Top Rewards Credit Cards to Boost Your Travel in 2025

If you’re looking to maximize your travel experiences while earning rewards, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for credit cards. With a plethora of options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right card that aligns with your lifestyle and travel needs. As someone who has spent years navigating the world of credit cards, points, and miles, I’m here to share my top picks for rewards cards that can enhance your travel adventures.

These cards not only offer flexibility and valuable perks but also make it easier to earn points on everyday spending. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting your journey into the world of rewards, these cards are worth considering.

Chase Freedom Flex
Annual Fee: $0

Standout Benefits: The Chase Freedom Flex is a fantastic option for beginners and those seeking an affordable rewards card. Its rotating quarterly bonus categories allow you to earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in spending each quarter (activation required), and you can enjoy a complimentary six-month DoorDash DashPass membership. This card is often overlooked in favor of its more prestigious siblings, but it offers excellent value and serves as a great introduction to rewards credit cards.

For more details, check out our full review of the Freedom Flex.

Chase Sapphire Preferred
Annual Fee: $95

Standout Benefits: The Sapphire Preferred is a favorite among travel enthusiasts for good reason. It earns valuable, transferable Ultimate Rewards points that can be used for travel bookings or transferred to airline and hotel partners. Cardholders receive a $50 credit for eligible hotel bookings through Chase Travel each year and a 10% anniversary points boost. With its approachable perks, this card is an excellent gateway into the world of points and miles.

Learn more in our full review of the Sapphire Preferred.

Citi Strata Premier Card
Annual Fee: $95

Standout Benefits: The Citi Strata Premier is a hidden gem in the mid-tier credit card space. It offers bonus rewards on everyday spending categories, including groceries, gas, and dining. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy a $100 discount on a hotel booking of $500 or more through Citi Travel. With access to Citi’s 22 transfer partners, including popular airlines like American Airlines and Air France-KLM, this card is a great option for those looking to maximize their rewards.

For further insights, check out our full review of the Strata Premier.

American Express Platinum Card
Annual Fee: $895

Standout Benefits: The Amex Platinum is known for its extensive benefits, including access to numerous airport lounges and a variety of statement credits. While it has the highest annual fee on this list, the perks can easily justify the cost for frequent travelers. With statement credits for dining and retail, along with elite statuses, this card is a powerhouse for those who travel often and value luxury experiences.

Discover more about this card in our full review of the Amex Platinum.

Why These Cards Matter
The best rewards cards offer a combination of flexibility, value, and enticing benefits. They may come with an annual fee, but the rewards you can earn often outweigh the costs. Each of these cards features bonus categories that align with common spending habits, lifestyle credits, and brand benefits that can enhance your travel experiences.

While you don’t need all four of these cards to create a well-rounded wallet, having them can significantly elevate your travel opportunities. My recommendations stem from personal experience, as I carry three out of the four cards mentioned. The Strata Premier, while not a fit for my personal strategy, stands strong alongside its peers.

Don’t let the world of rewards credit cards intimidate you. These options can unlock travel experiences you may have thought were out of reach. By leveraging your everyday spending, you can turn your travel dreams into reality.

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here.

At The Points Guy, we believe that credit cards can transform your financial journey, allowing you to leverage everyday expenses for cash back or unforgettable travel experiences. Our goal is to provide you with insightful content and card comparisons to help you choose the best card that aligns with your travel aspirations.

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