the ability to earn points in a wide range of categories, The World of Hyatt Credit Card offers cardholders a free hotel night valid at Category 1 to 4 Hyatt hotels each cardmember anniversary year and the ability to earn a second one after spending $15,000 on the card in a calendar year.

Depending on how much you spend on non-Hyatt travel purchases and at restaurants, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® could offer you the ability to earn more Hyatt points in a year because Chase Ultimate Rewards® points transfer to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio.

Best for Marriott Customers: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card *

Of the many Marriott credit cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card * balances a moderate annual fee with the heavy-hitting benefit of an annual free night award and other hotel perks.

Rewards: Earn 6 points per dollar at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels, 3 points per dollar spent each year (up to $6,000) on combined grocery stores, gas stations and dining purchases and 2 points per dollar on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 3 Free Night Awards after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: This card’s earning rates won’t win any awards, but travelers can still find value with this card. Automatic Silver Elite status comes with some nice bonuses when staying with Marriott and you’ll also receive 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year to help you hit the next status level faster. If your stays alone won’t hit that level, you can also earn additional Elite Night Credits through spending: One night per $5,000 in eligible card charges. Or, earn Gold Elite automatically by spending $35,000.

Best Premium Hotel Card: Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express *

In addition to earning points at a relatively quick rate, the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express * also offers complimentary top-tier Hilton Honors Diamond status. Other Hilton benefits include a free night award annually and up to $400 in resort statement credits each year.

Rewards: Earn 14 Hilton Honors bonus points at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton Portfolio, 7 points per dollar on eligible purchases for flights booked directly with airlines or American Express Travel, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies and U.S. restaurants and 3 points per dollar on other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of card membership.

Other benefits and drawbacks: While the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express * earns more points per dollar than some other cards on this list, hotel points are generally not as valuable as airline miles or flexible rewards points. That said, it packs in the benefits.

In addition to hotel perks, cardholders also receive up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually ($400 per year) when using their card to cover eligible Hilton resort charges. You can also earn up to $50 in statement credits quarterly toward qualifying flight charges for a total of $200 per year if maximized.

Best No Annual Fee Hotel Card: Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card *

With no annual fee, the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card * offers solid hotel benefits and earning rates for travelers—especially road trippers, thanks to gas rewards and properties that line the interstates.

Rewards: Earn 5 points per dollar spent on Hotels By Wyndham and gas purchases, 2 points per dollar spent on restaurants and grocery purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) and 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening.

Other benefits and drawbacks: There’s no glitz on this card, just the basics. Still, the welcome offer is reasonably achievable and guests have access to discounts on both paid and award stays with Wyndham-family hotels. Cardholders are also boosted to Gold status for upgrades and extras while traveling. And high spenders get an additional reward on top of all this: You’ll earn 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year after spending $15,000 or more with your card.

Methodology

Forbes Advisor considered dozens of airline, hotel and flexible-rewards credit cards to create this list of the best travel credit cards. The primary factors taken into consideration for all types were:

• Estimated annual earnings—25% to 50% depending on card category
• Welcome bonus—15% to 25% depending on card category
• Travel benefits—15% to 25% depending on card category
• Annual fee—5% to 15% depending on card category
• Consumer benefits—0% to 10% depending on card category
• Foreign transaction fee—0% to 5% depending on card category

Hotel earnings rate was weighted 25% for hotel credit cards and airline earnings rate was weighted 15% for airline credit cards.

Forbes Advisor rates cards both as stand-alone products (the card rating on the review) and compared to others in a specific use case. Sometimes, cards with average stand-alone ratings may still rank highly on a particular list according to how a person looking for a card in that category may value certain card features.

For instance, a card that might be considered mediocre overall could be the top card on a list of rewards cards with no annual fee. That’s because the card might offer limited features compared to other rewards cards, but after we remove cards that charge an annual fee, it’s the best card that remains.

Forbes Advisor uses data from multiple government agencies to determine how much a typical cardholder might spend. We use the same numbers for cards in the same category to make sure we are comparing cards the same way. The bonus categories for spending included with each card are factored into our determination of how many rewards a cardholder could expect to earn if they use the card as a consumer normally would.

Read more: How Forbes Advisor Rates Credit Cards

Complete Guide to Travel Credit Cards

What is a travel credit card, how do travel credit cards work, types of travel credit cards, co-branded travel cards vs. general travel cards, pros and cons of travel credit cards, should i get a travel credit card, when should you use a travel credit card, why you should consider a travel credit card, how to choose and compare travel credit cards, evaluating airline credit cards, evaluating hotel credit cards, how to maximize credit card points for travel, how to travel for free with credit cards.

• Travel Rewards Cards in the News

Are Travel Credit Cards Worth It?

Frequently asked questions (faqs).

A travel credit card is a card that earns rewards on travel. Those rewards come in a variety of ways. It can earn airline miles, hotel points or flexible points that can be redeemed either with transfer partners or applied towards travel charges.

Many travel credit cards also come with additional benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, access to airport lounges and even discounts on hotels or rental cars. Some cards offer welcome bonuses when you sign up, which can provide a nice cache of points or miles to help you start redeeming for valuable rewards.

Travel credit cards may offer value for frequent travelers who want to earn rewards quickly and easily while they’re on the go. These credit cards can be used in any country that accepts major card networks (Visa, Mastercard, Amex, etc) and they often charge no foreign transaction fees, which means there is no extra charge from the credit card company to make purchases abroad.

By using a travel credit card, it’s possible to pile up points over time and redeem them toward flights, hotel stays or other travel expenses.

A travel rewards credit card accrues miles or points for each purchase made with the card. After earning miles or points, there are usually a few redemption options including redeeming for airline tickets, gift cards or statement credits. As a general rule, redeeming miles and points for travel will result in the most value.

How Do Credit Card Points Work?

Credit card points, like Chase Ultimate Rewards®  or American Express Membership Rewards , are earned for each purchase made with the card. Every card has a different earning structure, so one card may earn high rewards on travel and dining purchases while another may earn more points on groceries and gas spending. Often, credit card points will have multiple redemption options, like for cash, travel or gift cards vs. a co-branded card , which tends to earn rewards that can only be redeemed for one thing like travel with a specific airline or hotel or merchandise.

How Do Credit Card Travel Miles Work?

Airline and hotel point values often are variable, which means that the worth of a point may fluctuate depending on the specific redemption. Some programs will tie the value of their points or miles to the cash equivalent of a ticket or hotel night. Others have a tiered system based on something like peak or off-peak travel times, seat class or hotel category—or a combination of the two.

Since airline and hotel rewards are primarily redeemed towards nights or flights, it makes sense to do the research before cashing in a stash of points to make the most of your redemption. Forbes Advisor’s guide to redeeming points and miles is a good place to start.

Not all travel credit cards are alike. Here’s how the various types break down, so you can choose which type of rewards card is best for your unique circumstances.

Transferable Rewards Credit Cards

These types of credit cards earn rewards that can be transferred to other programs, like airline or hotel loyalty programs. Transferable rewards include Capital One Rewards , Bilt Rewards , Brex Rewards , Chase Ultimate Rewards® , American Express Membership Rewards and Citi ThankYou Points .

Airline Credit Cards

Airline credit cards earn miles that can be used to redeem for future purchases with that airline. You can also use that airline’s miles to book flights on partners or other carriers within the same airline alliance , which may yield greater value for your earnings.

Many of the best airline credit cards offer perks beyond earning miles. Usually the higher the annual fee, the more benefits you’ll get. Some common airline credit card extras may include free checked baggage, priority boarding, a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee credit and airport lounge access. If you’re able to max out these extras, the perks can often be worth more than the annual fee.

Hotel Credit Cards

Anyone who stays in hotels at least semi-regularly and who can pledge loyalty to one brand may find that a hotel credit card is right for them. With these cards, you’ll earn rewards in the hotel’s currency, like Marriott Bonvoy points , Hilton Honors points or World of Hyatt points , which are redeemable towards any eligible hotel property under that brand’s umbrella.

Owning a hotel credit card can be a much faster path towards accruing points than earning them on stays alone. Some cards confer automatic elite status upon ownership, which comes with its own set of benefits that can range from late check-out to free breakfast to room upgrades. Additionally, many cards will also offer one night free annually every year you renew your card membership as well as other perks such as airport lounge access.

Fixed-Value Credit Cards

Credit card points may often have a fixed-value when redeemed for things like cash back or travel, where the issuer publishes the cash value per point. For example, a card may offer a value of a penny per point when redeemed for any valid travel purchase.

With some cards, fixed-value points currencies can also vary by redemption type. For example, points on a card might be worth 1.5 cents each when redeemed for travel rewards but only be worth 1 cent each when redeemed for cash back.

Business Credit Cards for Travel

If you’re traveling for work and you want to keep your business expenses separate from your personal expenses, a travel business credit card may be worth considering. Business credit cards for travel function the same as consumer credit cards for travel, although the business versions often offer different earning rates and perks, as well as a different annual fee structure.

A co-branded card generally makes sense if you tend to stay loyal to that brand when you travel. Using a co-branded card can fast-track you towards elite status with a hotel or airline and often comes with other valuable benefits. If you’d prefer to fly any airline you choose and stay at any hotel brand you’d like, a general travel card is likely a better choice for your needs.

What You Get With General Travel Credit Cards

With travel credit cards, the level of benefits will most likely be associated with the annual fee. A premium card might come with airport lounge access, travel protections including trip cancellation and delay insurance and exclusive privileges at luxury hotels. A midrange card might still offer auto rental insurance and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck benefit. Even a card with no annual fee might offer some basic benefits depending on the card.

What You Get With Co-branded Travel Credit Cards

A co-branded travel card will offer benefits specific to that brand. For airline cards, you might see a checked bag benefit or a rebate on in-flight purchases. For hotel cards, you might see a status level, a free annual night award or anniversary points. Both types of cards might offer you the ability to spend towards higher levels of status.

To learn more about the best co-branded credit cards, see our guides below:

• Best Southwest Credit Cards
• Best American Airlines Credit Cards
• Best Delta Credit Cards
• Best United Credit Cards
• Best Hyatt Credit Cards
• Best Marriott Credit Cards

Ask an expert

Is it better to choose a flexible travel rewards card or one branded to a specific airline or hotel?

Yanely Espinal

Forbes Advisor Credit Cards Advisory Board Member

Clint Proctor

Lead Editor Credit Cards

Becky Pokora

Credit Cards Expert Writer

If I had to choose, I’d say flexible travel rewards because it allows for much more versatility in your redemption options beyond just flights and hotel stays. But the best approach is to have both so you can maximize benefits from each card type by earning rewards across all of the spending you normally do, while getting perks with your favorite travel providers at the same time.

Since I’m not particularly loyal to any airline or hotel, I prefer the flexibility of general travel cards. I especially appreciate travel cards that offer transfers to travel partners. With flexible rewards, I can access 10 to 20 or more loyalty programs from a single card. This increases my chances of being able to take advantage of the best award deals that are available for my next trip.

I love that most co-branded travel cards include benefits when booking with that brand. Free night certificates on hotel cards and free checked bags with airlines are valuable perks. Plus, even though earning a single type of point might seem limited, big hotel chains have more than a dozen brand choices and airlines may have 10 or more alliance partners, so you’ll still find plenty of versatility.

Pros of Travel Credit Cards

• Fast-track to free or discounted travel. You’ll earn rewards on your spending that can be used to reduce the cost of future travel.
• Elite perks and benefits. Many cards offer money-saving extras like free luggage or complimentary breakfast.
• Lack of foreign transaction fees. Some of the best travel credit cards won’t charge you extra for using your card abroad.

Cons of Travel Credit Cards

• Limited-use rewards. The best value in owning and using a travel rewards card comes from redeeming the rewards for more travel.
• Annual fees can be high. Cards with the most premium perks tend to also have the most premium price.
• Redemptions can be complicated. For some reward programs, squeezing the most outsized value out of your points or miles can require some work.

It’s safe to say that travel credit cards will likely only appeal to travelers. Their benefits and rewards are specialized and would be hard to use if you don’t intend to travel. For anyone who travels even once or twice a year, though, these credit cards can make a lot of sense compared to cash-back cards or other rewards credit cards due to all of the included perks.

• Business travel: If your work requires you to travel, having a dedicated travel card can make it easy to keep your business expenses separate from your personal expenses.
• International travel: If you’re planning to travel abroad, travel credit cards often come with perks like no foreign transaction fees, airport lounge access and application fee reimbursements for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck that can make your journey more comfortable.
• Luxury travel: If you want an upscale experience like access to exclusive airport lounges, automatic hotel room upgrades and property credits, a travel credit card with these features can grant you access to these features.

How Many Travel Credit Cards Should I Have?

The number of travel credit cards you should have will depend on how often you travel, which benefits you value, your financial situation and whether you’re willing to spend time tracking multiple cards. Frequent travelers will find value in holding at least one travel card, but may consider holding several. For example, having both an airline card and a hotel card can provide complementary benefits and the ability to earn rewards for all aspects of your travel plans.

Travel cards often include numerous membership benefits such as elite status when traveling with partner programs, free checked bags, lounge access or discounts on ancillary travel fees. These benefits can make your trips easier, more comfortable and more affordable. Additionally, travel credit cards offer the opportunity to earn valuable rewards and in some cases may provide higher yields than cash back or other types of rewards.

When comparing travel credit cards, items to consider include:

1. Annual Fee

The annual fee on credit cards ranges from zero to several hundred dollars. In general, the more expensive the card, the richer the perks and rewards. It can be well worth it to pay an annual fee if you’ll use the associated benefits, but there are travel credit cards without an annual fee if you’re more comfortable with that structure.

2. Foreign Transaction Fee

If you’re traveling out of the country, be sure your travel card doesn’t carry any foreign transaction fees. This can be an additional 2% to 3% surcharge on top of the price of your purchase and makes everything you buy with a card in a foreign country more expensive than a card without this fee. Foreign transaction charges also apply to purchases made in other currencies, even if you haven’t left the U.S. The best no foreign transaction fee cards ensure you’re not paying this surcharge.

3. Sign-up Bonus

If you’re trying to decide between two similar cards, it can help to consider the welcome offer on a given card. These welcome offers ebb and flow and if a card you’re thinking about offers a particularly generous offer, it can help offset the annual fee and/or the cost of future travel.

4. Rewards Rate

When choosing a card, think about your spending patterns. If you rarely fly, it may not make sense to own a card that offers the most rewards on airline purchases.

5. International Acceptance

In some countries, all credit cards may be accepted, but that isn’t always the case. When traveling outside of the United States, Visa and Mastercard tend to be more widely accepted than American Express or other cards. Because of this, if you travel often, you may want to choose a Visa or Mastercard either in addition to or in lieu of other types of cards.

6. Travel Protections

Many travel credit cards include various forms of travel protections, such as trip interruption coverage or collision damage waivers for rental cars. These included protections could save you money compared to separately purchased policies but won’t necessarily be as comprehensive. Check with your card benefits guide to get information on your coverage terms. If you travel often, it might be worth specifically seeking out the best credit cards with travel insurance or the best credit cards for car rental insurance .

— Yanely Espinal, Forbes Advisor Credit Cards Advisory Board Member

Also consider any special perks associated with cards you evaluate. These might range from airport lounge access to statement credit reimbursements for certain purchases made with specific brands or on purchases in specific categories.

Airline credit cards typically earn frequent flyer miles on every purchase. Co-branded airline cards also frequently come with perks while traveling, like free checked bags, enhanced award space or lounge access. They may also help you achieve elite status more easily.

When evaluating the best airline credit cards , think about:

• Earning rates.  Many airline credit cards don’t offer elevated earnings on categories other than airline spending, so you’ll need to choose carefully if that’s important to you.
• Perks while flying. Typically, only cards with an annual fee include benefits while flying such as priority boarding or complimentary checked bags.
• Elite-qualifying bonuses.  Some cards include bonus elite-qualifying miles when hitting spending thresholds, which can further enhance your flying experience.
• Companion fares.  Some airline cards offer the opportunity to earn a companion certificate, which allows you to bring a second traveler on your trip for a reduced price.

Additionally, redeeming frequent flyer miles can be more complicated than requesting cash back or other types of rewards. Though using miles for award flights can lead to tremendous value, you’ll need to learn the ropes of the program.

7 Ways To Earn More Airline Miles

The most common ways to earn airline miles are either through flying with the airline (or its partners) or by using a credit card that earns frequent flyer miles on every purchase. You can also earn more airline miles by:

• Making purchases through airline shopping portals
• Booking hotel reservations through the airline’s platform
• Renting cars and opting in to frequent flyer miles instead of rental credits
• Completing partner activity, which varies by airline but may include partnerships with Starbucks, Lyft or other brands you use anyway
• Checking your account to register for promotions
• Dining with partner restaurants
• Transferring flexible credit card points

Hotel credit cards will earn points toward future free stays, but this is one case where the benefits can often outshine rewards. More often than not, hotel cards come with automatic elite status as well as a fast track to even higher levels of status. Plus, annual free night certificates or statement credits add to their value proposition.

Many hotel loyalty programs offer multiple co-branded cards to choose from, making it even more important to compare the characteristics of an individual card. It’s not uncommon for a single hotel brand to offer a no-annual-fee card, a mid-tier card and a premium card—each with different earning rates and benefits.

When evaluating hotel credit cards, consider:

• Elite status offers.  Generally speaking, cards with higher annual fees may automatically bump you to higher elite status levels which can be invaluable on frequent stays.
• Free night certificates.  Many, but not all, hotel cards offer free night certificates either upon renewal of your card or when hitting spending thresholds. Each certificate may come with restrictions on when or where you can redeem it, so compare fine print.
• Earning rates.  Hotel cards may offer huge multipliers on bonus categories, allowing you to earn five to 10 times on certain purchases. However, keep expectations in check: Hotel points may not be worth a full penny per point.
• Statement credits.  Some cards may include statement credits toward eligible purchases made at hotels and resorts or even on airline fees or restaurant purchases, which can be valuable, but you’ll need to actually use them.

8 Ways To Earn More Hotel Points

In addition to booking hotel stays or using a hotel-branded credit card, you can also earn hotel points through other methods such as:

• Charging incidental purchases made at hotel properties to your account, such as spa, parking or dining expenses
• Booking events or meetings at participating hotels
• Making purchases through hotel shopping portals
• Renting cars and opting in to hotel points instead of rental credits
• Completing partner activity, which may include partnerships with Starbucks, Lyft or other brands you use anyway
• Transferring flexible credit card points to your preferred hotel program

The best way to make the most of your credit card is to use a card that aligns with your spending patterns.

• Choose a card that offers bonus points in spending categories meaningful to you
• Pair credit cards that offer identical awards in different areas of spending
• Use your credit card instead of cash or debit when possible

Airline and Hotel Rewards Loyalty Programs

Understanding how to get the most out of the points and miles you earn from your travel credit card goes hand-in-hand with using the loyalty programs offered by most airlines and hotel brands. It’s free to join and you can belong to as many loyalty programs as you like. Typically, when you sign up for a co-branded credit card affiliated with a particular brand, you’ll automatically become a member of the loyalty program if you aren’t already.

Track Your Credit Card Points and Miles Earnings

Tracking your spending allows you to make sure that every time you make a purchase, you’re using the card that will earn you the most rewards. This means knowing which card to use in which scenario based on how a particular merchant codes the purchase . For example, if you own two credit cards, one that earns high rewards on dining and one co-branded airline card, it might not make sense to use the airline card to pay your restaurant tab since the dining card likely earns more rewards. You can do this by various methods as complicated as creating a spreadsheet or as simple as putting stickers on each card to remind you when to use it.

How To Use Credit Card Points for Travel

Beyond earning rewards, there are strategies to get the most value when it comes time to redeem your rewards, too. When it comes time to cash in your travel rewards, there’s generally two ways to do it. You can plan the itinerary you want and use your rewards to fully or partially off-set the cost. Or, you can research to see where the rewards you have can be used to get the most bang for your buck. Now, American Express is making it easier for some cardmembers to redeem miles for flights due to a partnership with Point.me .

Find the Best Hotel Rewards Credit Cards of 2024

Credit cards can save you a lot of money on travel compared to paying full price. Often, the most substantial way to travel for free with credit cards is by redeeming rewards for travel. A combination of welcome bonus offers and the rewards you earn from everyday spending can add up to hundreds of dollars in value toward free travel. However, you’ll need to learn to redeem points and miles from your specific program to do so.

Included statement credits or card benefits can also help you travel for free. Premium credit cards may offer annual credits toward the purchase of select travel, effectively serving as a rebate. Alternatively, you might have airline companion certificates or hotel free night certificates, which work more like a coupon.

Travel Rewards Cards In the News

Travel lovers now have another great credit card option with the launch of the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® Card * in March 2024. This new card earns 5 points per dollar on hotels, 4 points per dollar on airlines, 3 points per dollar on other travel and dining and 1 point per dollar on other purchases. Those are high reward rates for a card that doesn’t require you to make reservations through a dedicated booking channel or proprietary travel portal.

Though cardholders will be able to transfer points to a limited number of travel partners beginning in April, this card may be a better fit as the best cash back rewards credit card for travel spending. Learn more about how this card is making waves .

More Than Half of Americans Would Be Concerned About Paying Credit Card Debt If They or a Family Member Lost Their Job

In a March 2024 Forbes Advisor survey conducted by OnePoll, 53% of respondents were somewhat or very concerned that they wouldn’t be able to pay their credit card debt if they or a family member lost their job. This implies that budgets are tight; In fact, a different survey in December 2023 showed that 40% of Americans are living paycheck to paycheck .

Of those who were unconcerned, it was frequently because jobs were no longer relevant to their income—for example, because they are already retired.

Establishing good credit habits is one of the most important things to start early. Only charge what you can pay in full (and on time). If you have existing debt, starting to pay things down—even if it’s only an extra $20 per month—can make balances more manageable if you have a loss of income unexpectedly.

While travel rewards cards can include stellar rewards opportunities and a significant set of extra benefits, the value of these pale in comparison to the potential price of interest costs, late payment fees and ruined credit. These cards are best for someone who’s committed to sticking to a smart credit strategy.

Generally speaking, yes, travel credit cards are worth it —if you’ll use the benefits. Travel rewards credit cards can be a strategic addition to your finances if you travel with any regularity. You’ll be able to earn rewards on every purchase and later redeem those rewards toward future trips, often at a higher yield than if you had chosen cash back or other types of rewards. Many travel cards also include benefits to enhance your travel experience along the way to add even more value.

To view rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page . To view rates and fees for American Express® Gold Card please visit this page . To view rates and fees for Bilt World Elite Mastercard® please visit this page . For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

What is considered travel for credit cards?

Each issuer’s definition of which purchases or which purchase categories may vary slightly, but categories likely to be included by any issuer include airfare, hotels, rental cars and cruises. For example, Chase offers a fairly wide definition of travel, with airlines, hotels, motels, timeshares, car rental agencies, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites, campgrounds and operators of passenger trains, buses, taxis, limousines, ferries, toll bridges and highways and parking lots and garages all considered travel eligible for rewards.

Even if your purchase would typically count toward a category, it’s worth noting that merchants are typically responsible for the categorization and if the merchant you purchase from isn’t categorized correctly, your transaction likely won’t earn rewards.

What credit score is needed for a travel credit card?

A travel rewards credit card will typically recommend good to excellent credit in order to qualify. Plan to have a credit score of at least 700 to get approved by the top credit cards on the market. Some of those cards might even require applicants to have a credit score of 720 or higher.

What is the easiest travel credit card to get?

Most travel credit cards require good to excellent credit scores. However, generally speaking, no-annual-fee travel cards are typically easier to be approved for than the ultra-premium travel cards with high annual fees.

What is the best credit card with travel insurance?

Forbes Advisor’s best credit cards for travel insurance list has a variety of cards offering solid travel insurance. Although you shouldn’t get a credit card for this feature alone, it can be a useful money-saving extra. Credit cards that offer travel insurance tend to have high annual fees, so keep this in mind when weighing whether or not you are likely to use the feature.

What is the best card for international travel?

Many credit cards are well suited for international travel. You want to make sure that the card has no foreign transaction fees . It also helps if the card’s points are suitable for the locations where you wish to travel. For instance, if you want to go to Asia, an airline card co-branded with a U.S.-based airline that doesn’t fly to Asia, like Southwest, will not help you.

How many miles do you need for a free flight?

The number of miles you need for a free flight depends on different factors, including which airline miles you are using, where you are flying to and from, when you are traveling and other factors. Most domestic airlines have ditched award charts, meaning the price in miles for any flight can vary even between flights on the same day.

Domestic flights in the U.S. will generally require fewer miles than international flights. Typically, count on spending between 5,000 and 20,000 miles for a domestic one-way flight in economy.

Long-haul international flights can cost quite a bit more. Plan on spending between 20,000 to 40,000 miles each way to fly to Europe in economy and even more for flights to Asia, Africa and Oceania.

Don’t forget to consider the cost of checked bags and fuel surcharges before booking your ticket. Flights booked with rewards are also often subject to government taxes and fees, which you’ll still be responsible for even when you redeem miles.

How much is a point or mile worth on travel credit cards?

Point values are as varied as the types of points themselves. Some cards’ points values are more straightforward because rates are somewhat tied to the cash prices. However, if a program uses an awards chart, the value of the point will vary widely depending on how you are redeeming it. In general, you’ll get the highest value per point on premium airline seats and luxury hotel stays.

What is the difference between points and miles on a credit card?

Points and miles are effectively the same, they’re just different names for the rewards earned on a particular credit card. Some credit cards offer points, some—particularly airline cards—offer miles. But the fundamental function is the same in that these rewards cards all earn a specified type of award currency based on your spending that can be used in various ways.

How should I inform my credit card company of upcoming travel?

Notifying your credit card issuer of your travel plans before you travel can help avoid denied transactions due to suspected fraud. An issuer’s system may flag a transaction as suspicious and prohibit a transaction if it suspects your card or card information has been stolen. For this reason, issuers typically make it fairly easy to notify you when you’re headed out of town. You can notify your issuer of your travels by calling the number on the back of your card or logging onto your card issuer’s website and finding the option to submit a travel notice.

Are travel cards with annual fees worth it?

Travel cards with annual fees can be worth paying for only if the extra rewards and benefits outweigh the added cost of the annual fee. Just because an annual-fee card earns more rewards and provides more benefit does not, however, make it more rewarding than a no-annual-fee card —the extra reward must exceed the amount of reward received from the best no-annual-fee option for you. The risk you take when paying an annual fee is that you won’t receive a benefit worth the annual fee, so be sure to carefully evaluate this risk before applying.

Do I have to tell my credit card company when I travel?

Most credit card issuers no longer require you to notify them before travel. In fact, Chase and some other companies have removed the travel notification tools from your online account or app. Card fraud alerts are more advanced now and legitimate transactions should post without incident.

However, you may want to be sure you have access to confirm whether or not something is suspected of fraud just in case—either by making sure your phone number has service abroad to respond to automated text messages or by downloading your card app in advance to manage your account.

Other Credit Cards To Be Considered

• Best Credit Cards Of 2024
• Best Airline Credit Cards
• Best Hotel Credit Cards
• Best Business Credit Cards for Travel
• Best No Annual Fee Travel Credit Cards
• Best Credit Card For Lounge Access

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express, Wyndham Rewards Earner® Card, Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® Card . The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

With more than 50 million redeemed miles under her belt, Becky Pokora is a rewards travel expert. She's been writing about credit cards and reward travel since 2011 with articles on Forbes Advisor, BoardingArea, The Points Guy and more. Her redemptions have helped her travel to more than 50 countries and all seven continents.

Yanely Espinal is the director of educational outreach for Next Gen Personal Finance, a nonprofit working to ensure that every high school student gets a full semester of personal finance education—including lessons in proper credit card usage—before graduation. She is often described as a ball of energy, with a gift for storytelling, and a passion for explaining credit cards and other financial concepts in a straightforward way.   While working as an elementary school teacher, Yanely decided to change her financial life by paying off $20,000 of debt in just 18 months. In 2015 she created MissBeHelpful, a YouTube channel and social media platform that now has over 5 million views, to help others learn the money skills she never learned in school. Some of her most popular videos on the channel include “5 Things to Consider When Applying for a Credit Card” and “When To Pay Your Credit Card Bill and Increase Your Credit Score.”   Her book, “Mind Your Money,” is an Amazon bestseller and was a Plutus Award finalist for Best New Personal Finance Book of 2023. She hosts Financially Inclined from Marketplace, a video podcast for teens about money lessons for living life your own way. Yanely is also a member of CNBC's Financial Wellness Advisory Council and an Advocate at the NGPF Mission 2030 Fund.  

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11 best cash-back credit cards of April 2024

If you’re looking to earn money back on your spending, check out our top picks for the best cash-back credit cards. For many, cash is king, and with the right cash-back credit card, you can earn rewards on every purchase. Each card on this list has been chosen for its great earning rates — from simple 2% flat-rate cash-back cards to those with optimized cash back on specialized spending categories.

No matter your typical spending habits, these cards can help you maximize your everyday purchases and earn rewards that are easy to use. Keep reading to learn more about some of the best cash-back credit cards on the market, chosen by our team of experts. 

Check out our curated selection and comprehensive guide on some of the best cash back cards from our partners below.

• Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express : Best for gas and supermarkets
• Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card : Best for freelancers
• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Best for simple cash-back
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best for bonus categories
• Capital One Spark Cash Plus : Best for business card with unlimited cash back
• Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best for flat-rate cash back
• Citi Double Cash® Card : Best for balance transfers
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best for entertainment cash back
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Best for beginner cash back
• Citi Custom Cash® Card : Best for flexibility
• Ink Business Cash® Credit Card : Best for small businesses

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Comparing the best credit cards, more details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly, how to maximize cash-back credit cards, helpful tools, how we rate cards, what is a cash-back credit card, how to choose the best cash back credit card, ask our experts, pros + cons of cash-back credit cards, frequently asked questions.

• No Annual Fee

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Preferred Card is one of the best cash-back credit cards on the market. You’ll get a great return across a wide range of bonus categories, a solid welcome bonus and a low annual fee. Read our full review of the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express .

• This card has one of the best earning structures out for among cash-back credit cards.
• The card comes with access to Amex Offers (activation required), which can save you even more money on specific purchases.
• There is a $6,000 spending cap on the U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may not work for those with large grocery budgets.
• You’ll have to pay a foreign transaction fee on international purchases, so it’s not a great choice when you’re traveling abroad.
• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.
• Terms Apply.
• See Rates & Fees

Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited’s sign-up bonus gives you a generous $750 cash back spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening plus unlimited 1.5% cash back on every business purchase. It fills in rewards gaps not covered by the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card and the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card. You can maximize this card by pairing it with cards including the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Ink Business Preferred. Read our full review of the Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card .

• No annual fee.
• A generous $750 cash-back sign-up bonus.
• High spend to receive sign-up bonus.
• No conversion to Chase points without holding the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred or Ink Business Preferred
• Earn $750 bonus cash back after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase made for your business
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
• Earn rewards faster with employee cards at no additional cost. Set individual spending limits for greater control.
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• 0% introductory APR for 12 months on purchases
• Member FDIC

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

The Wells Fargo Active Cash card delivers simplicity to cardholders who want to pay for their purchases without worrying if you’re maximizing every last dollar. With a 2% cash rewards rate, you’ll rest easy knowing that you’re earning bonus points whether you’re online shopping or paying your hairdresser. Plus, enjoy other benefits like cell phone protection and access to the Visa Signature Concierge luxury hotels. Read our full review of the Wells Fargo Active Cash .

• There’s no annual fee, meaning that you can keep your costs low while focusing on earning rewards.
• Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases — no bonus categories to track or remember.
• Get up to $600 in cell phone protection (with a $25 deductible) against covered damage or theft when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with this card.
• Don’t take this card abroad with you, as this card incurs a 3% foreign currency conversion fee.
• Other cash rewards cards can offer better welcome bonuses.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• $0 annual fee.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a surprisingly powerful card that earns at least 1.5% back on everything. However, it becomes a standout card if you pair it with a card that earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points, doubling their potential value. Read our full review of the Chase Freedom Unlimited .

• At least 1.5% back on every purchase, with up to 5% or 3% back on select categories.
• There is no annual fee - Perfect for everyday, non-bonused spending - incredible value when paired with a premium Chase card.
• There is a foreign transaction fee so the card shouldn't be used abroad.
• Limited card perks and benefits.
• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.

Capital One Spark Cash Plus

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus is a business cash-back card that offers 2% on all purchases. If your business spends more than $7,500 annually and doesn’t want to keep up with multiple bonus categories, this is the perfect card for you. Read our full  review of the Capital One Spark Cash Plus credit card.

• Unlimited 2% on all purchases.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• $150 annual fee.
• Earn a one-time cash bonus of $1,200 once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months
• Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
• Comes with no preset spending limit, so it can adapt to your needs based on your spending behavior, payment history and credit profile
• Get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Add employee cards for free, and earn unlimited 2% cash back from their purchases
• $150 annual fee
• Spark Cash Plus has no APR because your balance is due in full every month

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a decent option for those in need of a straightforward cash back card. However, there are other options that offer more flexibility to redeem your rewards. Read our full  review of the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card .

• Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
• Cash back doesn't expire.
• Other cards offer more potential and upside when it comes to redeeming cash back.
• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Citi Double Cash® Card

The Citi Double Cash Card caters to beginners establishing good credit habits, since users will earn 2% cash back; 1% when they buy and 1% when they pay their statement. The Citi Double Cash is a great pick for those looking for the utmost simplicity and want cash back in their pocket. Read our full review of the Citi Double Cash here .

• Earning 2% back on every purchase is an industry-leading return on everyday spending for a no-annual-fee credit card.
• Now that you have the ability to convert rewards to ThankYou points with an eligible card, your redemption options are even more flexible.
• It’s great for those looking to consolidate debt, since it offers new cardmembers 18 months of 0% intro APR on balance transfers made. After that, the variable APR of 19.24% - 29.24% applies.
• Those looking to make a balance transfer will have to pay 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
• Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
• Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
• If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One SavorOne is a great cash-back credit card for beginners looking for a solid cash back structure and no annual fee. Dining, entertainment and groceries are high-value bonus categories, and it’s rare for a card to hit all three. Read our full  review of the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card .

• Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
• This card is great for beginners.
• The intro APR offer that comes with this card makes it a solid choice for those looking to finance a large purchase. You’ll get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after, there's a 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months or 4% at a promotional APR offered at any other time).
• If you spend a lot on dining and entertainment each year, there are cards that provide better value with higher rewards potential.
• The sign-up bonus isn’t anything to write home about (though it is easy to earn).
• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
• No foreign transaction fee
• No annual fee

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

The Blue Cash Everyday card is a good option for people who want a simple cash-back structure with no annual fee. You'll earn bonus cash-back on popular bonus categories, including U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. Read our full review of the Blue Cash Everyday card .

• 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets
• 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases.
• Amex Offers, which earn you statement credits or extra points on purchases with a wide variety of merchants. (Enrollment required)
• There is a $6,000 spending cap on the U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may not work for those with larger annual grocery spend.
• You’ll have to pay a foreign transaction fee on purchases abroad, so it’s not a great choice to take with you when traveling outside of the U.S.
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.

Citi Custom Cash® Card

The Citi Custom Cash is the most flexible cash-back card on the market, allowing you to earn 5% back on your top eligible spend category on up to $500 spent each billing cycle. Read our full review of the Citi Custom Cash .

• Choice of bonus category.
• Cap on bonus earning.
• Foreign transaction fees.
• 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.
• No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
• Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.

Ink Business Cash® Credit Card

The Chase Ink Business Cash is an excellent no annual fee card for small business owners. Cardholders can earn 5% cash back on office supplies and select utilities, as well as 2% cash back at restaurants and gas stations. Read our full review of the Ink Business Cash Credit Card .

• The current sign-up bonus on this card is an impressive up to $750.
• There is no annual fee which is perfect for small business owners.
• You’ll earn 5% at office supply stores and on common monthly bills such as internet, cable and phone services. Plus, you’ll earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year.
• 5% and 2% cash back earned on certain categories is capped at the first $25,000 you make in combined purchases each account anniversary year.
• Earn $350 when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months and an additional $400 when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months after account opening
• Earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year
• Earn 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at gas stations and restaurants each account anniversary year. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
• 10% Business Relationship Bonus If you have the Ink Business Cash card plus a Chase Business Checking account on your first card anniversary
• Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel and more through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

It has bonus categories that match the spending patterns of many busy, modern-day U.S. households. Its rewards are simple to use, as they come in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout, so you don’t need a lot of experience maximizing rewards to make the most of this solid cash-back card.

Families that spend a fair amount on groceries and streaming services and who want to keep their rewards simple will do great with adding the Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card. For example, if you spend an average of $500 a month on groceries at U.S. supermarkets, you’d earn $360 per year by putting that expense on the Amex Blue Cash Preferred Card, versus just $120 in rewards on a card that earns 2% back in that category.

It should not be used by frequent international travelers while abroad as it does have a 2.7% foreign transaction fee ( see rates and fees ).

"The Blue Cash Preferred Card is the card I recommended to my parents when they were looking for a new cash-back rewards card for their groceries. My parents prefer the simplicity of cash-back rewards and I knew they'd benefit from earning 6% cash back on up to $6,000 per year in purchases at U.S. supermarkets (then 1% after). Compared to the 1.5% cash back they were earning on these purchases, the elevated earnings easily justified adding the Blue Cash Preferred to their wallet." —  Katie Genter , senior writer

If you want to earn bonus cash back on purchases at U.S. supermarkets and gas stations without an annual fee (see rates and fees ), you can instead look to The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express , which awards bonus cash back in many of the same categories.

If you’re looking for ease of earning on all your purchases — or a card that earns well on purchases that don’t fall into bonus categories with other credit cards — the Ink Business Unlimited card is a clear winner. Freelancers and independent contractors love the ability to earn 1.5% back on all purchases, pay no annual fee and even combine the points they earn with Chase Ultimate Rewards from other eligible Chase credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. Plus, there are no earning limits on this card.

There are two types of business owners who will benefit from this card. The first is the person looking for a card with a lucrative earning structure but no annual fee. The second is someone who needs a card for those “other” expenses that fall outside the bonus categories offered by other rewards cards in their wallet. This is an ideal card for everyday business expenses.

“I have the Chase Ink Business trilogy — the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card, Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card and Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card. The first two cards maximize my points-earning on things like office supply, internet and phone purchases, while the Ink Unlimited covers everything else with a flat 1.5% earn rate. The fact that I have the Ink Preferred means I can convert my cash back from the Ink Unlimited into more valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points. This no-annual-fee card will stay in my wallet for years to come.” — Matt Moffitt , senior credit cards editor

If you’re looking for a card that rewards you based on your banking relationship, the Bank of America® Business Advantage Unlimited Cash Rewards Mastercard® credit card earns 1.5% back on all purchases. Those with banking and investment accounts at Bank of America can bump their earning rate up to 2.625% on all purchases thanks to Bank of America Preferred Rewards for Business .

Sometimes simplicity is key, and keeping things easy is the name of the game for the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see rates and fees ), which provides 2% cash rewards on purchases without an annual fee. As a nice value-added bonus, the card also provides up to $600 in cellphone protection against damage or theft (subject to a $25 deductible) if you pay your monthly cellphone bill with your Active Cash card.

The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card is best for those who don’t want to give a second thought to earning rewards and just want to pick up some easy cash back on everyday purchases.

“This card offers a generous 15 months of 0% APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers (then a variable APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% applies) and 2% cash rewards. When the time came to pay my daughter’s preschool tuition, I got the card. I figured I could split the expense up monthly and pay a service fee to the school, or I could spread it out with the introductory APR and get 2% cash rewards. It was a no brainer for me!” — Eileen Sullivan, senior UX researcher

  If you want the ability to turn your rewards into travel miles or points down the road, consider the Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees ), which also has no annual fee and awards 1% back as you charge purchases to the card and another 1% back as you pay off those purchases. However, with the Citi Double Cash, if you add a more premium card, such as the Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ), to your wallet down the line, you can convert those rewards to more valuable Citi ThankYou points.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited is one of the most popular no-annual-fee cards at TPG because it has a good mix of elevated everyday earning and bonus categories that go as high as 5%. But perhaps even better is that the Chase Freedom Unlimited can be paired with a premium Chase credit card, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve®, to amp up the value of the rewards when used for travel. In fact, it makes up one-third of what we call the Chase Trifecta .

This card is unique in that it’s a great match for those new to credit card rewards and those looking to squeeze all possible value out of every dollar charged. This makes it a good match for almost anyone, but especially for those who want to one day use some of their rewards for travel.

“ The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a great option, especially for anyone with a card like the Sapphire Preferred or Sapphire Reserve. It has solid bonus categories but also gives 1.5% back on all other purchases. And, if you have a higher-end Chase card, you can effectively convert these cash-back earnings into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you like the idea of a no-annual-fee card in the Chase credit card ecosystem but want even more bonus categories, check out the Chase Freedom Flex℠ , which has unique, rotating 5% bonus categories (up to $1,500 in total spending each quarter, activation required).

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus is a business card that offers 2% cash-back rewards on all eligible purchases with no limits. It is a charge card, which means the balance must be paid in full each month — but you won’t rack up interest charges for your purchases.

This card is best suited for business owners with thousands of dollars in chargeable expenses since it does have an annual fee of $150 (see rates and fees ). To recoup that cost in rewards, you’ll need to charge at least $7,500 throughout the year on the card.

You can earn unlimited cash back on business expenses, which means you’ll never have to worry about juggling different bonus categories to maximize its value.

If your business wants to earn 2% cash back but doesn’t charge more than $50,000 per year, then The American Express Blue Business Cash™ Card is a great option to consider because it does not have an annual fee (see rates and fees ), though the rewards-earning power drops to 1% per year after the $50,000 threshold has been passed.

The Quicksilver Cash Rewards card is a no-fuss card with a 1.5% cash-back rate no matter the purchase type. You won’t have to worry about paying foreign transaction fees or an annual fee with this card (see rates and fees ), and you’ll get access to many Capital One benefits. This includes access to the Capital One Travel site, which even allows you to get some fare purchase protection on eligible flights if the price drops.

This card is great for those who occasionally travel and want access to some related Uber and travel site perks that come with the card — all while still keeping their rewards strategy very simple.

“ This is my oldest credit card, but I’ve kept it open for more than just its history to aid my credit score. With no annual fee and a fair earning structure, it’s a good option for purchases that don’t fall into bonus categories on my other credit cards. I’m happy knowing I’ll never earn less than 1.5% back on spending.” — Ryan Smith , credit cards writer

While there are some perks to having a Capital One-issued card in your wallet, if what you’re after is a higher earning structure on your purchases, you can check out the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see rates and fees ), which awards 2% cash rewards on purchases and still has no annual fee.

One of the simplest and most rewarding cash-back cards out there is the Citi Double Cash Card. It awards 1% cash back when you buy and then another 1% as you pay off your bill. You can even convert the cash back to ThankYou points via a linked ThankYou card, such as the Citi Prestige® Card or Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ). 

The information for the Citi Prestige has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

This card is best for two groups of people: those who want to keep rewards lucrative but simple, earning 1% cash back as you buy things and 1% cash back as you pay them off, and those who want to ramp up rewards-earning by converting these rewards to Citi ThankYou points, which TPG values at 1.8 cents each .

"I wasn’t the biggest fan of this card previously, thinking it was just average, but I am a big fan now that it earns Citi ThankYou points. Paired with my other Citi cards, it unlocks huge earning potential on everyday spending. The fact it has no annual fee means it’s a long-term keeper for me.” — Ryan Smith , credit cards writer

If you want an even simpler rewards-earning structure, also with no annual fee, check out the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see rates and fees ), which earns 2% back in cash rewards on purchases.

The Capital One SavorOne is the card to have for going out, eating out and seeing the latest concert — all with no annual fee (see rates and fees ). To put numbers to it, this card awards 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other eligible purchases.

This card is for those who like to live life to its fullest by being out and about and who will make use of its unique combination of bonus categories — not to mention the card’s occasional must-have concert presale access so you can swiftly lock up that hot ticket.

It’s easily the best no-annual-fee credit card for dining, entertainment and streaming. Whether you’re going out for the night or staying in, this card ensures your maximizing rewards.

If you want a Capital One card with a higher everyday earning rate (but without the category bonuses), look into the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card , which also has no annual fee (see rates and fees ) but awards 1.5% cash back on everyday purchases.

Those newer to credit card rewards will appreciate the Blue Cash Everyday’s no annual fee (see rates and fees ) and simple cash-back structure. With popular 3% bonus categories of U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and U.S. online retail purchases (on up to $6,000 in annual purchases in each category, then 1%), you’ll quickly rack up Reward Dollars that can easily be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.

If you want no annual fee and some popular bonus categories, then the Blue Cash Everyday Card may well be the best card for you. Additionally, if you are a fan of the streaming Disney+ service, know that the card comes with a $7 statement credit monthly toward a subscription to the Disney Bundle (subscription must be $12.99 or more; subject to auto-renewal).

"I added this card to my wallet shortly after my first travel card as a way to earn better rewards on gas and groceries. 3% back on both categories was a great way for me to earn higher cash-back on many of my everyday purchases without any added annual fee.” — Jack Markham, senior director

If you don’t want to think about bonus categories, or don’t spend enough in these particular bonus categories, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (see rates and fees ), which awards 2% cash rewards on purchases with no annual fee.

As the name suggests, the Citi Custom Cash card is meant to be customized to fit your lifestyle — without you having to remember to select a bonus category each month. It earns 5% cash back on up to $500 in purchases each billing cycle on your top spending category (then 1%). The 10 eligible categories include things like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, gyms and home improvement stores.

This card is best for those who have spending patterns that vary and want a card that can keep up. Maybe one month you splurge on concert tickets and the next you are cooking meals at home and leaning into grocery shopping — this card can adjust automatically to reward you where you are spending the most.

Customizable rewards means you have more control over your rewards strategy and can build a card that is personalized for your specific needs.

If you don’t typically have one standout spending category and want a card that earns more cash back across the board, the Citi Double Cash® Card (see rates and fees ) is a great choice, as it awards 1% back as you spend and another 1% back as you pay.

The Ink Business Cash is one of the most rewarding business cash-back cards , as it earns 5% back on the first $25,000 spent each account anniversary year at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services.

If that’s not enough of a reason to grab the no-annual-fee card, it also usually has a very lucrative welcome bonus and earns 2% on the first $25,000 spent each same account anniversary year at gas stations and restaurants, and 1% on all other eligible purchases.

The Ink Business Cash is great for small-business owners who want to dip their toes into the Chase Ultimate Rewards world, since you can turn those cash-back rewards into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points if you also have the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card.

“I love this card for awarding 5% back on my telecommunication services and office supply purchases, all with no annual fee. But my favorite perk is taking those cash-back rewards and combining them with my earnings from the Chase Sapphire Reserve. This means I’m effectively earning 5 fully-transferable Ultimate Rewards points for every dollar I spend in these categories — which I then can transfer to valuable partners like World of Hyatt and Air Canada Aeroplan.” — Nick Ewen , director of content

If you want the benefits of being in the Chase Ultimate Rewards ecosystem and aren't a fan of keeping track of bonus categories, look at the Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card , which also has no annual fee and awards 1.5% back on all purchases with no limits.

Activate your bonus categories

If your cash-back credit card requires you to activate or select your bonus categories, make sure you set a reminder to do that so you don't leave valuable rewards on the table. This is most common with cards that have rotating bonus categories or the option to select your own bonus categories.

Consider multiple cash-back cards

After you have identified your major spending categories, you will be able to choose a cash back card that offers the most rewards for your spending . For example, if groceries are a major expense , consider a card that offers elevated earning rates on these purchases. On the other hand, if you’re a foodie and dine out frequently, aim for a card with bonus cash back at restaurants.

Then, in order to maximize your cash-back rewards , consider getting a card with a flat-rate earning structure. A handful of popular cards offer 2% cash back on all purchases, allowing you to fill in the spending gaps where your other cards don’t have an elevated earning rate.

Just be sure to pay attention to foreign transaction fees , as many popular cash-back cards tack on up to 3% when you swipe them outside the U.S. 

Stack your rewards

But don’t just settle for the rewards you earn by swiping your card. Another way to maximize your cash-back cards is by using them alongside cash-back apps and online shopping portals . Many popular sites like Rakuten give users bonus rewards on qualifying purchases, and this can be stacked with the cash back you earn by using your credit card. 

In addition, the major credit card issuers offer discounts or bonus rewards with targeted promotions on your spending — including Amex Offers , Chase Offers and Citi Merchant Offers . By activating these offers ahead of your shopping trips, you can increase your card’s cash-back potential and maximize your rewards.

• Awards vs cash calculator Compare the cost in points or miles to cash.
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A cash-back credit card awards you cash – or a cash-like reward – for every dollar charged to the card. For example, if the card awarded 2% back on all purchases and you made a $100 purchase on the card, you’d earn $2 cash back.

Some cash-back credit cards offer a fixed amount rewarded back across all purchase categories, such as in the example above, while others award different percentages back in the form of rewards on various types of spending, such as dining or groceries.

Earned cash back is often awarded in the form of a statement credit. However, it may also be available for deposit into your bank account or via a check. In some cases, cash-like rewards can be cashed out for gift cards or other travel and merchandise items at a fixed rate similar to the value you’d get if you opted for a statement credit.

Cash back vs travel credit cards

The cash back vs points debate is a common credit card contention. Some credit cards reward you with airline miles, hotel points or flexible travel points that can be used in different ways to book that next trip. Sometimes, the points earned by those cards are worth a fixed value (1 cent per point, for example). In other cases, the value of the points may vary based on how you use them.

However, with cash-back credit cards, you are earning a cash equivalent reward . The benefit of this is that you can have more flexibility when it comes to using the rewards. The downside is that you likely won’t get an outsized return for your spending the way you would if you redeemed hotel points or airline miles.

How do cash-back credit cards work?

When you charge a purchase to your cash-back credit card, you earn rewards based on the percentage of cash back your card awards in that purchase category . You are then able to cash out your rewards via options such as a statement credit, a check, a deposit in your checking account, etc.

Types of cash-back credit cards

Cash-back credit cards are a great way to earn on your spending . Luckily, there are many types of cash-back credit cards which means there is a good fit for any wallet.

The simplest cash-back credit cards are the ones that earn the same percentage of cash back on all purchases. This flat rate is often 1.5% to 2% cash back on all purchases, though that amount occasionally goes higher with some credit cards, especially if you have a qualifying existing relationship with the issuing bank. At TPG, we recommend at least a 2% cash back credit card if you're looking for a cash-back card.

Many cash-back credit cards offer different amounts of cash back on various categories or purchases. 

For example, a card may award:

• 1% back on everyday spending.
• 2% back at gas stations.
• 3% back on dining and at grocery stores.

This means that tiered cash-back cards often make it so you earn a little less on a broader everyday spending category than you would with some other cards, but you’ll earn a higher amount back in some targeted spending categories. 

A few cash-back credit cards award a fixed amount of cash back for everyday spending but also offer as much as 5% cash back for bonus categories that alternate every quarter.

For example, the bonus categories in the first quarter of the year might be restaurants and streaming services before switching to grocery stores and Amazon purchases in the second quarter of the year. In some cases, you have to remember to activate the bonus categories each quarter in order to be eligible for the increased earnings. There is typically a cap on how much you can earn in cash back on those rotating categories per quarter. 

There are some cash-back credit cards that put the cardholder in the driver seat and let them choose the categories that earn bonus cash back. With some of these cards, you make the selections yourself. One of the largest cash back credit card mistakes is not selecting the right category to earn the most on your spending. Others automatically give bonus cash back in the eligible category you spent the most in within a billing cycle.

While most cash-back credit cards are available to anyone who meets their approval requirements, a few deem it necessary to have a specific membership in order to be a cardholder. This may include having a membership to a warehouse store, a specific bank or credit union, or another entity.

Some stores will offer a co-branded store card with an elevated cash back rate. Choosing between a credit card or store card will mostly be dictated by your spending but we generally recommend a general cash back card over a co-branded store card.

Common cash-back bonus categories

Some cash-back cards offer an elevated earning rate on select spending categories. This is known as a bonus category and some common ones include:

• Restaurant dining
• Gas stations
• Entertainment and streaming
• Travel including rideshares, trains, buses and more

The best way to get the most out of your cash-back card is to look for one that offers bonus earnings on your most common spending category.

• 1 Sign-up bonus While cash back credit cards don’t typically offer larger sign-up bonuses, they do usually provide the chance to earn a couple hundred dollars. There are exceptions to this which is ideal since you can choose which card from our roster is best for you.
• 2 Annual fee The good news is that almost all of the cash back cards on this list don’t come with an annual fee. The better news is that of the cards requiring the cardholder to pay an annual fee, most of these options are sub-$200.
• 3 Bonus categories The best cash back card for you will depend heavily on your preferred bonus categories. If you spend a lot on groceries, dining out or streaming services, opt for a card that will provide cash back every time you use it to make a purchase in one or more of your main categories.

What's your favorite cash-back card — and why?

• Using cash-back credit cards responsibly can help you build your credit score.
• Cash-back credit cards can help you save money on every dollar you spend.
• Cash-back credit cards can provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
• Rewards from cash-back credit cards don’t require advanced knowledge to redeem.
• Cash-back credit cards can encourage overspending.
• Carrying a balance and using your cash-back card irresponsibly can damage your credit score.
• The cost of borrowing on cash-back credit cards is higher than traditional loans.
• Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score.
• Using cash-back credit cards may sacrifice the potential for more valuable travel rewards.

If you can earn 2% cash back on all your purchases made with a no-annual-fee credit card that you otherwise weren’t earning rewards on, then having a cash-back card is certainly worth it … as long as you pay your balance off in full each month to avoid interest charges. Even if you only earn 2% back on $1,000 in monthly charges, that is still $240 in annual rewards you otherwise wouldn’t have had.

Know, though, that whether a cash-back credit card is the absolute best option for you ultimately depends on your spending patterns and the goals you have for your credit card rewards.

Credit card issuers don’t want their cards to just sit in your wallet and collect dust. They want you to use them frequently so they can make money off of interchange fees charged to the retailers and potential interest fees. Having the card provide you a reward for using it in the form of cash back is a way for the card issuer to encourage you to select that card over the others in your wallet when it comes time to make a purchase.

There isn’t one credit card that gives the most cash back in all areas. Some have rotating or fixed bonus categories that provide as much as 6% cash back, while others give around 2% cash back for all spending categories. The one that will result in the most cash back for you depends on your spending patterns and what other cards you already have in your wallet.

Typically, cash-back rewards do not expire as long as your card remains open and in good standing. However, you should check the terms and conditions of your specific cash-back card to know the circumstances under which your cash-back rewards could expire or otherwise be forfeited. Be sure to utilize or cash out the rewards you’ve accrued before closing your account.

While you should always consult an accountant for specific tax advice, rewards earned from purchases on your credit cards usually are not taxable, as they are considered purchase rebates. That said, if you get cash back from something other than a purchase (such as for referring a friend to the card), that may be considered taxable.

Essentially, yes. No one from the bank is likely to walk up and hand you some crisp bills after using your cash-back credit card, but you will earn cash back in the form of a statement credit, a deposit in your bank account, a check or another method.

The Best Cash-Back Travel Rewards Cards

By Eric Rosen

Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. We don't review or include all companies, or all available products. Moreover, the editorial content on this page was not provided by any of the companies mentioned, and has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are entirely those of Condé Nast Traveler's editorial team.

UPDATE: Welcome offers for the cards listed below may be out of date. Confirm the current welcome offers on each card issuer's site.

Travel rewards credit cards come in many forms: Some are co-branded with a specific airline or hotel chain , while others accrue points that can be transferred to travel partners through the issuer’s own loyalty program , like Chase Ultimate Rewards. And then there's a third type: One that earns fixed-rate points that can be redeemed for cash back on travel and other purchases.

That third type is especially useful for consumers who don’t have the time or inclination to search for airline and hotel awards, and just want to earn a solid return on their spending. What’s more, fixed-value cash-back points are more versatile than airline miles and hotel points—you can use them on a wider range of travel expenses than standard travel rewards cards, like car rentals, train tickets, and campground fees.

Here are the top nine rewards credit cards for earning cash back towards travel, and why each is especially useful.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Earning and cash-back value: The Venture Rewards card earns two miles per dollar on every purchase, but five miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Each mile can be redeemed for statement credits toward travel purchases such as airline or train tickets, hotel rooms, car rentals, taxis and cruises, or retail gift cards at a rate of one cent apiece, so your return on spending is a sterling two percent.

Annual fee: $95

Sign-up bonus: 50,000 bonus miles (worth $500) when you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months.

Why it’s worth considering: In addition to redeeming miles for cash back, cardholders can also transfer their miles at a rate of two Capital One miles to 1-1.5 airline miles to 15 airline partners such as Air Canada, JetBlue, and Singapore Airlines. Capital One waives foreign transaction fees and will reimburse you for a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application once every four years. Beware, though: While travel and gift card redemption rates are one cent per mile, if you redeem miles for statement credits toward other purchases, such as a restaurant bill or a grocery tab, you only get a half-cent in value.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Earning and cash-back value: Cardholders earn 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases and 10 miles per dollar on Hotels.com bookings through January 2020. Miles can be redeemed at one cent apiece toward travel and gift cards.

Annual fee: $0

Sign-up bonus: 20,000 bonus miles (worth $200) when you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first three months.

Why it’s worth considering: If you're looking for a CapitalOne card, the VentureOne is a great no-fee alternative to the Venture. It still has a solid rate of return and waives foreign transaction fees. Stick to travel and gift-card redemptions since you only get half the value by redeeming for other purchases.

Chase Freedom Unlimited

Earning and cash-back value: Cardholders earn 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases, plus five points per dollar on travel purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal and three points per dollar on drugstore purchases and dining. Points can then be redeemed at a rate of one cent apiece for travel or any other purchase.

Why it’s worth considering: A potential first-year return on spending of 3% for a card with no annual fee is reason enough to apply. And if you have the Chase Sapphire Preferred or the Chase Sapphire Reserve too, you can combine your cash-back points with the ones you earn with them. That means the ability to transfer your points to the Ultimate Rewards program’s airline and hotel partners like Southwest and United, or get a better rate of return on your cash-back redemptions for travel bookings made through the Chase travel site (1.25 cents per point with the Preferred and 1.5 cents with the Reserve).

Learn more about applying for the Chase Freedom Unlimited here .

Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite Mastercard

Earning and cash-back value: This card earns two miles per dollar on all purchases. Miles can be redeemed for a broad array of travel expenses, including airline tickets and hotel stays, but also taxes and fees on tickets, incidental charges like room service, as well as purchases like cruises, train fares , and car rentals. The redemption rate is one cent per mile but you get a 5% mileage refund, so your return on spending is more like 2.1%.

Annual fee: $89, waived the first year.

Sign-up bonus: Usually 50,000 miles (worth $500) after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days. However, it was recently as high as 70,000 miles after spending $5,000 in the first 90 days.

Why it’s worth considering: the Barclaycard Arrival Plus is a top choice for international travel since it waives foreign transaction fees and has Chip + PIN capability, making it more compatible with machines in other countries. Its World Elite Mastercard benefits include a $10 credit for every five Lyft rides taken each calendar month, and $5 off Postmates orders of $25 or more.

Learn more about applying for the Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite Mastercard here .

Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card

Earning and cash-back value: This card earns two points per dollar on travel purchases and 1.5 points per dollar on everything else. Depending on how much you have in deposits with Bank of America and Merrill Lynch through their Preferred Rewards banking tiers, you can boost your earnings 25% to 75%. ( Read more about the terms on Bank of America's website, here. ) Points can then be redeemed for cash back as a statement credit, for gift cards or purchases through the Bank of America Travel Center, or as a deposit to a Bank of America account—all at a rate of one cent apiece. That means your rate of return could be as high as 3.5%, depending on your purchases and deposits.

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Sign-up bonus: 50,000 bonus points (worth $500) after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days.

Why it’s worth considering: In addition to waived foreign transaction fees, cardholders can enjoy $100 in statement credits for airline incidentals like checked bags or upgrades each year, and a reimbursement of up to $100 for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck applications once every four years.

Learn more about applying for the Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card here .

SunTrust Travel Rewards Credit Card

Earning and cash-back value: This card’s earning structure includes unlimited 3% cash back on travel purchases, 2% back on dining, and 1% on everything else.

Sign-up bonus: $250 statement credit after making $3,000 in qualifying purchases in the first three months.

Why it’s worth considering: Waived foreign transaction fees, a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application reimbursement every five years, and the ease of redeeming points for simple cash back are all reasons to get the SunTrust Travel Rewards card.

Learn more about applying for the SunTrust Travel Rewards Credit Card here .

Citi Rewards+

Earning and cash-back value: Cardholders earn two points per dollar at supermarkets and gas stations for the first $6,000 per year, and one point per dollar on everything else. Plus, your earnings are rounded up to the nearest 10 points on each purchase—so if you spend a dollar, you still earn 10 points. Those points are worth one cent apiece when redeemed for gift cards, cash back, or travel booked through ThankYou.com. Plus, you get 10% of your points back on the first 100,000 you redeem each year.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 15,000 points (worth $150) after spending $1,000 in the first three months.

Why we love it: Depending where you spend money, the Citi Rewards card can be a top earner thanks not only to its category bonuses, but also that rounding-up feature. If you have a more premium Citi card that earns ThankYou points , like the Prestige, you can also transfer the points you earn with this one to the program’s 15 airline partners, including Air France/KLM, JetBlue, and Virgin Atlantic.

Learn more about applying for the Citi Rewards+ Card here .

Discover it Miles

Earning and cash-back value: Earn an unlimited 1.5 miles per dollar on all purchases, which can be redeemed for one cent apiece for travel or for cash as a direct deposit to your bank account. Your final return on spending: 1.5%.

Sign-up bonus: Discover will match the miles you earn at the end of your first year, which effectively gives you a 3% return on spending for your first year.

Why it’s worth considering: No annual fee, a great rate of return, and a simple earning/redeeming formula that applies to all purchases—not just travel—make the Discover it Miles card a no-brainer. Discover typically isn't accepted as broadly as Visa and Mastercard, though.

Learn more about applying for the Discover it Miles Card here .

U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card

Earning and cash-back value: Earn three points per dollar on travel and mobile wallet purchases, and one point per dollar on everything else. Cardholders can redeem points for 1.5 cents apiece on airfare, hotels, and car rentals (or lower values for other purchases). If used mostly for travel, your rate of return is a considerable 4.5%.

Annual fee: $400

Sign-up bonus: Earn 50,000 points (worth $750 toward travel) after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days.

Why it’s worth considering: The annual fee is high, but in return, cardholders enjoy $325 in travel statement credits annually, 12 complimentary Gogo in-flight Wi-Fi passes each year, a 12-month Priority Pass Select membership for airport lounge access , reimbursement for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application every four years, and waived foreign transaction fees.

Learn more about applying for the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card here .

Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

This story was originally published in July 2019. It has since been updated with new information.

Many companies featured on Money advertise with us. Opinions are our own, but compensation and in-depth research may determine where and how companies appear. Learn more about how we make money.

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https://money.com/best-travel-credit-card/

14 Best Travel Credit Cards of April 2024

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• How Do You Know If You Passed a Background Check?

Best Travel Cards Main Takeaways

• Money has evaluated hundreds of credit cards, comparing their fees, benefits, welcome offers, travel insurance policies and more.
• The top credit cards for travel offer high rewards on travel purchases, which can be redeemed for airfare, hotel nights, cash back, statement credits or more.
• Our picks feature the best travel cards for every budget and include no-annual-fee , low-annual-fee , premium and business cards .

Why Trust Us?

Our editorial team has spent well over a thousand hours analyzing, evaluating and comparing the top credit card offers in the market. We carefully vet each card’s fine print in order to understand their features, limitations and potential benefits for consumers. We review cards independently, ensuring our content is accurate and guided by editorial integrity. Read our full methodology to learn more.

• 46 travel credit cards evaluated
• 10+ data points used, including ongoing fees, reward programs and welcome offers
• 100+ sources reviewed

Get up to $120 every year in dining credits ($10 per month) for select restaurants and food delivery services. (Enrollment required. Terms apply.)

(Click here for rates and fees.)

4x points at restaurants worldwide (plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.), 3x on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

Offers a statement credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, includes travel accident and car rental insurance and allows you to transfer your miles to more than 15 airline and hotel partners.

5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One's travel portal, 2x miles per dollar on all eligible purchases

Offers a high flat cash back rate on most purchases plus several popular bonus categories, including travel and dining.

5% back on travel booked through Chase Travel℠

Each account anniversary year, you’ll earn a point bonus equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.

5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 2x on other travel purchases

Receive up to $300 back as statement credits for travel-related purchases

10x points on hotel bookings made through Chase Travel℠, 5x points on flights purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x points on dining and other travel purchases (after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually)

Includes access to over a thousand airport lounges worldwide and several annual credits, like up to $200 in statement credits to cover incidental travel fees. (Terms apply.)

5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel and 5x points on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com.

Money.com has partnered with CardRatings.com for our coverage of credit card products. Money and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. This site does not include all card companies or all available card offers. O ur top picks are listed strictly in alphabetical order.

Our Top Picks for Best Travel Credit Cards

Best no-annual-fee travel credit cards.

• Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card - Best no-annual-fee travel card for flat rate rewards
• Bilt Mastercard® - Best no-annual-fee travel card for paying rent
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card - Best no-annual-fee card for travel partners
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® - Best no-annual-fee travel card for domestic travel
• Discover it® Miles - Best no-annual-fee travel card for simple rewards
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card - Best no-annual-fee travel card for everyday spending

Best low-annual-fee travel credit cards

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card - High flat-rate rewards
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card - High rewards earning potential with flexible redemption options

Best premium travel credit cards

• American Express® Gold Card - High rewards for foodies
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card - Low cost premium travel card with high-end perks
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® - High reward earning potential and premium travel perks
• The Platinum Card® from American Express - Airport lounge access and luxury perks

Best business travel credit cards

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express - Airport lounge access and luxury perks

Best airline travel credit cards

• United℠ Explorer Card: Best airline credit card

Best Travel Credit Cards Reviews

Our top picks are listed in alphabetical order.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

Best no-annual-fee travel card for flat rate rewards: bank of america® travel rewards credit card.

• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Earns 1.5x points on all purchases
• No bonus category for travel
• Few benefits compared to other cards
• Limited redemption options

Why we chose it: The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is an easy-to-use card best suited for travel reward beginners or those who are already Bank of America customers.

Some cardholders can earn up to 75% more points if they are Bank of America Preferred Rewards members — that's up to 2.62 points for every dollar spent.

However, the card doesn't offer hotel and airline point transfer partners, travel insurance or extended warranty and purchase protection. Additionally, you can only redeem your points as statement credit to cover travel and dining purchases.

All information about Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card has been collected independently by Money.com

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Card for Paying Rent: Bilt Mastercard®

• No annual or foreign currency conversion fee (Click here for rates and fees)
• Use it to pay your rent and earn rewards without incurring any processing fees
• You can earn double points on all purchase categories (except rent payments) on the first of every month (up to 10,000 points)
• Earn 2x points on travel (when booked directly through an airline, hotels, car rental agencies and cruise lines)
• No welcome bonus or introductory APR period
• Points redeemed for statement credits are worth 0.55 cents each
• You must make at least five transactions in a statement period to earn points
• Rent payments can only be made to one rental property per month

Why we chose it: The Bilt Mastercard® lets you earn travel rewards on rent payments without incurring any processing fees — unlike most credit cards that typically charge around 2.5% to 2.9% per rent payment.

You can use the card to pay rent without worrying about surcharges. Once you get approved for the card, all you have to do is set up an account through the Bilt app or website and use your assigned routing and account number to pay rent through your usual payment portal. You can also use your card even if your landlord only accepts checks, and Bilt will send a check on your behalf.

Additionally, Bilt doubles the card’s rewards rates on the first of every month, which means you can earn 6x points on dining, 4x points on travel and 2x points on other purchases (up to 10,000 points per month). However, this bonus doesn't apply to rent rewards.

On the downside, the Bilt Mastercard® doesn't offer a welcome bonus, and points redeemed for statement credits are only worth 0.55 cents each.

Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Travel Partners: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Can transfer your miles to 16 travel partners
• Earns 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Doesn’t earn bonus points on airfare
• No domestic travel partners

Why we chose it: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great option if you’re looking for a no-annual fee travel credit card with a simple rewards structure.

You can use your miles to book travel through the Capital One Travel portal or as a statement credit to cover travel purchases made from airlines, hotels, rail lines, car rental agencies and more.

You can also transfer your points to one of Capital One's 16 travel partners, which include international airlines such as Avianca and British Airways. This option is notable since travel credit cards with no annual fee don't typically offer the option to transfer your reward to airline and hotel partners.

However, the card's list of bonus categories is limited compared to some other no-annual-fee credit cards, and Capital One doesn't offer bonus points on airfare booked through Capital One Travel.

Best No-Annual Fee Travel Card for Domestic Travel: Chase Freedom Unlimited®

• Includes trip cancellation/interruption and car rental insurance
• Features a high flat cash back rate combined and popular bonus categories
• 3% foreign transaction fee

Why we chose it: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is the best credit card for traveling domestically. It offers a 1.5% flat cash back rate on most purchases plus it has several appealing bonus categories, including travel and dining.

This card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, that is, on any transactions made in currency other than US dollars. However, if you mostly travel within the U.S., this card is an excellent option.

For one, you’ll earn an additional 1.5% on each of the card’s bonus categories during the first year of card membership (or up to the first $20,000 spent).

Also, although using this card abroad is not recommended, you can still use it to book international trips while you’re home, and you’ll earn 5% cash back if you book it through Chase Travel℠.

You can redeem your rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and even transfer them to other cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points. It's also worth noting that this card is one of the few no-annual-fee credit cards with rental car coverage and trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Card for Simple Rewards: Discover it® Miles

• No annual or foreign transaction fees
• Discover matches the total miles you earned at the end of the first year
• Earns 1.5x miles on all purchases
• See your FICO score on the Discover mobile app, online and on statements
• Few benefits compared to other travel cards
• Doesn’t include extended warranty or purchase protection

Why we chose it: The Discover it® Miles is a no-frills card ideal for travelers who don’t want to keep track of bonus categories, earning caps or redemption values.

The card earns a flat 1.5x miles on all eligible purchases without any annual caps. You can redeem your miles for statement credits and account deposits at a rate of 1 cent per mile. You can also use your rewards through Amazon and PayPal checkout with the same value.

Also, the card’s welcome bonus is easily one of the best in the market: Discover matches every mile you've earned at the end of your first membership year — without any spending requirements.

However, while the Discover it® Miles is a great starter travel card, its lack of bonus categories could hinder your reward-earning potential in the long run. Additionally, Discover cards aren’t as widely accepted internationally as Visa Signature and World Mastercard, for example.

All information about the Discover it® Miles has been collected independently by Money.com.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Card for Everyday Spending: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

• Earn 3x points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, select streaming services and cell phone plans
• Includes cell phone protection plan
• No airline or hotel transfer partners
• Doesn’t include travel insurance
• Netflix and HBO are not eligible for streaming bonus

Why we chose it: The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is the best travel reward card for everyday spending, offering high rewards on several popular spending categories, including travel, dining, gas, streaming services and cell phone plans.

Its travel bonus category is particularly noteworthy because you can earn points regardless of where you make your reservations, whether it’s directly with an airline or through a third-party travel site like Booking.com. (Most travel credit cards limit travel rewards to bookings made exclusively through the card issuer's travel portal.)

The card also includes rental car insurance and a cell phone protection plan when you use it to pay your monthly bill.

All information about the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card has been collected independently by Money.com.

Best Low-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

High flat-rate rewards: capital one venture rewards credit card.

• Earn 2x miles per dollar on most purchases
• Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Includes travel accident and car rental insurance
• Fewer bonus categories than other cards with a similar annual fee ($95)
• Doesn’t offer travel rewards for flights
• Car rental insurance is secondary

Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent card for everyday spending, offering a higher base reward than most travel credit cards.

The Capital One Venture Rewards is ideal for those who want to get the most out of their spending without worrying about tracking bonus categories and spending caps.

You can redeem your miles on the Capital One travel portal and as statement credits to cover travel purchases at a value of one cent per mile. Additionally, you may transfer your miles to more than 15 airline and hotel partners. However, keep in mind that Capital One doesn’t have domestic travel partners, which can be a drawback if you mainly travel within the U.S.

High Rewards Earning Potential with Flexible Redemption Options: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

• Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel purchases through Chase Travel℠
• Receive a point bonus each account anniversary
• Includes primary rental car insurance
• Earn 3x per $1 on dining, including eligible delivery and takeout meals, select streaming services and grocery purchases
• $95 annual fee
• Doesn't offer a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® application fee credit

Why we chose this card: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best travel credit card for frequent travelers who want to earn valuable rewards while paying a low annual fee.

The card features six reward categories that offer outstanding rewards on flights, hotels, restaurants and more. You can redeem your points for statement credits, account deposits, gift cards and more. But you can get the most bang for your buck by redeeming them for travel purchases through the Chase Travel℠ portal, which increases your point’s usual one-cent value by 25%.

You can redeem your points for statement credits, account deposits, gift cards and more. But you can get the most bang for your buck by redeeming them for travel purchases through Chase Travel℠, which increases your point’s usual one-cent value by 25%.

You can also transfer your points to one of Chase's 14 travel partners at a 1:1 ratio (one Chase point equals one hotel point or airline mile). These include popular airlines and hotels like JetBlue, Southwest, United, Marriott and Hyatt.

Best Premium Travel Credit Cards

High rewards for foodies: american express® gold card.

• Earns 4x points on restaurants worldwide, takeout and food delivery within the U.S.
• Up to $120 in annual dining credits, issued as a $10 statement credit per month for select restaurants (enrollment required)
• Up to $120 as Uber Cash annually ($10 per month) for food delivery orders and rides in the U.S. after you add the American Express® Gold Card to your Uber account
• Earn 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x)
• High annual fee ($250)
• Includes few travel perks and insurance policies compared to similarly priced cards

Terms apply. Please click here for applicable rates and fees.

Why we chose it: The American Express® Gold Card is ideal for foodies, offering a high reward rate at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, takeout and food delivery. (Terms apply.)

The American Express® Gold Card also offers statement credits worth up to $240 combined — almost enough to offset the card's $250 annual fee. These include:

• Up to $120 every year in dining credits ($10 per month) for select restaurants and food delivery services. The list includes Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and Shake Shack (Enrollment required)
• Automatically get $10 monthly in Uber Cash to use on Uber Eats or Uber rides in the U.S. (after you add the American Express® Gold Card to your account)
• $100 credit for dining, spa services and other activities when you book a two-night minimum stay at a hotel from The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel
• Terms apply

However, note that the American Express® Gold Card offers fewer travel perks than some other premium cards — for instance, it doesn’t offer trip cancellation and interruption insurance or TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR® Plus fee credits.

High Reward Earning Potential and Premium Travel Perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• Up to $300 in statement credits each anniversary year to cover travel purchases
• Transfer your points to 14 travel partners (including United, Southwest, JetBlue and Marriott)
• Points worth 50% more when redeemed for travel expenses through Chase Travel℠
• Comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including emergency dental insurance
• High annual fee ($550)
• Doesn’t include a cell phone protection plan

Why we chose it: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is the best credit card for travelers looking for a high reward rate on travel and additional benefits like comprehensive travel insurance and airport lounge access worldwide.

Your points are worth 50% more when you redeem them for travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal. This means each point is worth 1.5 cents per point instead of one cent, like most travel cards. Also, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® provides several high-end benefits such as:

• $300 annual travel credit to cover travel-related purchases like airfare, hotels, car rentals, rideshares, buses, trains, tolls and/or parking
• Access for you and two guests to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide (after a one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select)
• Statement credit of up to $100 every four years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or Nexus

The Sapphire Reserve does have a $550 annual fee. But if you take advantage of the $300 annual credit and other perks, the benefits can definitely outweigh its cost.

Low Cost Premium Travel Card with High-End Perks: Capital One Venture X Rewards

• 10,000 bonus miles every year
• Statement credit of up to $300 for bookings made through Capital One Travel
• Up to a $100 credit on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Skip the line and get car upgrades when renting a car with Hertz
• High annual fee ($395)
• Fewer bonus categories than other premium cards
• No domestic airline transfer partners

Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the best credit card for travel miles if you want to earn a high reward rate and not worry about bonus categories.

The Capital One Venture X also includes noteworthy perks such as:

• 10,000 bonus miles every year (starting on your first anniversary)
• $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
• Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges worldwide with Priority Pass™ and Plaza Premium Group
• Authorized users at no extra cost (many cards have an annual fee of $75 or more for each additional user)

All in all, the Venture X is a solid option that can easily compete with other premium travel cards, especially considering its more affordable annual fee.

Airport Lounge Access and Luxury Perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

• Access to the widest network of airport lounges of any card
• Complimentary elite status in the Marriott and Hilton hotel loyalty programs
• Hundreds of dollars in annual statement credits for travel, dining and more
• High annual fee ($695)
• Doesn’t include baggage delay, travel accident and primary rental car insurance
• Limited bonus categories

Terms apply. Click here for rates and fees.

Why we chose this card: The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a list of premium benefits that no other travel card offers, including the widest network of airport lounges and room upgrades at Hilton and Marriott hotels. (Terms apply.)

The Platinum Card® from American Express features an impressive list of high-end travel benefits, including:

• Complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges, including Priority Pass, Delta SkyClub and Amex's own Centurion lounges (enrollment required)
• Gold status in the Marriott and Hilton loyalty programs, which makes you eligible for room upgrades, free breakfast and late checkouts (enrollment required)
• $200 back each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings made through American Express Travel and paid with your Platinum Card® (Hotel Collection bookings require a minimum two-night stay)
• Up to $200 per year when incidental fees, such as checked bags, are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card® (with one selected qualifying airline)
• Complimentary premium status in Avis Preferred®, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®, and/or National Car Rental® Emerald Club (must enroll through your Amex online account using your card)

The Platinum Card® from American Express does have a hefty $695 annual fee. However, for people who travel often and will take advantage of its annual credits and travel perks, it might almost pay for itself.

Best Business Travel Credit Cards

Airport lounge access and luxury perks: the business platinum card® from american express.

• 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• Around $1,000 in yearly statement credits for select business purchases
• Access to a wide network of airport lounges (terms apply)
• Around $600 in perks in Fine Hotels + Resorts® locations booked through American Express Travel (for stays of two nights)
• Secondary rental car coverage**

Why we chose it: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express features an extensive list of benefits that make it an ideal travel and business credit card.

With this card, you can access over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, comprehensive travel insurance and extra amenities at hundreds of hotels, like daily breakfast and free internet access. Additionally, you get a $200 credit to cover baggage fees, in-flight refreshments and more and up to $100 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck® every four or 4.5 years respectively. (Terms apply.) (Enrollment required.)

The card also offers several yearly statement credits for business-related purchases that include up to $400 per year ($200 between January and June and $200 between July and December) for U.S. purchases with Dell.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express does have one of the steepest annual fees ($695) among travel credit cards, but its extensive list of benefits makes it a no-brainer for business owners who travel frequently.

Best Airline Travel Credit Cards

Best airline credit card: united℠ explorer card.

• Free first checked bag for you and a companion
• Up to $100 as a statement credit for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS every 4 year
• 25% back as a statement credit on food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights
• Complimentary priority boarding for you and companions traveling on the same reservation
• $95 annual fee (after the first year)
• No intro APR period
• Rewards are only valuable when used with United

Why we chose it: The card_name has a low annual fee and gives you valuable benefits that make up for it, such as priority boarding for everyone on the reservation and a free checked bag for you and one companion.

Other perks the card includes are:

• Two one-time passes for United Club℠ airport lounges each account anniversary year
• 25% back as a statement credit on in-flight purchases like food, beverages and Wi-Fi
• Up to $100 every four years to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry or NEXUS
• Comprehensive travel insurance (auto rental collision damage waiver, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, trip cancellation/interruption insurance and trip delay reimbursement)

The United℠ Explorer Card earns miles on United purchases, including tickets, inflight food, beverages, Wi-Fi and more. You also earn rewards at restaurants and select hotel stays.

You can use your miles to book flights on United Airlines or its partners, including Avianca, Lufthansa and Air Canada. You can also redeem them for seat upgrades, inflight Wi-Fi passes and more — although United miles are usually more valuable when used for airfare.

Compare The Best Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards guide.

The best credit cards for travel do more than offer high reward rates on flights and hotel stays. They also provide rewards for everyday spending and perks such as travel insurance , airport lounge access and annual statement credits.

Bear in mind, however, that premium travel credit cards often also feature high annual fees. And their rewards are often worth the most when redeemed through a card issuer's travel portal.

Here's a rundown of how these cards work:

What is a travel credit card?

Travel credit cards (or travel rewards credit cards) typically provide generous rewards for travel purchases and let cardmembers redeem points (or miles) for travel bookings. They may also let you redeem points for statement credits, cash back, gift cards and more.

Besides travel, these cards usually also offer other bonus reward categories, such dining, gas and drugstores. Many also include additional benefits, like airport lounge access, hotel discounts, travel accident insurance, no foreign transaction fees and more.

Bonus categories, redemption options and benefits vary widely across card issuers. However, you can generally expect cards with higher annual fees to offer more perks. For example, premium cards with annual fees over $400 often feature hundreds of dollars in statement credits (money credited to your card’s outstanding balance) to cover travel or food purchases.

How do travel credit cards work?

Like other reward cards, travel credit cards give you a certain number of points (or miles) per dollar on eligible purchases. However, what makes these cards different from others is their high reward rate for travel-related purchases.

Travel credit cards often offer around 5x points or more for airfare, hotel rooms, rental cars and more. Some cards may also count parking, bus fares, taxis, tolls and ferries as travel purchases.

Besides travel, you'll typically get bonus points on specific spending categories, like 3x per dollar on dining, groceries, drugstores or streaming services. All other eligible purchases get at least one point (1x) per dollar.

You can then redeem your points for flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises and more. Card issuers also usually let you redeem your points for non-travel options like statement credits, cash back or gift cards.

How much are credit card points worth?

In most cases, credit card points are worth one cent each. However, some issuers increase their value if you redeem them for travel. For example, points earned with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card have a 1.25-cent value when you book flights through the Chase Travel portal.

But point values may also decrease depending on how you choose to redeem them. For example, some cards let cardholders use points when shopping through Amazon or Paypal. While this might sound convenient, this option may bring down the value of points to around 0.8 cents.

How to use credit card points for travel

In most cases, credit card points are worth one cent each. However, some issuers increase their value if you redeem them for travel. For example, points earned with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card have a 1.25-cent value when you book flights through the Chase Travel℠ portal.

Once you're ready to redeem your points, head to your travel card's reward program portal. The process may differ across credit card issuers, but you'll usually be able to access it through your online account on the website or app.

Most reward programs will let you book flights and hotel rooms. Some will also allow you to redeem your points for car rentals, cruises, tourist attractions and more.

Sometimes, you'll have the option to transfer your points to airline or hotel loyalty programs. Not all reward programs allow this, but if they do, it's usually at a 1:1 ratio — meaning 1,000 credit card points are worth 1,000 points in the travel partner program.

Note that, if you're missing some points to cover your trip, you'll often have the chance to pay the remainder with cash.

Difference between points and miles

Travel credit cards usually earn rewards as points. But some card issuers, like Capital One, call their rewards "miles" instead of "points" — even though they can be redeemed the same way as points.

Cards that earn miles are often (but not always) tied to a specific airline. Additionally, bear in mind that the term "mile" doesn't refer to miles traveled with the airline. One airline mile is usually the equivalent of one reward point, which you can redeem for free flights, seat upgrades and more.

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

• Some cards offer up to 10x points per dollar on travel purchases.
• Many have additional bonus categories for dining, grocery shopping and more.
• They may include travel benefits like priority boarding, airport lounge access and late hotel checkouts.
• Points or miles can also be redeemed for cash back, statement credits, gift cards and more.
• Highest reward rates are usually limited to purchases made through the card issuer's travel portal.
• They might not offer high rewards on spending outside of the travel category.
• Some of the best ones can have steep annual fees and require good to excellent credit
• Redeeming points or miles for anything other than travel can reduce their value to less than one cent per dollar.

Types of travel credit cards

Here’s a rundown of the differences between the three main types of travel credit cards:

Airline credit cards

Airline credit cards are ideal for people who fly with the same airline regularly. These cards earn miles that you can use with one specific airline, and their rewards (called frequent flyer miles) are redeemable for airfare. Some of the best airline travel credit cards include benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding and discounts on in-flight purchases.

Hotel credit cards

Hotel credit cards are similar to airline cards. Points earned can only be used with one particular hotel chain.

For example, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card earns points for Hilton's loyalty program. Points can be redeemed for free nights in the company’s properties, including Hilton Garden Inn and Waldorf Astoria hotels. The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card, on the other hand, includes room upgrades and late checkouts on select locations.

Other benefits may include discount rates, late checkouts or free in-room Wi-Fi.

Hotel credit cards may also offer complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, late checkouts and bonus points for purchases made during your stay.

General travel credit card

General travel credit cards are much more flexible and convenient than airline or hotel cards. Since they aren't affiliated with a single airline or hotel chain, general travel card points can be redeemed for a wide variety of travel-related expenses.

These cards allow cardholders to book flights, hotel stays, rental cars and more from different companies using your card issuer's online travel portal. Other ways to use card points include statement credits, cash back or gift cards. Some issuers also let you transfer points to airline and hotel partners.

These cards may offer handy perks for frequent travelers, like airport lounge access. They can also cover the cost of a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership, which allows you to skip the long lines at airport security or customs.

How to choose a travel credit card

Picking the best travel rewards credit card boils down to how often you travel, which cardmember perks you'd benefit the most from and the categories you spend the most on.

Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing the best card for you:

Do you travel often? A travel rewards credit card offers high reward rates on most travel-related spending, and you’ll get the most bang for your buck when you use their points on flights, hotels and car rentals. If you don't take trips often but want to pile up rewards, a cash-back credit card might be a better fit.

Assess your everyday spending. Many travel cards have additional bonus categories other than travel, like dining, supermarkets, streaming services and drugstores. Consider your day-to-day spending habits and pick a card with bonus categories that fit your lifestyle.

Consider the card's annual fees. There are several no-annual-fee travel cards available, but they usually have few bonus categories and benefits. The best travel credit cards charge annual fees of at least $90 and can go as high as $700. However, these are often best for those that travel enough to take advantage of their benefits.

General travel card vs co-branded cards. General travel cards have more flexible redemption options, allowing you to redeem your rewards for bookings with multiple travel companies. On the other hand, co-branded cards are often tied to a specific airline or hotel, which can limit your options. However, they do provide valuable perks like free checked bags, in-flight discounts and hotel upgrades.

Compare extra travel perks. Some cards offer extras like annual statement credits for flights and hotels or upgrades when renting cars. Take the time to compare each card's roster of add-ons and pick one that will best suit your travel plans.

Compare insurance policies. The best credit card travel benefits include insurance policies that cover travel accidents, rental cars, trip cancellations and more. These policies can vary widely based on the issuer and the card's annual-fee tier.

Beware foreign transaction fees. Most travel credit cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees. Some cash-back cards may offer outstanding rewards for travel purchases but charge around 3% fees on purchases outside the U.S.

A welcome bonus shouldn't be the end-all, be-all perk. A 100,000-point welcome bonus can be enticing. However, it shouldn't be your deciding factor, especially if you'll end up paying a high annual fee without getting your money's worth.

How get the most out of your travel credit card

To get the most out of your travel credit card, you need to use it as often and strategically as possible. This way, you can earn points or miles with each purchase, which you can then redeem for free or discounted flights, hotels and more.

Use your travel card to pay most of your purchases and bills and then pay your card off in full each month. This will help you earn points while avoiding interest charges and high credit card debt , which can impact your credit score.

Here are some other tips to maximize your rewards and benefits:

• Consider adding an authorized user to your account. They’ll earn points with every purchase they make, and those will get added to your overall total. However, make sure to pick someone who will use the card responsibly since you'll be legally liable if they ever fail to pay their monthly bills.
• Redeem your rewards for travel through the card issuer's website. This redemption option usually offers the highest value compared to gift cards or merchandise, for example.
• If your card offers travel protections (like travel accident or luggage insurance), use it to pay for your passenger fares. This way, you could be reimbursed in the event of an accident or lost luggage, for example.
• Use your airline or hotel card to sign up for the company's frequent flyer or frequent guest loyalty program. You'll often earn extra points or miles when you're a member and use your co-branded card to pay for flights, hotel stays and more.
• If your travel card lets you combine points from multiple cards under one account, take advantage of the feature. For example, if you have a Chase Sapphire Preferred®, you can transfer points to it from other cards (if they also earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points). This way, you can accumulate extra points and increase their value to 1.25 cents apiece if you make travel reservations through the Chase Travel℠ portal.

Best Travel Credit Cards FAQs

What is the best travel credit card, what is the best credit card for international travel, how to travel for free with credit cards, what is the best credit card for travel miles, what is a welcome bonus on a credit card, how we chose the best travel credit cards.

We ranked the best credit cards for travel based on their annual fees, benefits, reward rates and redemption flexibility.

Fees: We compared interest rates and foreign, cash advance and balance transfer fees for more than 50 credit cards. We also considered their annual fee, looking for those that offered the most for the money.

Ongoing benefits: Intro APR and bonus offers are attractive, but they can only get you so far. We focused on cards with year-round benefits such as travel insurance or cell phone protection plans.

Reward rates: We preferred cards that allow you to earn extra points from travel expenses, as well as those that provide significant bonus rewards in popular spending categories, like dining, supermarkets or streaming services.

Redemption flexibility: Our picks don’t limit your redemption options to just travel. Some let you use your points for Amazon purchases, for example. We also preferred issuers that allowed cardholders to transfer their points to airline and hotel partners.

Summary of Money’s Best Travel Credit Cards of April 2024

Money.com has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Money.com and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

To see rates and fees for the American Express® Gold Card, visit this link . Terms apply.

To see rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express, visit this link . Terms apply.

To see rates and fees for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, visit this link . Terms apply.

* Insurance disclosures for American Express Cards on this page:

Trip Delay Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Baggage Insurance Plan: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Global Assist Hotline: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

Extended Warranty, Purchase Protection, Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

** Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

*** Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $50,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

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15 Best cash back credit cards for May 2024

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Steven Dashiell is an editor for Bankrate and CreditCards.com with expertise in rewards credit cards, financial literacy, and helping consumers build and maintain their credit.

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Nouri Zarrugh is a writer and editor for CreditCards.com and Bankrate,  focusing on product news, guides and reviews. His areas of expertise include credit card strategy, rewards programs, point valuation and credit scores, and his stories on building credit have been cited by Mic.com, LifeHacker, People.com and more. Through his thorough card reviews and product comparisons, Nouri strives to demystify personal finance topics and credit card terms and conditions to help readers save money and protect their credit score.

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Jason Steele is a professional journalist and credit card expert who has been contributing to online publications since 2008. He was one of the original contributors to The Points Guy, and his work has been appearing there since 2011. He has also contributed to over 100 of the leading personal finance and travel outlets.

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Cash back credit cards earn a small percentage of your purchases back, redeemable in the form of statement credits, gift cards, direct deposits or more. Many of these cards earn cash back on eligible categories automatically, with some requiring quarterly activations to achieve the highest rate. The best cash back cards on the market offer high cash back rates and flexible reward categories, letting you earn anywhere from 1 percent to 6 percent cash back on common spending items, including travel, groceries, gas and more. Here are the best cash back cards on the market for May 2024.

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Best Cash Back Credit Cards of May 2024

• Best for flat-rate 2 percent cash rewards: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
• Best for dining:  Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Best for online shopping: Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
• Best for rotating categories: Discover it® Cash Back
• Best for everyday spending:  Citi Double Cash® Card
• Best for quarterly customizable categories:  TD Cash Credit Card
• Best for groceries:  Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
• Best for drugstore and dining purchases:  Chase Freedom Unlimited®
• Best for flat-rate cash back:  TD Double Up SM  Credit Card
• Best for customizable 3 percent category: Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card
• Best for stacking: Citi Custom Cash® Card
• Best for 1.5 percent cash back:  Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Best for Bank of America customers: Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Best for low APR: USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Best for personal loan alternative: Upgrade Cash Rewards Elite Visa®

Additional options:

Best retail card: Capital One Walmart Rewards Mastercard

What is a cash back credit card?

• Tips on choosing the best cash back card for you
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Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.

Intro offer

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

Rewards rate

Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

Regular APR

• 2% Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

What we love: If you’d rather not keep up with bonus categories or track spending, this card should be a great fit. It offers the simplicity of unlimited 2 percent cash rewards on purchases and also comes with one of the most generous intro APR offers available on a rewards card. This combo should give it terrific long-term value even after you pay off debt. Learn more: Is the Wells Fargo Active Cash worth it? Alternatives: The Citi Double Cash® Card is the card’s closest competitor and offers a similar cash back rate after you make and pay off a purchase. However, it may be a more flexible option than the Active Cash since you can pool rewards across multiple Citi cards to maximize your earnings.

• This card offers one of the highest flat cash rewards rates available for a no-annual-fee card.
• In addition to a lengthy intro APR, you can also take advantage of varied redemption options like redeeming cash rewards at a Wells Fargo ATM.
• The intro balance transfer fee will jump from 3 percent to up to 5 percent after the first 120 days from account opening (min: $5).
• The 3 percent foreign currency conversion fee could eat into cash rewards if you use this card abroad.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• $0 annual fee.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening

8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply) 3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®) 1% Cash Back on all other purchases

• 8% 8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• 5% 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
• 3% 3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
• 1% 1% Cash Back on all other purchases

What we love: This card earns a solid cash back rate whether you’re out on the town, cooking at home or ordering in, so restaurant-goers, grocery shoppers and even social butterflies can find something to love. The sign-up bonus is competitive, too, offering a nice chunk of change with a relatively small spending requirement. Learn more: Is the Capital One SavorOne worth it? Alternatives: Other cards may earn more in specific categories, including the Citi Custom Cash® Card , which offers 5 percent back on up to $500 in purchases each billing cycle in your top eligible spending category -  1% cash back thereafter (restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations and more).

• You can earn additional bonus rewards for purchases made through the Capital One Entertainment and Travel portals.
• It offers a solid rewards rate in a terrific mix of everyday bonus categories, making it ideal as a standalone rewards card.
• Beware of redeeming cash rewards on Amazon.com, as there is a list of restricted items you can’t use rewards on.
• Its ongoing APR is on the high side and could prove pricey if you tend to carry a balance.
• Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
• Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• No foreign transaction fee
• No annual fee

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.

3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%. 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%. 1% Cash Back on other purchases.

• 3% 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 1% 1% Cash Back on other purchases.

What we love:  This card not only rewards online purchases (a surprisingly hard-to-find bonus category), but also two of the average person’s biggest everyday spending categories — groceries and gas. This mix of categories makes it one of the most lucrative standalone cash back cards out there. Learn more: Is the Amex Blue Cash Everyday worth it? Alternatives: If you want a bit more flexibility in your categories, The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card lets you choose your own eligible bonus category each month, with options including online shopping, gas stations, travel and more. Plus, you’ll still earn bonus cash back year round at both grocery stores and wholesale clubs. 

• It offers one of the highest rewards rates you can get on groceries without paying an annual fee, making it a great choice for everyday spending.
• Any purchase classified as an online retail purchase by the merchant earns bonus cash back, so you aren’t limited to just a few online stores as you would be with co-branded cards.
• You can only redeem cash back as a statement credit. You won’t have the flexibility to redeem for travel or transfer to airline and hotel partners as you can with cards that earn Amex Membership Rewards.
• Its cash back rates fall short of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express , so that alternative may be more lucrative if you spend heavily on groceries — despite its annual fee.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
• Terms Apply.

Discover it® Cash Back

• Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.

• 5% Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
• 1% Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.

What we love: Its elevated rewards rates can be especially rewarding if you flex your spending to align with Discover’s boosted cash back categories each quarter (enrollment required, quarterly maximum applies). This makes it a good choice for deal hunters looking to maximize their earnings. Learn more: Is the Discover it Cash Back worth it? Alternatives: You may earn more with a flat-rate cash rewards card like the Citi Double Cash® Card or Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card without the hassle of activating new bonus categories each quarter.

• Discover matches the cash back you earn at the end of the first year — an offer that could be more valuable than the average no-annual-fee card bonus.
• Discover’s cash back calendar offers terrific variety, which could include a mix of everyday categories like groceries and extras like online shopping.
• You must enroll to take advantage of the bonus categories each quarter, so it’s not a great fit if you’re looking for simplicity.
• You’ll only earn a top rewards rate on your first $1,500 in spending each quarter, so it’s not ideal for large purchases or big spenders.
• Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
• Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
• No annual fee.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Citi Double Cash® Card

• Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.

• 1% Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time.
• 5% Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.

What we love: Ideal for hands-off reward earners, this card’s unlimited flat cash back rate makes it a perfect 'catch-all' option if you need a standalone, low-maintenance card. It’s also great for stacking with cards that earn at a higher rate in specific categories. Learn more: Is the Citi Double Cash Card worth it? Alternatives: If you need to make a large purchase and want to save on interest with an intro APR offer, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card . It earns the same flat-rate rewards on purchases but comes with a long intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers.

• If you pair this card with the Citi Premier® Card, you can transfer points to airline and hotel partners and potentially enjoy a higher redemption value.
• You don't have to keep track of spending category restrictions or rotating categories.
• You could earn more with a card that offers a higher rewards rate in your biggest spending categories.
• Its introductory APR offer only covers balance transfers — not purchases — so it won’t be of much help if you need to chip away at new spending.
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
• Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
• If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

TD Cash Credit Card

Earn $200 Cash Back when you spend $500 within 90 days after account opening

Earn 1% Cash Back - Earn 3% and 2% Cash Back

Earn 3% and 2% Cash Back on your choice of spend categories. Earn 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.

• Earn 3% and 2% Cash Back Earn 3% and 2% Cash Back on your choice of spend categories.
• Earn 1% Cash Back Earn 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.

What we love: Every quarter, you can pick your 3 percent and 2 percent bonus categories, which include travel, gas, grocery stores, dining and entertainment. Even better, the customizable categories earn unlimited cash back, so you can take full advantage of tailored, high cash back rates. Alternatives: The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card lets you change your customizable category every month, while the TD card lets you change it every quarter. Consider the Bank of America card if you’d like to change your categories as often as possible.

• The category choices and no spending caps make it possible to earn tons of cash back with this card.
• It has a decent sign-up bonus that provides upfront value to new cardholders.
• This card is only available in a handful of states and Washington, D.C., restricting applicants’ eligibility.
• The grocery category excludes wholesale clubs and superstores.
• Balance transfer offer: 0% introductory APR balance transfers for first 15 billing cycles after account opening. After that, 20.24%, 25.24% or 30.24% variable APR based on your creditworthiness.
• Bonus Cash Back: Earn $200 Cash Back when you spend $500 within 90 days after account opening
• Choose your top two spend categories to earn unlimited 3% and 2% Cash Back.
• Earn unlimited 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.
• Switch spend categories up to four times a year.
• Contactless Payments/Digital Wallet
• Instant credit card replacement
• Must be a resident of CT, DC, DE, FL, MA, MD, ME, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, SC, VA or VT.

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.

6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions. 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations 1% Cash Back on other purchases

• 6% 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more.
• 3% 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
• 1% 1% Cash Back on other purchases

What we love: This card offers one of the highest rewards rates you can get at U.S. supermarkets, making the annual fee more than worth it if you spend a lot on groceries. It’s the perfect choice for families who can offset the card’s annual fee with rewards and then some. Learn more: Is the Amex Blue Cash Preferred worth it? Alternatives: If groceries are your top spending category, the Citi Double Cash® Card could also earn a ton of cash back, without charging an annual fee. Pair it with another cash back card and you may score as much or more cash back on everyday essentials like gas and dining.

• It offers high rewards rates in a practical mix of everyday categories in addition to groceries, including gas and transit. That makes it a good choice if you’re focused on long-term value.
• You don’t have to keep track of rotating spending categories or enrollment deadlines.
• Purchases at wholesale clubs (like Costco), superstores (like Walmart), and specialty stores are excluded from the card’s U.S. supermarket bonus category and only earn 1 percent back.
• Since you can only redeem cash rewards as a statement credit, this card lacks the value and flexibility of some Amex cards that earn Membership Rewards.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.

Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service 1.5% on all other purchases

• 5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
• 3% 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service
• 1.5% 1.5% on all other purchases

What we love: This card earns elevated rates in multiple, common bonus categories that can make racking up cash back with everyday spending easy. Plus, its competitive intro APR offer and decent welcome bonus give this card great upfront value. Learn more: Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited worth it? Alternatives: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a good alternative if you want a card with a great flat rate on purchases. You won’t have to worry about bonus categories, and it comes with a solid intro APR offer. 

• This card earns an elevated flat rate and bonus rates in many categories, making it an ideal choice for a standalone cash back card.
• It has a solid APR offer available for a no-annual-fee card, making it a great choice to consolidate debt or make large purchases.
• You might want to explore premium cards if you want better travel benefits or higher welcome offers.
• Other no-annual-fee cards earn a higher flat cash back rate on purchases, which can be more useful if you won’t use the bonus categories on this card.
• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

TD Double Up Credit Card

• Bonus Cash Back: Earn $150 Cash Back in the form of a statement credit when you spend $1,000 within the first 90 days after account opening

2% Cash Back

• Earn unlimited 2% Cash Back on all eligible purchases
• 2% Cash Back Earn unlimited 2% Cash Back on all eligible purchases

What we love: With the TD Double Up Credit Card, you earn 2 percent cash back on all eligible purchases without restrictions like spending caps. Plus, you get access to a nice list of Visa benefits along with a decent welcome offer. Alternatives: If you want a stronger welcome offer as well as an intro APR offer on purchases, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card may be a better fit.

• Cardholders earn 2 percent cash back on all eligible purchases without spending caps or rotating categories.
• Automatically get cell phone protection when you pay your monthly phone bill with your Double Up card.
• The welcome offer is weak compared to other cash back cards’ offers.
• Balance transfers: 0% introductory APR balance transfers for first 15 billing cycles after account opening. After that, 20.24%, 25.24% or 30.24% variable APR based on your creditworthiness.
• No reward categories, no caps, no worries.
• Get Visa benefits like cell phone protection when you pay your monthly mobile bill with your card

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

• $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases). Earn automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases). Earn unlimited 1% on all other purchases.

• 3% Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases).
• 2% Earn automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases).
• 1% Earn unlimited 1% on all other purchases.

What we love: This card is a terrific choice for people who want flexibility in how they earn their rewards, as it’s one of the few that lets you change your highest-earning bonus category as often as once a month. It also offers a great mix of bonus categories, ranging from everyday staples like dining to unique options like home improvement stores. Learn more: Is the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card worth it? Alternatives: This card’s cash back limits may hold you back compared to other cards’ reward programs. Heavy spenders may earn more with a card that offers an unlimited flat rewards rate on all purchases, such as the Citi Double Cash® Card.

• You can swap your choice category once per calendar month to maximize rewards based on your spending habits.
• It’s one of the few cards that earns bonus rewards year round at both grocery stores and wholesale clubs (a hard-to-find bonus category).
• The spending cap on your highest earning categories could hamper your earning potential.
• It carries a high sign-up bonus spending requirement (twice as high as some rivals in the cash back card category).
• Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
• Choose 3% cash back on gas and EV charging station, online shopping/cable/internet/phone plan/streaming, dining, travel, drug store/pharmacy or home improvement/furnishing purchases.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
• No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.24% - 28.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

• 5% Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
• 4% Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.
• 1% Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

What we love: Since its bonus category automatically adjusts based on where you spend most, this card can be a great option if you want a simple rewards card to add to your rewards strategy stack. But by “simple,” we don’t mean low-value — this card has an excellent cash back rate in its automatic bonus category.    Learn more: Is the Citi Custom Cash worth it? Alternatives: Since you’ll only earn a top rewards rate in a single category each billing cycle, consider pairing this card with one that earns boosted rewards in several categories. For example, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card earns unlimited rewards on dining, entertainment, grocery stores and more.

• Since the card automatically earns rewards in your top eligible spending category each billing cycle, you won’t have to worry about strategizing to maximize rewards.
• It offers great flexibility thanks to its mix of everyday bonus categories like gas and groceries, plus extras like fitness clubs and live entertainment.
• You’ll only earn a top cash back rate on the first $500 you spend in one eligible category each billing cycle (1 percent after that), so this may not be the best standalone option if you’re looking to maximize rewards.
• The card’s sign-up bonus carries a much higher spending requirement than many competing offers.
• 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.
• No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
• No Annual Fee
• Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.

• Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day

• 5% Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
• 1.5% Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day

What we love: This card is a solid low-maintenance option if you’re just getting started earning cash back rewards. It also comes with a few enticing perks and benefits, including a solid welcome offer. Learn more: Is Capital One Quicksilver worth it?  Alternatives: If you spend most in a specific category like groceries or gas, consider cards that earn rewards at a higher rate in those categories, like the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card . That card even gives you the option to change your highest-earning cash back category once per calendar month.

• You can take advantage of perks like up to six months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits (through 11/14/2024) and a relatively long intro APR offer.
• The sign-up bonus has one of the lowest spending requirements around, so it's easy to attain.
• Other cards on the market offer a higher flat cash back rate, with several offering 2 percent back or more.
• A few no-annual-fee cash back cards offer longer intro APR periods on both purchases and balance transfers.
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn

Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
• 1.5% Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.

What we love: This card offers a solid mix of features, including an elevated cash rewards rate on all purchases. But if you qualify for the Platinum Tier or higher in Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards program, you can get a cash back boost that transforms the card into one of the most lucrative flat-rate rewards cards available. Learn more: Is the Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards worth it? Alternatives: If you don’t qualify for Bank of America’s boosted cash back rates, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card may be your best choice for earning flat-rate cash rewards on general spending.

• Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members can boost their cash rewards earnings by 25 to 75 percent, greatly increasing the card’s rewards potential.
• The card offers additional features with its intro APR on purchases and balance transfers.
• This card is light on benefits and perks compared to other cash back cards.
• The lowest tier for a boosted cash back rate requires at least a $20,000 average balance across qualifying accounts, which may be hard to reach for many people.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 1.87%-2.62% cash back on every purchase with Preferred Rewards.
• No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.

USAA Preferred Cash Rewards Credit Card

Intro offer is not available for this USAA credit card.

1.5% cash back

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on purchases, no category restrictions, no caps on cash back.
• 1.5% cash back Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on purchases, no category restrictions, no caps on cash back.

What we love: USAA members looking for simple, flat-rate rewards will find a lot to love with this card. It offers an unlimited flat rewards rate, straightforward redemption options, an intro APR on purchases and a chance at a low ongoing APR. Alternatives: Though this card comes with a few key perks like an intro purchase APR offer, its flat cash back rate isn’t the highest on the market. A card like the Citi Double Cash® Card could offer better long-term value since it earns 2 percent cash back on all purchases (1 percent when you buy and 1 percent when you pay off purchases).

• You don't have to worry about a complicated rewards program or rotating categories. A flat rewards rate makes earning cash back simple and straightforward.
• It charges no foreign transaction fees and comes with a few key travel protections, making it an especially great companion for USAA members who live or frequently travel abroad.
• Unlike many competing cash back cards, this card doesn’t offer a welcome bonus, limiting its short-term value.
• Several competing cash back cards offer a higher flat rewards rate — 2 percent back or higher — while still charging no annual fee.
• Must be a USAA member, or become a member, to apply. USAA proudly offers membership to current and former military, as well as their spouses and dependents.
• Intro Offer: Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. After this time, the variable regular APR of 17.15% to 31.15% will apply to these introductory balances.
• A fee of 5% of the amount of each balance transfer, cash advance and convenience check applies.
• Cash back rewards never expire.
• Redeem cash back your way, on your schedule.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• See Rates and Fees for details.

Upgrade Cash Rewards Elite Visa®

• $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking Plus account and making 3 debit card transactions*

Earn 2.2% unlimited cash back on card purchases every time you make a payment

• 2.2% Earn 2.2% unlimited cash back on card purchases every time you make a payment

What we love: This card combines the convenience of a credit card with the predictability of an installment loan, allowing you to earn rewards as you pay off purchases at a fixed interest rate. Plus, it carries one of the highest flat cash back rates you can get with no annual fee. Learn more: Is the Upgrade Cash Rewards Elite Visa worth it? Alternatives: You may want to consider a card that offers both cash back and an intro APR for new purchases. The Discover it® Cash Back is one great pick and would allow you to finance a large purchase while racking up rewards.

• Since there’s no annual fee, you won’t need to rely on reward earnings to offset card costs.
• You’ll earn a bonus after you open a Rewards Checking account and make three debit card transactions in your first 60 days.
• The high-end APR range is much higher than the average card APR and could prove costly if you end up carrying a balance.
• You won’t get a break on interest if you carry a balance since there are no intro APR offers on purchases or balance transfers.
• Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on card purchases every time you make a payment
• Combine the flexibility of a credit card with the predictability of a personal loan
• No touch payments with contactless technology built in
• See if you qualify in minutes without hurting your credit score
• Great for large purchases with predictable payments you can budget for
• Mobile app to access your account anytime, anywhere
• Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud liability
• Earn a $200 bonus after you open & fund a Rewards Checking Plus account & make 3 debit card transactions within 60 days. If you previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not do so as part of this process, you are not eligible. Payout made within 60 days of meeting the conditions.

Capital One Walmart Rewards® Mastercard®

*The information about the Capital One Walmart Rewards® Mastercard® has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.

Introductory offer: Earn 5% cash back on purchases in Walmart® stores for the first 12 months when you use your card with Walmart Pay

Earn 5% cash back on Walmart.com purchases, including pickup and delivery Earn 2% cash back on purchases in Walmart® stores, Murphy USA and Walmart® fuel stations 2% cash back on restaurants and travel purchases 1% cash back on all other purchases everywhere else Mastercard® is accepted

• 5% Earn 5% cash back on Walmart.com purchases, including pickup and delivery
• 2% Earn 2% cash back on purchases in Walmart® stores, Murphy USA and Walmart® fuel stations
• 2% 2% cash back on restaurants and travel purchases
• 1% 1% cash back on all other purchases everywhere else Mastercard® is accepted

This card offers a high rewards rate on pickup and delivery orders from Walmart, as well as an attractive welcome offer for in-store purchases through the Walmart Pay app. Though it doesn’t carry many extra perks, it’s a great choice if you’re an avid Walmart shopper. Alternatives : If you want the flexibility to earn rewards with any U.S. supermarket (excluding Walmart), consider the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express .

• Its welcome offer allows boosted rewards on in-store purchases, giving you the chance to earn as much as you would using the Walmart app for a short timeframe.
• On the lower end, its ongoing APR is lower than the current average credit card interest rate .
• For maximum rewards on most purchases, you must use the Walmart app, so if you aren't tech savvy, this card may not be a good fit.
• The card has limited long-term value because of its low flat rewards rate for all purchases and lack of noteworthy perks.

Compare Bankrate's top cash back credit cards

Cash back credit cards reward you for eligible purchases by giving you a percentage of your purchase price back. 

For example, if you have a credit card that earns 5 percent back on eligible purchases, and you make a $100 purchase , you’ll earn 5 dollars to your account. 

The flexibility, simplicity and ongoing value of cash back cards make them one of the more popular types of credit cards on the market. Chances are if you frequently spend on groceries , gas or other essentials, there's a cash back card that's a great fit for your wallet.

Pros and cons of using cash back credit cards

While cash back cards can put hundreds of dollars per year back into your wallet, they can also come with drawbacks. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of carrying a cash back card.

Earn rewards : If you pick a card that fits your spending habits, you can earn some extra cash every month just by using your credit card.

Build credit : Used responsibly, a cash back credit card can help you improve your credit score by adding to your credit history.

Many have no annual fee : If you choose a no-annual-fee card, you won’t have to worry about whether you’re coming out ahead with your cash back earnings (as long as you pay your bill in full each month).

Sign-up bonuses : A first-year sign-up bonus or welcome offer can be worth a few hundred dollars if you can meet the spending requirement.

Travel rewards can be more valuable : With cash back cards, you usually can’t score a particularly lucrative deal with your redemption, as you might when redeeming travel rewards points for a flight .

Higher APRs : Rewards cards typically come with higher interest rates, so carrying a balance can eat through any value you’d get via rewards. Some cards also hit you with a higher penalty APR if you are late making a payment, which can last a year or more.

Can be high maintenance : Some cards require you to periodically activate or enroll in your cash back category to earn cash back rewards.

Fewer travel perks : You might not see a ton of travel benefits on cash back cards, like lounge access, free hotel room upgrades or a TSA Precheck application statement credit.

Types of cash back credit card rewards

Cash back cards come in many forms. The best one for you depends on your spending habits and lifestyle. Before you apply, make sure you know the types of cash back cards available. 

Flat-rate cash back cards offer the same rewards rate for each eligible purchase. These cards are great for just about everyone - they’re simple to use and can rack up powerful cash back rewards on nearly every purchase.

Top examples include:

• Wells Fargo Active Cash Card 
• Citi Double Cash Card

Tiered cash back cards offer different rates of cash back for different types of purchases, plus a flat rate of cash back on everything else. For example, a tiered card may offer a boosted cash back rate of 3 percent on restaurant purchases, while all other purchases earn 1.5 percent cash back. To maximize your cash back earnings, use more than one tiered card that rewards your most common purchases at high rates.

• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express
• Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Rotating or customizable bonus categories

Some credit cards offer bonus categories that change based on your preferences, your spending habits or the time of year. One of these may be a superior rewards card option for people who don’t want to commit to specific bonus categories . Here are a few of the most common bonus category structures.

• Quarterly rotating bonus categories : These cards rotate or change bonus categories every quarter , and typically require you to enroll in or activate categories to receive the bonus rate.
• Choose your own category :  Some cards let you choose your cash back category every month, which is perfect for people who plan their spending.  
• Auto-optimizing bonus categories :  For maximizing rewards, these cards will do the work for you . Typically, the card will apply the bonus rate to purchases within your top eligible category at the end of each month.

Top examples include :

• Discover it® Cash Back: Quarterly rotating categories
• Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards: Choose your own category
• Citi Custom Cash® Card: Auto-optimizing bonus category 

Who they’re best for:

• Large families
• Savvy spenders

Membership-only cash back credit cards

Some of the most lucrative cash back credit cards require a paid membership. Co-branded credit cards with membership requirements generally let you earn rewards and extra perks at specific stores or service providers.

Some credit unions also offer cash back card options to their members. Since credit unions are controlled and financed by members themselves, these members will often reap the benefits of more favorable interest rates and fewer banking and penalty fees than a not-for-profit institution. Membership requirements vary by credit union.

• Prime Visa (requires an Amazon Prime membership, $139 a year)
• Costco Anywhere Visa Card by Citi (requires a Costco membership, at least $60 a year)
• Sam’s Club® Mastercard® (requires a Sam’s Club membership,  starting at $50 per year)
• Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card (requires Alliant Credit Union membership)
• Infrequent travelers
• Food lovers

Common categories on cash back credit cards

Cash back cards differ in the reward categories they offer, though there are a few common categories you can expect to find.

• Groceries:  This category usually covers a variety of types of items you can purchase at supermarkets. Many cards exclude purchases from superstores and warehouse stores. 
• Dining:  Most cards include most kinds of dining out at restaurants, though some also allow you to earn cash back on take out and delivery as well. 
• Gas:  Some cards allow you to earn cash back at any gas station, though some cobranded cards only allow you to earn at specified locations. 
• Travel:  This category can include a variety of travel methods. Airline and hotel purchases are the most common options. Some cards only award boosted cash back if you book travel through the issuer’s travel portal.  

Looking for a particular type of cash-back credit card?

For suggestions based on your spending habits, try Bankrate’s Spender Type Tool . Select the spender type that you most closely identify with and you’ll get card recommendations that may suit your spending habits.

Expert advice on how to use a cash back credit card

Cash back cards are one of the simplest reward credit cards available, but that doesn’t mean there’s no room for maximizing your potential value. Here are some tips from the experts at Bankrate on how to best use and choose a cash back credit card

How to choose a cash back credit card

Check your credit score.

This should be your starting point. Most of the best cash back credit cards require at least good credit .

Review your spending habits

Evaluate your expenses to determine which cards can reward you the most for your top spending categories. Be sure the places you shop most are eligible for rewards based on how each card defines its bonus categories.

Compare welcome offers

A card's sign-up bonus can add significantly to its short-term value. Make sure the spending requirement is fairly easy to reach, as carrying a balance will cut into your earnings.

Think about your cash back strategy

You’ll need to choose between flat-rate and bonus category credit cards. Flat-rate credit cards are a great option to earn consistent cash back on all purchases with minimal effort. Bonus category cash back cards can offer higher cash back rates but require strategic spending to maximize rewards.

Weigh the costs

Factor ongoing costs of keeping the card. For instance, you might decide a card's annual fee is worth it if you can offset the cost with rewards and perks. Interest rates and common credit card fees , like late charges and balance transfer fees, can also eat into your cash back earnings. 

Review the perks

Cash back cards may come with an assortment of perks that can add value to your wallet, such as statement credits on select subscription services. These perks can push one card’s value over another if you find them useful.

Maximizing your cash back cards

Here are some tips from Bankrate’s experts that can help ensure you’re getting as much cash back as possible with your credit card.

Don’t spend just to earn

It’s tempting to spend more than usual knowing that you’re getting some of that spending back. But overspending can result in a balance you can’t pay off in full. If you carry a balance instead of paying it off in full each month, you’ll lose the cash back you’ve earned (and then some) to interest. Paying monthly balances  on time and in full is a credit card best practice, no matter what type of card you’re carrying.

Enroll or activate your bonus categories each quarter

Rotating category cards typically require you to enroll in or activate your bonus cash back categories for the upcoming quarter to earn the  higher bonus rate . If you don’t, you’ll earn the standard rate and lose out on the additional value. 

Earn your welcome bonus

Welcome bonuses can deliver a substantial amount of value, and some cards are worth getting for the welcome bonus alone. Leaving this value on the table is a missed opportunity. Just make sure you won't have to overspend to meet the spending requirement.

Combine cards

A  combination of cards will allow you to maximize your cash back opportunities when making purchases. Pick cards that cover your major spending categories and at least one card that earns a high flat rate on all purchases: this lets you always earn the maximum amount of rewards on purchases.

Explore your card’s shopping portal

Many cash back cards offer shopping portals. These portals feature special cash back deals — like 5 percent back at a specific retailer for a limited time — that the card doesn’t normally have. Explore your issuer’s shopping portal and activate the offers to earn some extra cash back when you’re shopping.

What people are saying about cash back credit cards

There’s always something new and exciting happening in the cash back card space, and Bankrate likes to stay on top of what has people talking. 

Robinhood announcing its first credit card, the Robinhood Gold Card, has taken over much of the cash back card discussion this month, and it's easy to see why. The investment platform’s first credit card promises a flat 3 percent back on all purchases, a full 1 percent higher than the up to 2 percent rewards rate found on top flat-rate cash rewards cards like the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card (2% cash rewards on purchases) and Citi Double Cash® Card (which earns 1 percent when you buy, 1 percent when you pay off purchases). The card also promises 5 percent back on travel booked through Robinhood’s travel portal.

There’s some trepidation from consumers on whether the card will deliver on its promises with no strings attached. Some already point to the Robinhood Gold membership requirement as a way to recoup any losses the platform incurs by offering such a high cash back rate. 

One Reddit user is cautiously optimistic the rate may stick around for a while: 

“They’ll have to play a balance game. If every merchant decided to charge 5% fee for credit cards or 5% discount for cash/debit, rewards become useless. The banks would have to up rewards even higher to encourage credit card use. I fully agree that Robinhood will increase their fee if they keep the 3% though as that has never been a profitable rate for any card.” — Reddit user

Others on the social network have a less sunny outlook:

“Reminds me of what happened with the Uber Visa card — fantastic starter card back when I was in college, earned 4% cash back on dining, 3% on travel, 2% on Uber. Within 2 yrs they nerfed the whole card and then it got rebranded as the Barclays View card...now it's the most useless piece of plastic in my entire house.” — Reddit user

Bankrate’s own Nouri Zarrugh is bullish on the Robinhood Gold card , at least for now. Read more of his thoughts and insight to decide whether you might want to keep an eye on this new product. 

*The quotes and citations included on this page have been verified by our editorial team and are accurate as of the posting date. Outlinked content may contain views and opinions that do not reflect the views and opinions of Bankrate. Please see the issuer’s website for updated terms and conditions.

Here’s how a Bankrate editor crafted his cash back strategy

With this advice in mind, let’s see how a credit card expert made their picks. Here’s Bankrate editor Nouri Zarrugh on how he chose his cash back cards to create a cash rewards strategy:

I’ve been writing about cash back and credit card rewards for several years now, so I understand the benefit of carrying multiple cards and using them strategically to maximize my earnings. But I also know that sometimes juggling so many cards to earn a little more cash back can be more trouble than it’s worth. When I first got into rewards strategy, I went a little overboard, carrying a card for every spending category I could think of, constantly switching based on where I was shopping or which bonus category was available in a given quarter. I even had a spreadsheet I used to track my purchases and cash back earnings. It eventually became a headache, though. Now I take a more streamlined approach, focusing on a few key spending categories as I try to strike a balance between high earnings and low maintenance. Here’s what I focus on with my current credit card stack: Groceries : The Citi Custom Cash Card. This card automatically rewards your top spending category each billing cycle, and I only use it for groceries, making that my top category by default. Gas and online shopping : The Blue Cash Everyday Card from American Express. Since I use the Custom Cash for groceries, it made sense for me to use the no-annual-fee Blue Cash Everyday to get a solid rewards rate on gas. As an added bonus, this card comes with an online shopping category missing from the Blue Cash Preferred’s categories. Online shopping is another key category for me, so this card is quite versatile. Dining : The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card. This card offers one of the best rates you can get at restaurants without paying an annual fee ( See Rates & Fees ). Everything else : The Citi Double Cash. I use this card for all purchases that fall outside of groceries, gas, dining, travel and online shopping. A flat rate of up to 2 percent back (1 percent when you buy, 1 percent when you pay off purchases) is hard to beat. Is my stack perfect? Definitely not. I still have a co-branded airline card, a rotating category card and a specific online retailer card sitting around, and using them could help me squeeze a little more earnings out of my purchases. But for now, five cards is plenty to juggle." — Nouri Zarrugh, Bankrate Editor

Bankrate Insight

People who spend across a wide variety of categories can often combine cards from the same issuer for greater effect. For example, by having a Chase Freedom Flex, Chase Freedom Unlimited and a Chase Sapphire card, you can use the Chase Trifecta 's bonus categories to maximize rewards.

In the news: Capital One to acquire Discover

Capital One and Discover agreed to an acquisition in which Capital One will buy Discover. This $35.5 billion acquisition would include Discover’s line of credit cards and debit cards, as well as its payment network, according to Capital One’s announcement .  

This proposed acquisition has already garnered challenges from Washington, with legislators urging regulators to reject the deal . But what could a merger mean for consumers? Possibilities include an expanded, more flexible rewards system for both issuers’ existing cardholders, along with new credit and debit products.

It's also worth noting that the Discover payment network is exempt from the fee limitations the Credit Card Competition Act proposes. Should the act pass, Capital One could be shielded from the effects of the legislation and any collateral damage to rewards programs under the Visa and Mastercard networks.

When evaluating the best cash back cards, we consider a mix of factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether cards offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards in popular categories to scoring a large sign-up bonus or high-value perks. Whenever possible, we also feature cards that are available at various credit levels and price points. 

We analyzed over 150 of the most popular cards and scored each based on its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, welcome bonus value, APR, fees, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup of the best cash back cards.

Here are some of the key factors that we considered:

Great rewards value

The primary criteria for a rewards-earning card’s rating is its rewards value. This includes the card’s average rewards rate, estimated annual rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value and reward redemption value.

To estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings, we first calculate its average rewards rate based on how much it earns in different bonus categories and how closely its categories align with the average person’s spending habits. In other words, we assess whether the card earns rewards at a high rate in the most popular spending categories. 

We use consumer spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to get a reliable third-party measure of people’s spending habits. The most recent BLS data estimates average total spending in 2021 was $66,928 per consumer. From here, we determine a “chargeable” spend (which purchases are likely to be put on a credit card and earn rewards). After subtracting expenditures like housing, vehicle purchases, education and healthcare, we get a total “chargeable” annual spend of around $22,500.  

This includes the following spending by category:

• Groceries: $5,200
• Dining out: $3,000
• Entertainment: $2,500
• Gas: $2,100
• Apparel and services: $1,700

Using this data, we are able to assign a weighting to each of a card’s bonus categories. For example, a card’s grocery rewards rate receives a 23 percent weighting based on how much of the average person’s budget is spent on groceries. 

We also estimate the redemption value of points or miles from various rewards programs.

This weighting and rewards valuation allows us to estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings — how many points or miles you’d earn with a given card if your spending was about average and you used the card for all of your purchases — as well as what those points are worth. We also use point valuations to determine a card’s sign-up bonus value

With these calculations complete, we assign each card a score based on how its average rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value, rewards rate and redemption value stack up against other rewards cards.

The better these values, the higher its score will be, making it more worthy of inclusion in our list and increasing its potential ranking.

Reasonable rates and fees

We also score cards based on how much it costs to keep them in your wallet or carry a balance. 

To start, each card is scored based on whether it offers an intro APR and how its ongoing APR compares to the rates available on other rewards cards. However, the latter rating only has a slight influence on the card’s score and whether the card is included in our list, since rewards card users generally try to avoid carrying a balance.

More important to both a card’s score and its inclusion in our list is how its annual fee influences its overall value. We consider a card’s annual fee in two ways — how it ranks relative to the fees you’ll find on other cards in the category and how it impacts a card’s overall rewards value. 

Cards with an annual fee will always be at a slight disadvantage in our scoring system since annual fees inherently cut into your rewards value. However, if a card offers terrific value via its ongoing rewards and perks, it can earn a high score and a spot in our list even if it carries a high annual fee. After all, the highest rewards rates and most valuable perks are often found on cards with annual fees. 

With this in mind, we rate a card based primarily on how its ongoing rewards value and ongoing perk value (such as annual credits or bonuses) stack up against those of other cards in the category when you subtract annual fees.

That said, we strive to include as many no-annual-fee options in our list as possible since many people would rather not worry about offsetting fees, even if a card carries impressive rewards and perks.

Redemption flexibility

Rewards cards may make it easy to earn a lot of points, miles or cash back, but how easy is it to use those rewards? After all, if it takes a ton of effort to redeem rewards or you can only redeem rewards in a couple of ways, a card may be more trouble than it’s worth. 

As such, we rate each card’s flexibility based on the restrictions it imposes on earning and redeeming rewards. We factor this rating into a card’s overall score and consider it when deciding on a card’s inclusion in our list. 

Flexibility factors include whether a card only allows you to earn a high rewards rate on only a small amount of spending or requires you to meet a certain earning threshold before you can redeem rewards. We also examine whether your points are worth less when you opt for some redemption options over others and whether a card gives you the flexibility to transfer rewards to travel partners.

Valuable perks

We also score each card’s set of features – its perks and benefits — against five tiers of features to provide a rating. 

We break down these tiers as follows:

• Tier 1 includes fewer features than even standard credit cards (for example, an ultra-streamlined card that offers basic utility and next to nothing in the way of ancillary benefits). 
• Tier 2 includes the benefits you’d expect on standard Visa or Mastercard credit cards, such as free access to your credit score, car rental insurance and $0 liability for fraudulent charges. 
• Tier 3 includes “prime card” or better-than-average card features like cellphone insurance, lost luggage insurance, concierge services and purchase protection. 
• Tier 4 includes luxury features such as airport lounge access, elite status with an airline or hotel and credits for expedited security screening membership programs. 
• Tier 5 includes the sort of exemplary benefits you’ll find on top-tier luxury cards, such as high-value travel credits, cardholder memberships and other unique and valuable perks.

In evaluating the best cards, we tend to favor cards that offer at least Tier 3 benefits, unless they include other unique features that could make up for less-impressive perks.

Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email , find us on Facebook , or Tweet us @Bankrate .

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

*The information about the Chase Freedom Flex and the Aspire Mastercard has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.

Frequently asked questions about cash back credit cards

Should i get a cash back card or a travel card.

The right credit card for you will depend on your spending habits and the perks that matter most to you. Travel cards are great for people who know they want to redeem rewards for travel expenses like airline and hotel bookings. Travel cards also make sense if you want perks like hotel or airline elite status, free checked bags , free hotel stays or airport lounge access. But even some of the best travel credit cards for beginners charge an annual fee, and the fee for premium travel cards that offer luxury perks can be quite high. Cash back cards can be simpler to use and offer more flexibility in how you can earn and redeem rewards, with some allowing you to use rewards for cash back, travel spending and more. If you don’t travel often enough to justify an annual fee or want more redemption flexibility, a cash back credit card may be a better option.

Do cash back cards actually give you cash?

You may not receive cold, hard cash, but issuers offer redemption options like a direct deposit into a checking account, mailed checks, statement credits or gift cards.

Perhaps the closest you can get to redeeming rewards for physical cash is through a Wells Fargo card that allows you to redeem for cash withdrawals at eligible ATMs.

Is cash back from a credit card taxable?

Does cash back expire, should i save up cash back rewards.

It depends on how you plan to redeem your rewards. If you plan to deposit your cash rewards into a high-yield savings account, it's best to redeem often so that you don't lose out on interest. However, if you prefer to use your rewards for travel, you might save up your rewards to help cut future travel costs. In fact, your cash back might be worth more if you redeem through an issuer's travel portal , like Chase Ultimate Rewards. To maximize your earnings, check your issuer's redemption options and be strategic in how and when you redeem. 

Are cash back credit cards worth it?

Yes, a cash back credit card is flexible and valuable enough to be worth a spot in most wallets. However, there are a few cash back credit card alternatives that might be just as valuable depending on your needs. Here’s a few alternatives and how they may differ.

• Cash back vs. rewards credit cards : A rewards credit card earns points or miles instead of cash back. You can redeem these points in various ways, including gift cards, travel and statement credits, which can grant them even more flexibility than a cash back card. These cards may also come with additional perks, such as annual statement credits for specific retailers or travel benefits.
• Cash back vs. travel credit cards : Travel credit cards typically earn miles instead of cash back, and are best if you want to redeem your rewards for flights and hotel stays. Frequent travelers can take advantage of a travel card’s additional benefits to cut down on travel costs. You can choose from general travel credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards .

Ask the experts: How do you maximize flat-rate and rotating category cash back cards?

Erica Sandberg

Stephanie Zito

Thomas Nitzsche

Contributor, Credit Cards

Flat-rate cards do not require any pre-planning, which is great. You buy what you buy and earn cash back at the same rate for everything. To make the most of cash back cards that have rotating categories, however, you have to pay a bit more attention. Quite a few cards offer 5 percent back when you make purchases at places like grocery stores, gas stations, big box retailers, and more, but you’ll need to plan out where and when to shop to take full advantage. For example, if a card offers 5 percent cash back at Amazon in Q4, you may consider doing most of your holiday shopping through that site.

Contributor, Personal Finance

I like to have both a flat-rate and rotating cash back card in my wallet — particularly a flat-rate card that earns at a higher rate (usually 1.5X-2X) than the base rate of the rotating category card. I maximize this duo by making purchases in the card’s rotating categories as much as possible, and when my purchase isn’t in one of these 3X-5X rotating categories, I use my flat rate card to capture the higher rate.

Financial Educator, Debt and Credit

I have found the most difficult part of maximizing rotating category cash-back cards is keeping track of which categories are currently earning bonus cash back. Setting reminders and keeping a rewards calendar helps, especially if you have multiple cards of each type. Of course, you also want to make sure you are putting the right expense on the right card to maximize the rewards.

Article sources

We use primary sources to support our work. Bankrate’s authors, reporters and editors are subject-matter experts who thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate, timely and relevant.

Capital One to Acquire Discover . Capital One. Accessed on Feb. 26, 2024.

Congressional Democrats urge U.S. to block Capital One-Discover deal . The Washington Post. Accessed on Feb. 26, 2024.

* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.

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• Best Credit Cards
• Balance Transfer
• No Annual Fee

On this page

• Our top picks
• Cash back credit card details

What are cash back credit cards?

• Pros and cons

How to choose a cash back credit card

• Make the most of your cash back card
• Our methodology
• Frequently asked questions

Best Cash Back Credit Cards of May 2024

April 5, 2024

How we Choose

A straightforward rewards structure and flexible redemption options are just some of what make cash back credit cards great.

Cash back cards are often easier to manage, so they’re an ideal choice for credit card beginners. Let’s take a closer look at the top cash back credit cards.

• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card  – Best for 2% cash rewards
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card  – Best for dining and entertainment
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express  – Best for grocery, gas and online rewards
• Discover it® Cash Back  – Best for rotating cash back categories
• Citi Double Cash® Card  – Best for flat rate cash back
• Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express  – Best for U.S. supermarket purchases
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best for dining and drugstores
• Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card  – Best for flexible cash back categories
• Citi Custom Cash® Card  – Best for automatically maximizing cash back
• Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card  – Best for unlimited rewards
• Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card  – Best for cash back for Preferred Rewards Members
• Discover it® Student Cash Back  – Best for students
• Upgrade Cash Rewards Elite Visa®  – Best for flat rate + sign-up bonus

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Rewards rate

At a glance, overall rating, why we like this card.

This unfussy flat rate card has no annual fee and offers an unlimited 2% cash rewards, making it easy to maximize rewards on eligible everyday purchases. Cardmembers can also make good use of the 0% introductory APR on both purchases and qualifying balance transfers (for 15 months from account opening, 20.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% variable APR thereafter) to finance a splurge purchase or pay down an existing card debt. Spend $500 in purchases within the first three months of account opening and earn a cash rewards bonus of $200.

• There are no rotating categories and no enrollment requirements.
• Rewards never expire as long as your account remains in good standing.
• Qualifying balance transfers must be made within 120 days of account opening to qualify for the intro APR rate and pay a lower intro fee of 3%, or pay up to 5% after ($5 minimum).
• The 2% cash rewards rate is decent but you may be missing out on maximizing earnings in your top spend categories.

Bottom Line

This card offers plenty of flexibility and value with its unlimited 2% cash rewards rate on purchases.

Plus, the long introductory APR period is ideal for anyone considering a big purchase or hoping to pay down existing card debt.

• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• $0 annual fee.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Rates & Fees

Capital one savorone cash rewards credit card.

The SavorOne card was already one of the best cards for dining and entertainment away from home, but Capital One’s recent update to expand the 3% cash back categories to include grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®) and popular streaming services cemented it as one of the greatest cards for foodies anywhere.

Since this no annual fee card also earns 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases and offers a generous intro APR on purchases and balance transfers, it’s able to compete head-to-head with its premium sibling, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card.

• You can earn elevated cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores, which can be popular (and costly) everyday expenses.
• Generous intro APR on purchases and balance transfers and no annual fee.
• Some categories exclude notable popular purchases that other cards’ equivalent bonus categories may cover.
• 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months (4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time).

If you’re a foodie, the SavorOne is a must-have since it now covers at-home food and entertainment via grocery store and popular streaming service purchases.

• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
• Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• No foreign transaction fee
• No annual fee

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

See if you’re pre-approved for this card using our CardMatch tool .

The recently-updated Blue Cash Everyday Card makes it easier for household shoppers to earn more cash back on their everyday spending. Why? Generous cash back rewards in multiple everyday bonus categories and numerous benefits, including two new statement credits sure to please streaming service and meal delivery fans.

• The card’s cash back categories cover a unique combination of household spending not typically found with cash back cards.
• Two new credits featuring The Disney Bundle streaming subscription and Home Chef meal-kit service broaden the card’s appeal for families (subject to auto renewal).
• You’ll only earn 3% back on the first $6,000 you spend in purchases in each bonus category per year (then 1%). Many other cash back cards offer unlimited cash back rates in their bonus categories.
• Superstores and warehouse clubs are excluded from the card’s U.S. supermarket bonus category, which may disappoint people who like to shop around for the best deals.

The Blue Cash Everyday Card is a top choice if your spending and lifestyle habits line up with the rewards and perks.

• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
• Terms Apply.

Discover it® Cash Back

Although rotating category cards may seem complicated, Discover makes up for it with lighter fees.  There is no annual fee, foreign transaction fee or penalty APR to worry about. Your first late payment fee is also waived (up to $41 after that). Plus, all cash back earned in your first 12 months will be matched at the end of your first year and offers a generous introductory purchase and balance transfer APR.

• Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined rotating category purchases each activated quarter (then 1%), plus 1% back on all other purchases.
• All cash back earned at the end of your first 12 months will be matched via Discover’s Cashback Match welcome bonus.
• The $1,500 bonus category quarterly spending cap may limit some spenders’ cash back since there are no other unlimited bonus categories.
• Doesn’t pair especially well with other Discover credit cards, and there are no means to increase your rewards value by transferring them to another card or otherwise.

Discover it Cash Back is a lower-cost, more predictable alternative compared to some competing rotating bonus category cards.

• Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
• Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
• Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
• No annual fee.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Citi Double Cash® Card

As long as you always pay your card off every billing cycle, the Citi Double Cash delivers one of the highest flat-rate cash back programs available: up to 2% cash back (1% at purchase, plus 1% when you pay it off). An unlimited rewards rate this high for no annual fee could be great to rely on even if you already have a primary cash back card.

Plus, its introductory balance transfer APR offer makes it easy to switch to. There isn’t a intro purchase APR, but the regular variable APR is pretty low for a rewards card.

• One of the best flat-rate cash back rates on the market: up to 2% (1% at purchase, plus 1% upon payment).
• Excellent intro balance transfer APR and low ongoing interest rate.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum).
• No intro APR for purchases, which would be especially helpful for a flat-rate cash back card.

The Citi Double Cash’s top-tier, flat-rate cash back and intro balance transfer APR make it excellent for any eligible cardholder – as long as you always pay off your card on time.

• Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
• Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24.
• Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
• If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
• There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

If you’re in the market for grocery cash back, the Blue Cash Preferred card is the cream of the crop. Its 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases per year, then 1%) is enough of a selling point, but the unlimited 6% on select U.S. streaming subscriptions and 3% at U.S. gas stations and on transit make it the ultimate card for commuting grocery runners.

Considering the high cash back rates and abundant reward opportunities, the ongoing $95 annual fee ($0 intro annual fee for the first year) is no problem since it’s recouped just by spending $132 at U.S. supermarkets each month.

• Offers perhaps the highest cash back rate for U.S. supermarkets available, in addition to a rich platter of other everyday categories.
• One of the few premium rewards cards to come with an intro purchase and balance transfer APR offer.
• Ongoing $95 annual fee ($0 intro annual fee for the first year).
• Worthwhile reward redemption options are limited to statement credits.

You won’t find many cards better for supermarkets than the Blue Cash Preferred, and its high cash back rates make the annual fee a non-issue.

• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%. Variable APRs will not exceed 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Get up to $120 in statement credits annually when you pay for an auto-renewing subscription to Equinox+ at equinoxplus.com with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. That’s $10 in statement credits each month. Enrollment required.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Preferred® Card. Enrollment required.

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Not many cards earn more than 1% cash back on drugstore purchases, which makes this card a good option for people who shop regularly at them. Plus, it also rewards dining at restaurants and earns 1.5% back on everything else, so you can use it for catch-all and specialized spending.

• It has a solid intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers, further boosting its upfront value.
• This card has solid benefits and perks for a no-annual-fee card.
• You can’t redeem the card’s rewards for travel without pairing it with a premium Chase travel card.
• It charges a foreign transaction fee, making it expensive to use abroad.

This is a go-to card for Chase enthusiasts, travel strategists and cash back fans. The Chase Freedom Unlimited should be at the top of your list for a new cash back card if you like its bonus categories and unlimited flat rate.

• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

To better suit your changing monthly expenses, this card lets you swap one of the 3% cash back categories each month while leaning on its 2% grocery store and wholesale club categories (the 2% and 3% categories share a $2,500 quarterly spending cap).

What’s more, the choice categories are more adaptable than rotating categories, and the 3% purchases cover a wider range of merchants than other issuers’ equivalent categories may. For example, its online shopping category covers specialty sites like Etsy.com on top of major retailers like Amazon.com.

• You can earn a $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days.
• If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn up to 75% more cash back on all purchases.
• Big spenders might be hobbled by the 3% and 2% categories’ shared $2,500 quarterly spending cap in combined purchases (then 1% on all purchases) if this is your primary card.
• There aren’t many heavy-hitting perks besides the rewards.

If your biggest monthly expenses change too much for a rewards card with fixed categories, this card’s choice categories deliver uniquely flexible value.

• $200 online cash rewards bonus after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• Earn 3% cash back in the category of your choice, automatic 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs (up to $2,500 in combined choice category/grocery store/wholesale club quarterly purchases) and unlimited 1% on all other purchases.
• Choose 3% cash back on gas and EV charging station, online shopping/cable/internet/phone plan/streaming, dining, travel, drug store/pharmacy or home improvement/furnishing purchases.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 3.75%-5.25% cash back on purchases in your choice category.
• No annual fee and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.24% - 28.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Citi Custom Cash® Card

The Citi Custom Cash Card provides a unique middle ground if you can’t decide which cash back style you prefer. It delivers powerful 5% cash back on one of ten popular eligible categories (on up to $500 spent each billing cycle, then 1% back), but adapts to your budget by rewarding your top spending category each billing cycle.

Even better, cash back is automatically earned by calculating your spending after each billing cycle – no tracking or activating time-sensitive categories needed – which can help you maximize rewards on your biggest expenses.

• 5% cash back on your top eligible category (out of 10 possible everyday expense categories) per billing cycle for no annual fee.
• Makes an excellent partner card to pair with other ThankYou point-earning and cash back Citi cards.
• The 5% cash back category is limited to $500 in combined purchases per billing cycle before reverting to 1% back.
• You only earn boosted cash back in one category per billing cycle, so you may need to track your spending in order to maximize rewards.

The Custom Cash Card offers a unique way to earn stellar cash back on a range of categories, but its spending cap makes it an even better partner alongside another Citi ThankYou card.

• 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.
• No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
• Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Quicksilver perfectly embodies the “easy rewards” approach many cardholders crave. It earns unlimited 1.5% cash back on all eligible purchases with no annual fee, foreign transaction fees or spending caps to eat into your potential rewards.

That way, you can take it along while you travel or pair it with almost any other card so all of your spending is rewarded. If you want an even more streamlined experience, you can automate the redemption process for certain dates or cash values.

• Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases with no annual fee or foreign transaction fees means it pairs well with nearly any other rewards card.
• Generous introductory APR offer on purchases and balance transfers.
• As a no-frills card, there aren’t many additional features or benefits compared to some competing cards.
• There is a 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months (4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time).

The Capital One Quicksilver is one of the easiest cards for unlimited cash back, and can be the bedrock for most reward card combinations, but its ongoing APR and perks aren’t very competitive.

• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn

Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card

At first glance, the Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card looks a lot like the other flat-rate cash back credit cards on the market — and, candidly, it is. However, Bank of America Preferred Rewards® Members can receive a 25% to 75% boost on cash back rewards, depending on how much they have stocked away in their Bank of America accounts. That means you can potentially earn up to 2.62% cash back on all purchases, a rate that beats many of those other flat-rate cash back credit cards. The card carries no annual fee.

• Earn $200 online cash rewards after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
• There’s an intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers made in the first 60 days.
• Depending on your spending habits and financial portfolio, you may be able to earn more with other cash back credit cards.
• You earn a similar $200 sign-up bonus with the Chase Freedom Unlimited, but for a lower required spend ($500 in the first three months of account opening).

The ability to receive a rewards boost makes this a prime choice for existing Bank of America customers who are looking for a flat-rate cash back credit card.

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more cash back on every purchase. That means you could earn 1.87%-2.62% cash back on every purchase with Preferred Rewards.
• No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.

Discover it® Student Cash Back

When it comes to rewards and student-centric benefits, the Discover it Student Cash Back is possibly the best student card available. It rakes in the same 5% cash back (on up to $1,500 in combined quarterly purchases, then 1%) on activated rotating categories each quarter as the full-fledged Discover it Cash Back, all with no credit history required.

Also like other Discover cards, all cash back earned in your first 12 months will be matched at the end of your first year. Plus, it has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.

• Its low costs provide a safety net for new cardholders: no annual fee, foreign transaction fee, penalty APR or first late payment fee (up to $41 after that).
• One of the few student cards to offer an intro purchase APR.
• Activating the rotating categories each quarter can be cumbersome, especially for those new to credit cards.
• No purchase or travel protection benefits and few perks outside the rewards and low fees.

The Discover it® Student Cash Back card tops many student cards by offering remarkably high rewards and low costs with no credit history required.

• Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! So you could turn $50 cash back into $100. Or turn $100 cash back into $200. There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a dollar-for-dollar match.
• No credit score required to apply.
• No annual fee and build your credit with responsible use.
• 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months, then the standard variable purchase APR of 18.24% - 27.24% applies.

Upgrade Cash Rewards Elite Visa®

This credit card/personal loan hybrid doesn’t just offer one of the highest flat cash back rates around. It also packs in a unique sign-up bonus that could put $200 back in your wallet if you sign-up for an Upgrade Rewards checking account and make three debit card transactions in the first 60 days. This account will give you more chances to earn rewards and discounted rates on Upgrade loans and credit cards. The card also comes with additional features that are hard to find with other flat-rate credit cards.

• If you can qualify, the low end of the card’s APR range (14.99% to 29.99%) will make it a great low-interest option should you need to carry a balance long term.
• The limited fees and installment payment plan may give you a chance to pay off debt faster while paying less in interest charges than you would with a traditional credit card.
• Fixed monthly payments may require disciplined budgeting and won’t be an ideal repayment method if you want the flexibility to occasionally make a lower minimum payment.
• The limited redemption options make this a poor choice for a one-card wallet, especially for travelers who want to earn transferable rewards.

The Upgrade Elite is packed with enough features and benefits to make it a strong contender for best flat-rate rewards credit card.

• $200 bonus after opening a Rewards Checking Plus account and making 3 debit card transactions*
• Earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on card purchases every time you make a payment
• Combine the flexibility of a credit card with the predictability of a personal loan
• No touch payments with contactless technology built in
• See if you qualify in minutes without hurting your credit score
• Great for large purchases with predictable payments you can budget for
• Mobile app to access your account anytime, anywhere
• Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud liability
• Earn a $200 bonus after you open & fund a Rewards Checking Plus account & make 3 debit card transactions within 60 days. If you previously opened a checking account through Upgrade or do not do so as part of this process, you are not eligible. Payout made within 60 days of meeting the conditions.

*All information about the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card, Alliant Visa®️ Signature Credit Card and the Chase Freedom Flex and Chase Freedom Student has been collected independently by CreditCards.com and has not been reviewed by the issuer. The issuer did not provide the content, nor is it responsible for its accuracy.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Best cash back credit cards compared

Editor’s picks: best cash back credit card details, best for 2% cash rewards: wells fargo active cash® card.

• Best features : The Wells Fargo Active Cash keeps it simple by letting you earn an unlimited 2% flat cash rewards rate on your purchases. No rotating categories. No enrollment. No need to think about which card to use for each purchase.
• Biggest drawbacks : If you’re assigned this card’s high-end APR, you could be stuck with hefty interest charges should you carry a balance beyond the introductory APR period. Plus, this card’s perks are limited compared to those of some pricier rewards cards.
• Alternatives : If you’re looking for a card with a generous base rate plus some additional perks, check out the Chase Freedom Unlimited® , which earns at least 1.5% cash back on all purchases and allows you to transfer points to a higher-tier Ultimate Rewards card and redeem for travel at an up to 50% higher value.
• Bottom line : The Active Cash Card is a hassle-free credit card for people who value simplicity and consistent flat-rate cash rewards over earning high rewards in specific categories.

Related : Wells Fargo Active Cash vs. Wells Fargo Platinum

Read our Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for dining and entertainment: Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

• Best features : The SavorOne is one of the only no-annual-fee ( See Rates and Fees ) cards out there to offer 3% cash back on both dining and grocery store purchases (excluding superstores like Target® and Walmart®), making it an obvious choice for home cooks and restaurant lovers alike. Plus, its broad entertainment category covers everything from concert tickets to tourist attractions and amusement parks.
• Biggest drawbacks : Since its bonus categories are focused on food and entertainment, it may not make sense as an all-purpose rewards card. To get the most value, you’ll need to pair the SavorOne with another rewards card that earns more than 1% on your everyday purchases.
• Alternatives : Depending on how much you spend, you might be better served by the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card *. It offers higher rewards to the tune of 4% cash back on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services, 3% cash back at grocery stores and 1% cash back on other purchases, but charges a $95 annual fee. (Learn how to decide what Capital One Savor card is right for you .)
• Bottom line : Food and entertainment enthusiasts will have a hard time finding a no-annual-fee ( See Rates and Fees ) credit card that matches the benefits of the SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card.

Related : Is the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards card worth it?

Read our Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for grocery, gas and online rewards: Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

• Best features : This card’s new cash back rates and perks make it a terrific choice for earning rewards on everyday spending. Household shoppers on a budget won’t want to pass up the generous cash back in multiple everyday categories, welcome offer and newly-added credits, which include $7 back each month when you spend at least $9.99 per month on an eligible subscription to The Disney Bundle (enrollment required, subject to auto renewal).
• Biggest drawbacks : You’re out of luck if you like to shop at superstores like Walmart or warehouse/wholesale clubs like BJs and Sam’s Club, all of which will only earn 1% cash back on purchases. And since the card only earns 3% back on your first $6,000 in purchases per year in each of its bonus categories, big spenders may prefer the unlimited cash back bonus categories found with other cash back cards.
• Alternatives : The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card comes with six bonus categories that earn 3X points and covers everyday purchases like dining, gas, travel, transit and phone plans plus, earn 1X points on other purchases. Plus this no-annual-fee card has enough additional benefits to give the Blue Cash Everyday Card and even some cards with an annual fee a run for their money.
• Bottom line : If your spending lines up well with the Everyday card’s everyday rewards categories and credits, this card is a great choice.

Related : Is the American Express Blue Cash Everyday Card worth it?

Read our Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for rotating categories: Discover it® Cash Back

• Best features : Discover will automatically match all of your cash back earnings at the end of your first year. This is a popular incentive that encourages you to use the credit card often in the first year. Plus, Discover credit cards have a few consumer-friendly policies attached to its popular credit cards, including no foreign transaction fees, free FICO credit score access and no fee the first time you pay late (up to $41 for any late payments after that).
• Biggest drawbacks : It takes some work to maintain this card: You’ll have to remember to enroll in a bonus category each quarter and you may need to track your spending since the 5% cash back rate is limited to your first $1,500 in combined rotating category purchases per quarter (then 1%).
• Alternatives : If you aren’t a fan of tracking bonus categories, the Citi Double Cash card offers one of the best flat cash back rates available (up to 2 percent back on every purchase (1 percent when you buy, 1 percent as you pay off those purchases)  – for no annual fee.
• Bottom line : The Discover it Cash Back is a solid pick thanks to its generous cash back rate in a wide variety of popular and practical rotating categories. Read more on how credit card expert, Ana Staples, uses the Discover it® Cash Back card .

Related : Guide to Discover it Cash Back rewards and benefits

Read our Discover it® Cash Back card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for flat-rate cash back: Citi Double Cash® Card

• Best features : Offering 1% cash back when you make purchases and an additional 1% back as you pay them off, the Citi Double Cash boasts one of the most competitive flat rewards rates available on a cash back card with no annual fee. Plus, the card’s rewards are flexible and can be redeemed not only for cash back, but also travel, gift cards and more.
• Biggest drawbacks : There’s no intro APR offer on purchases, which differs from other top cash back cards that usually offer an intro APR on both purchases and balance transfers.
• Alternatives : The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers the same flat rate of 2 percent cash rewards on purchases but stands out by offering an intro APR on both new purchases and qualifying balance transfers.
• Bottom line : This uncomplicated flat-rate cash back card would be a good match for someone who values flexibility.

Related : Is the Citi Double Cash Card worth it?

Read our Citi Double Cash® Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for U.S. supermarkets: Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

• Best features : This card’s 6% cash back rate at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $6,000 in purchases each year, then 1%) is one of the highest rates out there. Plus, there are no rotating categories or enrollment to worry about. Read more on how our expert, Brady Porche, uses the Blue Cash Preferred card .
• Biggest drawbacks : The $250 welcome offer is nice, but it comes with a sizable spending requirement compared to other rewards cards ($3,000 in your first six months). Some other cards offer a not-far-off bonus of $200 after just $500 in spending in the first three months.
• Alternatives : If you’re seeking an American Express card but are put off by an annual fee after the first year, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express is worth a look. It charges no annual fee and offers a decent rewards rate not only at U.S. supermarkets, but also on U.S. online retail purchases.
• Bottom line : Some may find the annual fee of $95 ($0 intro annual fee for the first year) a tad steep, but it’s worth remembering the card’s high rewards rates. We estimate a Blue Cash Preferred cardholder only needs to spend around $132 per month at U.S. supermarkets to cover the card’s annual fee and only around $265 per month at U.S. supermarkets to both cover the ongoing annual fee and beat the rewards you’d earn on the same spend with the Blue Cash Everyday card. (Learn how to decide which Blue Cash card is right for you .)

Related : Who should get the Blue Cash Preferred Card from Amex?

Read our Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

 Best for dining and drugstores: Chase Freedom Unlimited®

• Best features: Not only does it have bonus categories that reward you for common purchases, but it earns 1.5% cash back on general spending. This flat rate makes it a great standalone card to use for getting maximum cash back.
• Biggest drawbacks: Its flat cash back rate isn’t as high as other cards’ rates and its welcome offer is a bit weak compared to other cards.
• Alternative: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is another great no-annual-fee card that gets 2% cash rewards on purchases, which could out-earn the Chase Freedom Unlimited, depending on your spending.
• Bottom line: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a great all-purpose card to earn elevated cash back rates on purchases, particularly for its common dining at restaurants and drugstores categories.

Read our full Chase Freedom Unlimited® review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for flexible cash back categories: Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

• Best features : The Bank of America Customized Cash card gives you the freedom to change your bonus category once per calendar month, allowing you to tailor your rewards to your spending habits. That’s especially handy when your summer budget may skew more heavily toward gas or travel, but you spend more on online shopping during the holidays. If you plan ahead, this card can be exceptionally valuable, especially since there’s no annual fee.
• Biggest drawbacks : The $1,000 in spending required in your first 90 days to earn the $200 online cash rewards sign-up bonus is $250 to $500 larger than some other rewards cards offering the same $200 bonus. There’s also a $2,500 combined spend cap on 2% and 3% reward categories for each quarter. It may be a hassle for big spenders to have to track those categories to make sure they avoid only earning 1% cash back on their purchases.
• Alternatives : If you enjoy choosing your own categories to maximize rewards, the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card may be a good fit. It lets you choose two categories that earn 5% cash back (up to a combined $2,000 in eligible purchases each quarter) and one category that earns an unlimited 2% cash back on eligible purchases. While this takes a little more effort to maintain, it also gives you more chances to earn cash back in a variety of categories.
• Bottom line : The Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card is a solid choice for people looking to earn rewards in a wide variety of categories while avoiding an annual fee.

Related : Is the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card worth it?

Read our Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for automatically maximizing cash back: Citi Custom Cash® Card

• Best features : It’s one of the only credit cards that automatically earns 5% cash back in your highest eligible spending category (on up to the first $500 spent each billing cycle, then 1%). That should appeal to rewards seekers looking for a no-maintenance credit card. Plus, the card touts a generous sign-up bonus: $200 worth of ThankYou points after you spend $1,500 in your first six months.
• Biggest drawbacks : Your cash back potential is limited since you’ll only earn 5% back in a single eligible spending category, and only on the first $500 you spend in that category each billing cycle (after which you earn just 1% back). You’ll also pay a steep 5% balance transfer fee (or $5, whichever is greater) if you take advantage of the card’s balance transfer offer.
• Alternatives:  If you like the idea of customized rewards but want a single card that earns in multiple categories at once, a great alternative could be the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card. Although you’ll still have a cap on spending to earn at the card’s highest rewards rate, you’ll have more flexibility with your spending across multiple categories. Instead of earning 5% back in one category on the Custom Cash card, the Customized Cash Rewards card would be great for cardholders who spend evenly in a few categories.
• Bottom line : If you like the idea of automatically maximizing cash back in your biggest eligible spending category, the Citi Custom Cash Card is a great pick, especially when combined with other rewards cards that earn more than 1% back in other categories.

Related :  Citi Custom Cash card rewards and benefits guide

Read our  Citi Custom Cash Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for unlimited rewards: Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

• Best features : Ideal for people who prefer to keep it simple, this gimmick-free card has no annual fee ( See Rates and Fees ) and offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. Rewards remain valid for the life of the account and there are no caps on how much you can earn. Read more on If the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards card is worth it .
• Biggest drawbacks : The 1.5% cash back rate isn’t all that great compared to some of the best flat-rate cash back cards, several of which earn 2% cash back on all purchases and also don’t charge an annual fee.
• Alternatives : The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is another relatively simple cash back card. However, it stands out for its rewards flexibility: You can pool your points with certain Chase Ultimate Rewards cards to potentially boost the value of your rewards by 25% to 50% when you redeem for travel through the Chase Travel portal.
• Bottom line : While other cards offer higher cash back rates, the simplicity of unlimited 1.5% back on every purchase may appeal to someone in the market for a pared-down cash back card.

Related : Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards benefits guide

Read our Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card review or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for cash back for Preferred Rewards Members: Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card

• Best features : If you’re a Bank of America customer with large savings, checking or investment accounts, this could prove the most valuable flat-rate cash back card available. You’ll earn at least 1.5% cash back on all purchases and may qualify for a rewards boost of 25% to 75% as an eligible Preferred Rewards member.
• Biggest drawbacks : You’ll need a three-month average balance of at least $20,000 across your eligible Bank of America or Merrill accounts to be eligible for any Preferred Rewards boost. And to get the 75% boost, you’ll need at least a $100,000 average balance.
• Alternatives : Unless you’re a Preferred Rewards member at the Platinum tier or above, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card , which carries a flat 2% cash rewards rate, will almost certainly be a more rewarding long-term choice.
• Bottom line : While this card has huge rewards potential, the best rates are reserved for people with sizable account balances. For everyone else, other flat-rate options can beat the Unlimited Cash Rewards card’s base cash back rate.

Read our Bank of America® Unlimited Cash Rewards credit card or jump back to this card’s offer details .

Best for students: Discover it® Student Cash Back

• Best features : Students can build healthy credit habits while enjoying some of Discover’s best features, including an intro APR offer, very forgiving rates and fees and Discover’s famous Cashback Match offer, which matches all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year.
• Biggest drawbacks : The rewards program can be a bit confusing and takes some work compared to flat-rate cards and other cash back cards with a more straightforward rewards structure.
• Alternatives : The  Chase Freedom® Student credit card  not only offers students a foot in the door of Chase Ultimate Rewards, but also comes with a $50 bonus if you make a purchase in your first three months and a $20 annual bonus for your first five years as a cardholder if you keep your account in good standing.
• Bottom line : This is a top-notch  student credit card  that lets you earn rewards even as you’re learning how to build and manage your credit.

Related :  Is the Discover it Student Cash Back card worth it?

Read our  Discover it® Student Cash Back review  or jump back to this  card’s offer details .

Best for flat rate + sign-up bonus: Upgrade Cash Rewards Elite Visa®

• Best features : This hybrid credit card/personal loan comes with a lot of versatility and value for no annual fee. You’ll earn one of the highest flat rates on the market on all purchases (every time you make a payment) and enjoy a number of additional features that are hard to find with other flat-rate credit cards. If you take advantage of the welcome offer and open an Upgrade Rewards Checking account, you’ll not only quickly put cash back in your wallet but also get a chance to earn lower rates on future Upgrade cards and loans.
• Biggest drawbacks : Rewards are not flexible and are automatically put toward paying off your balance. This isn’t ideal for people looking for more options, like travelers who prefer to transfer their rewards for greater value.
• Alternatives : If you prefer the simplicity of a traditional flat-rate credit card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card has a straightforward welcome bonus and earns an unlimited 2 percent cash rewards on eligible purchases. It’s a versatile card with some features not found with the Upgrade Elite, like an intro APR offer and a variety of redemption options.
• Bottom line : This card’s unique sign-up bonus and generous flat rate could help rewards maximizers rake in more cash back than they would with the typical flat-rate card.

Jump back to this card’s offer details .

Cash back credit cards are a type of rewards credit card. Other rewards cards may offer redeemable points or miles on purchases, but a cash back credit card gives a percentage of eligible purchases back to the cardholder.

Most cash back credit cards offer between 1% and 5% cash back on eligible purchases. The percentage you earn varies by card issuer. It can also depend on if the card earns more on certain categories, or the same percentage on all purchases. For example, if a card offers 2% cash back and you spend $1,000 on eligible purchases, your cash back potential would be $20.

Depending on the card, you’ll have numerous options for redeeming your cash back, including a statement credit to lower your balance or direct deposits into your checking or savings account.

How to calculate cash back

Exactly how much cash you earn back per purchase will vary depending on the terms of your card and the type of purchase you make. Let’s say you spend $500 each month in a category with a cash back rate of 5%. That means you earn $25 a month, just for card loyalty ($500 X 0.05 = $25). Sometimes there are spending limits, which is why it’s important to read through a card’s terms before applying.

Read our full guide to how cash back credit cards work to learn more.

Types of cash back cards

Since there are several different cash back cards, there’s likely one that suits your spending habits. Card issuers are privy to consumer spending patterns and flesh out cash back cards with different rates to compliment those patterns. This consumer-based approach amounts in a number of differently styled cash back programs on various amounts of cards, but overall there are typically three different kinds of cash back cards.

Here are the different types:

Flat-rate + –

• How they work: Flat-rate cash back cards are probably the simplest type of rewards card you can get. With a flat-rate card, you’ll earn a set amount of cash back, usually between 1% and 2%, on every purchase. Simply set and forget earnings until you want to redeem your rewards.
• Benefits: Depending on your spending habits, there’s the potential to earn quite a lot in rewards.
• Drawbacks: On the flip side, you could also lose out on rewards by not using a card with bonus categories that you would frequently spend more than on everyday purchases.
• Who they’re best for: Since there’s no need to strategize spending, this type of cash back card is great for first-time cardholders and those who want to use just one credit card for the majority of their expenses.
• A great option: The Citi Double Cash® Card . Earn 1% cash back on general purchases (excluding gift cards) and an additional 1% as you pay off those purchases, effectively 2%.

Tiered categories + –

• How they work: One of the best ways to maximize your cash back earnings is to use a tiered card for your most common purchases while using a flat-rate card for miscellaneous expenses. That way, you get the best of both worlds and you never have to settle for a low rate of cash back.
• Benefits: Cash back rates for tiered categories can be quite high. If your card offers 3% to 5% cash back in supermarkets and you spend a lot on weekly grocery runs, you stand to earn a decent amount.
• Drawbacks: If your card’s featured tiered categories are mismatched with your personal spending habits, you’ll miss out on cash back.
• Who they’re best for: A cash back card with tiered categories is a great choice if you have regular expenses within particular categories, like gas or groceries.
• A great option: the Chase Freedom Flex℠ . Earn 5% cash back on rotating bonus categories that you must activate each quarter (on up to $1,500 per quarter, 1% thereafter), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% cash back on dining and 3% cash back on drugstore purchases.

Rotating or customizable bonus category + –

• How they work: This type of cash back card is very similar to a tiered category card, the main difference being that the categories change, usually each quarter. There are even cards that allow you to choose and change your own bonus category once per calendar month, like the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card .
• Benefits: Rotating categories often correspond with the time of year, which can help you make the most of seasonal expenses, like holiday purchases or a summer road trip.
• Drawbacks: Keeping track of changing categories can be too much work for some users who then risk losing out on rewards.
• Who they’re best for: If you’re fairly organized, able to follow along with quarterly category updates and can be strategic in your spending, a rotating or customizable bonus category rewards program is a great fit.
• A great option: The Discover it® Cash Back . Enroll every quarter to earn 5% cash back in a new category (on up to $1,500 per quarter, then 1%).

Types of cash back categories

It’s important to choose a cash back credit card that aligns with the categories you spend on most frequently. Here are some examples:

• Restaurants . Whether you enjoy dining out or take out, many cash back cards are designed with foodies in mind to maximize spending at your favorite restaurants. The Capital One SavorOne card is one of the best cash back dining credit cards, since it earns elevated cash back at restaurants.
• Grocery stores and wholesale clubs . Cards that offer cash back on grocery store purchases are perfect for families or anyone that enjoys home cooking. Grocery stores and wholesale clubs are usually considered distinct categories. If you want to earn on your weekly or monthly grocery trips, one of the best cash back cards for groceries is the Amex Blue Cash Preferred or the Blue Cash Everyday.
• Gas stations . Getting cash back at the pump can be especially rewarding for frequent drivers. Cards that offer cash back rewards at gas stations can be a great credit-building tool as well. Two popular cash back gas credit cards are the Discover it® Chrome and the Sam’s Club® Mastercard® .
• Retailers and drugstores . Loyal shoppers of companies like Amazon, Walmart and Target can receive cash back on online purchases when equipped with the right card. Pharmacy-goers can also benefit from cash back on prescription purchases. For cash back on drugstore purchases, the Chase Freedom Flex is your top option.
• Fitness . If you work out at a gym or fitness club membership, some cards offer cash back rewards on membership payments. For example, Discover has included gym memberships in its rotating bonus category calendar for the Discover it® Cash Back card in recent years.
• Streaming and internet services . Internet service subscribers and binge-watchers of services like Netflix, Hulu and Disney+ can receive cash back rewards on their subscription payments when using certain credit cards. The Amex Blue Cash Preferred is one of these cards, since it earns 6% back on select streaming services, so it’s worth a look.

Pros and cons of cash back cards

Cash back credit cards are a popular type of rewards card , given their return on spending and ease of use. But, depending on your financial goals, they’re not always the best fit for your wallet. Understanding the big draws and disadvantages of cash back credit cards can help you pinpoint if one is right for you.

• Flexibility . Earning and redeeming rewards is generally straightforward. You can typically cash in rewards as a statement credit and there are low-to-no minimums for redemption across popular cards.
• Affordability . Many cash back cards carry low-to-no annual fees.
• Easy welcome offers . Cash back sign-up bonuses tend to have low spending requirements. For instance, some cards let you score bonus points by spending as little as $500 in your first three months. Travel credit card spend requirements tend to run much higher.
• Credit building potential . When you use a cash back card responsibly, it helps build your credit profile by not only adding to your overall credit history, but improving your credit utilization with increased access to credit.
• Pricey APRs . Cash back credit cards are rewards credit cards, meaning their APRs tend to be higher than no-frills credit cards. As such, they’re not ideal for people prone to carrying a balance.
• Limited value . You can’t really stretch the value of cash back in the same way you can stretch the value of travel points or miles. For instance, you generally can’t transfer to or pool rewards with airline partners.
• Less lucrative sign-up bonuses . Cash back sign-up bonuses are generally less lucrative than the big sign-up bonuses you see associated with travel or business credit cards.
• High credit requirements . Most cash back credit cards require at least a good to excellent credit score rating ( 670 to 850 on the FICO scale) to increase the likelihood of approval.

How to compare cash back credit cards

There are several factors to consider when searching for the best cash back card. Some include how much cash back you’ll earn with each purchase, whether a card offers a 0% interest rate on new purchases or how easy it is to turn your cash back into statement credits, gift cards or direct deposits into your checking account.

• Cash back rates. Not all cards offer the same amount of cash back with every purchase. Some cards award more when you make purchases at the pump, while others provide bigger payouts when you use them to book hotel rooms or airline flights. The Chase Freedom Unlimited provides 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase’s online portal and 3% on dining and drugstore purchases. If you travel frequently or spend a lot on eating out, this might be a good card for you. The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card earns 2% cash rewards on purchases. This card might be a smart choice if you spread your spending out each month.
• Redemption options. When you want to redeem the cash you’ve earned, it’s best to have options. Some cards limit how you can use your cash back while others let you receive your cash back as a statement credit or a direct deposit to your bank account. You could also turn your cash back into gift cards or use it to shop for merchandise. With the Discover it® Cash Back card , you can turn your cash into a statement credit, bank deposit, gift card or charitable donation. You can also shop with the cash you’ve earned at Amazon.com and with PayPal.
• Intro APR offers. Some cash back cards offer an introductory 0% interest rate on new purchases, balance transfers or both. It varies, but this offer usually lasts 12 to 18 months. When the offer expires, any money you owe from a completed balance transfer and all new purchases will be subject to your card’s standard APR. With a cash back card, a 0% interest offer on new purchases is especially valuable: You’ll earn cash back but you won’t have to pay interest on these purchases during the intro period.

Cash back cards vs. travel cards: Which should you pick?

Both cash back and travel cards are rewards cards, meaning you earn some reward for your spending: cash back or points and miles. Consider a few things if you’re trying to decide between earning cash back vs. points and miles with a credit card.

A cash back card may be best for you if:

• You pay your balance in full each month Paying your balance in full each month means the cash back you earn goes straight to your bottom line instead of towards costly interest payments.
• You prefer a straightforward redemption plan Cash back rewards tend to be more straightforward than travel rewards. Although the amount of cash back you earn in specific spending categories can vary, cash back rewards programs aren’t typically too complicated.
• You value redemption flexibility Cash back credit cards allow cardholders to redeem earnings for statement credits, gift cards and more. A travel card often limits your most valuable redemption options to travel-related purchases.

A travel card may be best for you if:   

• You prefer extra perks when traveling A travel credit card often includes perks while traveling simply for being a cardholder. These perks can either save money or offer convenience. Benefits like a TSA PreCheck credit, free checked baggage or access to airport lounges are a few popular examples.
• Travel is one of your biggest spending categories Travel reward credit cards offer the most value for travel-related purchases. If travel is one of your biggest spending categories, you can quickly rack up rewards for future travel.
• You don’t mind strategizing for maximum value Often with a travel card, your greatest value will come from redeeming your earnings on travel-related purchases like airfare and hotel stays. However, you could get even more value from your points and miles by transferring them to another travel rewards program.

Comparing cash back credit cards can be a daunting task, especially if you’re not sure where you spend the most or how different card types fit different lifestyles.

What is your credit score?

Your credit score is one of the most important factors a credit card issuer evaluates to determine your approval odds and interest rate. Cash back cards are typically issued to consumers with good or excellent credit. If your credit score falls in the bad or fair range, a better choice may be a secured, credit-builder card that helps you focus on improving your score.

How much will the card cost?

There are multiple fees associated with owning a credit card, and it’s important to know what these fees are so you understand the true cost of carrying one. Once you add up the fees, such as the interest rate, annual fee, balance transfer fee, and foreign transaction fees, you can weigh if the benefit of the cash back justifies the cost of using the credit card. 

What spending category is most important to you?

Track your spending habits and determine which category you spend the most in. Once you know your top spending category, like groceries or gas, you can choose a cash back card that rewards you the most for those types of purchases. If you don’t have one stand-out category, consider a flat-rate cash back card, where you earn a specific amount of cash back no matter where you spend.

How much time do you want to devote to your cash back card?

Some rewards programs are more complicated than others. While cash back cards may require you to enroll in and keep track of rotating bonus categories, others may require some strategizing to maximize tiered rewards earnings. If you’re unsure of the amount of time you have to devote to a strategy, selecting a flat-rate cash back card may be the simplest approach.

Check out this example, which shows how your earnings can vary based on how much you spend and the structure of your card’s rewards program. Depending on your spending habits, you could come out on top with either a flat-rate card or a card that earns bonus rewards in a specific category.

* Assumes a $500 spend in an eligible bonus category each billing cycle, after which the rewards rate drops to 1 percent back.

Read more on factors to consider when choosing a cash back credit card .

Who should get a cash back credit card

• The strategic spender . If you’re aiming to maximize cash back earnings, you can combine the strengths of flat-rate and tiered cards. With this helpful strategy, pair a credit card that offers a high rewards rate for your large, frequent purchases with a straightforward flat-rate card to cover everything else.
• The minimalist . Those who strive for simplicity can see a lot of benefit from a good cash back credit card. A flat-rate cash back credit card that carries no annual fee is a great choice for someone who wants to earn rewards without much additional thought. Certain cards in this category can help you “set and forget” by automating bill payments and reward redemptions.
• The foodie . Whether you love cooking meals at home or dine out on a regular basis, there are valuable cash back cards on the market rewarding your food-focused purchases by offering strong cash back offers tailored to foodies. For example, the Capital One SavorOne card offers a generous 3% cash back on both dining purchases and grocery purchases — ideal for a night out or night in. If your food purchases skew more towards groceries, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers an impressive 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases per year, then 1%).

Who should skip a cash back credit card

• The luxury traveler . While cash back is relatively universal, frequent travelers may want to consider a travel, airline or hotel credit card that offers high-end perks and discounts when booking with their favorite travel brands.
• The overspender . The concept of getting cash back on all or most of your purchases is enticing, but it may tempt you to spend more than necessary, especially if you anticipate carrying a balance from month to month.
• The credit-builder. If you’re on a journey to rebuild or build credit from the ground up, earning cash back shouldn’t be your top priority. Cash back cards often require a good credit score and could tempt you to spend more than you normally would in order to earn cash back. Instead, focus on building credit with responsible card use.
• The balance carrier. For people who tend to carry a balance or are unsure if they’ll be able to pay off a balance in full, a cash back credit card may not be the best pick. With current average interest rates hovering around 20 percent for credit cards, it’s more expensive to carry a balance and pay interest on charges, which can quickly deplete any cash back you earn.

Pitfalls to avoid with a cash back card

A cash back card is often a great way to earn a little something extra when you spend, but there are a few drawbacks to using one if you’re not careful. Avoid the following to ensure you continue to maximize your cash back credit card.

Carrying balances

Carrying a balance from month-to-month means you’re paying interest on top of whatever balance you already have. Cash back cards tend to have higher interest rates too, so this could mean a substantial amount of interest payments. If you’re paying interest each month, these charges can chip away at your earnings or wipe them out completely. Paying your balance in full each month not only keeps you from paying costly interest charges, but lets you reap the full benefit of the cash back reward.

Mismatched spending behavior

To avoid missing out on rewards from your cash back card, choose one where you earn the most in your highest spending categories, such as groceries or gas. Another way to avoid mismatched spending habits is to choose a flat-rate cash back card. Since this type of cash back card earns the same amount of rewards no matter where you spend, you can skip tracking top spending categories altogether.

Missed redemption opportunities

Some card issuers place expiration dates on cash rewards, or it’s possible you may close your account before using all your earnings. Keep a close eye on what you earn and try to redeem regularly to take full advantage of this kind of rewards card.

How to maximize your cash back credit card

• Match yourself with a card that best suits your spending habits . When choosing the card that works best for you, take a close look at your budget and identify where you spend most. If you spend substantially on groceries, choose a grocery card that offers high cash back rates at supermarkets. If you spend widely across categories, a flat-rate card with no spending cap might offer the best value.
• Strategize spending on bonus categories . Maximizing bonus categories can bring a welcome boost to your reward earnings. Many credit cards release bonus categories annually or quarterly, giving you time to strategize. Match these categories with your personal calendar, and identify occasions where you’re most likely to spend.
• Pair cards to fill in reward gaps . Even the most robust rewards programs have limitations. You can fill in those gaps by adding another card in your rotation. If you have a flat-rate cash back card to cover daily expenses, but you want more travel rewards, adding a travel card could help you get the best of both worlds.
• Pay your balances in full each month . If you do not, you’ll end up losing the cash back you’ve earned to interest. Paying your monthly balances on time and in full is a best practice regardless of what type of card you’re carrying, but cash back credit cards tend to carry higher APRs than low-interest credit cards.
• Utilize a sign-up bonus . If your cash back credit card offers a sign-up bonus, you can receive bonus rewards if you reach the spending requirement in a given amount of time. Make sure the requirement lines up with your current spending habits to avoid carrying a balance and losing your rewards to interest.
• Check the card’s online shopping portals . Some larger banks, like Bank of America or Capital One, offer private shopping portals where cardholders can access exclusive deals and discounts. Check with prospective lenders to see whether an account comes with access to one of these sites, which can allow for substantial cash-back savings on travel bookings, partner brand discounts, and more.
• Make the most of an intro APR offer . Taking advantage of a cash back card offering an introductory APR for a specified period of time is another way to maximize a card’s value — and save money on interest charges. A 0% introductory APR gives you greater flexibility for planning purchases, without worrying about costly interest charges reducing the value of your cash back earnings.

Alternatives to cash back credit cards

Not everyone has the same financial goals, which is why some cash back cards may not be the best fit depending on what works for your particular lifestyle. Cash back is one of numerous options for rewards cards, but other cards offer benefits for travel, specific purchases and lower interest rates.

• Travel cards . These credit cards offer travel rewards for purchases, which can be used towards future travel or experiences. While these cards can help reduce the cost of travel, you often need to redeem through select travel partners to receive the highest rewards value.
• Student cards . Student cards are often wise options for those building or establishing their credit. Most feature no annual fees while offering incentives such as free credit monitoring or no penalty APRs.
• Low-interest cards . If you tend to carry balances often, a low-interest card may be the best option. You can save a potentially large amount of money by avoiding the most costly interest charges.
• Starter/credit builder cards . For borrowers with lower credit scores (500 and below on the FICO scale), these credit accounts focus on building credit from scratch and improving existing credit. The goal of opening an account of this kind is usually to improve credit over time, increasing accessibility to lower-interest, higher-reward cards with better benefits.

How we picked the best cash back credit cards

• Cash back rate and categories . Of course, the best cash back credit cards make it easy to earn cash back. That’s why we chose credit cards that offer high rewards rates on common purchases. We understand that “everyday spending” looks different for various lifestyles, so we chose a variety of bonus categories, from travel to groceries to entertainment.
• Redemption options . What’s the use of cash back if you can’t redeem it in a way that’s valuable to you? Most cash back cards allow the option to redeem as a statement credit, but some also allow you to redeem as a bank direct deposit, gift card, charitable donation or even a credit toward a loan balance. Since these alternative redemption methods can sometimes add value to your cash back earnings, we weighed all methods of redemption. We also considered ease of redemption since some cards require a minimum cash back balance in order to redeem.
• Sign-up bonus . When analyzing a credit card’s overall value, we always think long-term: ongoing rewards rate, fees, etc. But a sign-up bonus is a nice way to kickstart your cash back earnings. The ideal sign-up bonus rewards you generously for a low spending threshold.
• Rates and fees . Here, we dug into a few costs that may cut into the card’s potential value. When assessing cards with annual fees, we did the math to ensure that cardholders’ cash back and other benefits could likely surpass that cost. We also avoided cards with sky-high interest rates.
• Miscellaneous benefits and features . Additional perks and benefits are rarely the main attraction, but they can be tie-breakers when comparing two similar offers. Features like auto rental insurance and price protection are often overlooked but can save you hundreds if you remember to use them.

Additional information on cash back credit cards

For more information on all things cash back cards, continue reading content from our credit card experts:

• Cash back credit card mistakes to avoid
• Cash back vs points: Which is best for you?
• What are rotating category credit cards, and how do they work?

Frequently asked questions about cash back credit cards

Do cash back cards actually give you cash + –.

While you may not receive cold, hard cash itself, you can often receive rewards in the form of a paper check or a direct deposit to a designated checking account. One of the most frequently used options is a statement credit on your credit card balance, which can be used to offset past purchases.

Read your issuer’s fine print on how and when you can redeem your cash back rewards. Some may have minimum amount requirements ranging from $5 to $25, while others allow you to redeem at any time, and for any amount.

Are cash back credit cards worth it? + –

Yes. Cash back credit cards can be a great way to save money on everyday expenses. For every purchase you make with a cash back card, you’ll get a portion of your purchase back, which can add up over time. Always remember that you should never overspend on a cash back card to earn more money back, as interest charges can eclipse your earnings if you carry a balance.

How can I redeem the cash back I earn? + –

Popular redemption options include:

• Statement credit . With this selection, the cash back reward goes toward paying down your balance.
• Direct deposits . By selecting direct deposit, the cash back reward is directly deposited into your qualifying checking or savings account.
• Checks . You can request a cash back reward be issued to you in the form of a check, which is sent through the mail and you are responsible for depositing.
• Charitable donations . Not all card issuers give you the option to redeem points for charitable donations, but the ones offering this choice often have a list of eligible charitable organizations. Instead of redeeming your reward for cash back, you select the eligible charity you wish to donate your rewards to.
• Gift cards . Redeeming cash back for a gift card could be an option, but the list of eligible merchants may be limited. Also, there is often a minimum amount of earnings you need to accumulate before redeeming for a gift card, which may not fit your preferred timeline.

Keep in mind cardholders can also set up automatic redemptions that would automatically redeem any earnings on an annual basis, or whenever the earnings reach a certain threshold amount.

Do cash back rewards expire? + –

Yes, cash back can expire. The best cash back cards often offer non-expiring rewards, but it’s not a given. With some cards, your rewards might expire after a certain length of time or after an extended period of card inactivity.

Even cards that offer non-expiring rewards typically require the account to still be open in order to access your rewards. In other words, most cards will not allow you to redeem your cash back after you’ve closed your account.

See related: When is the best time to redeem cash back rewards

Are cash back rewards from a credit card taxable? + –

In general, any income a taxpayer receives is subject to tax by the government. This point means the type of rewards and the way in which you receive them can be the main factor for determining whether they are considered taxable.

In most cases, the IRS views cash back rewards to be a discount and earnings are not considered taxable income. However, sign-up bonuses that are given to you directly for just opening the account may be taxable as extra unearned income.

See related: Are credit card rewards taxable?

What credit card gives the most cash back? + –

This answer will largely depend on how you spend. Say you have a large family and you charge $250 or more each week at grocery stores. A credit card that provides more cash back for supermarket purchases might offer the most cash back. An example of one such card is the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express, which provides 6% cash back for purchases made at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 in purchases per year, then 1%).

What’s the easiest cash back card to get? + –

Secured credit cards and student credit cards could be the easiest to qualify for since credit requirements for these types of cards are usually more relaxed. While you’ll typically need a good or excellent FICO credit score to qualify for the best cash back credit cards, a limited number of secured credit cards do offer cash back. The Discover it® Secured Credit Card is one of the best examples.

About the Author

Ryan Noonan

Ryan Noonan Ryan Noonan is a former writer for Bankrate and CreditCards.com and is a graduate of the School of Journalism at Ohio State University. 

About the Editor

Jeanine Skowronski

Jeanine Skowronski is a credit card expert, analyst, and multimedia journalist with over 10 years of experience covering business and personal finance. She has previously served as the Head of Content at Policygenius, Executive Editor of Credit.com, Deputy Editor at American Banker, Staff Reporter at TheStreet and a columnist for Inc. Magazine.

About the Reviewer

Jason Steele

Jason Steele is a professional journalist and credit card expert who has been contributing to online publications since 2008. He was one of the original contributors to The Points Guy, and his work has been appearing there since 2011. He has also contributed to over 100 of the leading personal finance and travel outlets. He’s frequently interviewed and quoted by mainstream outlets on the subjects of credit cards and travel. Jason is passionate about travel rewards credit cards, which he uses to earn rewards that he can redeem for him and his family to travel around the world. Jason is also the founder and producer of CardCon, a conference for credit and credit card journalists that’s held annually.

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Best Cash Back Credit Cards of April 2024

Some of the card offers on this site are from companies who are advertising clients of U.S. News. Advertising considerations may impact where and in what order offers appear on the site but do not affect any editorial decisions, such as which card products we write about and how we evaluate them. Terms apply.

• Discover it® Cash Back : Best feature: Cash back on everyday purchases.
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best feature: Flexible cash back rewards.
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Best feature: Cash back on everyday purchases.
• Discover it® Chrome : Best feature: Gas cash back.
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best feature: Cash back on dining with no annual fee.

Cash back credit cards are extremely popular and it's easy to see why. These cards offer rewards on everyday expenses, which is just what you need when prices are still on the high side. To choose the cash back that's just the right fit, take a look at your spending patterns to see where your expenses are the highest. Then look at cash back cards that offer rewards in those categories.

U.S. News' Best Cash Back Cards of April 2024

See all of our credit cards here .

On This Page

• Best Cash Back Cards
• What's a Cash Back Credit Card

Commonly Compared Cash Back Credit Cards :

Popular categories:.

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

Discover it® Cash Back

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Balance Transfer Credit Cards

Credit Cards With No Annual Fee

Credit Cards With Sign-up Bonuses

What Is a Cash Back Credit Card?

A cash back credit card allows you to earn a percentage of your card spending back and redeem your rewards for checks, bank deposits or statement credits . You could get money back on every purchase you make with a cash back card. Say your card earns 1% cash back on all purchases. That percentage might not seem like much, but it can add up: Spend $1,000, and you get $10 back just for using the card.

What Are the Different Types of Cash Back Credit Cards?

You can choose from three types of cash back credit cards: flat rate, tiered cash back and rotating category cards. Here's what you need to know about the different kinds of cash back cards:

Flat-rate cash back cards. A flat-rate card pays the same amount of cash back on every purchase. Your options for redeeming cash back rewards with flat-rate cards are statement credits, checks or bank deposits. Some cash back cards provide other ways to redeem rewards, such as travel bookings, gift cards or shopping deals.

Flat-rate cards to choose from include:

• Citi Double Cash® Card , which earns 1% when you make a purchase and 1% when you pay it off and offers a 0% intro annual percentage rate on balance transfers for 18 months. After that, the APR will be 19.24% to 29.24% (variable) , based on your creditworthiness.
• Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card , which pairs a flat cash back rate of 1.5% with a long 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% to 29.99% (variable) APR after that; balance transfer fee applies ( See Rates & Fees ) .

Tiered cash back cards. These cash back credit cards offer different cash back rates for different types of purchases. Most cards let you earn 1% to 6% back on eligible purchases. But read the fine print because card categories may have dollar limits and other restrictions.

Tiered cash back cards to choose from include:

• Chase Freedom Unlimited® , which earns 5% cash back on travel purchases through Chase, 3% back at restaurants and drugstores, and 1.5% back on all other purchases.
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express , which offers 3% cash back on up to $6,000 in annual spending at U.S. supermarkets, then 1%; and 3% back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.

Rotating category cards. Several cash back credit cards have 5% bonus categories that rotate quarterly. Common categories include groceries, gas stations, home improvement stores, and even Amazon and Uber purchases.

Some caveats: You have to activate the bonus categories online every quarter or you won't earn the bonus rewards. Also, you will need to track your spending because the 5% bonus categories have dollar limits.

Rotating category cards to choose from include:

• Discover it® Cash Back , which features 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter such as grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
• Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card , which allows you to pick a 3% cash back category monthly, plus earn 2% back on up to $2,500 in quarterly purchases at grocery stores and wholesale clubs. Other purchases receive 1% cash back, and you can boost your earnings by enrolling in Bank of America's Preferred Rewards program.

How to Compare Cash Back Credit Cards

You might feel overwhelmed as you try to pick the right cash back credit card. Follow these steps to make comparing cash back cards easier:

1. Calculate your earning potential. You can earn rewards at different rates depending on what type of cash back card you use, where you make purchases and whether a category bonus applies. Analyze your spending, and then look for a credit card that earns bonus rewards in the categories where you spend the most.

• Flat-rate cards: Generally, the rate is 1% to 2% for all purchases, although you may find a card promotion for a higher rate. A flat-rate card can be valuable if your spending is evenly spread across multiple categories or if you don't want to track which credit card will earn the most for your purchases.
• Tiered cash back cards: These credit cards offer different cash back rates on certain categories. Common bonus categories include travel, dining, gas, and grocery and department stores.
• Rotating bonus category cards: Most have a base 1% cash back rate, along with bonus categories that change quarterly. The rotating categories typically offer 5% cash back, one of the highest cash back rates you'll get on a credit card. But the categories almost always have limits on how much you can earn each quarter.

2. Factor in sign-up bonuses. A cash back card with a large sign-up bonus can certainly help boost your earnings, but you'll need to know the spending requirement to receive it. If you can't get the bonus without spending more than you normally would, then the card probably isn't a good match for your wallet.

3. Subtract annual fees. Some cash back credit cards charge an annual fee, so consider whether the card rewards and benefits will more than offset the cost . If they don't, you likely will be better off with a no-fee card .

4. Understand cardholder benefits. Many credit card issuers and card networks offer benefits beyond a rewards program. Benefits could include free credit score access, extended warranty coverage, concierge service, travel accident insurance, purchase protection and price protection.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card users, for example, can get trip cancellation and interruption insurance, extended warranty protection, and auto rental collision damage waiver coverage, among other benefits.

How to Maximize Your Cash Back Rewards

Here is how you can reap more cash back rewards without necessarily spending more on your cash back credit card:

• Avoid carrying a balance. This is the No. 1 rule with any rewards credit card .
• Step away from your cash back credit card if you start carrying a balance. Revolving balances can lead to paying more in interest than you earn in cash back. But the worst part? You could end up with credit card debt.
• Choose a card that matches your spending habits. A rewards card with bonus categories that align with your normal spending can help boost your cash back earnings.
• Look for a sign-up bonus you can achieve. Sign-up bonuses can be a great way to earn a lot of cash back quickly, but don't spend money you wouldn't have otherwise.
• Earn extra cash back. Some cards offer a bonus for referring new cardholders or extra cash back for adding an authorized user .
• Remember the cash back card's other benefits. Your cash back credit card might offer purchase protection, extended warranty coverage or other perks.
• Ask for a retention offer. Your issuer gives you this incentive to keep your card, but securing one could take some good old-fashioned negotiating. You might be able to get an annual fee waived or reduced, for example, but you will need to call the issuer and request it. The higher your credit score, the better your chance of success.

How to Redeem Cash Back Rewards

Cash back credit cards offer some flexibility when it comes to redemption options. You may be able to use your rewards for a statement credit, a mailed check, a deposit in your savings account or a gift card. Some cash back credit cards give you access to online portals to book travel or for discount shopping.

But every cash back credit card has its own rewards program, so read it thoroughly to understand how you earn rewards and what your redemption options are. When you're choosing a rewards credit card, make reading the rewards program a part of your selection process.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Cash Back Credit Cards?

• Understanding your earnings is easy. Tracking how much you've earned in cash back rewards and what those rewards are worth is not hard. Generally, 1% back means you will get 1 cent for every dollar you spend.
• Redeeming cash back rewards is simple. Your card might require you to have a certain amount of rewards – say $25 – before you can redeem them .
• Having a range of bonus categories provides many chances for rewards. Some cards pay the highest cash back rate when you make particular purchases. With certain cards, bonus categories change throughout the year, giving you different opportunities to earn extra rewards.
• Referring friends could get you sign-up bonuses. Cash back credit cards may offer sign-up bonuses ranging from $100 to several hundreds of dollars. You might also be able to receive extra cash back by adding an authorized user to your account or for referring friends who become cardholders.
• Using cardholder benefits adds extra value. These are not exclusive to cash back cards but often include special event access, zero fraud liability, extended warranty coverage, purchase protection, rental car insurance, roadside dispatch service and lost luggage reimbursement.
• Good to excellent credit requirements. The best cash back credit cards generally require a good to excellent credit score, which is a FICO score of at least 670. But some credit cards might require a higher score than that. If you're new to credit and in college, consider getting a student credit card . If you aren't a student and you're building credit for the first time, check out our list of the best credit cards for building credit .
• Sign-up bonus requirements. If you want to earn a sign-up bonus, then you will have to meet a spending requirement. The spending requirement varies by card but ranges from about $500 to a few thousand dollars, and you'll usually have to accomplish this within three months of opening an account.
• Monitoring bonus categories. If you want to earn the most cash back using a card with rotating categories, you will need to take time and effort to track the categories and their cash back rates.
• Potentially less-valuable rewards than other cards. Your cash back card's point value may be locked in at a certain level, which means you won't have a chance to receive more value. This is different from co-branded airline and hotel cards that sometimes allow you to redeem points at different rates.
• Fewer perks than other types of rewards credit cards. If travel deals and free checked bags appeal to you, then a travel credit card could be a better fit.
• Fees. You might find that you're spending more on annual fees than you're earning in cash back rewards, depending on how you use a card. And if you think you might carry a balance, you could be better off with a plain lower-interest credit card. Carrying a balance with a rewards credit card can lead to credit card debt .

Are Cash Back Credit Cards Worth It?

A cash back credit card could work for you if you pay off your balance each month. As you consider your options, look at annual fees , bonus category rates and sign-up bonuses. And most importantly, know the rewards program so you can take advantage of spending opportunities that offer cash back.

One note of caution: Don't carry a balance with these cards. They have higher interest rates, and it's easy to get into debt if you carry a balance from month to month. You're also wiping out the rewards you've earned when you pay interest to carry a balance.

Does Cash Back Expire?

Check the terms and conditions of your account to see whether cash back rewards can expire and, if not, how you might lose them.

Many issuers let you keep rewards as long as your account is current. Check the fine print, because this is not universal, and some may require you to use your rewards within a certain time frame.

Generally, try to redeem cash back often because inflation can cause it to lose value. If your points do not expire, be aware that you might risk losing them if your card is inactive for an extended time. You may also lose your rewards if you close your card.

Can I Get a Credit Card With Bad Credit?

Rewards credit cards usually require you to have pretty good credit to get approved. If you're rebuilding credit, you might focus on a secured credit card to boost your credit score. This type of card requires a security deposit, which usually becomes your credit limit. It's a sound way to improve your credit, and some of the best secured credit cards even have rewards.

In the meantime, pay all of your bills on time, and if you do get a credit card, keep a low balance. Payment history and available credit make up 65% of your FICO score.

Alternatives to Cash Back Credit Cards

Cash back credit cards are popular for those who want to save on everyday expenses. And some cash back cards even offer a way to save on travel, too. Here's a comparison of cash back cards with other types of popular credit cards.

• Cash back vs. travel rewards: Cash back cards help you save on your daily expenses, and they tend to have simpler rewards programs, although some do offer tiered cash back categories and bonus categories. With the best travel credit cards , you can save money on travel expenses, and many of these cards also offer rewards on lifestyle categories. There are also airline-branded credit cards that can be a good choice for someone who prefers a specific airline. Travel rewards cards have rewards programs that are a little more complex, but you also get generous rewards.
• Cash back vs. low interest: If you plan to carry a balance on a credit card, which is not recommended, you're better off getting a low-interest credit card . All rewards cards, including cash back cards, have higher interest rates. Credit cards use compound interest on any balance you carry, so your debt will grow faster with a rewards card.

Best Cash Back Credit Cards Methodology

U.S. News has been helping consumers make money decisions for decades. For our Best Cash Back Credit Cards list, we factor in overall satisfaction data, cash back earning rates, annual fees, APRs and sign-up bonus values. The satisfaction data is based on an annual nationwide survey.

Our top picks may earn a flat cash back rate for all types of purchases or a bonus rate when you spend in certain categories. Consider how you spend to determine which card would be the best one for you.

Cash Back Credit Cards FAQs

How does a cash back credit card work.

[ READ: Smartest Ways to Redeem Credit Card Cash Back .]

Is Cash Back From a Credit Card Taxable?

Credit card rewards, including cash back, are rarely taxable. As long as you spent your own money to earn them, credit card rewards are not considered taxable income by the IRS.

What's the Highest-Paying Cash Back Card?

The credit card that earns the highest cash back for you will differ from the card that earns the most cash back for your neighbor. If you spend more on dining out and she spends more on groceries, you'll each earn the most cash back from different cards that reward your individual spending habits.

Do Cash Back Cards Actually Give You Cash?

Cash back cards may give you the option of redeeming your rewards as a statement credit, check or deposit into your bank account. So if you choose to receive your cash back rewards as a check or bank deposit, you are getting cash.

Comparative assessments and other editorial opinions are those of U.S. News and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by any other entities, such as banks, credit card issuers or travel companies. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired.

Beverly Harzog , Credit Card Expert

Beverly Harzog  is a nationally recognized personal finance and credit card expert for U.S. News & World Report. She’s the bestselling and award-winning author of five personal finance books. Harzog puts her expertise to practice in her personal life by saving thousands every year on travel and everyday expenses by using a combination of credit cards in various categories. Read more

Ali Cybulski , Contributor

Ali Cybulski has been an editor on the Advice Products team at U.S. News since 2018 and focuses on credit cards and loans content. Her experience traverses print and digital media. Among other roles, Cybulski has been a copy editor at The Chronicle of Higher Education and at USA Weekend, the former Sunday magazine. Read more

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Find the best credit card for you

The best cash-back credit cards of may 2024, we analyzed 50 major cash-back credit cards using an average american's annual budget and dug into each card's perks and drawbacks to find the best one for you..

When it comes to cash-back credit cards, it literally pays to do your homework.

Using the right cash-back card strategically can earn you hundreds of dollars a year and thousands of dollars over time. But the best choice isn't always obvious.

Cash-back cards earn rewards at different rates, and the fees and benefits vary wildly. Some cash-back cards have no annual fee and others offer bonus spending categories that reward you for specific types of purchases.

When you're trying to pick a cash-back card , you'll want to pay attention to:

• The different types of cash-back cards
• The annual fee and benefits
• Your own spending habits and credit card needs

CNBC Select analyzed 50 of the most popular cash-back cards to determine the best cash-back credit cards in a variety of categories (See our methodology for more information on how we choose the best cards).

Best cash-back credit cards

• Best for 0%-APR offer: Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
• Best for flat-rate cash back: Citi Double Cash® Card
• Best for no annual fee:   Chase Freedom Unlimited®
• Best for average credit: Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees )
• Best for students: Discover it® Student Cash Back
• Best for rotating bonus categories and welcome bonus: Chase Freedom Flex℠

Best for 0%-APR offer

Wells fargo active cash® card.

Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

Welcome bonus

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate

Regular APR

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

Balance transfer fee

3% intro for 120 days from account opening then BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Excellent/Good

See rates and fees , terms apply.

• Unlimited cash rewards
• $200 cash rewards welcome bonus
• No annual fee
• Introductory APR period for first 15 months
• Access to Visa Signature® Concierge
• Get up to $600 cell phone protection (subject to a $25 deductible)
• 3% fee charged on foreign transactions

Who's this for?  The  Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card  is ideal if you're looking for a cash rewards card that offers a long intro APR for purchases and balance transfers.

Standout rewards : You won't need to juggle specific or limited bonus categories with this card because it earns 2% cash rewards on purchases.

Introductory APR: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers new members a 0% intro APR on purchases and qualifying balance transfers for 15 months from account opening (20.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% variable APR thereafter). For a balance transfer to qualify for the intro APR , it must be made within 120 days from account opening, and an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of the amount transferred applies ($5 minimum). The standard balance transfer fee for transfers you make after 120 days is 5% of the amount transferred ($5 minimum).

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for flat-rate cash back

Citi double cash® card.

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24

Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

0% for the first 18 months on balance transfers; N/A for purchases

19.24% - 29.24% variable

For balance transfers completed within 4 months of account opening, an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies; after that, a balance transfer fee of 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies

Fair/Good/Excellent

Read our Citi Double Cash® Card review.

• 2% cash back on all eligible purchases
• Simple cash-back program that doesn't require activation or spending caps
• One of the longest intro periods for balance transfers at 18 months
• 3% fee charged on purchases made outside the U.S.
• Estimated rewards earned after 1 year:  $443
• Estimated rewards earned after 5 years: $2,213

Who's this for? The Citi Double Cash® Card is a solid choice if you're looking to maximize your money without having to worry about rotating reward categories. Earn 1% cash back on purchases and 1% when you pay off your bill. That makes the card's appeal almost universal, as you won't have to miss out on reward opportunities.

Standout benefits : There's no annual fee and an easy-to-use rewards program with no activation required and no limit to how much cash back you can earn.

Introductory APR: Cardholders receive 0% intro APR for the first 18 months on balance transfers (then an 19.24% - 29.24% variable APR) initiated within 4 months of opening an account.

Best for no annual fee

Chase freedom unlimited®.

Enjoy 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services, 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; and 3% cash back on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

0% for the first 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers

20.49% - 29.24% variable

Intro fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, on transfers made within 60 days of account opening. After that, either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

3% of each transaction in U.S. dollars

Member FDIC. Terms apply.

Read our Chase Freedom Unlimited® review.

• Rewards can be transferred to a Chase Ultimate Rewards card
• Generous welcome bonus

Who's this for? The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is ideal for anyone who wants a robust rewards card with no annual fee . It's also excellent for those with another Ultimate Rewards® card, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , as they'll be able to convert their cashback into fully transferrable Ultimate Rewards® points.

Standout benefits : Cardholders can enjoy discounts and special perks with Lyft, Instacart, Gopuff and more — all for no annual fee.

Introductory APR: This card offers a 0% intro APR for the first 15 months from account opening on new purchases and balance transfers (after, 20.49% - 29.24% variable APR). There's an intro balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, on transfers made within 60 days of account opening (after, either $5 or 5%, whichever is greater).

Best for average credit

Capital one quicksilverone cash rewards credit card.

Unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024

29.99% variable

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Average, Fair, or Limited

• Unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase
• Redeem cash back at anytime and for any amount
• No fee charged on purchases made outside the U.S.
• $39 annual fee
• High variable APR
• No welcome bonus

Who's this for? Many of the best cash-back cards require good or excellent credit, but there are some cards for people with fair/average credit that offer good cash-back rates. Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) gives consumers a competitive 1.5% cash back on all purchases, with no limit on the amount of cash back you can earn.

Standout benefits : The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) charges **no foreign transaction fees and comes with access to CreditWise , as well as six months of Uber One membership .

Introductory APR: ** None.

**(See rates and fees )

Best for students

Discover it® student cash back.

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases-automatically.

Discover will match all the cash back earned for all new cardmembers at the end of your first year

0% for 6 months on purchases

18.24% - 27.24% Variable

3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*

Fair / New to Credit

*See rates and fees , terms apply.

Read our Discover it® Student Cash Back review.

• Cash-back program
• Cash-back categories must be activated each quarter
• Cash-back program limits earnings: Enroll every quarter to earn 5% cash back in various categories on up to $1,500 in quarterly purchases, then 1%
• You must be a U.S. citizen and college student to apply for this card

Who's this for? A student card, like the Discover it® Student Cash Back , can help you build credit while also earning cash back. To qualify, you need to meet a few requirements: attend a two- or four-year college, be over 18 and a U.S. citizen.

Standout benefits : The Discover it® Student Cash Back has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees , which makes it a good choice for students studying abroad.

Introductory APR: If you need to finance textbooks or dorm room essentials, you can take advantage of the introductory 0% APR for the first six months on new purchases. After the intro period, there's a 18.24% - 27.24% variable APR. We always recommend you pay your balance on time and in full to avoid interest charges.

Best for rotating bonus categories and welcome bonus

Chase freedom flex℠.

5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate (then 1%), 5% cash back on travel booked through the Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3% on drugstore purchases and on dining (including takeout and eligible delivery services), 1% cash back on all other purchases

Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Member FDIC. Terms apply. Information about the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

Read our Chase Freedom Flex℠ review.

• Opportunity to earn up to 5% cash back in select categories upon activation
• Bonus categories must be activated each quarter

Who's this for? If you're looking to maximize rewards, consider a rotating bonus category card like the Chase Freedom Flex℠ . The cash-back calendar changes every quarter. (Learn more about how Chase classifies bonus category purchases .)

Standout benefits : In addition to rotating rewards, you can discounts and special perks with partners like Lyft, Instacart and Gopuff.

Introductory APR: This card offers a competitive 0% intro APR for the first 15 months from account opening on new purchases and balance transfers (after, 20.49% - 29.24% variable APR). There's also an intro balance transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, on transfers made within 60 days of account opening (after, either $5 or 5%, whichever is greater).

More on our top cash-back credit cards

The  Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card  is a no annual fee card that can help you pay less interest  on your credit card debt  and earn cash rewards at the same time.

• 2% cash rewards back on purchases

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Notable perks

When you pay your wireless phone bill with your Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card , you can qualify for  cell phone protection . This insurance covers damage, theft and loss of a cell phone and has a $25 deductible. You can be reimbursed for up to two claims per 12 months and up to $600 per claim.

[ Return to card summary ]

The Citi Double Cash Card is CNBC Select's choice for the best flat-rate cash-back card because it earns an unlimited 2% back on all purchases.

Earn 2% cash back: 1% when you make a purchase and 1% when you pay. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel SM portal through 12/31/24.

Cardholders can redeem cash back for checks, direct deposits, statement credits, gift cards and more. You can also transfer rewards to three of Citi's travel partners: Wyndham, JetBlue and Choice Privileges.

The rewards you earn with the Citi Double Cash are more valuable when you pair this card with the Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ). If you have both cards, you can transfer the points you earn with the Citi Double Cash card to all of Citi's partner travel programs, including Turkish Airlines, Avianca and Singapore Airlines.

In addition to the rewards, there are several special cardmember programs, including Citi Entertainment℠, which gives cardholders first access to purchase tickets for thousands of concerts and events. The card also provides access to Citi® Identity Theft Solutions, a service that will help you if you're a victim of identity theft.

Check out CNBC Select's best welcome bonuses currently available .

The Chase Freedom Unlimited card is CNBC Select's best overall cash-back card because of its solid earning rate on all purchases, generous welcome offer and the way it compliments other Chase credit cards.

On up to $20,000 spent in the first year:

• 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery service)
• 3% on all other purchases

After your first year or $20,000 spent:

• 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• 5% back on Lyft rides (through March 2025)
• 3% back at drugstores
• 3% back on dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services)
• 1.5% on all other purchases.

Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

Earn 5% cash back on Lyft rides through March 2025. Other perks include up to $10 in Instacart credits each quarter, three months of complimentary Instacart+ membership and up to $10 back in statement credits each month on Gopuff orders.

Although the Chase Freedom Unlimited® earns cash back, it can be paired with other cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points. If you have certain Chase credit cards such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card , you can transfer your cash-back rewards to those cards. This greatly expands the options you have for redeeming your rewards because you'll be able to transfer those points to all of Chase's airline and hotel partners.

Check out CNBC Select's best no annual fee travel credit cards .

The Capital One QuicksilverOne card is a solid choice if you're working on improving your credit score and are interested in earning cash-back rewards at the same time.

• 1.5% cash back on every purchase

The Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card has **no foreign transaction fees and comes with access to CreditWise , a service that monitors your TransUnion and Experian credit reports. Cardmembers are also eligible for six months of complimentary Uber One membership (through Nov. 14, 2024), which comes with discounts on eligible Uber Eats orders and member pricing on Uber rides.

**(see rates and fees )

Check out CNBC Select's best credit cards for building credit and best credit cards for average and fair credit .

Student credit cards aren't known for being rewarding, and being able to earn 5% back on certain purchases makes the Discover it Student Cash Back stand out.

• 5% back for up to $1,500 in purchases in rotating quarterly bonus categories you activate (then 1%)
• 1% back on all other purchases

Discover will match the cash back you earn during the first year with no minimum spending requirement or cap on the match.

The Discover it Student Cash Back card has few useful benefits outside of its cash-back earnings. But it doesn't have foreign transaction fees , which comes in handy if you're planning to study abroad or take a spring break trip.

Check out CNBC Select's best credit cards for college students .

Depending on your spending habits, the Chase Freedom Flex could be the most rewarding cash-back card because of its valuable rotating bonus categories and easy-to-earn welcome bonus.

• 5% back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in rotating bonus categories you activate each quarter
• 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
• 1% back on all other purchases.

Earn a $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Earn 5% cash back on Lyft rides through March 2025. Plus, Freedom Flex cardholders receive benefits on Instacart deliveries, such as up to $10 in statement credits each quarter and three months of free Instacart+ membership.

If you maximize the Freedom Flex card's rotating quarterly bonus categories you'd earn an extra $300 cash back throughout the year. But if you have a Chase card that enables Ultimate Rewards points transfers (like the Chase Sapphire Preferred ), you can pool your rewards onto that card and have the potential to dramatically increase their value.

Check out CNBC Select's best rewards credit cards and best travel credit cards .

Types of cash-back credit cards

There are many types of credit cards that offer a range of perks and rewards programs , especially when it comes to cash-back credit cards. The three main types are flat-rate, bonus rewards and rotating category.

• Flat-rate cash-back cards offer the same amount of cash back on all purchases.
• Bonus rewards cash-back cards offer extra rewards on select purchases, such as gas , groceries , dining and travel .
• Rotating category cash-back cards offer higher cash-back rates on certain categories that change every month or quarter.

Depending on your spending habits, you can benefit from having one or more cash-back cards.

Find the best credit card for you by reviewing offers in our  credit card marketplace  or get personalized offers via  CardMatch™ .

How to choose a cash-back credit card

It can be hard to select just one cash-back card since there are so many to choose from. To choose the best card for your needs, you'll need to consider several factors. Here are some tips on how to choose a credit card:

1. Consider the annual fee: While many cash-back cards have no, or low annual, fees, consider if you're willing to pay for your credit card.

2. Do you want to take advantage of a 0% APR: Many cash-back cards provide an introductory 0% APR period that can save you money on interest charges. If you have large purchases coming up, or debt to refinance, consider a card with no interest for over a year, such as the Freedom Flex card with an intro 0% APR for the first 15 months on purchases and balance transfers (then 20.49% - 29.24% variable APR).

3. Review your spending habits: Taking the time to consider how you use your card, can help you narrow down the type of cash back you want to earn. If you spend a lot at the supermarket, consider a grocery rewards card , such as the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express . Terms apply. But if your spending habits are unclear, stick with a flat-rate cash-back card, like the Citi Double Cash.

How to compare cash-back credit cards

If you're having trouble narrowing down the best cash-back card for you, it can be helpful to compare credit cards. You should first list the benefits you're looking for and any deal breakers, such as an annual fee. Then make a list of cards that offer those benefits so you can do a side-by-side comparison.

For instance, if you want a simple cash-back card that doesn't require bonus activation, consider the flat-rate  Citi Double Cash . But if you don't mind activating new categories every quarter and want to maximize rewards, opt for the  Chase Freedom Flex .

Making the most of your card

To make the most of your cash-back card, you should familiarize yourself with the various credit card benefits and fees. Review the annual fee, foreign transaction fees and the APR . Plus consider the cash-back rates and redemption options.

Once you're familiar with the terms of your card, you can begin to optimize them. Set up autopay to ensure payments are made on time and consider how you want to redeem cash back. If there's an automatic redemption option, that can be a simple way to cash out your rewards.

And if you have multiple credit cards , make sure you know the best time to use each card. Let's say you have the Citi Double Cash Card and the Chase Freedom Unlimited Card. Use the Freedom Unlimited card for all your Chase Ultimate Rewards travel purchases (5% cash back), dining (3% cash back) and drugstore (3% cash back) expenses, then use the Double Cash for all your other purchases to earn an effective 2% cash back.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every credit card   review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of credit card   products .  While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See  our methodology  for more information on how we choose the best credit cards.

Our methodology

To determine which cards will put the most money back in your pocket, CNBC Select evaluated 50 cash-back credit cards offered by the biggest banks, financial companies and credit unions that allow anyone to join. We compared each card on a range of features, including cash-back rewards, annual fee, welcome bonus, introductory and standard APR, balance transfer fee and foreign transaction fees, as well as factors such as required credit and customer reviews when available.

CNBC Select teamed up with location intelligence firm Esri . The company's data development team provided the most up-to-date and comprehensive consumer spending data based on the 2019 Consumer Expenditure Surveys from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can read more about their methodology here .

Esri's data team created a sample annual budget of approximately $22,126 in retail spending. The budget includes six main categories: groceries ($5,174), gas ($2,218), dining out ($3,675), travel ($2,244), utilities ($4,862) and general purchases ($3,953). General purchases include items such as housekeeping supplies, clothing, personal care products, prescription drugs and vitamins, and other vehicle expenses.

CNBC Select used this budget to estimate how much the average consumer would save over a year, two years and five years, assuming they would attempt to maximize their rewards potential by earning all welcome bonuses offered and using the card for all applicable purchases. All rewards total estimations are net the annual fee.

It's important to note the value of a point or mile varies from card to card and based on how you redeem them. When we calculated the estimated returns, we assumed that cardholders are redeeming cash back for a typical maximum value of 1 cent per point or mile. (Extreme optimizers might be able to achieve more value.)

Our final picks are weighted heavily toward the highest five-year returns, since it's generally wise to hold onto a credit card for years. This method also avoids giving an unfair advantage to cards with large welcome bonuses.

While the five-year estimates we've included are derived from a budget similar to the average American's spending, you may earn a higher or lower return depending on your shopping habits.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

For rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, click here .

For rates and fees of the Discover it® Student Cash Back, click here .

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

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Best travel credit cards of April 2024

Fortune Recommends™ has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Fortune Recommends™ and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.  

Travel credit cards make it possible for you to earn free and discounted travel with your everyday spending. What’s more, some of the best travel credit cards also offer valuable perks that elevate your trip experience.

At the same time, each card has its own set of rewards rates, intro bonuses, annual fees and other terms, so take your time picking one that aligns well with your travel and spending habits. We reviewed over 50 travel credit cards to help you find the ones that take flight and those that are best left on the ground. Learn more about our methodology .

The best travel credit cards of April 2024

• Best premium card: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Best flat-rate rewards card: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Best for lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Best mid-range card: Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card
• Best for airline loyalists: United Explorer Card
• Best for hotel loyalists: IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
• Best no annual fee travel card: Bilt Mastercard®

Best 0% intro APR card: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Best for earnings: U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

Best for fair credit: Credit One Wander

• Best for credit building: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best premium card: Capital One Venture X Card

The Venture X packs a lot of travel rewards into a card that costs hundreds of dollars less than its competitors.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Intro bonus.

Rewards Rates

• 10X 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 5X 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• 2X 2x miles on everyday purchases
• Annual $300 travel credit and 10,000 Miles upon card anniversary make up for the annual fee
• Airport lounge access
• Capital One Miles require effort to maximize
• Limited cash redemption options

Other benefits

• Travel protections including car rental insurance, trip cancellation/interruption and travel delay protection
• Consumer protections including extended warranty and return protection

Why we like it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers rich rewards and travel perks, and unlike many other premium travel credit cards, the Venture X doesn’t make you jump through many hoops to earn back the cost of its steep annual fee. In addition to a Capital One Travel credit and bonus miles each year, you’ll also get complimentary access to a number of airport lounge networks with more than 1,300 locations around the world. 

The card also offers ultimate flexibility when it comes to redeeming your rewards for travel. You can book with miles through Capital One Travel, or if you want more options, you can use your card to pay for travel-related expenses and request a statement credit. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even transfer your rewards to various frequent flyer and hotel rewards programs and potentially get more value from your miles.

The Venture Card puts the power into your hands by earning miles that you can either use against your travel purchases or transfer to travel partners.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Intro bonus.

Reward Rates

• 5x Earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2x Earn 2x miles on every purchase

Flexible travel rewards

• No foreign transaction fee
• Maximizing Capital One Miles requires a learning curve
• Cash redemption value is limited
• The Venture offers travel accident insurance, rental car coverage, extended warranty protection, exclusive access to events through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment

Why we like it: Travel rewards can get complicated, which is why the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card feels like a breath of fresh air. The card offers a high, flat rewards rate on your everyday spending, so you don’t need to keep track of different bonus rewards categories. It also offers extra miles on select travel booked through the Capital One Travel platform.

You can redeem your miles by booking travel through Capital One Travel or by using your card to pay for travel on your own and requesting a statement credit. Alternatively, you can transfer your miles to airline and hotel rewards program partners for more dynamic redemptions. The card also comes with complimentary Hertz Five Star status, which lets you skip the rental counter and get access to a wider selection of vehicles. When you use it to pay the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, Capital One will reimburse you.

What is Global Entry and why should you want it?

Best for lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express 

The platinum card® from american express.

See Rates and Fees

• 5X Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year)
• 5X Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
• 1X Earn 1x points on all other eligible purchases
• Packed with valuable potential credits for digital entertainment, Equinox gym, Walmart+ membership, and more.
• Airport lounge access with a larger network than any other card
• Membership Rewards are valuable due to their flexibility.
• The multiple potential credits can be cumbersome to track.
• Sky-high annual fee
• Some of the perks can be hard to use if they don’t align with your lifestyle.
• Travel benefits including hotel and car rental chain statuses, car rental insurance, trip cancellation/interruption and travel delay protection

Why we like it: The Platinum Card® from American Express charges an annual fee that some will find hard to stomach. But if you’re a frequent flyer, it may well become your favorite travel companion. The card offers access to more airport lounge networks than any other credit card. At larger airports, you may even have your pick among several lounge options. 

The card also comes packed with more than $1,500 in annual travel and lifestyle credits, CLEAR Plus membership credit, concierge service , elite status with select hotel and car rental rewards programs and many other perks that touch just about every aspect of your travel experience. That said, many of the credits are doled out in increments and are for specific vendors, making them harder to redeem.

Credits only have value if you use them in your daily life. If a credit or benefit is causing you to make purchases you don’t usually make, you might want to reconsider whether it is worth it for you.

Best mid-level card: Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers both robust earnings on travel and a useful suite of travel protections. Plus, Chase’s dozen-plus transfer partners offer flexibility in travel redemptions.

Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card

• 5x 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠ (excluding hotel purchases that qualify for the $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit)
• 3x 3x points on dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery services
• 2x 2x points on travel purchases not booked through Chase
• 1x 1x points on other purchases
• 5x 5x points on Lyft rides through March 31, 2025 (that's 3x points in addition to the 2x points you already earn on travel)
• Valuable welcome bonus
• Extensive list of transfer partners
• Extra value on travel redemptions
• No premium travel perks
• Has an annual fee
• Additional perks: $50 annual hotel credit, trip cancelation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, complimentary Doordash and Instacart+ membership along with quarterly Instacart+ credits
• Foreign transaction fee: None

Why we like it: If you’re looking for a way to maximize your travel rewards without paying a steep annual fee, look no further than the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card . The card offers an impressive welcome bonus and several opportunities to earn bonus points on your everyday spending. Annual perks include a $50 credit toward hotel stays booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, a 10% points bonus on your spending throughout the year and benefits with partners like Lyft, DoorDash, Instacart, and Peloton. It also has a healthy sign-up bonus for a card with a moderate annual fee.

The card offers flexible redemption options, including cash back, but you’ll get 25% more value if you use your points to book travel through Chase. Alternatively, you can transfer your rewards to one of the card issuer’s airline or hotel rewards program partners and potentially squeeze more value out of your points. It even offers primary rental car insurance , which means you don’t have to contact your insurer first if you have a fender bender in a rental car.

Best for airline loyalists: United SM Explorer Card

The United Explorer card makes sense if you are one of the over 140 million passengers that flew United last year.

United SM Explorer Card

• 2x 2x miles on dining (including eligible delivery services), hotel stays, and United® purchases (including tickets, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, Economy Plus® and more)
• 1x 1x miles on all other purchases
• Free first checked bag benefit.
• Expanded award availability on United Saver flights.
• No foreign transaction fee.
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year (then $95) annual fee
• Subject to Chase 5/24 rule.
• United perks: 25% back on in-flight purchases checked bag benefit, expanded Saver award ticket availability
• Travel perks: TSA/Global Entry credit, trip cancellation and interruption protection

Why we like it: If you like the idea of enjoying rewards and perks with an airline rather than general travel rewards and benefits, you can’t go wrong with the United Explorer Card . The card offers a sizable welcome bonus and a few different bonus rewards categories, and with a strong domestic and international presence, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to redeeming your miles for award flights.

You’ll get some standard airline card benefits, such as a free checked bag for you and a companion, priority boarding, and a discount on select inflight purchases. But you’ll also get some perks that most mid-tier airline cards don’t offer, including expanded access to Saver award tickets, premier upgrade eligibility on award tickets, two one-time passes to the United Club lounge each year, and an application fee credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

If you’re loyal to United but not sure if the Explorer is right for you, check out our list of the best credit cards for United Airlines . Or if you’re loyal to a different airline (or none at all) check out our list of best airline credit cards .

Best for hotel loyalists: IHG One Rewards Premier Card

The IHG One Rewards Card offers a free night upon card renewal along with a slew of other benefits, making it well worth the modest annual fee.

IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

• 10x 10X on IHG purchases 
• 5x Earn 5X points on travel, gas stations, and restaurants
• 3x Earn 3X points on all other purchases
• Staggering welcome bonus which when leveraged properly could get you over a week of stays
• Automatic Platinum Elite status grants free upgrades and early check-in
• Free night upon card renewal
• Fourth night free on award bookings
• Limited redemption options outside of IHG
• IHG points are worth less than some other rewards currencies
• Anniversary night certificate is capped
• Additional perks: $50 annual United credit, TSA/Global Entry rebate, trip cancelation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, purchase protection, ability to spend to Diamond status

Why we like it: If you want to focus your efforts on earning free hotel stays, the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offers an impressive array of benefits. The card makes it easy to earn points quickly, though it also requires a lot of points to get free stays with IHG. 

Where it really shines, though, is in its perks, which offer value that far outweighs the card’s modest annual fee. You’ll get a free night reward each year worth up to 40,000 points, plus a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points if you spend $20,000 in a calendar year. When you stay at IHG hotels, you’ll enjoy Platinum Elite status, which includes perks like the fourth night free on award bookings, reward night discounts, complimentary upgrades, and a welcome amenity. You’ll also get an application fee credit toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS.

To see all of the IHG options check our list of the best credit cards for IHG , or if you’re loyal to a different chain check out our list of the best credit cards for hotels .

Best no annual fee card: Bilt Mastercard

The Bilt Mastercard® not only has no annual fee, it has a robust set of travel transfer partners. Even better, it lets you earn rewards for paying rent.

Bilt Mastercard®

Special feature.

• Make at least 5 transactions in a statement period, in order to earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases (purchases minus returns /credits) for that statement period.
• 3X 3X Bilt Points on dining
• 2X 2X Bilt Points on flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises when booked directly with airlines, hotels, and car rental agencies
• 1X 1X Bilt Points on rent paid through the Bilt App with your card account up to a maximum of 100,000 points each calendar year
• 1X 1X Bilt Points on purchases
• Rewards and benefits terms.
• Uniquely earns points on rent
• Rent Day bonus every first of the month offers double points (excluding rent)
• Robust travel transfer partners
• Cash redemption rate is poor
• No traditional welcome bonus
• Travel perks: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection, Trip Delay Reimbursement, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver. See this page for details.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: None

Why we like it: While it technically isn’t billed as a travel credit card, the Bilt Mastercard®—the only credit card that offers rewards on rent payments—offers travel benefits that are hard to ignore. Most importantly, the card allows you to transfer your points to several airline and hotel loyalty programs, a rare feature for a travel card with no annual fee. You’ll also pay no foreign transaction fees—so it’s great for international travel—and get a few trip protections, including trip cancellation and interruption reimbursement, trip delay protection and auto rental collision damage waiver.

For more no-annual-fee options, check out our list of the best travel cards with no annual fee .

T o view rates and fees of the Bilt Mastercard®, see this page

If your vacation plans stretch farther than your budget, the VentureOne has an extended 0% APR period on purchases so you can enjoy the sun without getting burned with interest.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• 1.25x Earn 1.25x miles on every other purchase
• No annual fee
• The VentureOne offers travel accident insurance, rental car coverage, extended warranty protection, exclusive access to events through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment

Most travel credit cards don’t offer introductory 0% APR promotions, but if that feature is a top priority and you don’t want a cash-back card, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card may be worth a look. 

The card offers an introductory 0% APR promotion on both purchases and balance transfers, giving you plenty of time to pay off a large chunk or all of a significant purchase or high-interest debt from another card. The card’s rewards rate isn’t very exciting, but it does offer flexible travel redemption options, including access to transfer partners.

For more 0% APR options check out our list of the best 0% APR cards .

Best for earning on travel: U.S. Bank Altitude Connect

If cash back is your preference, the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect has a robust rewards rate on travel purchases plus a selection of perks unusual for a sub-$100 annual fee card.

U.S. Bank Altitude Connect

• 5x 5X points on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center
• 4x 4X points on travel, at gas stations and EV charging stations
• 2x 2X points at grocery stores, grocery delivery, dining and streaming services
• 1x 1X on all other purchases
• High earnings on travel
• No annual fee the first year
• 4 Priority Pass lounge visits per year
• Points not transferable to travel partners
• Additional perks: Cell phone protection, Trip cancellation/interruption, TSA/Global Entry fee rebate

Why we like it: Interestingly enough, many travel credit cards don’t offer great rewards on travel spending unless you’re booking through the card issuer’s travel portal. If you want a card that offers best-in-class rewards on all of your travel spending, the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is your best bet. 

The card also offers great rewards on other everyday spending categories, along with four free visits to Priority Pass lounges each year (which made it top our list of best credit cards for cheap airport lounge access ), an application fee credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and an annual bonus when you use your card to pay for an eligible streaming service.

The Credit One Wander card flies under the radar but is worth a look for its strong earnings on travel, dining and gas in addition to its more lenient fair credit score requirements.

Credit One Bank Wander® Card

• 10x 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site
• 5x 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
• 1x 1x points on all other purchases
• High earnings on travel, gas and restaurants
• Available to those with fair credit
• High interest rate

Why we like it: You typically need good or excellent credit to qualify for one of the best travel credit cards, but if you’re not quite there yet, the Credit One Bank Wander® Card should be on your radar. The card offers great rewards on select travel purchases and other everyday spending. 

Points can be redeemed in a variety of ways, but to get a consistent redemption rate, statement credits are your best option.

Best for credit building: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Card

You aren’t out of options if you need to build your credit score before getting a standard travel card. The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Card is a rewarding option while you get on track.

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Who is this card good for.

Why we like it : If you’re looking to build or rebuild, you’ll be hard-pressed to get approved for a true travel credit card. However, the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card can be a solid alternative until you have the chance to establish a good credit score.

The card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good choice for international travel, and you’ll earn a solid rewards rate on every purchase you make. While you need to make a security deposit equal to your desired credit limit when you get started, you don’t have to wait to close your account to get your money back. With responsible use, you can start earning unsecured credit line increases after six months, and you can also qualify for an upgrade to an unsecured Quicksilver card down the road, at which point you’ll get a deposit refund.

Our methodology

The Fortune Recommends TM team analyzed more than 50 travel credit cards across various issuers to come up with the top picks.

Here are the key elements we ranked each card by:

• Annual fee: Some card issuers require cardholders to pay an annual fee for cards with rewards and extra features or benefits. For most of our rankings, we rated cards with lower or zero-dollar annual fees higher.   
• Rewards: Travel cards typically provide rewards in the form of points or miles. For some rankings, we rated cards with better rewards rates higher on our list. 
• Insurance and protections: When you use your card to make purchases, you may be eligible for different types of protections on those purchases. Some cards offer insurance on travel-related expenses, like trip cancellation insurance, baggage delay insurance, trip delay reimbursement, and more. Some cards also provide non-travel-related reimbursements like cell phone protection. For some rankings, we rated cards higher based on the number of protections they offered.
• Welcome bonus: When you sign up for a new credit card, you may be eligible for a one-time welcome bonus in the form of points or miles. You’ll need to spend a certain amount within a few months of card opening to earn the bonus. We ranked cards with higher bonuses and lower spending requirements higher on our list. 
• Perks: Travel credit cards may offer a variety of perks—like statement credits for TSA PreCheck, airport lounge access, a free checked bag, and more. We rated cards with more perks higher for some of our rankings. 
• Foreign transaction fees: Some cards charge a flat rate on purchases when you use your card abroad. We rated cards with no foreign transaction fees higher.  

How do travel credit cards work?

Unlike cash-back rewards, which tend to work the same regardless of the card issuer, travel rewards can get complicated quickly. Ultimately, your redemption options and the value of your points and miles will vary depending on the rewards program. For a primer, check out our beginner’s guide to travel rewards .

Flexible travel rewards credit cards offer points or miles through the card issuer’s proprietary rewards program. Some examples include Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Capital One Miles. 

With flexible travel rewards, you’ll typically get several redemption options, and your rewards are worth a set amount — usually between 0.5 cents and 1.5 cents apiece — depending on how you redeem them. Travel redemptions typically get more value, but that can vary by program.

Many of these programs also allow you to transfer your points to airline and hotel loyalty programs, giving you access to more dynamic redemptions. If you’re savvy enough, you could get more value with a transfer partner than if you were to redeem through the card issuer’s rewards program.

Airline rewards

Airline miles, or points in some cases, are designed primarily to help you earn award flights with your favorite airline, such as American , Delta , or Southwest . But unlike general points or miles, airline rewards typically don’t have a set value. 

In some cases, the number of points or miles required for a flight may be linked to the cash value of the ticket, but they may be unrelated. As a result, the value of your rewards will vary based on your flight dates, itinerary, cabin choice, and other factors. 

In some cases, you may be able to redeem your airline rewards in other ways, but you typically won’t get as much value that way.

Hotel rewards

Hotel points allow you to book free hotel stays with a single hotel chain, such as Hyatt , Hilton , or Marriott . Like airline rewards, hotel points have dynamic value, so your redemption rate will vary based on your destination, the property, your stay dates, and other variables.

Hotel loyalty programs may also allow you to redeem your rewards in other ways, but it’s generally best to stick to free nights.

Should you pick a travel credit card?

If you frequently travel or you’re looking for opportunities to travel more in the future, a travel credit card can make it easier to earn free or discounted flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and more. 

What’s more, some of the top travel credit cards also offer perks that can save you more money or give you a better overall experience at the airport, in flight, or throughout your trip. 

That said, most travel credit cards don’t offer as much redemption flexibility as cash-back credit cards. If you’re not sure you want to go all in on travel rewards, a cash-back credit card may be a better choice. 

Also, most of the top travel credit cards charge an annual fee. While many of them make it easy to offset that cost with rewards and perks, the fee is still an out-of-pocket cost. If you’re on a tight budget or you’re generally fee-averse, think carefully about whether you can afford that yearly cost and make sure you can get enough value from a card to make its annual fee worthwhile.

How to choose the best travel credit card

With so many different options available, there’s no single travel credit card that’s best suited for all travelers. To determine which one is best for you, you’ll want to think about your travel habits, spending profile, and general preferences.

Travel habits

Consumers who travel frequently may benefit more from a premium travel card that offers a broad range of perks, while more casual travelers may be better off with a mid-tier or no-annual-fee travel card. 

If you’re loyal to a specific airline or hotel chain, it could make sense to get an airline or hotel credit card, but if you don’t want to be tied down to a single brand, a general travel card might be the right move.

You’ll also want to think about how you travel and which travel card benefits would give you the best experience. For example, if your home airport has one or more airport lounges, it can make sense to get a card that offers lounge access. 

Spending profile

Most travel credit cards offer tiered rewards, meaning you’ll earn bonus rewards on certain spending categories. If you spend a lot in certain areas of your budget, try to find a card that will reward you more for those purchases. 

However, if you don’t spend a lot in any single category or you don’t want to earn a low rewards rate on most of your spending, consider a card that offers a high, flat rewards rate on everything.

General preferences

Consider other features you’re looking for in a travel credit card. Options may include transfer partners, straightforward benefits, redemption options, 0% APR promotions, and more. 

As you research and compare travel credit cards, familiarize yourself with all of their benefits to determine which one feels like the best fit based on your needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Which card is better for international travel.

Generally speaking, you’ll want a credit card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee. With cards that do charge this fee, you’ll typically pay an extra 3% on all of your purchases made abroad.

Additionally, Visa and Mastercard credit cards tend to be better for international travel because they’re more widely accepted than American Express and Discover credit cards. If you have an Amex or Discover card, consider bringing a Visa or Mastercard as a backup.

Is Visa or Mastercard better for travel?

Mastercard boasts acceptance in more than 210 countries, while Visa says it operates in more than 200 countries. So, if you’re traveling to a country that’s off the beaten path, so to speak, Mastercard may be a better choice. But for most major international destinations, you’re likely fine with either Visa or Mastercard.

What is the best credit card to accumulate travel miles?

Miles have historically been associated with airline frequent flyer programs, but some card issuers, including Capital One and Discover, use the miles nomenclature for their rewards currency. 

With that said, the best miles credit card for you depends on your travel habits and preferences. If you want to earn miles with a particular airline, check out that airline’s co-branded credit cards to see which one offers the best fit. If you want more general rewards, consider a card that offers miles or points with more flexible redemption options.

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

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EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE : The advice, opinions, or rankings contained in this article are solely those of the Fortune Recommends ™ editorial team. This content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of our affiliate partners or other third parties.

Guide to travel rewards credit cards

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The highest cash-back credit card with no annual fee

How the freedom flex works, how much could you earn, what happens once the rewards rotate, push your rewards even higher with the chase sapphire preferred or reserve, the bottom line, the chase freedom flex just became spring’s best travel card.

This card's rotating categories hit the sweet spots to potentially help you earn up to $320 on your next trip.

Evan Zimmer

Staff Writer

Evan Zimmer has been writing about finance for years. After graduating with a journalism degree from SUNY Oswego, he wrote credit card content for Credit Card Insider (now Money Tips) before moving to ZDNET Finance to cover credit card, banking and blockchain news. He currently works with CNET Money to bring readers the most accurate and up-to-date financial information. Otherwise, you can find him reading, rock climbing, snowboarding and enjoying the outdoors.

Tiffany Connors

Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money with a focus on credit cards. Previously, she covered personal finance topics as a writer and editor at The Penny Hoarder. She is passionate about helping people make the best money decisions for themselves and their families. She graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism and has been a writer and editor for publications including the New York Post, Women's Running magazine and Soap Opera Digest. When she isn't working, you can find her enjoying life in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her husband, daughter and a very needy dog.

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There are a lot of great travel credit cards you could bring with you on your spring trips, but few have the same breadth as the Chase Freedom Flex℠ *. 

The card has potentially the highest cash-back rates when you activate on two of the best parts of traveling: food and board. It doesn’t charge an annual fee, either, helping you maximize your savings.

But you’ll need to act quickly. These rewards will only last through June 2024.

Chase Freedom Flex℠

What makes the card’s current offer so enticing is its unparalleled cash back rate at restaurants and hotels -- so long as you can book the latter through Chase Travel℠. 

The Freedom Flex typically offers 3% cash back at restaurants, but combined with its rotating 5% cash back (on the first $1,500 spent in quarterly combined purchases, then 1%) bonus categories when you activate, the Freedom Flex boosts that number to 7% cash back.

And, since the card earns 5% cash back for travel booked through Chase Travel already, combined with its current 5% cash back offering for hotels, you could earn 9% cash back on your hotel booking if you can make it through Chase. 

The math doesn’t quite add up -- if you earn 3% cash back on dining at restaurants and the bonus categories typically earn 5% cash back, shouldn’t that be 8% cash back on dining?

Here’s a breakdown of how Chase explained the rewards rates:

• Hotels booked through Chase: Earn 4% cash back from rotating rewards and 5% back from the standard bonus category -- 9% cash back total .
• Hotels booked directly: Earn 4% cash back from rotating rewards and 1% from the card’s base rate -- 5% cash back total .
• Restaurants: Earn 4% cash back from rotating rewards and 3% from the standard category -- 7% cash back total .
• Amazon.com: Earn 5% cash back from rotating rewards.
• Drug stores: Earn 3% cash back from the standard bonus category.
• All other purchases: Earn 1% cash back.

However, there are a few caveats. First, these rates won’t last -- the Freedom Flex only offers 5% cash back at Amazon.com, hotels and restaurants when you activate from April to June 2024.

Second, the rotating reward category has a spending cap of $1,500 in combined quarterly purchases. So once you hit that limit, your restaurant rewards will fall to 3%, your Amazon.com purchases will fall to 1%, and your hotel rewards rate will fall to 5% for hotels booked through Chase Travel and 1% for hotels booked directly through the hotel brand.

The Chase Freedom Flex offers rotating rewards that change quarterly , or about every three months. Its current rotating bonus categories cover purchases made at Amazon.com, hotels and restaurants. Keep in mind you’ll need to manually activate these rewards each time they change.

Luckily, you can set alerts to inform you when it’s time to activate. And, if you do forget, you can still activate by June 14, 2024. You’ll even earn retroactive rewards for any purchases made in the featured categories before you activated -- something that gives this card an edge over the Discover it® Cash Back* .

In addition to its rotating rewards, the Freedom Flex offers a few static bonus categories. These categories cover restaurants, drug stores and travel booked through Chase.

With its spending cap of $1,500 in combined purchases, you could earn a total of $75 across the quarter at the 5% cash-back rate when you activate, before it falls to 1%. 

However, even once you hit that cap, you’ll still earn 5% cash back on hotels booked through Chase and 3% cash back at restaurants, which is among the best rates found on a cash-back credit card with no annual fee .

As an example, suppose you spent $750 on both your hotel and restaurants, making a combined total of $1,500, the Freedom Flex’s spending cap:

You could earn upwards of $120. Remember, these are merely estimates. How you spend might not be an even split, so your rewards could look different.

The Freedom Flex also features a welcome bonus -- you can earn $200 after you spend $500 on purchases in your first three months from account opening. Based on the example above, you’d hit the required spending threshold, adding another $200 to your rewards. That totals $320, which should be enough to help cover some part of your travel, whether it’s a night at a fancy hotel, your rental car or a good dinner out.

Once the Freedom Flex’s bonus categories change on July 1, you’ll still have a powerful rewards credit card to use for whichever purchases Chase decides to feature next. Past categories have included Target, fitness memberships, groceries and gas, among others.

Chase offers the opportunity to increase how much your rewards are worth by pooling them with other credit cards in its Chase Ultimate Rewards family.

You could earn the Chase Freedom Flex’s higher cash-back rates, for example, and then pool your rewards with either the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve® .

Note that both of those credit cards charge an annual fee , the Preferred comes in at $95 and the Reserve at $550. However, they both offer annual travel credits that help soften the blow of their fees. They have two other great perks -- a 1:1 point transfer rate to Chase’s hotel and airline partners , as well as a 25% and 50% point redemption bonus respectively for travel booked through Chase Travel.

It’ll take a bit more work, and an additional credit card, but if you can use the Chase Trifect strategy , you could increase the return you earn on your travel spending exponentially.

If you’ve got travel plans this spring, you should consider adding the Chase Freedom Flex to your card collection. 

Even if you don’t want to take the extra step of using it in tandem with a Chase Sapphire card, it’ll be a rewarding and inexpensive choice. You might even earn an extra $320 to spend on your travels.

*All information about the Chase Freedom Flex and Discover it   Cash Back has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

CNET editors independently choose every product and service we cover. Though we can’t review every available financial company or offer, we strive to make comprehensive, rigorous comparisons in order to highlight the best of them. For many of these products and services, we earn a commission. The compensation we receive may impact how products and links appear on our site.