Travel Credit Cards

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler chasing elite status or just looking to make the most of your everyday purchases, travel credit cards can unlock a world of value. But not all cards are created equal—and with dozens of options available, understanding the differences between hotel credit cards, airline cards, and general travel cards (often offered by major banks) is the first step in picking the perfect fit.

In this guide, we break down the types of travel credit cards, their key benefits, and what you should consider before applying.

✈️ What Are Travel Credit Cards?

Travel credit cards are designed to reward spending with points or miles that can be redeemed for travel-related perks like flights, hotel stays, lounge access, upgrades, and more. These cards typically fall into three major categories:

1. 🏨 Hotel Credit Cards

These are co-branded cards issued in partnership with major hotel chains such as:

• Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
• Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
• World of Hyatt Credit Card

Why choose a hotel card?

• Complimentary elite status (e.g., Gold or Silver status)
• Free night certificates annually
• Bonus points on hotel stays
• Fast-track to elite tiers with qualifying spend

Best for: Travelers loyal to a specific hotel brand who want to enjoy on-property perks and free nights.

2. 🛫 Airline Credit Cards

Co-branded with major airlines like Delta, United, or American Airlines, these cards reward frequent flyers with miles and in-flight perks.

Examples include:

• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
• United Explorer Card
• AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®

Why choose an airline card?

• Free checked bags and priority boarding
• Companion tickets or discount vouchers
• In-flight savings on food, drinks, or Wi-Fi
• Earn status-qualifying miles or segments

Best for: Travelers who fly frequently with one airline or an airline alliance and want to save on fees and earn faster rewards.

3. 🏦 Bank Travel Cards (General Travel Credit Cards)

Issued by banks like Capital One, Chase, and American Express, these cards are not tied to a single airline or hotel brand.

Popular choices include:

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express

Why choose a bank travel card?

• Flexible rewards that can be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners
• Broad category spending rewards (e.g., 2x or 5x on travel, dining, groceries)
• Premium perks like lounge access and annual travel credits
• More freedom to book travel your way

Best for: Travelers who value flexibility, want access to multiple transfer partners, and aren’t brand loyal.

💡 Key Benefits of Travel Credit Cards

Regardless of type, many travel cards offer these high-level benefits:

🧠 How to Choose: Hotel vs. Airline vs. Bank Credit Card

Before you sign up for your next card, consider the following:

1. How do you travel? (Domestic or international? Hotel stays or vacation rentals?)
2. Are you loyal to a brand? (Stick to a chain or prefer the best deal?)
3. Do you want flexibility or elite perks?
4. Will you use the benefits? (Lounge access, free checked bags, travel credits, etc.)
5. Do you pay your balance in full each month? (If not, interest charges will cancel out your rewards.)

For a deeper dive, check out our next post:
➡️ Top 5 Considerations When Choosing a Travel Credit Card

💬 Let’s Talk: What’s Your Go-To Travel Credit Card?

Have you had a great (or not-so-great) experience with a travel credit card?
Do you prefer hotel loyalty or airline perks—or are you all about flexibility?

Comment below or tag us on Instagram @inconspicioustraveler to join the conversation.