u.s. bank government services travel card

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Travel Charge Card

Usda travel charge card program.

The Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO), Financial Planning and Policy, Fiscal Policy Division, Travel Section, along with representatives from agencies across USDA, is responsible for establishing and implementing travel policy and procedures as well as managing the USDA travel charge card program.

The USDA Travel Charge Card program provides travel charge cards to USDA employees through the GSA SmartPay 2 contract. The USDA travel charge card provides employees with access to government negotiated fares while allowing agencies greater visibility in to their travel spend.

Travel Charge Card Holder and Travel Charge Card A/OPC Training

All Travel Charge Card holders and Agency/Organization Program Coordinators (A/OPCs) are required to take the USDA Travel Charge Card Training on the proper use of a Government Travel Charge Card prior to receiving one. This course gives charge card holders and A/OPCs a better understanding of the policies and procedures for the Travel Charge Card and helps you and your agency maximize the benefits of the Travel Charge Card program.

Receive travel charge card training by searching for “USDA Travel Charge Card Training” on AgLearn+

Benefits of the USDA Travel Charge Card include:

• The travel charge card is accepted worldwide
• Access to discount government negotiated rates
• Built in travel insurance
• Eliminates the need for travelers to use their personal charge card
• Travelers are no longer required to carry large sums of cash
• Ability to monitor transactions and pay bill online
• Improved oversight in travel spend
• Charges are limited to travel related expenses

Travel Charge Card Policy

The USDA Travel Charge Card is a convenient method for the USDA and employees to make payments for official government travel and travel related expenses, while allowing the USDA to better manage their travel related expenses.

Other benefits of the program include:

• Safety – The USDA Travel Charge Card improves financial controls and eliminates the need for cash
• Electronic Access to Data – Provides accurate, comprehensive transaction detail with a few clicks of a button
• Worldwide Acceptance – The GSA SmartPay2 Charge Cards provide greater access to merchants because they are accepted worldwide
• Access to Government providers - Government Charge Card users are given access to GSA City Pair reduced airfares and FedRooms hotel rates

The USDA saves money on travel processing costs and generates revenue through volume of refunds with the use of the GSA SmartPay Travel Charge Card.

Eligibility

Employees who travel more than four times a year on official government business are required to use a government charge card. Please contact you’re A/OPC to discuss your eligibility to receive a travel charge card.

Card holder roles and responsibilities

Cardholders SHOULD:

• Use the charge card appropriately, in accordance with USDA policy, other laws, and governmental regulations
• Keep up to date with required program & agency-specific training, including refresher training
• Look out for communications from A/OPCs and take appropriate action
• Contact their A/OPC for questions regarding use of the card
• Immediately report a lost or stolen card
• Register for on-line access
• Use card for OFFICIAL travel expenses ONLY
• Track expenses while on travel in order to have accurate information for filing travel claims
• Keep receipts for All transactions charged on their travel charge card
• File travel claim within 5 days of returning from TDY
• Submit payment in full and on time for each monthly bill

Cardholders SHOULD NOT:

• Use the Travel Charge Card for personal use
• Obtain ATM travel advances which exceed the expected out of pocket expenditures for a trip
• Allow their monthly bill to become overdue which could result in the suspension or cancellation of the Travel Charge Card
• Wait for the receipt of their monthly bill to file travel claims
• Pay for another individuals travel expense
• Write their personal identification number (PIN) on the card or carry the pin number in their wallet

Travel Charge Card Documents

• Travel Charge Card Acceptance and Acknowledge Statement (PDF, 206 KB)
• USDA Government Travel Charge Card Regulation
• US Bank Cardholder Guide (PDF, 143 KB)
• Travel Charge Card Do’s and Dont’s (PDF, 426 KB)
• Inter-Departmental Hierarchy Transfer Request (PDF, 175 KB)
• Payment Transfer Request (XLSX, 72.2 KB)

An official website of the United States government Here's how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

U.S.Bank Access Online Registration Instructions

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Recognizing GSA SmartPay® Cards/Accounts

Learn how to identify the different types of GSA SmartPay cards/accounts.

Card/Account Type

To identify cards/accounts, it is important to know whether a card/account is a Centrally Billed Account (CBA) or Individually Billed Account (IBA).

• Agency is invoiced for purchases.
• Payments are made directly to the contractor banks by the federal government.
• Examples include purchase, fleet, and some travel cards/accounts.
• Card/account holder is invoiced directly.
• Payment is the responsibility of the card/account holder, who is then reimbursed by the agency/organization.
• Most common travel cards/accounts.

Card/Account Prefix

The prefix is the first four digits that appear on the charge card/account.

Bank Identification Number (BIN)

The BIN is the first six digits that appear on the charge card/account.

Travel Cards/Accounts

GSA SmartPay Travel cards/accounts can be used for official government travel and travel-related expenses, while allowing card/account holders access to GSA’s City Pair Program reduced airfares.

Travel Card Designs

Typically, travel cards have one of these designs:

Please note that card designs may vary.

GSA SmartPay Travel Card/Account Prefixes

The sixth digit identifies account type.

For the travel business line only, the sixth digit will identify whether the card/account is a CBA or IBA.

Travel Card/Account Tax Exemption Status

All CBA GSA SmartPay Travel cards/accounts should be exempt from state sales tax.

Some IBA GSA SmartPay Travel cards/accounts may be exempt from state taxes in select states.

Review state tax exemption information on the Tax Information by State page . To receive state tax exemption, forms, official business travel documentation, and/or a federal government identification may be required.

Purchase Cards/Accounts

In accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), the GSA SmartPay Purchase card/account is the preferred method to purchase and pay for micro-purchases (FAR Part 13.201). For purchases above the micro-purchase threshold, the purchase card/account may be used as an ordering and payment mechanism, but not as a contracting mechanism.

Purchase Card Designs

Typically, purchase cards have this design:

GSA SmartPay Purchase Card/Account Prefixes

Purchase card/account tax exemption status.

All GSA SmartPay Purchase cards/accounts are CBAs and should be exempt from state sales tax.

The sixth digit identifier used to differentiate travel cards/accounts does not apply to purchase, fleet, or integrated cards/accounts.

Fleet Cards/Accounts

Use of GSA SmartPay Fleet cards/accounts enable agencies/organizations to conveniently obtain fuel and maintenance for vehicles and equipment, as well as manage tax recovery efforts and collect detailed fleet management data.

Fleet Card Designs

Typically, fleet cards have this design:

GSA SmartPay Fleet Card/Account Prefixes

Fleet card/account tax exemption status.

All GSA SmartPay Fleet cards/accounts are CBAs and should be exempt from state sales tax.

Integrated Cards/Accounts

The GSA SmartPay integrated account is a specialized card/account designed to combine the functions of the purchase, travel, and/or fleet business lines into one payment solution.

Integrated Card Designs

Typically, integrated cards have this design:

GSA SmartPay Integrated Card/Account Prefixes

Integrated card/account tax exemption status.

Most times, GSA SmartPay Integrated cards/accounts are CBAs and should be exempt from state sales tax.

Card-Not-Present Solutions

Transactions can also take place without a physical card.

Examples include:

• Declining Balance Cards.
• Ghost Cards.
• Mobile Payments.
• Single Use Accounts.

For more information on card-not-present solutions, please refer to the GSA SmartPay Strategic Payment Solutions publication .

Card-Not-Present Prefixes, BINs, and Tax Exemption Status

The prefixes, BINs, and tax exemption information detailed above for the travel, purchase, fleet, and integrated business lines also applies to card-not-present solutions.

smartpay.gsa.gov

An official website of the General Services Administration

Department of Defense Travel Card Benefits

Progress informed from the past, and inspired by the future, cardholder guide.

Official travel for the Department of Defense just became easier with the Citi Department of Defense Travel Card. When you are preparing to use your new card, please read What To Do When I First Receive My New Card . For more information regarding your new card, please read the Department of Defense Cardholder Guide .

Department of Defense Travel Insurance

As a cardholder, you will receive global travel accident and lost luggage insurance so you feel safe and secure wherever you travel with a Citi ® Commercial Card.

• Travel Accident Insurance Guide
• Lost Luggage Insurance Guide

MasterCard Guide to Benefits

Visa Guide to Benefits

In addition to the card benefits provided by Citi, Visa provides card benefits such as Car Rental Insurance and Travel and Emergency Assistance. For full details, please read the Visa Guide to Benefits .

Travel Tips

For more information on your Citi Department of Defense Travel Card, please read What to do Before, During and After travel .

Online Tools

Citi's global online tool, CitiManager ® , enables you to manage business expenses from anywhere around the globe from your computer or mobile device; you can view statements online, confirm account balances, sign up for email and SMS alerts, and much more. If you have not already signed up for the CitiManager ® tool, please log on to www.citimanager.com/login and click on the 'Self registration for Cardholders' link. From there, follow the prompts to establish your account.

For more information on the CitiManager ® tool, view our CitiManager ® Cardholder Quick Reference Guide .

• ATM locations
• ATM locator

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One solution for managing travel, expense and cards.

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Easily manage cash flow and spending

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Integrated travel management

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Digital first technology tailored for your organization

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• Ready access to all travel and expense tools in one place – available anytime, anywhere.
• Dedicated travel agents available 24/7 by phone, chat or email to help travelers with any issues.
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Better payment, expense and travel experiences

Discover a better way to book travel, report and reconcile expenses, while ensuring policy adherence.

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The creditor and issuer of U.S. Bank charge cards is U.S. Bank National Association, pursuant to separate licenses from Visa U.S.A., Inc., and Mastercard ® International Inc.

Notice: Foreign-denominated transactions are subject to foreign currency exchange risk. Customers are not protected against foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations by FDIC insurance, or any other insurance or guaranty program.

The foregoing products are available solely for business transactions and not for personal, family or household transactions.

• Credit Cards
• Best No Annual Fee Travel Credit Cards

Best No-Annual-Fee Cards For Travel Of April 2024

Fact Checked

Updated: Apr 24, 2024, 3:32pm

Using a travel rewards credit card has long been celebrated as an easy strategy to travel the world for less. Consumers can apply for rewards credit cards and earn points and miles on everyday spending, then redeem rewards for airfare, hotel stays, rental cars and more.

The annual fees travel cards often charge can be worth it if you use the benefits you receive, but not everyone wants to pay a fee to hold a card. Fortunately, many travel credit cards offer benefits for no annual fee.

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
• 5500 hotel nights spent
• 93,000,000 miles and points redeemed
• 29 loyalty programs covered

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

• Chase Freedom Flex℠ * : Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Card With Rotating Categories
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best Flat-Rate No-Annual Fee Travel Card
• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Flat-Rate Cash-Rewards Card for Travel
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for Everyday Spending
• Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Union Card for Travel
• Discover it® Cash Back : Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Cash Back on Travel
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Best No Annual Fee Amex Card for Travel
• Bilt World Elite Mastercard® : Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Rewards on Rent
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Dining
• Hilton Honors American Express Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Hilton
• Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * : Best for Earning Membership Rewards Points
• United Gateway℠ Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Airline Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Hotel Card
• Best Credit Cards Of 2024
• Credit Cards With Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best Hotel Credit Cards
• Best Credit Card For Lounge Access
• Best Airline Credit Cards

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Up to 3X Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming Read More

Welcome Bonus

20,000 bonus points

Regular APR

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Credit Score

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards of 2024

Best no-annual-fee travel card with rotating categories, chase freedom flex℠ *.

Up to 5% Reward Rate

Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled, 5% on travel purchased through Read More

$200 bonus + 5% on Gas and Grocery (excluding Target and Walmart)

20.49% - 29.24% Variable

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

This card has the brawn to handle just about all of your credit card spending needs without an over-inflated price tag. The card has an annual fee of $0, yet comes with a pumped-up earnings structure that covers a wide swath of expenses including travel, drugstores and dining plus rotating quarterly bonus categories in areas many households are likely to find appealing.

• No annual fee
• Rotating quarterly categories earn 5% rewards when activated, up to a combined quarterly $1,500 maximum
• Travel rewards rate rivals some of the best premium travel cards
• Generous rewards rate in several other categories
• Travel bookings must be made through Chase Travel℠ to earn 5% cash back
• Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year
• 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% on dining and drugstores and 1% on all other purchases

Best Flat-Rate No-Annual Fee Travel Card

Chase freedom unlimited®.

Up to 6.5X Reward Rate

Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000 spent in the first year, after that 5% cash back Read More

Up to $300 cash back

A good overall spending card that allows you to hold a balance on new purchases with a low introductory APR, pay no annual fee, and still earn at least 1.5% cashback on all purchases

• Generous welcome offer for a no annual fee card
• Unlimited 1.5% minimum earn rate for cash-back rewards
• No minimum redemption amount
• Foreign transaction fee
• Ongoing balance transfer fee is high
• Requires a companion card to transfer points to travel partners
• 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

Best No-Annual-Fee Flat-Rate Cash-Rewards Card for Travel

Wells fargo active cash® card.

Unlimited 2% Rewards Rate

Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

$200 Cash Rewards

The Wells Fargo Active Cash offers an unlimited 2% cash rewards rate on purchases and charges no annual fee. This puts it in competition with the best flat-rate cash back cards on the market.

• Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
• $0 annual fee
• Cellphone protection benefit
• There’s a balance transfer fee
• There’s a foreign transaction fee
• No travel transfer partners
• 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.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.

Best for Everyday Spending

Earning 3 points per dollar spent on a wide range of spending—including restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit and popular streaming services—for no annual fee, the Wells Fargo Autograph is a powerhouse.

• No foreign transaction fee
• Introductory APR period
• Plentiful reward points categories
• Protections include cell phone insurance
• Balance transfer fee
• No introductory balance transfer APR

Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Union Card for Travel

Alliant cashback visa® signature credit card *.

Up to 2.5% Reward Rate

Those eligible for Tier 1 Rewards earn 2.5% cashback on the first $10,000 of qualifying eligible purchases per billing cycle Read More

17.24% - 27.24% variable

Excellent (750 - 850)

If you regularly rack up your monthly balance, the 2.5% return on the Alliant card is hard to beat. The downsides are that excellent credit is recommended before you apply for the card and the lack of a welcome bonus.

• 2.5% cash back rate on up to $10,000 in monthly purchases for eligible accounts (then 1.5%)
• No foreign transaction fees
• Generous credit line
• No intro APR offer
• No welcome bonus
• Requires a companion checking account with balance, direct deposit and e-statement requirements
• Earn up to 2.5% cash back with no categories to track on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle with qualifying accounts. All other purchases earn 1.5%
• You can choose to receive cash back from your Alliant credit card via a credit card statement credit (appearing within one billing cycle) or as a deposit into your Alliant checking or savings
• Up to $5,000 of Personal Identity Theft Protection for covered expenses to restore your identity

Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Cash Back on Travel

Discover it® cash back.

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, Read More

Cashback Match™

17.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

Excellent/Good

For moderate spenders who are willing to activate the 5% rotating categories and track the quarterly spending cap, this no-annual-fee card can deliver tidy rewards outside of its ongoing 1% earning rate.

• 5% cash back on quarterly rotating spending categories throughout the year (activation required)
• Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
• No minimum cashback redemption
• 5% bonus cashback rate is limited to $1,500 per quarter in spending
• Bonus categories must be activated quarterly
• Low 1% base reward rate on everything else
• 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.

Best No Annual Fee Amex Card for Travel

Blue cash everyday® card from american express.

Up to 3% Reward Rate

Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. on up to Read More

19.24%-29.99% Variable

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

For no annual fee, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers excellent value in the right hands. Spending a lot at U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations brings plump rewards, while the introductory APR rate on purchases helps keep your interest expenses down. Look elsewhere for foreign transactions.

• Introductory APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
• Above-average earnings at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and online retail purchases in the U.S.
• Elevated earnings at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. are capped at $6,000 in annual spending per category
• Rewards earning outside of the bonus categories is just 1% cash back
• 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.

Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Rewards on Rent

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. Sounds like a great way to maximize your rent money to us.

• 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
• 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
• 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 No-Annual-Fee Card for Dining

U.s. bank altitude® go visa signature® card *.

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery and 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery Read More

18.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Excellent Credit (750 - 850)

With no foreign transaction fee and industry-leading earnings on dining, the Altitude Go could get you up into the air quickly.

• No penalty APR
• Generous rewards for a no annual fee card
• Annual credit toward eligible streaming services
• No bonus reward tier for entertainment spending
• Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. That’s a $200 value redeemable towards merchandise, gift cards, cash back, travel and more
• 4 points per dollar spent on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery
• 2 points per dollar spent on streaming services and a $15 credit for annual streaming purchases
• 2 points per dollar spent at grocery stores, gas stations, and EV charging stations (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024)
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases
• Points never expire

Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Hilton

Hilton honors american express card.

Up to 7X Reward Rate

Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Read More

Earn 80,000 points

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Good,Excellent (700 - 749)

A good intro into the Hilton world without paying an annual fee, the Hilton Honors Card from American Express brings you a few nice perks. But if you’re a serious Hilton traveler, you’ll want to look at one of the higher end cobranded Hilton cards offered by American Express.

• High point earning rates
• Generous welcome bonus
• Automatic Silver status includes fifth night free on award stays
• No annual fee or foreign transaction fee
• No blackout dates
• Low point redemption value
• Silver status comes with limited benefits
• Poor transfer rate to airline partners
• Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors™ Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.

Best for Earning Membership Rewards Points

Amex everyday® credit card *.

Up to 2x Reward Rate

Earn 2X points at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year (then 1X); Earn 2X points at American Express Read More

Earn 10,000 points

18.24% - 29.24% variable

If you are looking for a solid intro APR offer and frequently spend at US supermarkets, this is the card for you.

• Possible to earn 20% bonus on all points earned
• 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar on up to $6,000 spent annually at U.S. supermarkets (then 1 point per dollar)
• 2.7% foreign transaction fee
• Spending cap on bonus points at grocery stores
• Requires 20 purchases per month to earn 20% bonus
• Earn 10,000 membership rewards points after spending $2,000 in qualifying purchases in the first 6 months of card membership
• Earn 2 points per dollar spent on qualifying purchases at US supermarkets up to $6,000 per year (then 1 point)
• Earn 2 points for every dollar when you use your card to book your trip through American Express Travel
• Earn 1 point for every eligible dollar you spend on everything else
• You can use membership rewards points towards eligible charges you make on your card, such as retail, dining, entertainment and more
• Use your card 20 or more times on purchases in a billing period and earn 20% extra points on those purchases

Best No-Annual-Fee Airline Card

United gateway℠ card.

Up to 2x Rewards Rate

2X miles per $1 spent on United purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting. 1 mile per Read More

• Earn 20,000 bonus miles

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

With its simple and respectable rewards rates, plus Visa Signature benefits, casual fliers who are loyal to United will find value in United’s only card with no annual fee.

• Earn 2 miles on purchases with United, at gas stations and on local transportation
• Enjoy expanded United award travel availability
• Earns only 1 mile per dollar spent on non-bonused purchases
• No free checked bag or enhanced boarding benefits
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent at gas stations, on local transit and commuting
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card

Best No-Annual-Fee Hotel Card

Marriott bonvoy bold® credit card *.

3 points per dollar spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program, 2 points per dollar on other Read More

Earn 30,000 bonus points

21.49% - 28.49% variable

One of several Marriott credit cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold card is the only one without an annual fee. It’s a smart entry-level card for travelers who want to earn points in the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program and enjoy Silver Elite status.

• The first Bonvoy Rewards card with no annual fee
• 15 Elite Night credits per year + Silver Elite status
• Rewards bonus categories are somewhat limited
• 5% fee for balance transfers
• Earn 30,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 on your first 3 months of account opening.
• Earn 3X points per dollar spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
• Plus, earn up to 10X points from Marriott for being a Marriott Bonvoy member
• 15 elite night credits annually, enough for Silver Elite status, terms apply

Here’s a Summary of the Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

More about the best no-annual-fee travel credit cards.

Navigating the world of credit cards means finding the combination of pros and cons that offer the best value for your needs. A card rewarding your unique spending habits and goals will outperform one that is seemingly best for the average consumer, so make sure to evaluate each card for your specific uses.

Be aware that cards with no annual fee often charge other types of fees. In addition to interest charges incurred when a balance is carried, cardholders may also face penalty charges, including over-limit fees and late payment fees, as well as fees for foreign transactions, cash advances and balance transfers.

If you’re looking for a cash-back credit card and want the option to redeem points for travel, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be exactly what you need. This card lets you earn a strong base rate of rewards for each dollar you spend, and you can redeem points for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, merchandise or travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal.

Welcome bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on dining and drugstores and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be marketed as a cash-back credit card, but you can redeem rewards for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Since you can also redeem your rewards for statement credits at a rate of 1 cent per point, you can cover travel purchases charged to your card as well.

This card paired with a premium Chase card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card can provide extra leverage as points are worth 1.25 to 1.5 cents each when redeemed through the Chase travel portal depending on which premium card you have. Carrying both the Flex card and a premium Chase card also gives you the opportunity for 1:1 transfers to Chase’s airline and hotel partners like United and Hyatt.

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24% applies. Balance transfer fee of up to 5% (min. $5) of the amount of each transfer applies. This makes the card a solid option if you want to charge a big purchase and pay down your balance over time without worrying about interest for the duration of the 0% introductory APR period.

The card’s benefits also include purchase protection against damage and theft and extended warranties for eligible items.

Those looking to get into the Chase ecosystem with a no-annual-fee card might want to consider the flat-rate Chase Freedom Unlimited® .

Welcome bonus: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000 spent in the first year, worth up to $300 cash back.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on eligible dining and drugstores and 1.5% on all other purchases, plus an additional 1.5% cash back on the first $20,000 in purchases the first year.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® may not be the best choice for those who like to travel abroad because it charges a foreign transaction fee. On the plus side, it offers an introductory APR: 0% introductory APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24% applies. An intro transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, applies in the first 60 days of account opening. After that, a fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer applies.

If you’re looking for a card to boost your travel funds but prefer a cash rewards card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card may be the way to go.

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

Rewards: Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers up to $600 per claim in cellphone protection (subject to a $25 deductible) when you pay a monthly cellphone bill with the card, terms apply.

It also offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers, then a 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR applies. Balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a fee of up to 5%, with a minimum of $5 applies.

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is excellent for everyday spending with bonus categories that most people will have no problem using.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar at restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus, earn 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card also offers an introductory 0% APR: 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months from account opening. A variable APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% applies for purchases after the intro period ends and for balance transfers. The card has a balance transfer fee of up to 5%, minimum $5. Cardholders can also benefit from cellphone protection, roadside dispatch and an auto rental collision damage waiver.

The Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card * offers the potential for a high rate of cashback, although this rate is limited to the first $10,000 in purchases each month. However, this will likely be sufficient for most people’s monthly spending.

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

Rewards: Earn up to 2.5% cash back with no categories to track on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle with qualifying accounts. All other purchases earn 1.5%.

Other benefits and drawbacks: You’ll have to join Alliant Credit Union to be eligible to apply for this card and to achieve the highest rate of cashback, you’ll have to have an average daily balance of at least $1,000 in your Alliant High-Rate Checking account for each preceding calendar month. The Alliant Cashback card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

The Discover it® Cash Back isn’t specifically marketed as a travel card, but cashback can be used for anything—including travel, so we’ve included it here. This card offers solid rewards as long as you can remember to activate the quarterly categories. It also offers a non-traditional but impressive welcome bonus for those who spend plentifully on the card.

Welcome bonus: Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year as a cardmember. There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter up to a quarterly maximum of $1,500 in spending when activated. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Discover it® Cash Back offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and eligible balance transfers. Then, a standard rate of 17.24% - 28.24% variable applies. A balance transfer fee of up to 5% of the amount transferred applies. It also offers online privacy protection tools and free social security number alerts.

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express (Terms apply, see rates & fees ) is a solid option for those looking to earn cash back from American Express.

Welcome bonus: Earn $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 6 months.

Rewards: Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. (on up to $6,000 in each category per year in purchases, then 1%), and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be easily redeemed for statement credits or at Amazon.com checkout.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers an introductory APR: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and on balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening, followed by a variable APR of 19.24%-29.99%. A balance transfer fee of $5 or 3%, whichever is greater, applies. Cardholders can also benefit from access to Amex Offers, up to $84 in credit ($7 monthly) for a Disney Bundle subscription and a $180 Home Chef credit. Additional benefits include purchase protection ¹ and car rental loss and damage insurance ² .

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard®  ( rates & fees ) lays the claim as the first card that offers the ability to pay rent and earn points on those purchases. For those who pay rent, it’s a great way to earn a bunch of additional points each year.

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.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Bilt points can be transferred at a 1:1 rate to various transfer partners, including American Airlines and Hyatt. The card also offers cellphone protection, various travel benefits and the ability to earn bonus points (and sometimes other benefits) once per month on Rent Day, though you must use the card five times each statement period to earn points ( rewards & benefits ).

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card * earns points that you can redeem for merchandise, gift cards, cash back or travel, all at a value of 1 cent per point. It offers reasonable earn rates for a no-annual-fee card.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery, 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery delivery, gas stations, streaming services and on EV charging stations (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024) and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Cardholders can also benefit from a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles, followed by a regular variable APR of 18.24% - 29.24%. A balance transfer fee of 3% applies ($5 minimum). The card also offers a $15 annual streaming bonus for services like Netflix, Apple TV+, Spotify and others.

The Hilton Honors American Express Card (Terms apply, see rates & fees ) offers the ability to earn Hilton Honors points for each dollar you spend and automatically qualify for elite perks.

Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after spending $2,000 in purchases on the card in the first six months of card membership.

Rewards: Earn 7 Hilton Honors points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio, 5 points for each dollar of eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations and 3 points per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Hilton Honors American Express Card offers robust earning categories that let you earn bonus points in many common areas of spending.

Cardholder benefits include automatic Silver status, but you can move up to Hilton Honors™ Gold status if you spend at least $20,000 on your credit card within a calendar year. If you expect to spend this much on your card each year, it may make sense to get a card that automatically provides a higher level of Hilton status and place the spending on a card that will net you more rewards overall.

Those looking for an Amex Card but with a preference to earn Membership Rewards instead of cash back should consider the Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * .

Welcome bonus: Earn 10,000 points after spending $2,000 in qualifying purchases in the first 6 months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1X), 2 points per dollar when using the card to book trips through American Express Travel and 1 point for every eligible dollar on everything else. Plus, use the card 20 or more times on purchases in a billing period and earn 20% extra points on those purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: When you use your Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * 20 or more times per billing cycle, you’ll earn a 20% bonus on all points earned during that billing cycle. This card also offers access to Amex Offers, car rental loss and damage insurance and purchase protection.

United isn’t the only airline with a no-annual-fee card, but it’s the best no-annual-fee airline offering. The United Gateway℠ Card provides a few valuable benefits when a cardholder flies United.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 2 miles per dollar on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Holders of the United Gateway℠ Card receive 25% off United in-flight purchases made on the card. It also offers an auto rental collision damage waiver, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty coverage and doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Those looking for more United benefits, including a free checked bag when flying with the airline, should consider the United℠ Explorer Card that has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Read more: United Airlines MileagePlus: The Ultimate Guide

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card * is a decent option for those wanting to earn Marriott points without paying an annual fee. If you’re really looking for a Marriott-specific card, you should also ask yourself: Which Marriott Card is right for me ?

Welcome bonus: Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program, 2 points per dollar on other travel purchases (from airfare to taxis and trains) and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Marriott Bonovy Bold offers complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver status and 15 Elite Night credits each year that may help you qualify for higher levels of elite status. The card also offers various travel and purchase coverage like baggage delay insurance and purchase protection, and it doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Methodology

Forbes Advisor compared dozens of travel credit cards from all major issuers to find the best options with no annual fee. Factors we looked at include:

• Earning rates
• Welcome offers
• Introductory APR
• Consumer protections
• Automatic elite status
• Multiple redemption options

Read more: How Forbes Advisor Rates Credit Cards

What Does No Annual Fee Mean?

No annual fee means the credit card company does not charge you to maintain the credit card. No annual fee does not mean you should expect no fees at all—you might still pay interest, over-limit fees, late payment fees or a foreign transaction fee. Carefully consult your cardholder agreement and the Schumer box therein.

Why Do Credit Cards Have Annual Fees?

When a credit card charges an annual fee, it means the issuer is charging the cardholder directly to maintain the account. Once a credit card is activated, this type of flat fee isn’t impacted by how the card is used or by any other factors within the cardholder’s control—it simply recurs for as long as the account stays open. Most commonly, an annual fee is billed on the anniversary month of the credit card account’s opening. The cost of these fees can vary dramatically.

Annual fees are, unsurprisingly, not popular, so why do credit card issuers commonly charge them? Traditionally, cards with higher annual fees offer significantly better perks. It’s still common for no-annual-fee cards to fall on the less-generous end of the benefits spectrum. Credit cards designed for individuals with low credit scores and poor application prospects may also charge a high annual fee and a higher APR to offset the theoretically heightened risk assumed by the issuer.

Credit card issuers expect to profit from each offering, and each card represents a calculated compromise between advantages popular among consumers and guarantees or benefits for the issuer. Your choice should focus on the combination of pros and cons providing you the best value.

How Do Travel Credit Cards With No Annual Fee Work?

No annual fee means the issuer does not charge consumers to carry the credit card. At least in theory, annual fees are levied by issuers to compensate for other aspects of a card considered especially favorable to the cardholder, such as rewards. Though it’s common for these fees to be waived for a year or altogether to attract customers, the most benefit-heavy cards often charge annual fees. Apart from this tradeoff, no-annual-fee credit cards function much like cards with annual fees.

Benefits of No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

Each card offers its own suite of benefits. These vary depending on the issuer, but most credit cards offer at least some of the following:

• Fraud protection (all consumer cards are required to offer a certain degree of protection)
• Introductory APRs
• Rewards earning (in the form of cashback from purchases or points and miles redeemable for airline tickets, hotel stays or other travel)
• Discounts on in-flight food and beverage purchases

No-annual-fee cards may offer fewer of these benefits compared to their counterparts that charge an annual fee.

Who Should Get a No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Card?

Many people can benefit from a no-annual-fee travel credit card. Whether you travel occasionally or all the time, these cards offer benefits targeted toward travelers without charging you anything to hold the card.

• If you’re an occasional traveler: Look for a travel credit card that offers the most benefits for the lowest fee—You can probably find a no-annual-fee card that will fit your needs.
• If you’re a frequent traveler: While you may be able to find a no-annual-fee travel card that works for you, there’s a good chance you would benefit more from one of the best travel cards , many of which do charge an annual fee.

How To Choose the Right Travel Credit Card With No Annual Fee

All the travel credit cards in our ranking allow consumers to earn travel rewards points or cash back without having to pay a fee each year. But there’s more to picking a travel credit card than just finding an option without a fee. The following tips can help shoppers find a card that suits their needs:

• Compare rewards programs: Make sure you’re earning rewards you can actually use. If you plan to pick up a hotel credit card or airline credit card specifically, you’ll want to explore the loyalty program to ensure you understand how it works and whether it makes sense for you. If you never fly, for example, there’s no sense in earning airline miles.
• Consider flexible travel options: Decide whether a  flexible travel credit card might work better. While some cards only let you redeem points within a specific loyalty program, others allow you to cash in points for any travel purchase you want or for additional redemption options like gift cards or merchandise.
• Look at 0% APR offers: Many cards on our list also offer an introductory 0% APR for a limited time. Some of these offers apply only to purchases, but a few apply to balance transfers, as well.
• Look for other cardholder perks: Finally, consider which cards offer the benefits you want most, whether those include no foreign transaction fees, elite status with a loyalty program or travel insurance benefits. Ideally, you’ll find a card with rewards you can use and cardholder perks that make sense for the way you travel.

Find the Best Travel Credit Cards for 2024

Find the best travel credit card for your travel needs.

How To Apply for a No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Card

It is often easiest to compare and apply for credit cards through the card issuer’s website. Though you can often apply over the phone or by mail, these methods may take longer and be less convenient.

Applicants should know their credit scores and credit histories before shopping for cards. No-annual-fee travel credit cards may require good to excellent credit for an application to be successful. The better your score and credit history, the better your chances for approval.

Any applicant can take steps to increase creditworthiness and chances of approval for new cards. These steps include clearing up any outstanding debts carried elsewhere and decreasing your credit utilization ratio , representing how much of your overall available credit is used. Applicants should also become familiar with the card’s terms and conditions and check for any important details in the fine print before applying.

Is a Credit Card With No Annual Fee Worth It?

A credit card with no annual fee, as long as it offers you benefits and rewards that you can use, is worth it. The real question is this: Is there another card that’s better? There may be another no-annual-fee card that offers rewards more in line with your spending habits or benefits that are more valuable to you. There could be a credit card with an annual fee that offers even better rewards and benefits—enough to offset the annual fee—that makes even more sense. It’s worthwhile to take some time to compare the available options so you can find the card that’s best for you.

Bottom Line

Many excellent travel cards offer lucrative rewards and benefits without charging an annual fee. Though no annual fee does not mean the absence of fees altogether, paying an annual fee is only worthwhile if a cardholder can extract at least as much value from that card beyond what the best no-annual-fee card can offer. Carefully do your research before applying for any card, and recognize that just because a card doesn’t charge an annual fee doesn’t mean it won’t stick you with interest and other fees if you don’t manage the account responsibly.

To view rates and fees for Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express please visit this page . To view rates and fees for Bilt World Elite Mastercard® please visit this page . To view rates and fees for Hilton Honors American Express Card please visit this page . ¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. ¹Eligibility 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best credit card with no annual fee and cashback.

There is not one no-annual-fee cash-back card that tops all others, as everyone has a unique credit profile and set of needs. Our list is designed to give you a starting point for your search. If you are looking for a card with no annual fee and category bonuses, consider the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * . If you are looking for no annual fee and simple cash rewards, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card.

What benefits are common for no-annual-fee cards?

Each card offers its own suite of benefits. These vary depending on the vendor, but most credit cards offer fraud protection (all consumer cards are required to offer a certain degree of protection), and many offer some sort of rewards or intro APR.

What is the best credit card for airline miles with no annual fee?

We consider the United Gateway℠ Card and the JetBlue Card * to be among the best no-annual-fee airline cards, but the card best for you depends on your spending habits, airline preference and more. Other airlines also offer no-annual-fee options, but all airline cards without an annual fee are light on the benefits compared to annual-fee card peers. If you regularly fly with a specific airline or if you occasionally fly but usually check a bag, consider an airline card with an annual fee. While you may pay an annual fee, the savings from a free checked bag and other benefits could save you money in the long run.

Which no-annual-fee travel cards offer the best welcome bonus?

Welcome bonuses vary not only by the card but by the day. Banks frequently publish new promotions, so welcome bonuses may change without much notice. A couple of cards consistently offering solid welcome bonuses are the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * and the United Gateway℠ Card .

What credit score do I need to get a no-annual-fee travel card?

Generally, rewards cards—including travel credit cards—typically require good to excellent credit even when the card doesn’t have an annual fee. A score in the good range of 670 to 739 may be sufficient for a basic rewards card, but for the strongest rewards, you can expect to need a score of 740 or higher to qualify.

What is the best travel rewards credit card with no annual fee?

The best travel rewards card for you may not be the best travel rewards card for the next consumer. While we believe the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be an excellent overall choice for many, we urge you to carefully research whether the card’s reward structure matches your spending habits and if this card’s set of travel benefits and protections will serve you better than another card.

When should I look for a no-annual-fee credit card?

Though many cards in the list of no-annual-fee credit cards above require a more robust credit history than most when initially looking for a credit card , no-annual-fee credit cards make great first credit cards. Many no-annual-fee cards also offer low or 0% introductory APRs on purchases or balance transfers when you need to make a large purchase or complete a balance transfer, but applying for any credit card should only be done when you’re ready for the responsibility associated with a credit card account.

Can you get a no-annual-fee travel card with bad credit?

It may be difficult to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel card with bad credit. You should first consider the best cards for bad credit and focus on improving your credit score to gain access to better credit card products in the future.

Is it hard to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel credit card?

It’s not necessarily hard to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel credit card, but your credit profile will be evaluated when you apply.

Next Up In Credit Cards

• Best Credit Cards 2024
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• Best Rewards Credit Cards
• Can I Add My Child To My Credit Card?
• How Many Credit Cards Should I Have?

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: Chase Freedom Flex℠, Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card, U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card, Amex EveryDay® Credit Card, Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card, JetBlue Card . The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Jerod Morales is a deputy editor at Forbes Advisor and a travel rewards expert. He took a deep dive into points and miles in 2016, searching for a way to make travel both possible and affordable for his growing family. Now, as a dad to four sons, he and his wife enjoy introducing their kids to cultures and cities across the globe as often as they can.

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When it comes to government planes and political trips, who pays for a president's campaign travel?

Chris Megerian

Associated Press

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

FILE - President Joe Biden boards Air Force One, March 11, 2024, at Andrews Air Force Base, Md. The White House and the Democratic National Committee are splitting the cost of Bidens travel while he runs for a second term. Its part of a longstanding arrangement that prevents taxpayers from being stuck with the full bill for political trips. (AP Photo/Luis M. Alvarez, File)

WASHINGTON – It’s no simple matter to move the commander in chief from point A to B, and it’s even more complicated when the president is seeking a second term.

President Joe Biden recently spent three days in Pennsylvania , a pivotal state in the 2024 campaign, and he plans to be in Virginia and Florida this coming week. The Democratic incumbent is seeking an edge over Republican Donald Trump as he ramps up his travels around the country.

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Here's a look at how much it costs and who pays the bill during the campaign season.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

It's not cheap to fly the president's fleet.

The White House uses Sikorsky helicopters known as Marine One when the president is aboard, as well as custom Boeing 747s that are immediately recognizable as the iconic humpback Air Force One. (Sometimes the president uses a more modest modified 757 if his destination is nearby or if a runway isn't long enough to accommodate the bigger plane.)

Marine One costs between $16,700 and almost $20,000 per hour to operate, according to Pentagon data for the 2022 budget year. Air Force One is even more expensive: roughly $200,000 per hour.

But those figures only scratch the surface of the real cost. There also are military cargo planes that travel ahead of the president to make sure his armored limousines are in place, not to mention the enormous security apparatus that follows the president everywhere.

New aircraft are in the works because the current versions are decades old. Sikorsky is producing 23 updated helicopters to serve as Marine One. Boeing is building two new Air Force One planes , and they are scheduled to be finished by 2028. According to the Pentagon, the planes will come with all enhancements, including “a mission communication system," a “self-defense system” and even “autonomous baggage loading.”

WHO PAYS FOR THE TRAVEL?

When the president flies for political purposes, the campaign is supposed to pay the bill. But during an election year, the line between governing and campaigning can be fuzzy.

For example, Biden held an official event Wednesday in Pittsburgh, where he announced his proposal for higher tariffs on steel imported from China. The event, however, was a not-so-subtle opportunity for the president to rub shoulders with union members who are critical to his reelection, and he jabbed at Trump in his remarks. (At one point Biden joked that the former president was “busy right now,” a reference to the hush money trial that recently got underway in New York.)

It's up to the White House counsel's office to figure out what percentage of the president's travels are campaign related. That determines how much the federal government should be reimbursed by the Biden campaign. Sometimes the calculations aren't straightforward, such as when the White House adds an official event to an otherwise political trip.

Norm Eisen, a White House ethics lawyer under President Barack Obama, said both Republicans and Democrats have usually hewed closely to regulations.

“We had a set of rules on how to do the allocations," he said. "They’re intricate, and we stuck to them.”

No matter what, taxpayers end up on the hook for most of the cost. Campaigns do not pay for all the Secret Service agents and the rest of the security apparatus. In fact, they usually only cover the cost of Air Force One passengers who are flying for explicitly political purposes — sort of like buying a ticket on a particularly exclusive private jet.

HOW MUCH HAS BIDEN PAID?

Biden's campaign and his joint fundraising committee have been stockpiling travel cash in an escrow account maintained by the Democratic National Committee. From January 2023 until the end of last month, they deposited nearly $6.5 million.

Some of that money goes to general campaign logistics, such as staff expenses and advance work. The account is also used to reimburse the federal government for official aircraft used to transport the president, the first lady, the vice president and the second gentleman when they travel for the reelection effort.

So far, not much money has found its way back to the U.S. Treasury. As of the latest data available, just $300,000 has been provided.

It's safe to assume that Biden's campaign will end up forking over much more than that once the campaign is over. Trump's team reimbursed the federal government nearly $4.7 million for travel expenses during the 2020 race.

But Biden probably won't have trouble covering his bills. His campaign and the DNC had more than $192 million in cash on hand at the end of March.

AP White House Correspondent Zeke Miller contributed to this report.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.