What to Look for in a Travel Credit Card (Especially If You’re Headed Abroad)
When choosing a card, prioritize:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Rewards for travel + dining
- Strong travel protections (trip delay, lost luggage, rental car coverage)
- Airport perks like lounge access or TSA PreCheck credit
- Acceptance abroad (Visa and Mastercard are safest bets globally)
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred®
Best for: New travelers who want flexible points and solid benefits
- Annual Fee: $95
- Foreign Fees: $0
- Perks:
- 2x points on travel + dining
- Primary rental car insurance
- Trip delay and cancellation coverage
- Points transfer to top airlines and hotels
Just Go Solo Tip: A great starter travel card if you’re new to points and want flexibility.
2. Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Best for: Frequent flyers who love upgrades and airport lounges
- Annual Fee: $550
- Foreign Fees: $0
- Perks:
- 3x points on travel + dining
- $300 annual travel credit
- Priority Pass lounge access (perfect for long layovers solo)
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
Solo Bonus: Having lounge access = peaceful airport escapes when you’re traveling alone.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Best for: Flat-rate rewards that are easy to redeem
- Annual Fee: $95
- Foreign Fees: $0
- Perks:
- 2x miles on every purchase
- Miles can be redeemed to erase travel purchases
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
Great for: Simplicity and value without worrying about bonus categories.
4. American Express® Gold Card
Best for: Food-loving travelers and city hoppers
- Annual Fee: $250
- Foreign Fees: $0
- Perks:
- 4x points at restaurants worldwide
- 3x on flights booked direct or through Amex Travel
- Dining and hotel credits
Heads Up: Amex isn’t accepted everywhere overseas—bring a backup Visa or Mastercard just in case.
5. Citi Premier® Card
Best for: Maximizing points on flights, food, and fuel
- Annual Fee: $95
- Foreign Fees: $0
- Perks:
- 3x points on travel, gas stations, and dining
- 1:1 point transfers to 15+ airlines
- No blackout dates when booking through Citi
Smart pick if you’re into booking flights with points.
BONUS: Charles Schwab Debit Card
Best for: Fee-free ATM withdrawals anywhere in the world
- Annual Fee: $0
- Foreign Fees: $0
- Perks:
- Unlimited ATM fee reimbursements worldwide
- Great companion to your credit card
- Zero currency exchange fees
Just Go Solo Tip: Keep this in your travel wallet for local cash needs. You’ll never have to overpay at airport exchange counters again.
