Top Travel Credit Cards for Maximizing Rewards and Perks in 2025

Traveling in 2025 is all about smarter spending and maximizing every dollar you invest in your adventures. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a casual vacationer, the right travel credit card can unlock a world of rewards—from free flights and luxury hotel stays to travel insurance and airport lounge access. Here’s a look at the top travel credit cards for 2025 that are helping savvy travelers make the most of their journeys.

May 04, 2025

In partnership with

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Still a favorite in 2025, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® is a powerful mid-tier travel card offering impressive value. Cardholders earn 2x points on travel and dining, and 1x on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal at a 25% bonus, or transferred to top travel partners like United, Southwest, and Hyatt.

Perks:

  • 60,000-point sign-up bonus after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months

  • No foreign transaction fees

  • Primary rental car insurance

2. American Express® Gold Card

For those who value both travel and dining, the Amex Gold Card remains a top-tier option. It offers 4x points at restaurants (including takeout) and U.S. supermarkets, and 3x on flights booked directly with airlines or via Amex Travel.

Perks:

  • Monthly dining credits

  • Up to $120 in Uber Cash annually

  • Strong transfer partners including Delta, Marriott, and Air Canada

3. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

This premium card has taken the market by storm thanks to its flat-rate earnings and valuable perks. With 2x miles on every purchase, and 10x on hotels and rental cars (5x on flights) when booked through Capital One Travel, it's built for simplicity and scale.

Perks:

  • 75,000-mile welcome bonus

  • Access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass

  • $300 annual travel credit

  • 10,000 bonus miles every card anniversary

4. The Platinum Card® from American Express

A premium card for luxury travelers, the Amex Platinum continues to set the standard in 2025. While the annual fee is high, the perks often far outweigh the cost for frequent flyers.

Perks:

  • 5x points on flights and hotels booked through Amex Travel

  • Extensive lounge access including Centurion Lounges

  • $200 airline fee credit, $240 entertainment credit, and more

  • Elite status with Hilton and Marriott

Receive Honest News Today

Join over 4 million Americans who start their day with 1440 – your daily digest for unbiased, fact-centric news. From politics to sports, we cover it all by analyzing over 100 sources. Our concise, 5-minute read lands in your inbox each morning at no cost. Experience news without the noise; let 1440 help you make up your own mind. Sign up now and invite your friends and family to be part of the informed.

5. Citi Strata Premier℠ Card (formerly Citi Premier)

Recently rebranded, this card remains a solid option for international travelers. It earns 3x points on air travel, hotels, and gas stations, and the points transfer easily to over a dozen airline partners.

Perks:

  • 60,000 ThankYou® Points sign-up bonus

  • No foreign transaction fees

  • $100 annual hotel savings benefit

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best travel credit card in 2025 depends on your travel habits, spending categories, and preferred airlines or hotel chains. Whether you’re chasing elite benefits or just want straightforward rewards, these top cards offer robust perks to enhance your trips and stretch your travel budget further. Always review annual fees, earning structures, and redemption flexibility before applying to ensure you get maximum value on the road.