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What to know about prepaid travel credit cards

Prepaid travel cards are one more way to access cash while traveling the globe

Published: December 15, 2022

Author: Allie Johnson

Author: Dan Rafter

Editor: Brady Porche

Reviewer: Kaitlyn Tang

How we Choose

Prepaid travel cards can make it easy to access cash while you’re traveling abroad, but remember that convenience comes with limitations.

The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Please review our list of best credit cards , or use our CardMatch™ tool to find cards matched to your needs.

Finally ready to take your next international trip? Whether it’s a business meeting in Brussels or a foodie’s tour of Florence, you might consider packing a prepaid travel card for your trip.

Prepaid travel cards let you access cash in your destination’s local currency without the risk of using your debit card. They also let you avoid the high fees of credit card cash advances or the hassles of scrounging up traveler’s checks before you depart.

But, be careful — despite the convenience of prepaid travel cards, they come with their own set of fees and limitations (most notably ATM withdrawal and purchase amount caps that could put a damper on your vacation).

“A prepaid travel card is one tool in a diverse travel wallet,” said Julie Hall, internal communications manager for Hilton Grand Vacations and former public relations manager for AAA, in a previous interview. “It’s one of the most convenient ways to get money while traveling.”

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about prepaid travel cards — from how they work to the pros and cons of using them for your travels.

How do prepaid travel cards work?

Prepaid travel cards work much like general-purpose prepaid cards, except that they typically offer special features and perks designed for travel — which can vary based on the issuing bank.

In general, to use a prepaid travel card, you purchase the card and simultaneously load it with the funds you want to spend on your trip, up to the maximum amount allowed on the card. (For example, the PayPal Prepaid Mastercard® , a general prepaid card, allows a maximum balance of $15,000.)

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, you can use your prepaid card to make purchases directly (much like you would with a debit card). You can also use it at an ATM to get cash in that destination’s currency.

Depending on the card issuer, you’ll be able to log in to a mobile app or your online account to check the balance, review your purchases and see any any account charges.

What are the benefits of a prepaid travel card?

Why not just take cash, your credit cards and your debit card the next time you travel to an international destination? Why would you also take a prepaid credit card?

If you lose your card, thieves only have access to the loaded cash

If a thief gains access to your prepaid card abroad, they’ll only have access to whatever funds are loaded onto the card (unlike debit cards, which can provide thieves access to your bank account, or credit cards, which a thief can charge up to a certain limit).

Further, the network through which a prepaid card is offered may provide a zero liability policy , though, overall, prepaid cards don’t offer the same breadth of protections as debit and credit cards (think chargebacks and fraud alerts).

More convenient than traveler’s checks

Prepaid travel cards also provide more convenience than, say, traveler’s checks (which, yes, still exist). Getting traveler’s checks before you go can be a hassle, and you might also be surprised at how many retailers across the globe no longer accept them. As a result, prepaid cards are often a better option than these paper checks.

What are the drawbacks of a prepaid travel card?

Like most financial products, prepaid travel cards come with pros and cons. Here are some of the drawbacks of using one:

Foreign transaction fees, among others

Travelers should be wary of the fees connected to prepaid cards, as they can add up to a lot of money during an international trip. Many prepaid cards carry foreign transaction fees. Today, it’s far easier to find credit cards with no foreign transaction fees than to find prepaid cards without them.

Further, prepaid travel cards may also charge a card purchase fee, ATM withdrawal fee, higher foreign ATM withdrawal fee, inactivity fee and a fee to get any remaining balance back by check.

No help for your credit score

If you charge restaurant meals, souvenirs and tickets to a traditional credit card and pay your bill on time, your three-digit credit score will receive a boost. This doesn’t happen with purchases you make with prepaid travel cards, because your prepaid card activity isn’t reported to the national credit bureaus .

If you don’t keep track, you could run out of funds

If you’re used to swiping a credit card without much thought, there’s a chance a prepaid card could leave you high and dry when you go to make a purchase. Just be sure to keep tabs on the amount of money you’ve loaded — and spent — on your card.

Prepaid travel card tips

Prepaid travel cards do come with some potential hurdles. Here are some tips for avoiding the most common downsides of these cards:

Check the fees associated with your card (or potential card): Prepaid cards can charge fees that existing debit and credit card holders aren’t used to, so it’s important to read the fine print before swiping. For example, the Netspend® Visa® Prepaid Card charges a $5.95 inactivity fee per month after the card has been idle for 90 days.
Verify the card will work at your destination: Double-check with your issuer that your prepaid card will be accepted where you’re traveling. Even a card that’s designed for international travel might not work in specific locations due to restrictions from U.S. trade sanctions.
Know the limits: Prepaid travel cards typically have limits that could throw a wrench into your trip if you don’t understand them ahead of time. For example, some cards can have a daily reload limit as low as $500 (or as high as $7,500, in the case of the Netspend Visa card). Again: Be sure to read through your card’s fine print before embarking.
Avoid holds at all costs: In a sense, prepaid travel cards work like debit cards. Be sure to avoid using a prepaid travel card to reserve a hotel room or a rental car, which can trigger a hold that could tie up hundreds of dollars of your cash for a week or longer. Instead, use a credit card to reserve these items, then use your prepaid card to pay the final charges.

Should you use a travel credit card instead?

If the drawbacks of a prepaid travel card outweigh the benefits, you might be better off signing up for a travel credit card or using one you already have as your primary payment method while traveling.

Travel credit cards almost always have zero fraud liability, which can set your mind at ease in the event your card is lost or stolen . They also let you earn rewards for your spending, and many offer purchase and trip protection and have no foreign transaction fees. Some even offer perks such as access to airport lounges where you can get complimentary food and drink. And, depending on your credit limit, you may have more spending power with a credit card than a prepaid card.

That said, they can also have pitfalls. Not all travel credit cards are accepted in all countries. For example, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, while American Express and Discover have a smaller international presence. And, depending on your location, some merchants may require chip-and-pin cards or may not accept payment cards at all.

It’s advisable to carry a few different payment methods with you (credit, debit and prepaid) when traveling, along with some local cash. Also, notify your credit card company about your travel plans, lest they flag your card as stolen and cancel it.

Bottom line

A prepaid travel card doesn’t come without downsides, but if you want an easy way to access cash in your destination’s currency — and want a quick way to pay merchants once you arrive at your international destination — the ease of using them might make your trip a less stressful one.

Editorial Disclaimer

The editorial content on this page is based solely on the objective assessment of our writers and is not driven by advertising dollars. It has not been provided or commissioned by the credit card issuers. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners.

Allie Johnson is an award-winning freelance writer covering personal finance, business and lifestyle. She loves tracking down tips, tricks and cautionary tales about credit cards and money.

Dan Rafter has covered personal finance for more than 15 years for publications ranging from The Washington Post and Chicago Tribune to Wise Bread, HSH.com and MoneyRates.com. His work has also appeared online at the Motley Fool, Fox Business, Huffington Post, Christian Science Monitor and Time.

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Sticking to your travel budget isn't always easy. Using a prepaid travel card is one way to help keep your money safe, and can make sense for those who want to avoid overspending while on vacation.

Prepaid travel cards are an alternative payment option to consider, especially when traveling outside of the U.S. They work like other prepaid debit cards but often come with valuable extra benefits that are perfect when traveling abroad, like loading other currencies onto them.

Keep reading to learn more about prepaid travel cards, how they work and whether they are right for you.

What Are Prepaid Travel Cards and How Do They Work?

Prepaid travel cards are prepaid debit cards that make spending easier when traveling outside of the U.S. Sometimes referred to as international prepaid cards, these cards allow you to load funds using specific currencies before you travel, making them a good tool if you're trying to stick to a specific trip budget. Cardholders can even reload additional funds as needed.

Several payment networks like Mastercard and Visa offer prepaid travel cards. These cards are accepted almost anywhere worldwide and allow you to lock in exchange rates before traveling internationally. They also provide an extra level of security with zero liability protection from unauthorized purchases if your card is lost or stolen.

Types of Prepaid Travel Cards

Most prepaid travel cards fall into two categories.

1. Multicurrency Prepaid Travel Cards

Multicurrency prepaid travel cards allow you to lock in a specific exchange rate in several currencies before you travel. You avoid paying current exchange rates at an international ATM or merchant by loading funds ahead of time.

These cards can be used wherever they are accepted. Since many of these cards are tied to payment networks like Visa or Mastercard, consumers have few limits when using prepaid travel cards.

Not all multicurrency prepaid travel cards offer the same currency options. Some cards only offer a handful of the more popular currencies — the Australian dollar, British pound, Canadian dollar, the euro, Japanese yen and Mexican peso. Other cards offer over 50 different currencies.

2. General Travel Prepaid Cards

General travel prepaid cards work like other prepaid debit cards where you can preload funds into the card, but with a few extra features handy for travelers.

Some features of general travel prepaid cards can include:

International ATM Use
Modern Features Like Chip and PIN Capability
Emergency Cash Assistance
Quick Card Replacement

How Are Prepaid Travel Cards Different from Credit Cards?

Many consumers are familiar with travel rewards credit cards that can be used to rack up points for travel expenses, but not many know about prepaid travel cards. Prepaid travel cards are different from regular credit cards in a variety of ways, but they work similarly to secured credit cards with self-loaded funds acting as your credit line. Money is deducted from the prepaid card balance with every transaction until the funds are exhausted. However, consumers can add more funds to their prepaid cards using an outside funding source.

Here are the major differences between prepaid travel cards and credit cards.

Prepaid cards are preloaded with your own money. You can control your spending with a prepaid travel card based on how much money you load onto the card.
Prepaid cards don't charge interest . That's because you can only use funds loaded onto the card, not borrow from a credit line like a credit card. You could end up paying foreign exchange fees with a prepaid travel card or a credit card, although many of the top travel rewards credit cards don't charge this fee.
Prepaid travel cards don't have any bearing on your credit score or history . They can't help boost your credit or hurt it because they're not reported to the credit bureaus since you use your own money to fund the card.

Pros & Cons of Using a Prepaid Travel Card

Just like any payment option, there are benefits and drawbacks to using prepaid travel cards. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider before getting a prepaid travel card.

Pros of Prepaid Travel Credit Card

Helps you stay within your travel budget.
Lock in the currency exchange rate in advance.
Safer than a debit card or carrying cash.
Load multiple currencies onto one card.
Chip and PIN technology.
Use at ATMs and shopping online.

Cons of Prepaid Travel Credit Card

Foreign transaction fees and ATM fees, among other fees.
Doesn't help you build credit.
No overdraft option.
May not be able to use at hotels that only take credit cards.
Few (if any) travel protections.
No travel rewards.

Are There Fees With Prepaid Travel Cards?

While there are several benefits to using prepaid travel cards, there is one negative attached to most cards — extra fees. You could face several fees if you choose to use a prepaid travel card, including:

Foreign transaction fees : Many cards charge a fee when you use a prepaid card while traveling abroad. You could see charges of up to 4% or higher on some prepaid cards.
Monthly fees : You could also pay a monthly fee for using a prepaid card. Some cards have fee structures that include a monthly fee, while others opt to charge cardholders per transaction instead. Some cards charge fees upwards of $9.95 per month. Some cards waive the monthly fee by meeting balance or deposit requirements.
ATM fees : Using a prepaid card at an ATM typically involves paying a fee, whether used at a domestic or international ATM.

Other common prepaid card fees include:

Initial load fee
Inactivity fee
Transaction fee
Cash reload fee
Balance inquiry fee
Replacement card fee

Fees attached to your card may depend on the specific card, payment network or how you use the card.

Is My Money Safe On A Travel Card?

One big benefit of prepaid travel cards is the security they provide, such as:

Funds are not linked to your bank : Unlike a debit card, a prepaid card isn't attached to your bank account. If your card is lost or stolen, you're less likely at risk of someone emptying your checking account. Your exposure is limited only to the funds on the card itself.
Chip and PIN authentication : Many prepaid cards also feature chip and PIN technology, giving you another safeguard if your card is stolen. You can contact your card provider to freeze the card account if necessary.
Zero-liability fraud protection : Several popular travel prepaid cards come with zero-liability fraud protection. Regardless of the card, prepaid cards must carry the same level of fraud protection as debit cards.

Can I Get A Prepaid Travel Card If I Have Bad Credit?

Because prepaid cards are secured with cash, there’s typically no credit check involved. That's what makes prepaid cards an attractive good option for individuals with bad credit who may have a hard time qualifying for a travel credit card. If you have cash, generally, you can get a prepaid card.

Unfortunately, prepaid travel cards don't help you build credit either. There are no monthly payments to report to credit bureaus. Prepaid cards also don't impact your credit utilization ratio, credit mix or length of credit history, all factors that could improve your credit. A prepaid card could be a good option short term when traveling but shouldn't be a substitute for other payment options that can help improve your credit.

Are Prepaid Travel Cards Worth It?

A prepaid travel card could be worth it for individuals who are seeking a safe payment option when traveling internationally and want to keep their spending abroad in check. It can also help to lock in a lower exchange rate instead of leaving it to chance with fluctuating rates.

But prepaid cards have their limitations too. They usually do not come with travel rewards or allow the cardholder to build credit by using the card. Don't forget that most prepaid cards also charge foreign transaction fees and other fees like monthly fees or inactivity fees.

Shop around if you're thinking about getting a prepaid card for your next international trip. Compare card fees, features and benefits to find one that fits your needs and is accepted in places you travel. Another option is to use multiple payment options when you travel. Using a prepaid card in combination with a credit card and debit card allows you to use each card in situations where it's advantageous. This also protects you if you run into any issues with your prepaid card.

Kevin Payne

Kevin Payne is a personal finance, credit card, and travel writer. He is the family travel and budget expert behind FamilyMoneyAdventure.com. Kevin lives in Cleveland, Ohio, with his wife and four kids. His work has appeared on several websites, including FinanceBuzz, Credit Karma, Millennial Money, Club Thrifty, Student Loan Planner and Slickdeals.

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The Best Prepaid and Debit Cards of 2024

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If you need to limit spending or use an alternative to bank accounts, the best prepaid cards available can help you with your goals. You can load and reload prepaid cards with funds and then use them like a debit card, avoiding checking accounts and some bank-imposed fees in the process.

At Bankrate, our staff has reviewed and rated hundreds of today's top credit cards, with independence and transparency, so you'll have an easier time making an informed decision. When reviewing the best prepaid cards of 2024, we considered accessibility, affordability and extra benefits, among other factors, to help you decide which prepaid card is best for you.

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Best prepaid and debit cards of 2024:

Blue Netspend® Visa® Prepaid Card
Netspend® Visa® Prepaid Card
Pink Netspend® Visa® Prepaid Card
Self Lender — Credit Builder Account
Compare our top cards
What is a prepaid card?

Tips on choosing the best prepaid card for you

Expert advice on prepaid cards, how we assess the best prepaid cards, frequently asked questions.

Blue Netspend® Visa® Prepaid 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.

A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.

Regular APR

Despite the myriad of fees associated with this card, it does offer some much-needed flexibility if you don't have access to a traditional bank account. You can load paper checks to your account at no extra charge using the card's Mobile Check Load feature, and you can manage your budget with the card's app.

This card works well for consumers who don't have a traditional checking account.
The application process is speedy and doesn't generate a credit inquiry.
The card is associated with several fees, an ATM withdrawal fee, an inactivity fee and a cash reload fee, just to name a few.
The card's activity isn't reported to the three credit bureaus.
With Direct Deposit, you can get paid faster than a paper check.
No late fees or interest charges because this is not a credit card.
Use the Netspend Mobile App to manage your Card Account on the go and enroll to get text messages or email alerts (Message & data rates may apply).
Card use is subject to activation and ID verification. Terms and Costs apply.
Card issued by Pathward N.A., Member FDIC. Card may be used everywhere Visa debit card is accepted.
See additional Blue Netspend® Visa® Prepaid Card details by clicking Apply Now

Netspend® Visa® Prepaid Card

If you want the convenience of a debit card without opening a traditional bank account, the Netspend Visa Prepaid Card may be worth a look. You can have your paycheck, tax refund, or government benefits deposited directly to your Netspend Visa and can use the card anywhere Visa cards are accepted. Read our full Netspend Visa Prepaid Card review .

There are no application fees.
The card allows you to generate up to six virtual credit card numbers to protect your account information when shopping online.
The card's monthly fee is $9.95 (it goes down to $5 if you receive at least $500 in payroll checks each month).
Card activity is not reported to the three credit bureaus.
See additional NetSpend® Prepaid Visa® details.

This prepaid card could be a good fit for savings-minded cardholders. The Pink Netspend prepaid card can help you save money via cash back on qualifying purchases. Choose from several cash back offers, shop and have your rewards credited to your account at the end of the following month.

The card does offer some cash back rewards.
There's no credit check required when opening the card.
This card doesn't report to any of the three credit bureaus, so it won't help you to improve your credit score.
Cardholders will be charged a monthly fee of $5 to $9.95 with the monthly plan or $1.50 per transaction with the Pay-As-You-Go Plan.

Self - Credit Builder Account with Secured Visa® Credit Card

The Self - Credit Builder Secured Visa® serves both as a traditional credit card and a savings account — payments made into this account are reported to the three major credit bureaus, helping you build savings and establish a positive credit history at the same time. The credit limit on this card is also equal to the amount you have saved in your Credit Builder Account.

Self reports to all three credit bureaus.
No hard credit inquiry is required for application.
If you're looking for a card to transact with, this isn’t a fit as it’s a credit-builder loan
You’ll pay a one-time account fee of $9 to $15.
Start with a Credit Builder Account* that reports to all 3 credit bureaus. Each on-time monthly payment builds credit history and savings. Choose the plan that works for you.
Make at least 3 monthly payments on time, have $100 or more in savings progress in your Credit Builder Account, and be in good standing.** Then, you’ll be eligible for the Self Visa® Credit Card, without a hard credit check.
Your savings progress from your Credit Builder Account acts as your security deposit for your secured Credit Card.
Get the savings plan that helps build credit today.
No credit score is needed to get started.
Your money is secured and protected in a bank account.
*Credit Builder Account Sample Product: $48 monthly payment, 24 month term with a $9 admin fee at a 15.72% Annual Percentage Rate. Please refer to https://www.self.inc/pricing for the most recent pricing options.
**Secured Credit Card Disclaimers, Rates and Fees: https://www.self.inc/card-agreement
Self Visa® Credit Card issued by Lead Bank or SouthState Bank, N.A., each Member FDIC. See self.inc for details.
Active Credit Builder Account in good standing, 3 on time payments, $100 or more in saving progress. Requirements subject to change.

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Through Netspend Payback Rewards, you can earn cash back on select qualifying purchases, something rarely seen with easy-to-attain cards. The rewards program also gives cardholders personalized offers as an extra incentive.

Someone with a less-than-stellar credit score who wants less room for doubt when applying for a new tool to spend conveniently.

If your sole focus is building your credit, the unconventional Self — Credit Builder Account’s accessibility and opportunity to graduate to a valuable card make it a practical choice for individuals just starting out.

Best for no activation fee

When you start your card account, you’ll get access to a high-yield savings account that offers 5 percent APY on the first $1,000 you save. Also, if you refer a friend and they load at least $40 onto the card, you’ll each receive a $20 bonus.

Those looking for a guaranteed easy way to spend or access to banking services without an activation fee to get started.

If you’re a fan of this card’s savings account option, Brink’s Armored™ Account offers a similar benefit and the ability to earn some ongoing cash back rewards.

Read our Netspend Visa Prepaid Card review or jump back to offer details .

Best for no credit check

Although it’s a no-credit-check card, you can still take advantage of select cash back and personalized offers once you’ve opened your account.

Someone who wants a convenient way to spend and save while avoiding a credit check.

If earning cash back is one of your goals, consider checking out the Brink’s Armored™ Account, which offers 1X points on signature purchase transactions, and additional points on select limited-time merchant offers.

Best for building credit

Different from the other options here, this account will report your payment habits to the three major credit bureaus — a surefire way to boost your credit score if you practice good financial habits. Making on-time, sufficient payments with this option can do wonders for your future financial health.

A beginner credit user who wants to establish their credit through a unique, user-friendly account.

If you’re seeking access to a physical card immediately, the Blue Netspend Visa Prepaid Card is a solid choice that offers potential rewards, albeit one that carries a series of fees.

Read our Self — Credit Builder Account review or jump back to offer details .

Brink’s Armored™ Account

Best for earning rewards

Thanks to Mastercard, you’ll get benefits to protect against fraud , including $0 liability for unauthorized purchases and a few others. Also, this card is a cousin of the Netspend options, allowing you to utilize its reload network of 130,000+ locations.

Someone who wants a prepaid option that brings points and discounts. With this card, you’ll get 1X points on select purchases and limited-time offers and the opportunity to receive up to 50 percent discounts on prescriptions with participating major pharmacies.

If earning rewards is not your main focus, the Self — Credit Builder Account offers users strong credit-building features and a unique opportunity to graduate to a secured credit card after demonstrating good financial habits.

Read our Brink’s Armored Account review .

What to know about prepaid cards

Prepaid debit cards are similar to debit cards, except prepaid cards aren’t connected to banking or checking accounts. Instead, funds are loaded onto the card — either online, in person at specific locations, by depositing checks or reloading with cash — then reloaded when those funds run out.

Think of them as a cross between gift cards and debit cards — they have a card number, CVV code and expiration date like debit and credit cards, but no bank account associated with them. They also don't usually impact your credit score, as prepaid card issuers typically don’t check your credit when you apply, and they won’t check your banking history (though this isn’t always the case).

However, you should keep in mind that most prepaid cards have fees associated with them, such as:

Reload fees
Monthly fees
ATM withdrawal fees
Inactivity fees
Transaction fees

Pros and cons of prepaid cards

Make sure to read the fine print before you apply for a prepaid debit card. Some cards have activation fees and monthly maintenance charges, which can eat into your spending cash.

No credit check needed: People with low or no credit can practice responsible credit habits without taking a hit to their credit scores.

Budgeting tool: Because you’re limited to spending your deposit amount, prepaid cards make it easier to stay within your budget and cut back on monthly spending.

More fees than debit cards: Debit cards typically charge overdraft, monthly and sometimes ATM fees. But prepaid cards charge those fees on top of transaction fees, reload fees, inactivity fees and more.

Can’t build credit: Prepaid card issuers don’t report to credit bureaus, meaning users won’t improve their credit scores over time with this card type. Secured credit cards are a better option for people with no credit or low credit to increase their scores.

Prepaid cards are an excellent option for anyone with difficulty accessing traditional banking services, but features vary among cards. Here are some things you should keep in mind while shopping for a prepaid card.

Take a look at the fees. One of the reasons many people have a difficult time accessing traditional banking services is because of the costs. If your prepaid card charges a litany of fees, such as ATM fees, monthly service fees or reload fees, you should consider if the card is worth it.
Know your loading options . How difficult or easy will it be to reload your prepaid card? Are fees attached? Some prepaid cards will allow you to reload your card with ACH transfers, but you’ll often reload manually at an ATM. It’s important that you have access to several ATMs in your area.
Make sure the card offers mobile access. Mobile banking is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. It’s convenient, safe and can give you peace of mind. The best prepaid cards will offer you the option to use the cards online and access to a mobile app.
Consider if you’re banked or underbanked . While prepaid cards function similarly, there are significant differences between prepaid cards and debit cards , specifically where funds are stored, specifically those who are unbanked or underbanked. Prepaid cards provide several benefits to people who don’t have access to traditional bank accounts (unbanked people) or whose access to banking services is inconvenient or too expensive ( underbanked people).

If you’ve struggled to gain access to traditional banking services because of upfront costs (such as deposit minimums or initiation fees), a prepaid card might be the answer.

You can use Bankrate's Compare Credit Cards tool to help shop for the best prepaid card with as few fees as possible.

Bankrate Insight

Rates of unbanked people are particularly high for those in low-income households. While the U.S. average for being unbanked is around 4.5 percent , those who have an income of under $25,000 and are underbanked are 17 percent . The main reasons cited are lack of proper funds and lack of trust. Prepaid cards can be a great alternative for people facing these hurdles.

To make the most of your prepaid card and ensure a seamless financial experience, follow these expert tips.

How to choose a prepaid card

Decide on a payment network.

Payment networks like PayPal, Visa, Mastercard and Netspend all have prepaid debit cards available. Some networks are accepted at more merchants than others so make sure to pick one that’s accepted at stores you regularly shop at.

Check fees and limitations

Prepaid cards come with a multitude of fees. If you don’t factor these into your spending, you might find yourself with less than you originally thought.

Review spending habit

Prepaid cards only have what you load onto it so make sure to load a proper amount to avoid the reload fee that could possibly be attached to the card.

Pick up & load the card

You can receive your prepaid card from many places, both in-person and online, and may even be able to get it the same day. Once you activate and load your card, you should be able to start using it immediately.

How to maximize a prepaid card

When it comes to managing your spending and avoiding debt, a prepaid card can be valuable. With the right features and responsible usage, you can maximize the benefits of a prepaid card while staying in control of your finances.

Prepaid debit cards let you use plastic when shopping online or in stores without a traditional checking account . It’s great for scenarios like a parent giving a teenager a card to make purchases with a monthly budget or if you need to cut back on spending and want to set hard limits. Understand what you’re using a prepaid card for and how it can ultimately help you reach your financial goals.

Research and compare cards

Each prepaid card may come with its own set of features, fees and limitations. By conducting thorough research, you can find a card that aligns with your specific needs. Look for cards with low or no activation fees, reasonable transaction fees and useful benefits tailored to your requirements.

Set a budget

One of the key advantages of using a prepaid card is that it allows you to set a budget and stick to it. By loading only the amount you plan to spend onto the card, you can avoid overspending and accumulating debt, so it's essential to do so with a strategic approach.

Strategize your reloads

Consider your spending patterns and avoid reloading large sums unnecessarily, as it might tie up your funds or expose you to additional fees. Plan your reloads effectively. Strike a balance between having enough funds and not maintaining an excessive balance on the card.

Be aware of drawbacks

Prepaid cards may not offer the same consumer protections as credit or debit cards in case of fraud or unauthorized transactions. It's crucial to review the terms and conditions the card issuer provides regarding liability protection and dispute resolution processes. As a precaution, make sure to set some money aside for an emergency or rainy day fund .

Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email , find us on Facebook , or Tweet us @Bankrate .

When evaluating the best prepaid cards, we take into account several factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether they offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from low fees to wide acceptance to earning rewards.

We analyzed the most popular prepaid card options and scored each card based on its fee structure, rewards rate and earnings, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup.

Here are some of the key factors that we considered:

Reasonable fees

To start, all cards on this list charge either a variable monthly fee, fixed monthly fee or a one-time account fee. As many prepaid cards have monthly fees, we identified those with limited additional costs and hidden fees.

More important to these cards’ scores and their inclusion in our list is how their fees influence their overall value. We consider card fees 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 value.

Cards with high fees will always be at a slight disadvantage in our scoring system since fees inherently cut into any rewards value the card may offer. However, if a card offers terrific value in other ways, such as perks or convenience it can earn a spot in our list even if it carries high fees.

Flexibility and perks

Along with cost and rewards value, we consider other factors that could give cards great long-term usefulness.

We considered how widely a card is accepted, and we sought options that are likely to be accepted anywhere you spend. Our team considered the size of each card’s network, the trustworthiness of each financial institution and the accessibility of reload options.

Due to the nature of prepaid and debit cards, additional perks such credit-building tools can be difficult to come by. If a card offers a path to improving your credit score, we’ve factored that into our scoring.

For rewards-earning cards, we consider any restrictions they impose on earning and redeeming rewards when deciding on a card’s inclusion in our list.

These restrictions could include only allowing users to earn a high rewards rate on a small amount of spending or requiring users to meet a certain earning threshold before they can redeem rewards. We also examine whether 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 airline and hotel partners.

We also evaluate each card’s perks based on their value and uniqueness. For prepaid cards, flexibility and convenience can play a significant role in a card’s overall usefulness.

Rewards value

Since many cardholders looking for a prepaid card are eager to earn rewards, a key criteria for a card’s inclusion in our list is its rewards value. Rewards value factors in a 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 calculate its average rewards rate based on how much it earns in different bonus categories, as well as how closely those categories match the average person’s spending habits. In other words: Does the card earn 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. We then narrow our focus to which purchases are likely to be put on a credit card and earn rewards, subtracting expenditures like housing, vehicle purchases and education. This gives us 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 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 issuer, airline and hotel 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 cards in its primary category.

The better these values, the higher its score will be, making it more worthy of inclusion in our list and increasing its potential ranking.

How do I get a prepaid card?

You can get a prepaid card in a number of ways, including:

Online : You can go online and purchase a prepaid card using your credit or debit card information, which will be charged at the time of purchase.
In-store : You can go to any store and purchase a prepaid card with cash.
At a bank branch : You can go to a bank branch, provide your personal information, and purchase a prepaid card with cash or by using your checking account number and routing number (which is typically on checks).

How do you reload a prepaid card?

You can reload a prepaid card much like you would receive money in a checking account linked to a debit card. Here are some ways you could reload a prepaid debit card, depending on the issuer:

In person at the financial institution that issued the car
In person at participating retail locations
Online transfer from a checking or savings account
Mobile deposit, if available
Direct deposit, if available

What are alternatives to prepaid cards?

If you'd rather not use a prepaid card, there are other options that may suit your needs better:

Fintech banking apps: These apps, like SoFi , work like any other bank app, but they don't require a traditional bank account. Some of these apps are free, but some charge monthly fees for certain features.
Alternative spending accounts: An alternative spending account, like Chime , is typically a checking account without overdraft fees, monthly fees or service fees. They're designed for people who want a simple place to keep their money but don't want all of the features of a traditional checking account.
Second-chance checking accounts: These second-chance accounts allow people who have been denied access to traditional checking accounts due to low credit scores or unpaid debts access to basic banking services.
Secured credit cards: These allow people who have bad or no credit histories to make a deposit for access to a limited credit line. If you can afford to make a security deposit upfront, you can use a secured credit card for minor expenses and build your credit score at the same time.

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.

Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2022 - May 2023 . Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Accessed on April 10, 2024.

2021 FDIC National Survey of Unbanked and Underbanked Households . FDIC. Accessed on April 10, 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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What is a prepaid debit card and how does it work?

How to get the most out of your prepaid debit card, eligibility for prepaid debit cards, pros and cons of prepaid debit cards, who should get a prepaid debit card, how to choose the best prepaid debit card, alternatives to prepaid debit cards, how to get a prepaid debit card, the bottom line, best prepaid debit cards for april 2024.

A pre-paid debit card could give people who don't use a traditional bank a safer place to store their money.

Cynthia Paez Bowman

Cynthia Paez Bowman is a finance, real estate and international business journalist. Besides Bankrate.com, her work has been featured in Business Jet Traveler, MSN, CheatSheet.com, Freshome.com and SimpleDollar.com. She owns and operates a small digital marketing and public relations firm that works with select startups and women-owned businesses to provide growth and visibility. Cynthia splits her time between Los Angeles, CA and San Sebastian, Spain. She travels to Africa and the Middle East regularly to consult with women's NGOs about small business development.

Liliana Hall

Associate Writer

Liliana Hall is a writer for CNET Money covering banking, credit cards and mortgages. Previously, she wrote about personal credit for Bankrate and CreditCards.com. She is passionate about providing accessible content to enhance financial literacy. She graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor's degree in journalism, and has worked in the newsrooms of KUT and the Austin Chronicle. When not working, she is probably paddle boarding, hopping on a flight or reading for her book club.

Laura Michelle Davis

Laura is a professional nitpicker and good-humored troubleshooter with over 10 years of experience in print and digital publishing. Before becoming an editor with CNET, she worked as an English teacher, Spanish medical interpreter, copy editor and proofreader. She is a fearless but flexible defender of both grammar and weightlifting, and firmly believes that technology should serve the people. Her first computer was a Macintosh Plus.

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The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

Best overall prepaid debit card Serve American Express Card Learn More
Best prepaid debit card for kids Greenlight Debit Card Learn More
Best prepaid debit card for reload options PayPal Prepaid Mastercard Learn More
Best virtual prepaid debit card Movo Virtual Prepaid Visa Card Learn More
Best low-fee prepaid debit card Bluebird by American Express Learn More
Best prepaid debit card for rewards Serve American Express Prepaid Debit Account Learn More

Serve American Express Card

Prepaid debit cards offer an alternative payment method if you can’t access a traditional checking account or credit card. Prepaid cards don’t require a credit check to apply, and you can control your spending by only having access to what you load on your card. Prepaid debit cards can offer a convenient way to spend with plastic, but unlike credit cards, your spending won’t impact your credit score.

Start by considering the cost of carrying a prepaid debit card. Prepaid debit cards are a solid alternative to a line of credit or traditional checking account, but the fees can add up quickly if you aren’t careful. If a prepaid card charges monthly service fees, ATM fees, reload fees and so on, you should consider whether or not that is worth the hassle (and the added cost).

6% of US adults are “unbanked,” meaning they don’t have a checking or a savings account, according to a 2022 Federal Reserve report . If you don’t have access to a conventional banking service and need a payment alternative, a prepaid debit card could be an option for you.

“A prepaid debit card is a gateway solution for unbanked consumers when there’s little to no access to safe or low-cost banking alternatives,” said Renee Jones , vice president of product management at Georgia’s Own Credit Union.

Unlike credit cards, prepaid debit cards don’t require a credit check and won’t let you spend beyond the amount you load onto the card. Most prepaid debit cards also allow you to withdraw cash from ATMs -- just watch out for fees. Here are some of the best to consider.

Monthly fee: $6.95 ATM fee: Free at MoneyPass ATMs; $2.50 elsewhere Reload fee: $0 Cash reload limits: $20 to $500 Other fees: Card purchase is $1.50 at retail stores or free if ordered online Reload locations: Over 45,000 across the US

The American Express Serve® card is a reloadable prepaid debit card that works similarly to a traditional debit card. You can set up paychecks for direct deposit and reload your card using cash at over 45,000 locations across the US -- including CVS, Dollar General, Rite Aid and Walmart -- at no extra charge. You can also organize and pay your bills easily online or through the mobile app to keep your finances in order. You can register your card to protect your funds against fraudulent charges. There’s a $6.95 monthly fee ($0 when you direct deposit at least $500).

Greenlight Debit Card

Monthly fee: $4.99 to $14.98 (up to five kids) ATM fee: Free Reload fee: N/A Cash reload limits: N/A Other fees: Custom-design card fee for $9.99, card replacement $3.50 Reload locations: N/A

Entrusting your kids with their own debit cards can help teach them about budgeting and financial responsibility. The Greenlight debit card is available for kids of all ages and provides tutorials about money management. Parents can set up a chore list through the app and instantly send money over when they’re completed. Funds transfer instantly, in case your kids are out with friends and need money in a pinch. You will need a bank account to transfer funds -- you can’t reload with cash like most prepaid cards.

If you’d like your kids to get some practical knowledge about investing, the $9.98 and $14.98 monthly plans add stock trading. Don’t worry -- you can approve the trades first. But it’s pretty cool to get notifications that your child wants to buy Starbucks shares instead of a latte.

PayPal Prepaid Mastercard

Monthly fee: $4.95 ATM fee: Balance inquiries are $0.50, withdrawals are $2.50 each Reload fee: Up to $3.95 Cash reload limits: Up to $500 Other fees: Card is free if you order online or up to $4.95 at participating retailers Reload locations: Over 130,000 Welcome bonus: Refer a friend and you’ll each receive $20 Welcome bonus value: $40

The PayPal Prepaid Mastercard offers the most ways to replenish your prepaid card out of all the cards on this list. You can accept direct deposits, reload at more than 130,000 NetSpend Reload Network locations nationwide or make PayPal transfers for free. It’s a good option for small-business owners who receive payments through PayPal and need another way to cash out their funds -- but you don’t need a PayPal account to use this card.

Movo Virtual Prepaid Visa Card

Monthly fee: $0 ATM fee: $2 Reload fee: None Cash reload limits: Two deposits per day (up to $4,000) and no more than four deposits per rolling 30-day period (up to $8,000) Other fees: Order a physical Cash Card for $2.95 Reload locations: 3.5 million in-network ATMs; participating retailers

Movo offers a virtual prepaid Visa that eliminates the need for a plastic card. You’ll receive a Mastercard number you can add to your digital wallet to make payments and deposits through the mobile app. Temporary virtual card numbers can be generated when you need extra privacy, such as when signing up for a free trial that converts into a paid subscription. Movo also lets you convert and transfer cryptocurrency as cash anytime. If you need to deposit cash , you can visit one of Movo’s 3.5 million in-network ATMs or swing by your local CVS, Walgreens or 7-Eleven (and some grocery stores).

Bluebird by American Express

Monthly fee: $0 ATM fee: Free in-network, $2.50 elsewhere Reload fee: Free at Walmart, $3.95 at participating retailers Cash reload limits: $20 to $2,500 once your card is activated; $1 to $500 for temporary cards Other fees: No account inactivity or card replacement fees Reload locations: Over 30,000

The Bluebird by American Express prepaid debit card has the lowest fees of all the cards on this list. You can replenish your card at a Walmart location and stick with the MoneyPass ATM network -- featuring over 37,000 locations -- to avoid many of the fees other prepaid cards typically charge. American Express also offers direct deposits up to two days faster than scheduled with free Early Direct Deposit . And once you’ve verified your email address, you can pay bills and set up recurring payments.

Serve American Express Prepaid Debit Account

Serve American Express Prepaid Debit Account

Monthly fee: $7.95 ATM fee: Free at MoneyPass ATMs or $2.50 elsewhere Reload fee: $3.95 Cash reload limits: $20 – $500 Other fees: Card purchase is $1.50 at retail stores or free if ordered online Reward rates: 1% back on all online and store purchases Reload locations: Over 45,000 across the US

Not to be confused with the free reload card, the Serve American Express Prepaid Debit Account helps you earn cash back for purchases you would be making anyway -- a true rarity for a prepaid card. Serve rewards you with 1% back on all your purchases , which hit your account as soon as the transaction settles. You can’t redeem the rewards as actual cash during ATM withdrawals, but you can apply your cash-back balance to your next in-store or online purchase.

Prepaid debit cards are often associated with major payment networks , such as Visa, Mastercard or American Express, and can be used anywhere standard credit cards are accepted. Prepaid cards aren’t linked to a checking account or credit line, so no credit check is required.

These cards are straightforward, and there’s no risk of going into debt: Funds you add are available right away, and the card will be declined if you try to spend more than you have.

You can add funds to a card online or at many retail locations like grocery stores and gas stations -- though you’ll likely pay a fee. However, according to Jones, unlike credit cards where you’ll accrue interest charges if you carry a balance , prepaid debit cards can prevent you from overspending.

“Prepaid debit cards are a safe and convenient way to access cash at [an] ATM and transact on everyday items such as groceries, gas, transportation and bill payments for utilities, internet and mobile phones,” Jones said.

Just be aware it’s not uncommon to see a hold placed on your pre-paid debit card at gas stations, hotels and some restaurants. This could happen to your credit cards, too.

Most prepaid cards offer some of the features you’d get with a checking account -- you can pay bills, receive direct deposits, transfer money, withdraw funds at ATMs and deposit cash. But in contrast to a checking account, prepaid cards often come with several fees, such as reload fees, monthly fees, ATM withdrawal fees, transaction fees and others.

By following these tips, you can maximize the financial benefits when selecting and using a prepaid debit card.

Compare monthly fees with the card’s benefits to get the best card for your financial needs and spending habits.
Look for a card that has in-network ATMs convenient to you to avoid ATM fees.
Avoid hitting reloading limits and paying reloading fees by looking for a card that offers convenient reloading locations. If possible, set up your paychecks for direct deposit.
Use your card issuer’s website or mobile app to pay your bills and manage your finances.
Register your card to protect your funds against fraudulent charges.

In most cases, you’ll need to be at least 18 to use these cards. If you plan to let your child use it, you’ll need to add them to the account as an authorized user .

Can prevent overspending

No credit check required

You can add funds to the card easily

Safer than carrying around cash

Prepaid debit cards won’t grow your credit score

Various fees

Not as convenient as a checking account

Hard to use for travel -- hotels and rental car agencies may place holds on your card.

Some feature poor ATM access

If you don’t have access to a traditional banking service or you need a convenient way to make or receive payments, a prepaid debit card can provide some of the benefits of a credit card or checking account without a credit check or more involved application process. You can create a budget, manage your spending, use direct deposit, have a place to hold your funds and withdraw money from an ATM or bank teller, among other things.

“While underbanked consumers benefit the most, employers can use prepaid debit cards for employees who don’t have a checking account,” Jones said. “It’s also a great solution for parents to use for children, as it sets clear parameters and has some built-in ‘guardrails’ to limit overspending.”

Before committing to a prepaid debit card, keep an eye on potential fees and compare how easy it is to add funds and access your account online.

Here are some common factors to consider when choosing the right prepaid debit card:

Many prepaid debit cards include monthly fees, reload fees, ATM withdrawal fees and sometimes balance inquiry fees. The types and amounts of fees will vary depending on the card. There are exceptions, but you should check the card terms to see which fees apply and if you can avoid any of them.

If you don’t have access to a bank account or credit card, a prepaid debit card can help you manage your spending and build healthy financial habits. With a prepaid card, you can sign up for recurring monthly bill payments and direct deposit. And you can’t spend what you don’t have, unlike with credit cards.

Ease of use

If the prepaid debit card you’re interested in offers a companion app, check to see which tools it has. The most useful will provide direct deposit options and ways to pay your bills and monitor your spending.

Check to see if there are ATMs in your card network nearby where you can load cash onto your card. If you have to go out of your way to get the most from your card, it’s likely not the best option.

If a prepaid debit card isn’t a good fit for your financial situation, there are other options.

Debit cards linked to a checking account. You don’t need to go to a brick-and-mortar bank to get a debit card linked to a checking account – you can now open and manage a bank account via a website or mobile app. The best online checking accounts can earn interest, let you earn welcome bonuses and offer tools to help you manage your money. These debit cards are linked to a bank account, rather than a prepaid amount. Make sure you understand the rules, limits and fees associated with the account and debit transactions before signing up.
Credit cards. The best credit cards allow you to earn rewards, cash back and welcome bonuses. However, with a credit card, you’re using a line of credit instead of a pre-set amount, like a prepaid debit card. Although it may give you more spending power, it can also lead to overspending and high-interest debt. You can use credit cards to get cash advances , but you should avoid doing this since you’ll be stuck paying steep fees and interest rates are much higher than the regular APR on your credit card. Credit cards also require a hard credit inquiry.
Checking cashing services and money orders. If you don’t have a bank and need to cash a paper check, there are options for cashing a check. If you need to send money, you can use a money order. Both may charge fees per transaction, which can add up, and neither offer additional services, like automated bill payments, like the best prepaid debit cards do.

While prepaid debit cards aren’t credit products, they do have eligibility requirements. You’ll need to verify personal information to activate your card, including your name, Social Security number, address, date of birth and phone number. In most cases, you’ll need to be at least 18 years old to use these cards. If you plan to let your child use it, you’ll need to add them to the account as an authorized user .

A prepaid debit card can help fill the void in your wallet if you don’t have a traditional debit card linked to a checking account or a credit card. Prepaid cards can also come in handy if you’re a parent who wants to teach your child about financial responsibility. Though prepaid debit cards offer an alternative way to spend and deposit cash, keep an eye on fees to find the best card for your financial needs.

We chose Bluebird by American Express as the best low-fee prepaid card. It offers free in-network ATM withdrawals and has no monthly, replacement nor inactivity fees. It’s also free to load funds onto the card at Walmart.

A traditional debit card is linked to a bank account, so any purchases you make using your debit card will be withdrawn from your bank account. A prepaid debit card is not linked to a bank account, so you can spend only as much as the available balance. If the balance runs low, you’ll need to reload the card by adding cash at a participating retailer or transferring money to the card, if it’s permitted.

Prepaid debit cards come with various fees that add to the cost. While many companies allow you to order a free card online, you can also purchase a card at a local retailer for anywhere between $1 and $6. Besides the cost of buying a card, most cards have a monthly fee that varies between $4 and $10 per month. Other fees include reload charges, which can cost as much as $6 per transaction and ATM withdrawals of $2.50 on average.

There typically isn’t a fee to cancel a prepaid debit card , but if you still have money on the card, the issuer may charge you to issue a check for the remaining balance. To avoid this, you can either pay down your balance or withdraw the remaining amount before closing the account. Call your issuer to find out what its specific cancellation policy entails.

Should you get a prepaid card?

Prepaid cards offer a safe, convenient way to pay for things, and give you control over your finances - but they can also come with hidden costs. Here’s everything you need to know about prepaid cards for spending at home and abroad.

What are prepaid cards?

It’s a type of payment card that you pre-load with money. Unlike a debit or credit card , it’s not linked to a bank account.

Once you’ve topped it up however, you can use your card in the same way you would spend with a debit or credit card.

You can use prepaid cards to:

Shop on the high street
Buy goods and services online
Pay in pubs and restaurants
Spend abroad
Withdraw cash from an ATM
Pay your bills

Prepaid cards are ideal if you don’t have a current account , and need a secure way to spend online. They’re also popular for spending abroad, budgeting and to help children and teenagers manage their money.

All prepaid card transactions in Ireland are processed by Mastercard so you can use your card anywhere you see the Mastercard Acceptance Mark.

What’s the difference between a prepaid card and a debit card?

The main difference is that a debit card is linked to a current account, and a prepaid card is not.

A debit card enables you to spend any available money in your bank account, whereas a prepaid card will only let you spend money that has been added to the card.
A debit card is linked to your current account, whereas you can get a prepaid card without a bank account or credit check.

How do prepaid cards work?

Once you’ve received your prepaid card, you can add money to it and use it as you would a debit or credit card. You are in control of when and how you spend your money, for example:

If you add €500 to your card, you can use it to shop online, at a restaurant, or to pay a utility bill at your own leisure. You can add more money to your card at any time, too.

Adding money

You can add money to your card in several ways:

With cash at one of 2,000 Payzone points across Ireland
By transferring money directly from your bank account
With your debit card on your prepaid card issuer website

Top up limits

How much money you can add to your card varies a lot, depending on the card provider. Typically:

The card provider will set a maximum limit per year and a cap on single top-ups
You can normally increase your limit over time or pay extra for greater top-up amounts.
Top up limits may also depend on whether they are cash deposits, bank transfers or card transactions.

Checking your balance

The simplest way to check your balance is via your card issuer’s linked smartphone app, where you can manage your prepaid card, view transactions, check your balance and top up. You can usually also check your balance on:

your card issuer’s website

How much do prepaid cards cost?

Prepaid card costs can be complex and card issuers have different fees and charges, so it’s worth shopping around to find the one that works out cheapest for you.

Here’s are some of the different charges you may encounter:

One-off/ Start-up fee
Delivery charges
Annual or monthly fees
Top up charges
Bank charges
Foreign transactions
Non-usage fees

Where can you get a prepaid card?

There are lots of different prepaid card issuers in Ireland. New digital providers are popping up all the time, but not all of them are licensed by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Here’s a look at the main providers in Ireland and what they offer:

Some prepaid card issuers also offer extra financial services, whilst others design their cards for specific purposes like currency cards for spending abroad or for children and teens to manage pocket money.

How do you apply for a prepaid card?

To get a prepaid card you don’t need a current account or a credit check . Just supply your basic personal and contact details to the card issuer and you’ll be sent a card in the post.

Some providers also offer the choice of a ‘virtual card’ that you use on your smartphone.

Do you have to be 18 to apply?

No, there are some prepaid cards that are designed especially for children and teens. The application will need parental consent if you’re under 18 years of age.

For example, The Makes Cents prepaid card for 8-18 year olds allows parents to manage and monitor their children’s expenses via an app.

Can you get a prepaid card with bad credit?

Yes, you can. You don’t need to be credit checked for a prepaid card as you would to apply for a current account or credit card.

You may still have to undergo identity and age checks though.

Prepaid card pros and cons

The greatest advantage of a prepaid card is the flexibility and control it gives you over your spending. You don’t need to apply for a current account and you can even get a prepaid card with bad credit.

Here are the main pros and cons of getting a prepaid card.

No credit check required
No bank account required
Manage your money easily
Control with your smart phone
Protects from theft and fraud
Convenient and simple
Fees and charges can become costly
Limits on top up and spending
May not work for certain transactions
No credit or overdraft facility

Prepaid travel cards

Prepaid travel cards are a good alternative to using local currency or a debit or credit card abroad. You lock in the rate before you travel, so there are no surprise transaction fees on your account when you get home.

Benefits include:

Use them anywhere that accepts Mastercard or Visa payments including hotels, restaurants, entertainment venues and ATMs.
Choose your currency and lock in an exchange rate before you travel
Zero liability protects you from fraud and unauthorised transactions
Emergency assistance if your card is lost or stolen
Check your balance, transaction history and info online or by phone
Can help you stay within your budget on holiday

Prepaid travel cards are available online and in branch from An Post. If you’d like to find out more about options when spending abroad, visit our guide Travel money & the best ways to spend abroad .

There are some clear advantages and disadvantages to prepaid cards and there are times when a prepaid card can be the best option for spending at home or abroad.

When you’re choosing your card, consider the following:

Opt for a card scheme that’s widely accepted, for example, Visa and Mastercard.
If you want a card to use on holiday, choose a prepaid card that’s specially designed for travel and foreign transactions.
Shop around and compare transaction fees for the methods of payment you’re most likely to use.
Check the cost of ATM withdrawals and maximum daily amounts; avoid withdrawing cash if possible.
Check top-up charges and maximum loading amounts and find the cheapest way of topping up.

Alternatives to prepaid cards

If prepaid cards aren’t right for you, then it’s worth checking out which banks provide a debit card with their current account or considering a credit card .

There are several digital finance companies in Ireland that offer a range of banking services:

N26 is a fully regulated digital bank. You get a free virtual debit Mastercard, and can make bank transfers and manage your money via the app. You can even connect Google or Apple Pay and use your smartphone in any location that accepts contactless payments.
Revolut in Ireland Revolut is recognised as an online bank that allows you transfer, spend and withdraw money easily via its mobile app. You can spend abroad with no foreign exchange fees in over 130 currencies.
Wise formerly Transferwise, is a ‘borderless account’ that makes international money transfer cheap, fair and simple. You can use your prepaid Wise Mastercard in Ireland and abroad without hidden fees and spend in multiple currencies, plus much more.

Virtual Debit Card with Online Bank Account

Open a free N26 online bank account & get a virtual Mastercard debit card to use in store & online, accepted worldwide. T&Cs apply.

Prepaid cards FAQs

Can i use a prepaid card for shopping on amazon.

Yes, you can use a prepaid card for Amazon and other online shops.

Some people prefer to only use prepaid cards for online shopping because there is a lower chance of fraud occurring and it protects their credit card and current account from online scammers.

Is my money safe on a prepaid card?

Yes, your money is safe on a prepaid card. If your card is stolen or lost, you can ‘freeze’ the card via the app to prevent it from being used.

Some card issuers also provide consumer protection, which means if you buy faulty goods or your card is used fraudulently, you can reclaim the cost.

On balance, prepaid cards are safer than carrying around large amounts of cash and more secure than using a card linked to your bank account when shopping online.

Is Revolut a licensed bank in Ireland?

Revolut was granted a full banking license by the European Central Bank (ECB) in December 2021.

It previously operated here as an “Electronic Money Institution” but since March 2022, used its Lithuanian banking licence to offer fuller banking services. Up €100,000 of Irish customer’s funds are now covered by the Lithuanian Banking Guarantee.

In January 2023, Revolut announced they would also issue customers here Irish IBANs, after opening an Irish branch of their EU bank.

Buying a Sim Card for Russia at Moscow Airport in 2024

Flying to Moscow Airport Sheremetyevo soon? Avoid on high roaming costs and buy a sim card for Russia on arrival at Moscow Airport or get yourself an e-sim card for Russia. Prepaid sim cards in Russia come with a lot of data and are cheap, but language barriers are real! E-sim cards are easier, but a couple dollar more expensive.

In this guide you can read everything you need to know before buying a sim card for Russia at Moscow Airport, where to buy a sim card, up to date prices as per January 2024, my recommendation and even info about international and e-sim cards for Russia.

Staying connected is the first thing I do when I get to a new country. These days I mostly order an e-sim card online because it is so easy, but buying a local prepaid sim card is sometimes a better option.

I love to document all my travel tips for other travelers and since I am also aiming to travel to every country in the world you can already find more than 200 sim card guides on Traveltomtom from all around the world: Europe , Dubai , Saudi Arabia , Pakistan , Nairobi , Johannesburg , London , Paris , New York , Toronto , Dominican Republic , Bogota , Panama City , Mexico City , Singapore , Hong Kong , Vietnam , Uzbekistan , Philippines , Turkey and many more.

So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid and e-sim card advice for your next holiday destination. Bookmark me!

Buying a prepaid sim card for Russia is actually really affordable! Great value for money. When I discovered this it definitely made me smile. Who does not love cheap data?

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends buying a Megfon prepaid sim card at Moscow Airport for traveling in Russia. Megafon has a great prepaid sim card deal for tourists: 30 GB data + free social media for just $6 USD.

Be prepared that pretty much no one speaks English at Moscow International Airport so buying a prepaid sim card can be a hassle.

Therefore Traveltomtom definitely recommends e-sim cards for traveling to Russia. As soon as the plane lands you are online. However, there are not many e-sim cards for Russia available on the internet. SimOptions is the only e-sim provider that sells e-sim cards for Russia .

Best e-sim cards for Russia

The easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Russia in 2024 is an e-sim card.

You order an e-sim card for your trip to Moscow on the internet, you receive a QR code, scan it, follow the simple steps and within less than 2 minutes you have a Russia e-sim card installed on your phone.

Upon arrival in Moscow it automatically connects you to an available network and you enjoy data on your phone pretty much when the plane lands.

Airalo has recently stopped supplying e-sim cards for Russia until further notice! As of January 2024 Airalo e-sim cards for Russia are still not available.

1 GB data for 7 days = $5 USD
2 GB data for 15 days = $9 USD
3 GB data for 30 days = $11.5 USD
5 GB data for 30 days = $17 USD
10 GB data for 30 days = $29 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $48 USD

Click here to directly order any of the above e-sim cards for Russia online or get more info.

simoptions esim card plans for russia 2024

SimOptions is currently the only e-sim provider that sells e-sim cards for Russia. Traveltomtom has used SimOptions in more than 50 countries around the world without any problems.

1 GB data for 7 days = $7.90 USD
3 GB data for 15 days = $14.90 USD
5 GB data for 15 days = $19.90 USD
10 GB data for 30 days = $34.90 USD
20 GB data for 30 days = $64.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an e-sim card for Russia via SimOptions .

Make sure your phone is e-sim compatible before ordering an e-sim card for Russia.

You can also order a physical prepaid sim card for traveling in Russia online and get it shipped to your home address before your trip. Click on the link to get an international data sim card for Russia with 10 GB data for $49.90 USD and get more info and see all the sim card deals.

Arriving at Moscow Airport SVO

First off this airport is spread out with 6 terminals and traveling in and between the terminals takes time. There are trains that connect the terminals so if you are in transit don’t worry the transportation system is pretty well organized. But hey we are in Russia, be prepared to struggle with languages barriers.

You may think at an international airport with this status there would be a ton of people speaking English, but forget about it. Welcome to Russia!

The ladies at the information desk all spoke good English and were very helpful. A tip for when you visit Moscow, download a translate app this will make traveling in Russia much easier.

To use most translate apps that use the dictation function you need a working internet connection. Sheremetyevo Airport has very easy access to good and free WiFi but as soon as you leave the airport you would wish you had a prepaid sim card for Russia with data. So no need to explain you anymore why you should buy a Russia sim card on arrival.

Aeroexpress SVO Airport

In and between Terminal D and E there is the Aeroexpress train station, the most convenient way to get from Sheremetyevo Airport to Moscow city. Just before you enter the train station there are many mobile phone shops where they sell prepaid Russian sim card for tourists.

Mobile internet operators in Russia

The main mobile internet operators in Russia are: Tele2, Beeline, MegaFon, MTS and Yota. Apart from Yota and MTS you can buy a Russia sim card from any of the operators at Moscow Airport.

Yota is a fairly small operator with a weak 4G network in Russia and is not recommended for tourists. But especially for an MTS prepaid sim card it is a pity they don't sell them at Moscow Airport. MTS has the strongest 4G network in Russia and is the only provider that offers 5G in Russia.

Where to buy a sim card at Moscow Airport

As I said the airport is pretty big and it more or less comes down to which terminal you arrive. Most travelers from Europe will arrive at Terminal B or D so let’s have a look at buying a Russian sim card there first.

If you are about to visit Moscow then I recommend you to go to the city by Aeroexpress, a convenient train that connects Sheremetyevo Airport to Moscow city. It is located between Terminal B and D. Just before you enter the train station there are many shops lined up where you can buy Russia sim cards for tourists as well.

At Terminal F there are also shops in the arrival hall where you can buy a prepaid Russia sim card.

Buying a sim card at SVO Terminal B

Arriving at Terminal B at SVO airport makes things easy for you as there is no choice. The only available sim card for Russia is Beeline. It is impossible to miss the Beeline shop as it is straight in front of you when you walk out of arrivals.

Prepaid sim card Beeline

The picture is hard to read when you don’t speak Russian. Neither do I so I had the guy selling the Beeline sim Russia sim card explain me in his best English what everything means.

600 Rubles = $9

15 GB - 4G internet
500 minutes calling in and to Russia
Valid for 30 days

Total costs for this package is only around $9, that is only $0,60 per GB data. I told you Russian sim cards are cheap! When arriving at Terminal B buying a Beeline sim card for Russia is worth it.

Buying a sim card at SVO Terminal D

At Moscow SVO Airport Terminal D there are two options for you. In the arrivals hall on level 1 there is TELE2 and at the departures hall level 3 you can buy a Megafon sim card.

Prices and info below are updated in January 2024. Prices are in Russian Ruble: $1 USD = 88.5 RUB and 100 RUB = $1.13 USD.

Megafon Russia prepaid sim card

Let me tell you if it is worth going up two levels to the Megafon kiosk to buy your Russia sim here.

I went there twice as a week later I wanted to double check the information what I wrote down and both ladies spoke very little English. Service level for English speaking tourists is zero at Moscow Airport so be prepared. I used a translate app to get the following info.

There are two Megafon sim cards for tourists available:

20 GB + 750 minutes + unlimited texting - valid for 1 month = 750 Rubles - $8.5 USD
30 GB + 1,500 minutes + unlimited texting - valid for 1 month = 1,000 Rubles - $11 USD

Both packages are really great value for money!

TELE2 Russia prepaid sim card

Depending on which exit you take from the luggage belts you will either walk up to the TELE2 shop or it is on your left in the arrivals hall. At the small shop two young employees were very helpful and explained the available TELE2 sim cards fro tourists in Russia.

TELE2 Russia offers the following sim cards for tourists:

600 Rubles (400 + 200 activation costs) = $7 USD

Unlimited calls to TELE2 numbers in Russia
Free Facebook, VKontakte, Viber, Whatsapp
1 month valid

900 Rubles (700 + 200 activation costs) = $10 USD

30 GB - 4G internet
800 minutes calling in and to Russia

Looking at these Russian prepaid sim card packages I am impressed by the value for money of TELE2. Since I never really call and text anyway, a TELE2 sim card for Russia was a perfect match.

Beeline Russia prepaid sim card

There is a Beeline shop that sells the following package:

500 Rubles = $6

Unlimited internet - 4G network
No hotspot available
14 days valid
30 Rubles per day extra, top up credit can be bought everywhere

There is also a shop called EBPOCETb where they sell Megafon sim cards and Beeline sim cards. The guy in the shop recommended me to buy a Megafon sim card instead of Beeline. Scroll down to see 4G network coverage maps for Russia.

Buying a sim card at SVO Terminal F

In the end I headed to Terminal E and F to find the perfect Russia sim card for tourists. At Terminal E there is NO shop that sells prepaid sim cards for Russia, but in Terminal F there was a Megafon kiosk again.

Megafon sim card Russia at SVO Terminal F

Of course here they sold the same sim cards for tourists as they did at the Terminal D, but to my surprise they also sold a specific tourist package.

Megafon tourist sim card Russia

30 GB data + 1500 minutes + unlimited social media - valid for 15 days = 500 Ruble - $6 USD

WOW! Looking at the above I am sure you are stunned too! Free social media and on top of that 30 GB data just for $6 USD. I asked if there would be any activation costs, but nope you pay just the 500 Rubles.

For tourists traveling to Russia for less than 2 weeks this for sure is the best Russia prepaid sim card you can find at Sheremetyevo Airport. The Megafon shop is open from 09.00 to 21.00 daily and is next to the meeting point at Terminal F.

Best 4G/5G mobile network in Russia in 2024

Let’s quickly have a look at the mobile providers in Russia selling sim cards at Moscow Airport to determine who has the best 4G/5G network in Russia. For more detailed maps of the 4G/5G network coverage in Russia have a look at the link and you can zoom in to the region in Russia you will be traveling.

Is there 5G in Russia?

No, there is still no proper 5G network in Russia in 2024. Only in the city center of Moscow there is a small 5G network available when you are having an MTS sim card. Unfortunately they don't sell MTS sim cards at Moscow Airport. If you want an MTS 5G sim card you have to go to an MTS store in Moscow city center.

Beeline 4G/5G network coverage map

TELE2 4G/5G network coverage map

Megafon 4G/5G network coverage map

Looking at the mobile internet coverage maps for Russia you can see that as of 2024 the 4G/LTE network coverage is pretty similar for each provider. However, Megafon is slightly more extensive than Beeline and Tele2 and therefore is rated as the best 4G/LTE network in Russia in 2024.

I expect Russia to start rolling out 5G soon, but unfortunately it is hard to go through the Russian news on the internet as I do NOT speak a word Russian! ;)

Order a prepaid sim card for Russia online

orange holiday world international prepaid sim card for russia

With such cheap prepaid sim cards on arrival at Moscow Airport I would not directly recommend buying an international sim card for Russia. However, it makes you forget about all the hassle buying a sim card on arrival since barely anyone even speaks English.

If your phone is not e-sim compatible then look into the following if you want to order a prepaid sim card for Russia on the internet.

Arrive prepared in Russia with an international prepaid sim card. You order them online and a physical prepaid sim card will be delivered to your home address. You put this sim card in your phone and it automatically connects to an available network upon arrival in Russia, basically when the plane lands you are instantly online.

SimOptions is the only sim card provider that sells physical prepaid sim cards for Russia:

10 GB data for 14 days = $49.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an international sim card for Russia via SimOptions .

Also a last reminder that if your phone is e-sim compatible you can order an e-sim card for Russia online .

My experience buying a Russia Sim Card at Moscow Airport

I decided to buy a TELE2 sim card for traveling in Russia and spent $9 USD on the smallest prepaid sim package. I went on a trip to the Altai Mountains in Siberia and to my surprise I could not only use the network of TELE2, but also the Megafon network. No clue why but it worked smooth.

Another reason why I would recommend you to buy a Megafon or TELE2 prepaid sim card for Russia at Moscow Airport.

A working network connection in Russia is as you can imagine a challenge in the worlds biggest country. But overall if I had a signal the 4G speed was good, especially in cities. On the road in Siberia I mostly just had a 3G signal, which worked fine.

More about my road trip in Altai, Siberia , check out my blog about this undiscovered region in Russia!

I hope this blog about prepaid sim cards in Russia on arrival at Moscow Airport was helpful for you if you have a question please leave me a comment.

Curious what it looks like trying to visit every country in the world ? Go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom and follow along. As of January 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, so still a long way to go.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adventure Traveler & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Enjoy your trip to Russia!

Some links in this article about buying a sim card at Moscow Airport are affiliate links. If you buy any of the products after using an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. This is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

altai mountains

Should You Use a Credit Card Travel Portal?

Unlock the details of credit card travel portals and learn how to maximize your benefits.

Using a Credit Card Travel Portal

Happy couple at home booking a trip online using their laptop computer.

Getty Images

Using a credit card portal to book travel could help you save money and help you earn more points or redeem travel credits.

Key Takeaways

Credit card travel portals search across multiple travel options, giving you the power to compare prices.
You can use your credit card or rewards to book travel with your credit card issuer's travel portal.
Some cards may offer travel credits and benefits when you book using the associated travel portal.

You have many options for booking travel, whether you want to book directly with airlines and hotels, use an online travel agency or book with your credit card's travel portal. Using a credit card travel portal may allow you to take advantage of cardholder benefits and credits and give you additional choices for your booking.

Understand how to use credit card travel portals to save money on your next trip and maybe get some elevated perks along the way – but also recognize when it doesn't make sense.

What Are Credit Card Travel Portals?

Similar to online travel agencies, such as Expedia or Booking.com, credit card travel portals are online travel booking platforms. Cardholders can use credit card travel portals to browse and book travel options, including flights, hotels, rental cars and experiences using your credit card or rewards.

Credit card travel portals include:

American Express Travel.
Capital One Travel.
Chase Travel.
Citi Travel.

Some credit cards offer cardholder savings or perks when you book travel using the issuer's credit card portal, such as travel credits or cardholder privileges, including free breakfast or late checkout.

How Credit Card Travel Portals Stack Up

When you use a credit card travel portal, the amount and method of payment may be the deciding factors in how you book. Using a credit card travel portal to book travel can save you money, but not always.

We compared a midweek economy flight from Los Angeles to New York and a weeklong stay at a three-star hotel in Manhattan. In some cases, credit card travel portals were competitive, but Expedia had the lowest overall price for flight and hotel costs on this test trip.

Still, this is just one example, and travel prices can fluctuate depending on how you book. It's always a good idea to compare all of your options.

Benefits of Credit Card Travel Portals

Booking your travel with a credit card travel portal can help you earn more points or redeem travel credits. Some examples:

Cardholders of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card get a $300 annual travel credit for bookings through the Capital One Travel site. When booking on the Capital One Travel site, cardholders earn unlimited 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars and 5 miles per dollar on flights. ( See Rates and Fees )
With The Platinum Card ® from American Express , cardholders get a $200 annual hotel credit for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel and earn five points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. ( See Rates and Fees )
Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card holders get a $50 annual Chase Travel hotel credit and earn five points per dollar on Chase Travel purchases.

"Using the travel credits is huge," says JT Genter, editor in chief of rewards and travel tracking tool AwardWallet. "Card issuers are leaning more towards those only being accessible through the portal."

Credit card travel portal bookings may help your points go further, too. "Because I have a Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, when I use the (Chase) portal to book travel, my points get an extra 25% bump," says Chip Chinery, personal finance blogger at Chip's Money Tips. For example, you'd only pay 100,000 points for a flight or hotel that would require 125,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points to book without the points boost.

Helpful features can add up to savings on credit card travel portals. For example, Capital One Travel offers a price match guarantee. Genter used the Capital One Travel price match feature on a flight from Cairo to Marrakech, Morocco. Although he booked with Capital One Travel, an online travel agency had a better price. He was able to price match with Capital One Travel to get a travel credit.

Genter points out that cardholders of The Platinum Card from American Express can take advantage of the International Airline Program for potential savings on international flights in first, business or premium economy.

You may also get benefits for booking with credit card travel portals, particularly when booking hotels. For example:

Cardholders of The Platinum Card from American Express get elite benefits at participating hotels, including early check-in, room upgrades, breakfast for two, a $100 experience credit, complimentary Wi-Fi and guaranteed 4 p.m. check-out.
If you have a Chase Sapphire Reserve ® , you can book The Edit properties through Chase Travel and receive benefits, including daily breakfast for two, a $100 on-property credit, room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Drawbacks of Credit Card Travel Portals

Travel credits and on-property perks are compelling reasons to use a credit card travel portal. However, it pays to compare pricing among your card's portal, direct booking or an online travel agency, because the lowest-priced option depends on the trip you're taking. Also, you may forfeit some benefits, as credit card travel portals are third-party bookings.

With a third-party booking, you'll have less flexibility in customer service and cancellation than you would if you booked directly. For example, if you're dealing with a delayed flight and need service from the airline, you may be directed to the travel portal customer service. You may have limited options for cancellation and how you get your money or rewards back.

Another major point to consider with third-party bookings: You generally won't be able to earn points or miles with the airline or hotel, though you can earn points with your card. Additionally, you may not be able to use elite benefits for any status you hold. For example, if you have Hilton Honors status that entitles you to a daily food and beverage credit, you're not likely to get it when you book a stay with your credit card travel portal.

When to Use a Credit Card Travel Portal

Booking travel with a credit card travel portal can make sense in some scenarios. For instance:

You want to compare your travel options across multiple airlines or hotels in the portal.
You have a travel credit available that can only be redeemed through the issuer's travel portal.
You have rewards you want to redeem on the portal, and booking this way offers a good redemption value.
You want to take advantage of benefits, such as elite hotel perks that you can get when using a credit card travel portal.
Your booking options on the portal are priced lower compared with other options.
Booking on the portal earns elevated rewards, and the prices and benefits are comparable to those of other booking options.

"It makes sense if you want to take advantage of the credits but also to earn bonus points," says Genter. "And sometimes, they have promotions such as hyper-targeted offers."

Tags: credit cards

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.

Choose the right card for you.

Make your choice and apply today..

Maximum Rewards ® Visa Signature ® Card

Everything you want. All in one card. Rewards. Low Intro. Bonus offer.

No Annual Fee 1
Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back 2 on every purchase. Every day.
0% introductory APR 1 on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles after the account is opened. After that, a variable APR based on the Prime Rate between 23.74% and 29.74% APR depending on your credit worthiness.
Plus, a $30 Bonus (3,000 points equivalent) when you spend $600 within the first 3 billing cycles after the account is opened. 2 Points will be awarded 6-8 weeks after qualifying.
Redeem rewards for cash back, gift cards, travel or merchandise. 2
A balance transfer fee 1 of 5% (minimum $10) applies to each balance transfer you make.

Platinum Edition ® Visa ® Card

Straightforward credit. Lower rates you prefer.

0% introductory APR 1 on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles after the account is opened. After that, a variable APR based on the Prime Rate between 17.99% and 28.99% APR depending on your creditworthiness.
Plus, a $30 statement credit when you spend $600 within the first 3 billing cycles after the account is opened. 3

Secured Visa ® Card

Establish or improve your credit

Request your own credit limit by providing a single deposit between $300 and $5,000 (multiples of $50) when you apply, subject to credit approval .
Enjoy the rewards of established or improved credit. You may be able to get your deposit back in as little as 11 months when you maintain a good payment history. Subject to credit approval .
Plus, qualify for a credit limit increase without an additional deposit in as little as 7 months when you use your card and make regular, on-time bill payments, subject to credit approval .
A variable 29.24% APR 1 on purchases and balance transfers based on the Prime Rate.

Deposit Account Disclosure

Please see the Summary of Credit Terms link for each product listed above for important information on rates, fees, costs, conditions and limitations. Minimum monthly payments required.

You must pay your entire statement balance (including all promotional purchase and balance transfer balances) by the due date each month to avoid being charged interest on new purchases from the date those purchases are made, unless your new purchases are subject to a 0% interest rate.

Additional Features 4

Contactless technology.

Just look for the contactless symbol, tap your card on the terminal and go on your way. It's secure, simple and touch-free.

Fraud Protection

We continuously and proactively scan your transactions, flagging anything that seems out of place. If suspicious activity should arise, we’ll contact you to resolve the situation.

FICO ® Score

View your FICO ® Score each month online for free. Knowing your FICO ® Score can help you maintain and better understand your financial health.

Online Services

Enjoy an easy and secure way to check your balance and monitor spending, set up Account Alerts and Autopay.

Manage your account from your mobile phone - wherever you are. It's secure, simple and at your fingertips.

Zero Liability 5

Automatically protects you 24/7 against unauthorized purchases made with your card or account information.

Roadside Dispatch ®

Provides 24-hour access to roadside assistance like tire changing, jump starting or towing. The fees for this pay-per-use service are pre-negotiated and available exclusively to Visa cardmembers.

Global Services

Provides expert assistance, whenever and wherever, for a replacement card or emergency cash.

Important Information

Q: If I request a balance transfer, will you process the entire amount that I requested? A: We will do our best to accommodate your request. If you are approved, we may permit you to transfer balances from other eligible credit cards or accounts up to the amount of your credit limit we make available for balance transfers (which may be less than your total assigned credit limit). If the total amount(s) requested to be transferred exceed(s) the portion of your assigned credit limit for balance transfers, we may process part of your request or decline your request in our sole discretion. You cannot request a balance transfer to make payments on a First National Bank of Omaha account or any credit card account issued by First National Bank of Omaha.

1 For additional information about Annual Percentage Rates (APRs), fees and other costs, see the Summary of Credit Terms link for each product listed above.

2 See the Rewards Terms and Conditions in the Summary of Credit Terms link for the rewards product listed above for details, including earning, redemption, expiration or forfeiture (subject to applicable law). Your % back rewards are earned as points.

3 You will earn a $30 statement credit after $600 in purchases are posted to the Account within the first 3 billing cycles after the account is opened. Please allow 6-8 weeks after you qualify for the statement credit to be applied to your credit card account.

4 Complete program details, including restrictions, limitations and exclusions, will be available when you become a Cardmember.

5 Visa's Zero Liability policy does not apply to certain commercial card and anonymous prepaid card transactions or transactions not processed by Visa. Cardholders must use care in protecting their card and notify their issuing financial institution immediately of any unauthorized use.

FICO® is a registered trademark of the Fair Isaac Corporation in the United States and other countries.

Cards are issued by First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO ® ), pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Visa and Visa Signature are registered trademarks of Visa International Service Association and used under license.

Card by FNBO

Get preapproved for these 6 credit cards–without a hard credit pull

You know those incessant credit card flyers that clutter your physical and virtual mailboxes? They fling around jargon like “preapproved” and “prequalified,” making it sound like the bank has already embossed your name across the front of the card–all you have to do is go through the formality of applying.

In reality, this is far from the case. Whether you’re pre-qualified or preapproved, you’re not guaranteed approval. The banks can’t know if you’re a good fit without a few more details only you can provide.

Preapprovals can be a great tool when searching for the perfect credit card. For example, you can find targeted welcome bonuses that are more generous than those publicly advertised. You can view specific credit card terms before applying. And you can get a general sense of whether the odds of approval lean in your favor.

What are pre-approval credit cards?

While “preapproved” and “prequalified” are often interchangeable in common parlance, they are not the same.

The credit card issuers generally initiate preapproval. They may request a list of credit profiles that meet specific parameters from the credit bureaus–and use that list to send targeted offers to those physical and virtual addresses.

Prequalification, on the other hand, is something you can generate yourself. Enter a few innocuous details into a prequalification form on many bank websites, and you can see if you’re targeted for specific card offers.

So why is preapproval a big deal? In short, it gives you an idea of whether you’re a good candidate for a card without needing to submit an application. This can save your credit report from enduring a “hard inquiry,” which occurs when an issuer examines your credit to determine if you’re a good candidate for their card. A hard credit pull will temporarily lower your credit score, so if you’re going to receive one, you don’t want to squander it on a denied application.

Does preapproval guarantee that I’ll get the card?

Again, whether you’re preapproved or prequalified, approval is not a sure thing. There’s some information that the bank needs that they can’t find from examining your credit. “Banks are not allowed to tell you they have a preapproval if, based on all the information they have, they wouldn’t approve you,” says Matthew Goldman, founder of consulting firm Totavi, LLC. He points out that banks are required by law to calculate your debt-to-income ratio to ensure you’ve got the means to repay a new card over time–and income is not included in your credit report. “It could be that you report an income that’s too low, either because you’re already over the threshold they’ve set in terms of that ratio. Or maybe it’s a high-end card that isn’t issued with a small credit limit. That’s a reason there’s a drop-off between preapproval and approval.”

Walt Levengood, VP of Sales and Business Development at NAV, offers a tip that may further increase your approval odds: “If you’re already banking with [a regional bank], they may be able to give you a firm approval because they’re seeing your banking going on in their institution.” If a bank has intimate details concerning your financial activity, they can make a more sound decision.

Using CardMatch to find cards that offer preapproval

The CardMatch tool is a handy way to find out which cards are more likely to approve you. When you provide CardMatch with some basic information it does a soft pull of your credit to offer you a selection of cards you have a good chance of getting if you choose to apply.

Credit cards offering preapproval without a hard pull

Bank of america® customized cash rewards credit card.

Top feature: Choose the bonus category that suits your spending each month.

Bank of America Customized Cash Card

Intro bonus, reward rates.

3x 3% cash back in the category of your choice
2x 2% cash back at grocery stores and wholesale clubs
1x 1% cash back on all other purchases
Competitive cash back rewards
Offers welcome bonus
Foreign transaction fee
Some rewards are capped
Have to opt-in to 3% category
Free FICO score, Balance Connect® for overdraft protection

The Bank of America Customized Cash comes with a $200 cash bonus after spending $1,000 on purchases within the first 90 days from account opening. This credit card offers particularly useful perks such as the ability to select your own bonus category each month. You can earn 3% cash back on the category of your choice and 2% cash back on grocery and wholesale club purchases, up to a combined $2,500 each quarter. For more info check out our review .

Capital One SavorOne Rewards Credit Card

Top feature: Receive an excellent return for everyday purchases.

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

10x 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber and Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through November 14, 2024
8x 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
5x unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (Terms apply)
3x unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
1x 1% on all other purchases
No annual fee
Generous rewards on dining out or eating in
No foreign transaction fee
Grocery store category doesn’t include superstores
Streaming category only includes selected services
The SavorOne offers travel accident insurance, extended warranty protection, and exclusive access to events through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment

The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a confusingly high earning rate for a credit card with no annual fee. You’ll get 10% back with Uber/Uber Eats (ends Nov. 14, 2024), 8% back for Capital One Entertainment purchases, 5% back for hotels and car rentals reserved through Capital One Travel, 3% back on dining, eligible streaming, entertainment, and at grocery stores (excluding Walmart and Target), and 1% back on everything else. You’ll even receive a $200 welcome bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months after opening your account. For more info check out our review .

Blue Cash EveryDay from American Express

Top feature: Mitigate interest fees for large upcoming purchases with a generous 0% intro APR offer.

Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express

See Rates and Fees

3% Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. online retail and U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases per category (then 1%)
1% Earn 1% cash back on other eligible purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit
$0 annual fee
0% introductory APR for the first 15 months from the date of account opening (after that, the variable APR will be 19.24%–29.99%)
3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. online retail and U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year in purchases per category (then 1%)
3% cash back only for the first $6,000 spent in each category per year
Rewards can only be redeemed as a statement credit
Charges foreign transaction fee
The Everyday card comes with added travel protections such as car rental loss and damage insurance and a Global Assist hotline.

The no annual fee card offers . If you’ve got an upcoming emergency expense or other large purchase that you don’t think you’ll be able to pay off in a few months, opening this card and utilizing the 0% APR intro period could save you a lot in fees. The card also offers a respectable return of and , so it’s a good option for big expenses. For more info, check out our review .

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Top feature: Get top-tier travel insurance automatically when paying with the card.

Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card

Intro bonus.

Rewards Rates

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

The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card is an excellent credit card for those just beginning in the world of travel rewards. It earns rewards that are simple to redeem; its bonus spending categories are for everyday expenses; it charges a reasonable $95 annual fee. But its best (and easiest-to-use) feature is its travel insurance , which can save you thousands when your flight is canceled, your rental car gets dinged, your bags are delayed, and more. For more info, check out our review .

Quicksilver Secured from Capital One

Top feature: If you’ve got limited (or bad) credit, you can use this card as a credit-building tool.

Capital One Quicksilver Secured

Who is this card good for.

Because the Quicksilver Secured Card is–you guessed it–a secured credit card , it’s far more willing to approve those with limited credit history looking to bolster their credit profile. You must put down a refundable security deposit of $200 before using the card. You’ll then receive a credit line in the amount of your security deposit.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Top feature: Receive the best airport lounge access of any card on the market.

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.

Other benefits

Travel benefits including hotel and car rental chain statuses, car rental insurance, trip cancellation/interruption and travel delay protection
Consumer protections including extended warranty and return protection

The Amex Platinum Card comes with thousands of dollars in annual value thanks to various statement credits and memberships. Admittedly, some of them are quite niche–but frequent travelers should have no trouble recouping the card’s $695 annual fee ( see rates ) many times over. A crown jewel of the card is its ability to get you into more than 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, where you can enjoy perks like free hot meals and alcoholic drinks. For more info, check out our review .

How does credit card preapproval work if there’s no hard pull?

So how can a bank determine if you’re a good fit for their credit card if they don’t perform a hard inquiry on your credit?

Simple. There’s another type of credit pull called a “soft inquiry.” This gives the issuer virtually the same information, but it won’t affect your credit score. Soft inquiries are used to view your credit score for reasons other than applying for credit. For example, they can occur when:

You check your own credit score
Your potential employer is trying to learn about whether you’re a fit for the job
You’ve applied to an apartment complex and they’re evaluating your financial health

Because you haven’t officially requested a line of credit, preapprovals and prequalifications only require a soft credit pull. It’s not until you formally submit a credit card application that an issuer performs a hard pull, signaling to credit bureaus that you’re applying for credit.

Card issuers with preapproval options

Below are some major card issuers that currently allow you to check for prequalified offers.

A glaring exception from the above list is Citi, which will not allow you to search for personalized offers. Still, you may be targeted for offers through email or snail mail.

It’s also worth noting that American Express has a genuinely excellent feature for current customers called “Apply With Confidence.” This allows you to fill out an application for a variety of Amex cards and receive a final decision before you officially submit it . If approved, you’ll see your offer and can choose to accept or decline. If denied, Amex won’t perform a hard inquiry on your credit. That’s incredibly customer-friendly.

The takeaway

Credit card preapprovals are as close as you can get to a firm approval without actually applying. It means a financial institution has looked at your credit and, based on all available data, would approve you for a card.

Remember that the information you enter during an application may change the bank’s mind. If you’re not approved, the bank will tell you why–and you can use that information to increase your chances of approval for next time.

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

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here .

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.

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 Credit Cards

Best credit cards of april 2024, a beginner's guide to credit cards, what is apr on a credit card, and how does it work, what’s a good apr for a credit card, how to apply for a credit card and get approved—and what to do if you get turned down, how is your credit limit determined, how many credit cards should i have the experts weigh in, how to ask for a credit limit increase, can you get your credit card’s annual fee waived it depends, is it bad to close a credit card yes, and here are 4 reasons why, what credit card should i get, understanding virtual credit cards: a great way to disguise your payment information to thwart scammers, 7 valuable credit card benefits you might not be using, what are credit card surcharges and where are they legal, swipe smarter: your guide to credit card interest rates, 3 ways your credit card can help you save at the grocery store, what is a credit card upgrade plus expert advice on when it makes sense to upgrade to a new card and when to hold off, flying high or wandering far: airline credit cards vs. travel credit cards, 10 credit card tips to help you avoid disaster when traveling abroad, 0% apr credit cards: a powerful tool that needs to be handled with care, 7 things you didn't know your credit card concierge could do.

Ticket prices and travelcards

Fares for Moscow's public transport network are the same for every mode of transport making it really easy to travel. See all the different tickets here !

Troika Ticket

This is the most economical option if you're spending a few days in the Russian capital. The card can be purchased and recharged at various station machines or even with the special Moscow Metro application. Your balance can be checked on the app or in the small yellow terminals inside the metro stations. A trip works out at ₽ 42 ( US$ 0.50), but if you change transport within 90 minutes, you'll only pay ₽ 23 ( US$ 0.20) for the next trip.

The day ticket for the Moscow metro can be purchased at any of the stops in the city. The price is ₽ 265 ( US$ 2.90) per day and ₽ 500 ( US$ 5.40) for three days.

90-Minute Ticket

The most convenient card if you want to take several types of transport within an hour and a half period. It costs ₽ 65 ( US$ 0.70) per person and allows one metro ride and an unlimited number of trips on other types of public transport in Moscow during the time of its duration.

You may also be interested in

Moscow's crazy traffic and its excellent metro network mean that the city's buses and trolleybuses aren't the number one option for tourists.

Where to stay

Moscow has a wide range of accommodation: find the perfect district for you and book hotels, hostels and apartments at the best possible price.

Credit Cards
Best Rewards Cards

Best Rewards Cards Of April 2024

Fact Checked

Updated: Apr 9, 2024, 8:42am

It can be challenging to compare rewards credit cards as there are so many varieties of them. In addition to these cards having different earnings rates, their rewards often come in the form of ambiguous points or miles.

Some rewards cards also have earning and redemption rules that make it harder to gauge their true value potential. We’ve cut through the clutter by breaking down the key features of the top rewards credit cards available today to help you find one of the best ones for you.

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.

31 Spending Categories Considered
29 Loyalty Programs Covered
210 Credit Cards Rated
53 Years of Industry Experience

Best Rewards Credit Cards

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best for Earning Ultimate Rewards
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best Premium Flexible Rewards Card
Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best Flexible Rewards Card for Travel Protections
The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best Premium Card for Lounge Access
American Express® Gold Card : Best for Dining and Groceries
Chase Freedom Flex℠ : Best No-Annual-Fee Chase Card
Citi Custom Cash® Card : Best for Flexible Cash Back
Prime Visa : Best for Online Shopping
Instacart Mastercard® : Best for Grocery Delivery
Discover it® Cash Back : Best for Cash Back Match
Aeroplan® Credit Card : Best Mid-Tier Airline Card
British Airways Visa Signature® Card : Best Airline Card for Short Flights
United Quest℠ Card : Best Mid-Tier U.S. Airline Card
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card : Best Hotel Card for Earning IHG Points
The World of Hyatt Credit Card : Best Hotel Card for Earning Hyatt Points
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card : Best Hotel Card for Earning Hilton Points
Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card : Best Hotel Card for Earning Wyndham Points
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card : Best Hotel Card for Earning Marriott Points
Best Credit Cards Of 2024
Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
Best Cash Back Credit Cards
Best First Credit Cards To Build Credit
Best Travel Credit Cards
Best Business Credit Cards

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

Welcome Bonus

Earn 80,000 points

Regular APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Score

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

The Platinum Card is destined for frequent travelers who intend to fully leverage the rich set of luxury travel benefits and Platinum Concierge service. In the right hands, the classic status card’s staggering annual fee is well justified.

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 unworkable 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.

Best Flexible Rewards Cards

Best for earning ultimate rewards, 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

60,000 bonus points

21.49%-28.49% Variable

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

Though Chase offers a few cards that earn transferable points, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card balances phenomenal redemptions with a reasonable annual fee, making it my personal favorite.

Why We Like It

This card is equally good for travelers who want to transfer points to travel partners or those who want to book (with a bonus) on the travel portal to avoid blackout dates and other restrictions.

What We Don’t Like

Many purchases only earn one point per dollar spent.

Who It’s Best For

Casual and frequent travelers who don’t want 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 Flexible 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)

Not only are Capital One Rewards valuable, but the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ( rates & fees ) comes with a slew of upmarket travel benefits that make it worthy of its high-end reputation and a mainstay in my wallet.

Flat-rate rewards on every purchase make this card super straightforward.

Capital One Rewards are worth less than a penny apiece if you want to redeem them as cash back.

Travelers who want premium perks and an easy-to-offset annual fee.

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 Flexible Rewards Card for Travel Protections

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

I love that the list of included travel insurances on the Chase Sapphire Reserve® puts it head to head with individually paid policies without the separate cost.

The Reserve’s annual travel credit is one of the easiest to use, since it’s automatically applied to qualifying purchases.

To earn the highest rate of rewards on travel, you need to book your trip through Chase Travel.

Frequent travelers who want to maximize their reward value on travel redemptions.

$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 Premium Card for Lounge Access

Travelers get access to a long list of credits and benefits with The Platinum Card® from American Express ( rates & fees ), including airport lounge access that goes above and beyond Priority Pass so you don’t go crazy on your next connection.

There’s a travel credit or benefit for nearly any scenario.

Many of the statement credit offers have a lot of fine print that can make it more inconvenient to earn your credits.

Frequent travelers who want rich travel and lifestyle perks.

Best for Dining and Groceries

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

If you’re looking for strong rewards when grocery shopping, eating out or ordering in, you can’t beat the American Express® Gold Card ( rates & fees ). Dining and delivery statement credits caught my attention.

You’ll earn rewards quickly, thanks to a 4x multiplier on eligible purchases.

The annual fee on this card isn’t insignificant.

Foodies and families who spend a lot on dining and groceries.

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 Cash-Back Rewards Credit Cards

Best no-annual-fee chase card, 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

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * includes elevated cash back on three categories year-round plus 5% rotating bonus categories each quarter, which makes it a winner by my standards.

The earning rates on the Freedom Flex are generous for a no annual fee credit card.

Quarterly bonus categories require card members to activate the promotion and watch for spending limits.

People who want to maximize rewards on a variety of everyday spending categories throughout the year.

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 for Flexible Cash Back

Citi custom cash® card.

5% cash back on up to $500 in purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle. All other Read More

19.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Excellent, Good, Fair

Cardholders automatically earn a generous 5% cash back on their top eligible spending category for hands-off, flexible rewards on the Citi Custom Cash® Card . That’s a relief when your life gets busy.

In addition to cash rewards, this card also offers an introductory 0% APR to new cardholders.

Earnings are limited, despite the high rate, due to a relatively low $500 spending limit on bonus categories each billing cycle.

People who want bonus rewards that adapt to their spending.

No registration required to earn bonus rewards
Cash-back categories are unique categories that other cards may not offer bonus rewards for
Introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers
High balance transfer fee
High foreign transaction fee
Some everyday rewards categories are neglected
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% 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.
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

Best for Online Shopping

Up to 5% back

Earn 5% back on purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Read More

Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card

19.49% - 27.49% Variable

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

The benefits and unparalleled rewards on the Prime Visa make it a must-have for Prime members who shop at Amazon as much as I do.

If you prefer, you can choose to receive 0% financing on qualifying Amazon.com purchases instead of earning rewards.

Your rewards rate on Amazon purchases will drop if you ever cancel your Prime membership.

Amazon Prime members.

5% cash back on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases
No spending required for the welcome bonus
No foreign transaction fees
Travel and shopping protections
Requires an Amazon Prime membership
No 0% introductory APR
Low cash back for purchases outside of bonus categories
Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members
Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership
Earn unlimited 5% back on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership
Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare)
Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases
No annual credit card fee
No more waiting. Redeem daily rewards at Amazon.com as soon as the next day

Best for Grocery Delivery

Instacart mastercard®.

Up to 5% Cash Back

Earn 5% cash back on Instacart app and Instacart.com purchases; earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through the Chase Read More

Instacart credit + 1 free year of Instacart+

20.24% - 28.99% Variable

Customers who buy all their groceries through Instacart can earn bountiful cash back with the Instacart Mastercard® without the commitment of an annual fee.

It’s rare to earn 5% cash back on grocery purchases on a no-annual-fee card.

The card earns lackluster rewards if you shop in person, which might mean it’s a bad fit for an occasional delivery indulgence.

Frequent Instacart shoppers.

Generous cash-back rate on Instacart orders
Free year of Instacart+ membership
Redeem cash back for any amount
No annual fee or foreign transaction fee
Rate on gas, groceries and streaming is just OK
No elevated earnings on non-Instacart groceries, beyond Chase Travel purchases
Doesn’t offer a 0% introductory APR period
Get a free year of Instacart+ and a $100 Instacart credit automatically upon approval. Membership auto-renews. Terms apply.
Earn 5% cash back on Instacart app and Instacart.com purchases
Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through the Chase Travel Center, including flights, hotels and more
Earn 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations and on select streaming services
Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases
No annual card fee

Best for Cash Back Match

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

In the first year of card membership, Discover will match all the cash back you’ve earned on the Discover it® Cash Back for an easy jumpstart to your rewards balance. I love that there are no limits.

You can earn up to 5% cash back on rotating quarterly bonus categories.

Discover cards aren’t accepted at many international locations, so it is a poor choice for travelers.

Big spenders who want to maximize rewards on various everyday spending categories and all their first-year spending.

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 Airline Rewards Cards

Best mid-tier airline card, aeroplan® credit card.

Up to 3x Reward Rate

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

Even if you don’t fly Air Canada often, the Aeroplan rewards program is top notch. The Aeroplan® Credit Card earns miles at superb rates and I’m impressed it offers preferred award pricing to cardholders.

In addition to earning strong rewards, the Aeroplan card offers tons of benefits while flying—including elite status for new cardholders.

Aeroplan miles might not be an immediate choice for U.S.-based flyers.

Travelers who want to earn award flights with Air Canada.

Excellent rewards earning
Travel benefits including perks for Air Canada flyers
$95 annual fee
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 Airline Card for Short Flights

British airways visa signature® card.

Earn 75,000 Avios.

I don’t fly to or through London enough to need this card, but the British Airways Visa Signature® Card bundles great benefits for British Airways flyers, including discounts on paid flights, statement credits toward taxes and fees on eligible rewards flights and the opportunity to earn a Travel Together ticket.

British Airways makes a lot of award seats available, meaning it’s easier to find a redemption and the card perks offset some of the notorious fees.

For an airline card, this one is notably absent in benefits while flying like free checked bags or in-flight food and beverage discounts.

Travelers who want to earn award flights with British Airways and partner airlines.

Generous rewards on eligible flights
Potential to earn a companion ticket
Lucrative welcome bonus
No foreign transaction fee
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 Mid-Tier U.S. Airline 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

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

Despite the above-average annual fee, the United Quest℠ Card stands out for anniversary flight credits, statement credits toward United purchases and perks while flying that make travel a breeze.

The benefits while flying go beyond the checked bags you’re expecting: The card also offers potential upgrades on award flights.

Since the anniversary mile bonus requires you to make and fly eligible award flights, not all cardholders will maximize this benefit every year.

Travelers who want to earn award flights with United Airlines.

$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 Hotel Rewards Cards

Best hotel card for earning ihg points, 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

Anyone who stays at IHG hotels regularly would do well with the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card , which offers an Anniversary Free Night, “fourth night free” perks and oodles of points-earning opportunities. I love this card for its benefits more than the points, though.

The Anniversary Free Night alone—which is easy to use—is worth more than the annual fee, making the other perks feel “free”.

Other travel rewards cards offer better earning rates on travel outside of the IHG umbrella.

Travelers who want to earn free stays at IHG hotels and resorts.

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 Hotel Card for Earning Hyatt Points

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

I’ve heard stories of how amazing Hyatt status is, and The World of Hyatt Credit Card puts it in reach—plus, it offers a free night certificate annually.

This is one of the few alternate ways to work toward elite status.

Although Hyatt’s footprint is growing, there are still fewer destinations serviced worldwide, which could limit your award options.

Travelers who want to earn free stays at Hyatt hotels and resorts and want a jumpstart toward earning 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 Hotel Card for Earning Hilton Points

Hilton honors american express surpass® card.

Up to 12X Reward Rate

Earn 12X Hilton Honors bonus points on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio; Earn 6X Read More

Earn 155,000 bonus points

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Good,Excellent (700 - 749)

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card ( rates & fees ) wraps up Hilton statement credits, meaningful elite status and a boatload of points at a palatable price.

The elite status offered by most hotel credit cards is mid, but the Surpass lifts you right up to Gold.

Hotel statement credits are provided quarterly, so you’ll need to make multiple purchases over the course of a year to max out this perk.

Who it’s Best For

Travelers who want to earn free stays at Hilton hotels and resorts.

Complimentary elite Gold status
Up to $200 back each year on eligible Hilton purchases
4 points per dollar on U.S. online retail purchases
Points have a low redemption value aside from Hilton Properties
Earn 155,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Get up to $200 back each year on eligible Hilton purchases after you use your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors ™ Gold Status with your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card.
Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors™ Diamond Status through the end of the next calendar year.
Enjoy complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status. Enrollment in the complimentary Emerald Club® program is required. Terms apply.
No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
$150 annual fee.

Best Hotel Card for Earning Wyndham Points

Wyndham rewards earner® plus card *.

Up to 6X Reward Rate

Earn 6 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at participating By Wyndham hotels and at gas stations; Earn Read More

100,000 bonus points

20.99% - 29.99% variable

Excellent/Good Credit (700 - 749)

We picked the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card * for its strong earning rate on Wyndham stays and gasoline purchases, but the annual points bonus and room discounts don’t hurt either.

Wyndham Rewards give you lots of options for free stays, especially in North America where they also partner with Vacasa vacation rentals.

Wyndham points expire even if there’s activity on your account, so you can’t hoard points (you shouldn’t anyway).

Travelers who want to earn free stays at Wyndham hotels, motels and resorts.

Automatically receive Wyndham Rewards Platinum elite status
Enjoy extra discounts on local attractions when booking “Go Free” awards
APR can be high, depending on your creditworthiness
Target and Walmart only earn 1 point per dollar spent
Only hotel redemptions offer good value
Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening. Resort fees may apply
Earn 6 points per $1 spent on hotels by Wyndham and gas purchases
Earn 4 points per $1 spent on dining and groceries (excluding Target and Walmart)
Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Receive Wyndham Rewards PLATINUM membership, which includes early check-in, car rental upgrades and more
Receive 7,500 bonus points each anniversary year

Best Hotel Card for Earning Marriott Points

Marriott bonvoy boundless® credit card *.

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

Compared to other Marriott cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card * is my favorite because it comes with a Free Night Award every anniversary on top of rewarding you handsomely for Marriott charges.

The annual fee is a steal considering it includes a Free Night Award.

Unbonused spend earns 2 Bonvoy points per dollar spent, which isn’t worth as much as you’d get from a 2% cash-back card.

Travelers who want to earn free stays at Marriott hotels and resorts.

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

Here’s a Summary of the Best Rewards Credit Cards

More about the best rewards credit cards.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has long been one of the most beloved travel rewards cards thanks to its pairing of a reasonable annual fee with strong earnings and travel perks.

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: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card lets you access the lucrative Chase Ultimate Rewards® program. Cardholders reap 25% more value from their points when they use them to book travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal . They also receive an additional 10% points bonus on each cardholder anniversary based on their previous year’s spending.

The card also features trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, primary auto rental coverage, trip delay insurance, purchase protection and extended warranties.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ( rates & fees ) comes with an array of luxury benefits and travel coverages to rival other premium cards, but at a price point that’s best-in-class.

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: Venture X benefits include a $300 annual travel credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel and 10,000 anniversary bonus points worth $100 in travel. This credit can be used on airfare, hotels or car rentals, but only through the site. Additionally, the card offers access to partner lounges within the Priority Pass and Plaza Premium networks as well as to its growing list of Capital One lounges. The Venture X also comes with a credit of up to $100 for the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee.

Unlike other premium travel cards, the Venture X offers authorized user cards for no additional charge. It also provides several additional travel and consumer benefits, including return protection, extended warranty, travel accident insurance, cell phone protection and a primary auto rental collision damage waiver.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® remains one of the top travel credit cards on the market today due to its generous rewards and benefits structure and the ability to gain 50% more value when redeeming points through Chase Travel℠.

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: The rewards you earn with the Sapphire Reserve may be transferred 1:1 to many popular airline and hotel partners, potentially providing even more value. You can also redeem rewards for gift cards, cash back or merchandise.

The Sapphire Reserve also includes a Priority Pass Select membership, an annual travel credit worth up to $300, a credit toward Global Entry, NEXUS or TSA PreCheck application and a suite of important travel protections, including baggage delay coverage, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, travel accident insurance and auto rental collision damage waiver.

With its unmatched range of benefits and perks, The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, see rates & fees ) offers a multitude of opportunities for cardholders to make its hefty annual fee worthwhile.

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: Other benefits of the Amex Platinum card include access to airport lounges worldwide, complimentary elite status with various hotel and car rental loyalty programs and a generous rewards program that offers points for every dollar spent.

Cardholders also get cellphone protection ¹ and a ton of opportunities to earn statement credits. However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. The Amex Platinum card has a high annual fee, which may not be worth it for those who don’t travel frequently or take advantage of the card’s perks. Additionally, the card is not widely accepted outside of major cities and tourist destinations.

Whether you love to eat out or try out new recipes at home, the American Express® Gold Card (terms apply, see ( rates & fees ) offers top-tier rewards and benefits for food enthusiasts.

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: In addition to great rewards, the card offers a statement credit of up to $10 per month when you use your card for purchases at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations (enrollment required). You’ll also automatically get $10 per month in Uber Cash when you add your card to your Uber account, which you can use for food delivery with Uber Eats or rides with Uber. Uber Cash expires at the end of the month and won’t carry over.

Those two perks alone are enough to cover the majority of the card’s annual fee. Just keep in mind that using food delivery apps like Grubhub and Uber Eats comes with extra costs, including delivery and service fees and higher menu prices, which could offset some of the value you’re getting.

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * charges no annual fee and features rotating 5% bonus categories along with other valuable bonus categories that are fixed.

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.

Welcome offer: 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.

Annual fee: $0

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * offers purchase and extended warranty protections, plus travel benefits, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, travel and emergency assistance services and secondary auto rental collision damage coverage . When you pay your phone bill with the Freedom Flex card, you’ll also receive cellphone protection limited to two claims of up to $800 per claim and $1,000 per year. A $50 deductible applies.

One of the central reasons this card remains so powerful is the ability to transfer the points earned on your Freedom Flex to another premium Chase card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card to redeem them for more value through Chase Travel .

With the Citi Custom Cash® Card , you’ll get the rare benefit of a fantastic 5% rewards rate that automatically applies to your top eligible spending category each month.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on purchases in a top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 in spending each billing cycle and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn $200 in cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. The bonus points come in the form of 20,000 ThankYou® Points that can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The card also comes with a 0% introductory APR for 15 months from date of account opening on purchases and from date of first transfer for balance transfers completed within 4 months of account opening. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on creditworthiness. There is also a balance transfer fee of 5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum.

While the bonus rewards structure offers flexibility, it’s capped at $500 in eligible spending each month and there are no alternative options to earn bonus cash back with the card.

If you’re an Amazon Prime member and you shop regularly with the online retail giant, the Prime Visa is a clear choice. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better consistent rewards rate on Amazon purchases than what you get with this card.

Who it’s best for: Amazon Prime members.

Rewards: Earn 5% back on purchases at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership, 2% back at gas stations, restaurants and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare), and 1% back on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn a $100 Amazon gift card upon approval with an eligible Prime membership.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Despite being a cash-back card, the Prime Visa offers great value for travelers, including no foreign transaction fees, travel accident insurance, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement and an auto rental collision damage waiver.

If you need to pay off an Amazon purchase of $50 or more over time, you can opt for a payment plan with a 0% promotional APR for six or 12 months. Just keep in mind that you can’t get promotional financing and cash-back rewards for the same purchase.

If you prefer having your groceries delivered to shopping in person, the Instacart Mastercard® offers an opportunity to earn great rewards on your Instacart purchases.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on Instacart app and Instacart.com purchases, and on travel purchased through the Chase Travel Center, 2% cash back at restaurants, gas stations and on select streaming services and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn a $100 Instacart credit plus 1 free year of Instacart+ automatically upon approval.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. Paired with auto rental collision damage coverage, purchase protection, extended warranty protection, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement and travel accident insurance, you may be tempted to think it’s a travel card. However, if you alternate between grocery shopping through Instacart and in person, be aware there are no increased rewards for in-store grocery store purchases.

The Discover it® Cash Back , like most Discover Cards, matches all the cash back earned at the end of your first year, making your first-year rewards particularly valuable. But even beyond that, the rotating categories allow you to earn 5% cash back on select categories with quarterly enrollment.

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.

Welcome offer: 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.

Other benefits and drawbacks: With few additional benefits beyond $0 fraud liability, the ability to freeze spending on the card from a mobile app or online and dark web monitoring to help protect your Social Security number, the Discover it® Cash Back card’s focus is on rotating categories to maximize your rewards potential.

Beware, the Discover it® Cash Back’s rotating categories are capped at a maximum earning potential of $300 cash back per year. You also have to remember to activate your bonus category rewards each quarter, or you won’t earn the higher cash-back rate.

The Aeroplan® Credit Card offers stellar earnings in several everyday spending categories and the ability to use its points for its own Air Canada flights or flights with Star Alliance carriers and other airline partners.

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: The Aeroplan card includes a free first checked bag benefit and adds access to reduced prices when redeeming points, so you can fly even further. New cardholders receive automatic 25K Status for the remainder of the calendar year plus the following year. It also offers a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or NEXUS fee credit and a comprehensive set of travel insurances, auto rental coverage and purchase protection.

British Airways offers a distance-based award chart, so counterintuitively, the British Airways Visa Signature® Card is going to offer the most outsized value for people who often take shorter flights on British Airways partner airlines, like American Airlines.

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 card offers cardholders the ability to earn a Travel Together Ticket every calendar year after making $30,000 in purchases on the card. This ticket is valid for two years when you redeem Avios on British Airways for a companion traveling on the same flight. You can also use it for a 50% discount on the mileage charge when traveling solo. Cardholders also can get 10% off British Airways flights starting in the U.S. when booking through a dedicated website and up to $600 in Reward Flight statement credits when you book a reward flight to London on British Airways and pay taxes, fees and carrier charges with the card.

The United Quest℠ Card outdoes other airline cards just a little bit by offering above-average earning rates on a variety of bonus categories and a high welcome offer.

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: Yes, you’ll pay more in annual fees than the average airline card, but United flyers can justify the cost easily. Each year, cardholders can earn a $125 United purchase credit and two 5,000-mile anniversary award flight credits. Here’s the catch: these extras don’t come automatically. You’ll need to make United purchases and redeem awards to qualify—though that should be easy enough if you fly United regularly. While you’re flying, enjoy free checked bags, priority boarding and other perks.

The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is a solid option for those who stay at IHG properties regularly. It offers oversized rewards on IHG-brand hotel stays, a free annual anniversary night, automatic Platinum Elite status and a fourth-night-free perk on award bookings. For a modest annual fee, the card is well worth it.

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 also offers the ability to earn a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 each calendar year and includes travel and purchase protections like baggage delay insurance and purchase protection.

For those who prefer to stay at a Hyatt-branded property, The World of Hyatt Credit Card can help you earn free nights faster and add value to your stays.

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: The Hyatt card provides one complimentary Category 1 to 4 hotel night each year after the cardmember anniversary. Plus, you have the ability to earn a second complimentary night after spending $15,000 on the card each year. It also comes with automatic World of Hyatt Discoverist elite status, five elite qualifying night credits each year and the opportunity to earn two additional elite qualifying night credits for every $5,000 spent.

If you travel at least a few times a year and prefer Hilton for your accommodations, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card (terms apply, see ( rates & fees ) makes it easy to accumulate points with the hotel chain and enjoy special treatment every time you stay.

Rewards: Earn 12 Hilton Honors bonus points per dollar on eligible purchases at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio, 6 points on eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations, 4 points on eligible U.S. online retail purchases and 3 points for other eligible purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 155,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in purchases in the first 6 months of card membership.

Annual fee: $150

Other benefits and drawbacks: Each quarter, you can get up to $50 in statement credits for eligible Hilton purchases. If you spend $15,000 in a calendar year, you’ll also earn a Free Night Reward, which you can use at most Hilton properties around the world.

You’ll also enjoy complimentary Hilton Gold elite status, which comes with perks like food credits and space-available room upgrades. You can even get an upgrade to Diamond status—the rewards program’s highest tier—when you spend $40,000 in a calendar year. Cardholders can also access some special rental car perks by receiving complimentary National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status (enrollment required).

If you regularly take road trips or your hotel budget is on the lower side, the Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card * can be your ticket to free nights and great perks.

Rewards: Earn 6 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases made at Hotels by Wyndham as well as on qualifying gas purchases, 4 points on eligible dining and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) and 1 points on other purchases.

Welcome offer: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first six months of account opening, resort fees may apply.

Annual fee: $75

Other benefits and drawbacks: Each year, you’ll receive 7,500 bonus points, which is enough for a free night at some of Wyndham’s more affordable properties. You’ll also get a 10% discount on your award stays, making it easier to earn free nights with your everyday spending.

Cardholders also enjoy complimentary Platinum elite status with the hotel rewards program, which comes with perks like early check-in, car rental upgrades with Avis and Budget and a status match with the Caesar Rewards program.

If you prefer Marriott over other hotel brands, the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card * offers great value in the form of rewards and perks for a modest annual fee.

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: Each year, you’ll get a Free Night Award that’s good for a redemption level of up to 35,000 points. You can also receive a complimentary one-year membership to DoorDash DashPass when activated by December 31, 2024.

The card only offers complimentary Silver Elite status, which is the hotel program’s lowest elite status tier. Benefits include late checkout, earning 10% more points on Marriott purchases as well as complimentary Wi-Fi. However, if you spend $35,000 in a calendar year, you can get an upgrade to Gold elite status which offers more value.

Methodology

While there’s no such thing as a single best rewards card, Forbes Advisor evaluated over 200 credit cards to determine the best credit cards for specific scenarios.

We considered:

Annual fees
Welcome offers
Ongoing reward rates
Reward redemption options
Additional cardholder benefits

Forbes Advisor rates cards both as stand-alone products (the card rating on the review) and compared to others in a specific use case (the card rating you see on a specific “Best” list). The rating for each card changes on different “Best” lists 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 on a list of rewards cards 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.

To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on how Forbes Advisor rates credit cards .

Guide to Rewards Credit Cards

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A rewards credit card can maximize the value of many of your credit card purchases by allowing you to earn rewards in the form of cash back, points or miles when you use the card. Typically, cardholders earn a specific percentage of qualifying spending as cash back or earn a specific number of points with each dollar spent on qualifying purchases. Rewards cards may also offer a welcome bonus that can provide new cardholders extra rewards when they spend a certain amount of money within a set period after opening the card.

How Do Credit Card Rewards Work?

A fee is charged whenever a credit card is used to make a purchase. Usually, this transaction processing fee is paid by the vendor and thus either charged directly to the consumer by the vendor or included in the price of the goods or services purchased.

Credit card networks, card issuers and co-branded partners may each receive a cut of this transaction fee. To incentivize credit card use among qualifying cardholders, credit card issuers provide rewards on qualifying credit card spend and return some of the value of this fee to the purchasing consumer in the form of cash back.

Rewards cards typically allow a cardholder to earn rewards as a percentage of purchases in either cash back or as points or miles per dollar spent. Some rewards credit cards may also offer a welcome bonus which offers extra rewards if a cardholder spends a certain amount of money within the first few months of card ownership.

When vendors mark up all goods and services to include the cost of transaction fees, those who do not pay with credit cards pay this fee as well. In other words, the transaction fees that fund credit card rewards also may drive a higher cost for those not paying with a credit card. If you can’t afford a credit card, you’re paying the same markup as those who can—all so banks, card networks and issuers can take a cut and potentially provide rewards.

Cardholders typically earn rewards by using a card to make eligible purchases. Eligible purchases do not usually include the purchase of cash equivalents such as cash advances, lottery tickets, gift cards or money orders. The rewards you earn are tied to the amount of money you spend with the card. These values are often expressed as a cash-back percentage or as “points per dollar.”

The term “reward program” generally refers to a reward program agreement—a contract often agreed to during the application process for a rewards card. This program document, sometimes called “offer details,” outlines how rewards are earned, redeemed and whether or not rewards expire among other terms.

Pros and Cons of Rewards Credit Cards

Pros of Rewards Credit Cards

Earn cash back, miles or points through normal spending
Many rewards credit cards include a welcome bonus
Rewards cards come in many forms and from multiple issuers
Rewards cards may include additional cardholder benefits

Cons of Rewards Credit Cards

Rewards credit cards may come with annual fees or higher APRs
Some cards may cap earnings on purchase categories
Rewards may expire or be devalued
It may take time or effort to learn how to redeem rewards for the most value

Are Credit Card Rewards Worth It?

Credit card rewards can provide a modest budget boost or help save money on your next vacation. If you can qualify for a rewards card, you can reap extra value from purchases you’re likely already making. Look at your spending and consider your personal time and highest expense categories to determine what kind of rewards card fits you best.

Should I Get a Rewards Credit Card?

Dozens of credit card rewards programs exist, each with unique features and benefits. It can be overwhelming to sift through all the options, but once you know what to look for, it becomes much easier to weigh your choices and decide on the best credit card for you.

While there is not a perfect credit card for everyone, there are many factors to consider when researching the wide variety of card choices available. If you’re applying for your first credit card , here are some additional resources to help you understand what questions to ask and what factors to evaluate while searching for a card:

What is APR? What’s a good APR?
What’s the difference between APR, APY and interest rates?
How can I avoid paying interest on a credit card balance?
How do I decipher my credit card bill?
How does paying my bill work?
Which credit card fees do I need to pay attention to? How can I avoid paying extra credit card fees?
How do I actually apply for a credit card?

Rewards cards are classified in many ways, but two common types include cash-back cards and travel rewards cards . Cash-back cards earn a percentage of eligible purchases as cash back or points that can be redeemed as a statement credit or deposit into a bank account.

Travel rewards cards offer points or miles and can be co-branded with airline or hotel partners to earn travel with loyalty programs. Redemption options for travel rewards cards often involve brand-specific redemptions, such as for stays at hotels or airline tickets.

Depending on the specific cash-back card used, a consumer may earn flat-rate or tiered-rate cash back on select purchases. Earning schemes and structures may involve higher earning rates in certain spending categories such as gas or dining and may also include caps on the amount of rewards earned.

How Does Cash Back Work on Credit Cards?

With cash-back credit cards, cardholders earn cash back for making eligible purchases. Cash-back cards offer significant variety regarding earning structure. Some cards offer a flat cash-back rate on all purchases, while others offer higher rates in individual categories such as restaurants or gas.

Flat Rate Cash-Back Credit Cards

A flat-rate cash back credit card offers one standard rate for all purchases. Cardholders can earn anywhere from 1% to 2% or occasionally more, depending on the offer.

A few examples of flat-rate cash-back cards include:

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card: Earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
American Express Cash Magnet® Card * : Earn 1.5% cash back.
Citi Double Cash® Card: Earn 2% cash back on all purchases—1% when purchases are made and another 1% when they’re paid off.
Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases.

Flat-rate cash-back credit cards are easy to manage because you can expect one rate for every purchase. On the other hand, they tend to offer lower rates than the elevated categories on tiered-rate cards.

Tiered-Rate Cash-Back Credit Cards

Tiered cash-back credit cards typically have various rates for different purchase categories, like travel, dining, gas, grocery or drugstore purchases. Some credit cards will offer better rates for certain types of purchases, while providing a flat rate for all other purchases.

For example, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® card earns 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.

Co-branded store cards can also feature lucrative offers. For example, the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi * earns 4% cash back on eligible gas and EV charging purchases for the first $7,000 spent annually, 1% thereafter, 3% cash back on restaurants and eligible travel purchases, 2% cash back on purchases from Costco and Costco.com and 1% cash back on all other purchases. A Costco membership is required to apply. Before applying for a tiered cash-back card, think about which types of purchases you make most frequently.

Rotating Category Cash-Back Credit Cards

A rotating cash-back credit card typically cycles through purchase categories every quarter. Cardholders may be offered a higher than average rate (sometimes as high as 5%) for one type of purchase for a limited time. It might sound enticing, but card issuers can limit or cap how much you can earn or spend. Issuers often don’t disclose the bonus categories in advance.

For example, the Discover it® Cash Back earns 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.

Rotating rewards might appeal to some, but cardholders sometimes must remember to activate certain categories and your biggest spending may not align with the elevated category that month. Generally, it’s easier to maximize the rewards potential of a flat-rate or tiered-rate cash-back credit card.

How Do I Get Cash Back on Credit Cards?

Many cash-back credit cards offer online redemption options through the card issuer’s website. Check with your card issuer or read the terms and conditions of the rewards program or card agreement to understand exactly how to redeem rewards. Cash back will often be redeemable as a statement credit, credit toward past purchases, check or deposit to a bank account. Not all cards offer every redemption option, so be sure to examine the card agreement carefully before applying. Some cash-back cards require a minimum redemption amount.

A travel rewards credit card earns points or miles on qualifying purchases, which can often be redeemed either in partnership with an airline or hotel loyalty rewards program or with the card issuer’s rewards program for travel, including airline tickets, hotel stays or cruises.

How Do Travel Credit Cards Work?

Travel rewards cards offer similar earning structures to cash-back rewards cards, but earn points or miles instead of cash back. Like cash-back cards, these cards may also offer a welcome bonus for spending a certain amount on the card in a specific period of time following account opening. Travel credit cards typically offer additional benefits such as airline fee credits, hotel or resort rebates, lounge access and more.

How Do I Redeem Travel Rewards?

Travel reward redemptions often come with complex terms and conditions specific to the cardholder agreement. Every card is different, but many flexible travel reward cards feature an online site where redemptions can be made for travel.

Are Travel Rewards Cards Worth It?

For many, travel rewards have become a way of life, and credit cards offer a handy way to unlock travel benefits. Beware of generally higher interest rates and fees with rewards credit cards. It’s important to carefully manage credit card accounts since carrying a balance and racking up interest charges will quickly outweigh any rewards earned. Do the math on your personal spending and consider how you’ll use the benefits before applying for a new card.

Frequent travelers may consider airline credit cards . These cards allow you to use your earned miles or points with an airline’s reward program. Cards like these are co-branded with a specific airline, but issuer-branded cards may offer more flexibility to redeem miles with different airlines. One major consideration with airline cards are the additional benefits: Many cards unlock access to travel lounges, waive checked baggage fees or provide other travel-related perks. If you aren’t sure where to start, Forbes Advisor evaluated the best airline rewards credit cards .

How Do Airline Miles Work?

Airlines offer rewards or frequent flyer programs to encourage brand loyalty from customers. Though traditionally miles were earned for spending with the airline, co-branded credit cards offer the ability to earn airline reward miles as a reward for credit card purchases nearly anywhere. These miles can usually be redeemed toward upgrades, benefits or award ticket purchases.

Each airline loyalty program and each co-branded airline credit card work a little differently. Be sure to read the fine print in the cardholder agreement and terms of use for the rewards program before applying for a credit card as a means of earning more airline miles.

How Do I Earn Airline Miles?

Because each airline miles program functions differently and your travel preferences and needs will vary from the next person’s, the best way to earn miles depends on your situation. For example, if you fly Alaska Airlines exclusively, an Alaska co-branded credit card might make sense for you. But if you fly a different airline each time you travel, a general travel card or set of cards may make more sense.

How Do I Redeem Airline Miles?

Since most airline rewards cards deposit accumulated miles directly into your reward program account, the easiest way to redeem miles is often with the airline. This may vary per program, as each rewards program is different. Some miles may have much better value when transferred to a partner airline, but value is ultimately measured by the specific redemption you make.

How Much Are Airline Miles Worth?

The value of your airline miles depends on the type of mile and the price of any given redemption. For instance, if a flight costs 50,000 miles or $500, you’ll be redeeming your points at 1 cent per mile. If that same flight costs $1,000 or 50,000 miles, the value doubles to 2 cents per mile.

How Do I Buy Airline Miles?

Most major airlines allow customers to buy airline miles online. We advise cardholders to focus on earning bonus miles instead of spending money out of pocket to buy miles. Generally, purchasing miles from an airline is more costly than earning them through purchases.

No matter how tempting it is to buy more miles from an airline, keep your eyes to the skies, looking for rewards opportunities instead.

The exception is if you have an upcoming redemption and are short a few thousand miles or you know that the comparable cash ticket price is higher than the cost of buying miles.

Hotel credit cards provide perks such as elite status, award-free nights and more while also allowing cardholders to earn rewards they can redeem for additional stays. If you’re a loyal patron of a specific brand of hotel, this type of credit card may help you achieve a higher status or provide the occasional discount or award-free stay. If you’re not loyal to any specific hotel, a general travel card with flexible rewards may allow you to transfer points to multiple loyalty program partners or book any hotel you want with your points.

How Do Hotel Points Work?

If you’re loyal to a specific hotel brand, a co-branded credit card can be a great way to earn rewards fast and achieve elite status with a specific hotel’s loyalty program. Just note that you typically will only be able to redeem a hotel’s points for a free award night with the brand. If you don’t have a hotel preference, you may want to consider a travel rewards credit card that allows you to transfer your rewards to multiple loyalty programs or that offers cash back as a redemption method.

How Do I Get Hotel Points?

Hotel loyalty program points can often be accumulated in several ways, including booking a hotel stay directly on the hotel website. But a rewards credit card may be a convenient way to boost points beyond your bookings. The exact ratio of points per dollar earned depends on the specific card and its structured terms. While spending money with your card is the main way you’ll earn these points, being savvy with how you redeem them can maximize the value of your rewards.

How Much Are Hotel Points Worth?

Though the exact value of your hotel points varies based on specific redemptions and hotel brands, most of the time hotel points are worth less than one cent each.

Business credit cards offer plenty of benefits to companies both large and small. The key to finding the best credit card for you is figuring out which perks matter most to your business and determining what you prefer: rewards, cash back or help building credit. If you are looking to open a business rewards credit card, Forbes Advisor maintains an updated list of the best business credit cards .

How Do Business Rewards Work?

A business credit card can help keep your business and personal expenses separate. It also offers a way to track how much you’re spending on your business, especially at tax time. Some small business cards come with a rewards program, and some also offer welcome bonuses.

Reward Programs for Small Businesses

For liability reasons , it’s often important to keep your business finances separate from your personal ones. As a small business grows, it may be time to consider a credit card specifically designed for a small business . A business credit card offers a tool to access the credit you need to grow the operation month-to-month while also earning cash back and other valuable perks.

Credit card rewards are an often-profitable way to earn a little bit extra from the purchases you make on your credit card. Whether you choose cash back, points or miles, rewards can add up over time and help you pay for vacations or everyday expenses. Look at your spending and consider your personal goals to determine what kind of rewards program is the best fit for you. Also consider the negatives of a card. What fees are charged and what risk do you take on with a rewards card?

An annual fee is essentially a fee you pay to have the credit card. The annual fee will vary by card, but the cards charging higher annual fees often grant you additional perks and higher rewards rates that may make the annual fee worth paying.

Sign-Up Bonus

A sign-up bonus, also called a welcome bonus , is an incentive offered by a credit card issuer to encourage new customers to sign up for a credit card. These bonuses can include additional cash back, points or miles for hitting a spending threshold in a certain amount of time after your card approval. Some cards may also offer additional perks, reduced annual fees, introductory APR periods or even merchandise as a sign-up bonus.

0% APR Period

A 0% APR credit card is one offering a limited period introductory 0% APR on either purchases, balance transfers or both. This break from interest during the introductory period on either purchases or balance transfers typically lasts anywhere from six months to nearly two years. With a deferred interest offer, if balances are not paid off by the end of the period, interest will be charged retroactively to the date of the purchase or balance transfer.

Most balance transfers apply a fee for each transfer of $5 to $10 dollars or 3% to 5%, whichever is greater. Make sure you consider the fees when exploring a balance transfer. And if you select a card with only 0% balance transfer APR, you will likely be assessed interest on any new purchases. Carrying a balance typically nullifies your grace period . Read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you don’t end up with surprise fees

Foreign Transaction Fees

A foreign transaction fee is typically 1% to 3% of the amount of a purchase and is charged when you make a purchase in a foreign country or in another currency. Some credit cards do not charge foreign transaction fees, so if you plan to travel internationally and use your card, look for one without the fee.

Find the Best Credit Cards for 2024

No single credit card is the best option for every family, every purchase or every budget. We've picked the best credit cards in a way designed to be the most helpful to the widest variety of readers.

Everyone should get a rewards credit card, assuming your credit is good enough to be approved and you regularly pay your bill in full and on time. Otherwise, you’re leaving rewards on the table with every purchase. A reward of 1% to 2% cash back or 1 to 2 points per dollar spent may not sound like a lot, but it can add up to hundreds of dollars per year.

Maximizing credit card rewards starts with educating yourself about your options and considering what’s the best fit for your spending habits. You may wait until a credit card issuer offers an excellent welcome bonus or focus on building your credit so you can qualify for better cards.

If you spend significantly on eating out and primarily get around by bike, applying for cards with high reward rates on groceries and gas probably wouldn’t be the best move. If you travel only once a year, a co-branded airline card may not make as much sense as a cash-back card you can use for other expenses. Knowing your goals before selecting a rewards program is important.

Many theories about the best value exist when it comes to maximizing redemptions. Generally, cash-back rewards are redeemed at a percentage of the purchase value, so the only major trick to increasing the redemption value is to redeem more often such that your reward value does not deteriorate with inflation.

The best ways to use credit card rewards depend on the credit card rewards system and your personal goals. The most valuable types of credit card rewards tend to be cash back, airline miles, hotel points and flexible rewards points that can be redeemed in a variety of ways.

If you earn airline miles, hotel points, or flexible rewards, the best ways to use your credit card rewards will typically involve travel. Several rewards cards also offer reasonable cash-back redemptions for maximum flexibility.

At the beginning of a quarter, there’s always a lot of rewards cards news. Chase just announced their rotating 5% bonus categories on the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * for April through June. Similarly, Discover’s 5% bonus categories also released for the second quarter. They both have excellent options that will coincide with major household spending.

But not all credit card news is good news: the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, a premium travel rewards card , is now losing restaurant privileges through its Priority Pass membership. For some cardholders, that may represent a distinct loss in value.

With so many credit card options to choose from, Forbes Advisor is here to help you make the best choice for you. Earning rewards is a great way to make credit cards more useful, but choosing a rewards card best suited to your spending is important.

We recommend never carrying a balance if it can be avoided. This goal is particularly important with rewards credit cards as APRs are generally higher. Any interest charges on a balance will quickly wipe out the value of any rewards earned. It remains critical to fully understand the terms and conditions of a credit card agreement before applying.

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 Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card 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.

¹Eligibility 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.

What is the best credit card for rewards?

The best credit card depends on you and your financial needs. Carefully consider your spending habits—do you frequently spend money on gas, groceries, travel or at a particular store? Look for a rewards card or a set of rewards cards that provide you the most return on each dollar you spend, whether it’s cash back for dining purchases or points that can be redeemed for travel, Amazon purchases or more.

How do you redeem credit card rewards?

Redemption options and values vary depending on the type of rewards card you carry and the card issuer or co-brand offering the card. Cash back can often be redeemed as a direct deposit, statement credit or purchase. Points can be redeemed on the card issuer’s website if there is a travel or purchase portal with special offers. Airline miles or hotel points can easily be redeemed on an airline or hotel’s website via your personal loyalty account when booking travel.

How many credit card points can I earn?

Many credit cards have no limit to how many points you can earn, but some impose quarterly or annual earning caps. The card’s terms and conditions may limit how much of your spending will earn higher rewards, especially those with a category bonus.

How do I account for credit card rewards?

While some credit cards allow you to easily see and track your rewards online or in a mobile app, that’s not always the case. With the right information, you can usually figure out exactly how many points a purchase will earn and use that info to maximize your rewards. Learn more about how to track your credit card points and miles .

What credit score do I need to get a rewards credit card?

Better rewards cards in general (including travel credit cards) typically require good to excellent credit , but this isn’t always the case. Credit cards for students and even some secured cards designed for those building or rebuilding credit may offer rewards too.

How much are credit card rewards points worth?

Credit card points vary in value based on the card issuer’s reward program and the type of redemption you choose. Cash back is straightforward, since it’s expressed as a straight percentage, for example 1%. Many credit card rewards points work on the same scale, with 1 point equal to 1 cent. However, some specific reward redemptions may be worth up to 1.5 cents or more. Airline mile cards have rewards usually worth about 1 to 1.5 cents each and hotel rewards are usually on the lower side of 0.5 to 0.8 cents each.

Are credit card rewards taxable?

Whether or not your rewards are taxable depends on how you receive rewards. For example, the IRS often views cash-back rewards as a rebate, not taxable income. Welcome bonuses and bonus points from referrals (especially lucrative ones) can be viewed as taxable income if the amounts pass a certain threshold. Talk to a representative from your credit card company and a tax advisor for more information on your personal situation.

Who pays for credit card rewards?

Issuers primarily pay for their credit cards rewards through merchant transaction fees that are charged every time a card is swiped, in addition to charging interest on carried balances and sometimes levying annual fees. Merchants may compensate for the 1% to 3% more in fees that it costs them to process credit card transactions by raising prices for everyone. This ultimately hurts cash-paying customers the most, who aren’t able to offset these higher prices by earning rewards on their purchases.

Other Credit Cards to be Considered

Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards
Best Hotel Rewards Credit Cards
The 4 Best Apps To Track Credit Card Rewards
Best Credit Cards For Excellent Credit
Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card Review
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card Review

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: Chase Freedom Flex℠, Wyndham Rewards Earner® Plus Card, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card, American Express Cash Magnet® Card, Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi . 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.

Yury is an accomplished marketing professional with over 15 years experience driving growth for businesses and a sought-after speaker on digital trends, profitable business models and online business acquisitions. Yury is also an avid adventurer and has been location independent for over 5 years traveling to more than 30 countries, experiencing new cultures and meeting people from all walks of life. Yury's passion for travel and adventure has given him a unique perspective on life and business.

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