American Airlines has confirmed that as part of its newly exclusive deal with Citi, applications for the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® have been removed and the Barclays Aviator portfolio will eventually be transitioned to Citi in 2026.

“We are proud to build on our 38-year card partnership with Citi by naming them as our exclusive issuer for our AAdvantage® cobranded credit card portfolio in the U.S. beginning in 2026,” a spokesperson for American Airlines told TPG in a written statement.

The airline will fully transition the American Airlines credit card program to Citi in 2026 and is no longer accepting applications for new Barclays AAdvantage Aviator cards.

The information for the AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Barclays used to have several cards under its AAdvantage Aviator portfolio. However, only one was recently available to new applicants: the AAdvantage Aviator Red. That is no more.

We don’t yet know what cards in the Citi portfolio the various Aviator cards will transition to, but we’re told that more details on the transition to Citi will be shared with AAdvantage Aviator cardmembers in the coming months.

Bottom line

The Aviator card portfolio is no longer available for new applications and will be transitioned to Citi next year as American Airlines phases out its relationship with Barclays.

I’m feeling a bit bittersweet about the news.

This portfolio of cards has been key to my elite status strategy with American Airlines and its Loyalty Points system within the American Airlines AAdvantage program. I’ve long held the no-longer-available AAdvantage® Aviator® World Elite Silver Mastercard®.

It has a favorite feature: a shortcut to status. You can earn up to 15,000 Loyalty Points after qualifying spending each status qualification period. You get 5,000 Loyalty Points for spending $20,000 on the card, another 5,000 Loyalty Points for spending $40,000 and yet another 5,000 Loyalty Points if you hit $50,000 in spending each year on the card.

That will help me earn top-tier AAdvantage Executive Platinum status this year but it may no longer be an option beginning in 2026. I will be eager to learn if there are other ways to get shortcuts as the portfolio moves to Citi.

The information for the AAdvantage Aviator World Elite Silver Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

For a look at some of the current best offers for Citi’s large portfolio of American Airlines credit cards, check out this story.

Related reading:

As credit card annual fees continue to climb, it’s natural to start questioning how much value you’re getting from adding a new card to your wallet. This is especially true since multiple cards out there charge no annual fee.

However, there can be solid reasons to pay an annual fee. Many popular rewards cards come with an annual fee but provide outsize value in the form of statement credits, welcome bonuses and other quantifiable perks.

Let’s examine our top cards, which actually provide more than $1,000 in value in your first year of card membership.

Methodology

Here are the four factors we considered to arrive at these values:

• Welcome offer: We assigned a dollar amount to a card’s welcome offer based on TPG’s September 2025 valuations.
• Annual statement credits: We counted credits toward travel, dining, resort stays and other categories.
• Quantifiable perks and benefits: We added benefits that can be assigned a specific dollar amount. This means we excluded factors that aren’t as quantifiable, such as lounge access and elite status. We also excluded anniversary benefits that only apply to the second year of card membership.
• Annual fee: We subtracted the annual fee from the card’s overall value. Even after subtracting this amount, all the cards listed still provide more than $1,000 in first-year value.

Finally, note that just because a card didn’t make this list doesn’t mean it can’t provide this type of value. Cards not on this list provide value on a case-by-case basis.

Related: Are premium credit cards worth the annual fee?

Cards that provide $1,000-plus in first-year value

Card	Welcome offer value*	Total potential first-year value	Annual fee	Net first-year value
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express	$4,000	Up to $7,209	$895 (see rates and fees)	Up to $6,314
The Platinum Card® from American Express	Up to $3,500	Up to $6,704	$895 (see rates and fees)	Up to $5,809
Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ (see rates and fees)	$4,100	$6,240	$795	$5,445
Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees)	$2,563	$4,873	$795	$4,078
American Express® Gold Card	Up to $2,000	Up to $2,424	$325 (see rates and fees)	Up to $2,099
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card	$1,845	$1,845	$95	$1,750
Citi Strata Elite℠ Card (see rates and fees)	$1,520	Up to $2,340	$595	Up to $1,745
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees)	$1,538	$1,804	$95	$1,709
Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card	$1,875	$1,995	$395	$1,600
United Quest℠ Card (see rates and fees)	$910	$1,920	$350	$1,570
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card	$1,388	Up to $1,508	$95	Up to $1,413
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card	$1,388	Up to $1,808	$395	Up to $1,413
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card	$750	$1,559	$550 (see rates and fees)	$1,009

*The welcome offer value is determined using TPG’s September 2025 valuations and is not provided by or reviewed by the issuer.

The information for the Ink Business Preferred has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Now that we’ve introduced the 13 cards providing at least $1,000 in first-year value, let’s dive into the specifics to help you decide which is best for you.

The Business Platinum Card from American Express

For small-business owners, The Business Platinum Card from American Express can yield a ton of value in the first year, thanks to the array of perks on the card.

Most benefits come as statement credits, many of which specifically connect to business-related expenses.

**Enrollment is required.
^^Eligible charges vary by property.

• Total potential first-year value: Up to $7,209
• Annual fee: $895
• Net first-year value: Up to $6,314

Along with its quantifiable benefits, the Amex Business Platinum provides elite status with Marriott and Hilton (enrollment is required) and access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes access to more than 1,400 lounges.

Plus, high-spending business owners could unlock valuable perks. You can earn up to $1,200 in statement credits for flights booked through amextravel.com and up to $2,400 in One AP statement credits (subject to auto-renewal)after spending $250,000 on eligible purchases. This is valid from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31 the calendar year after the $250,000 spending threshold is met.

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Platinum.

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Apply here: The Business Platinum Card from American Express

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The Platinum Card from American Express

The Platinum Card from American Express is one of the best travel cards available for luxury travelers because of its extensive lineup of perks.

These quantifiable benefits are only part of the equation.

**Enrollment is required.
^Add your qualifying Amex card to your Uber account and pay with any Amex card.
^^Eligible charges vary by property.

• Total potential first-year value: Up to $6,704
• Annual fee: $895
• Net first-year value: Up to $5,809

Like its business counterpart, the Amex Platinum also grants lounge access and Marriott and Hilton elite status (enrollment required). You’ll also receive rental car privileges, access to Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts, travel and purchase protections and access to the Amex Platinum concierge.

Keep in mind, our calculations did not include the value of these perks since they are not quantifiable.

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Platinum.

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Apply here: The Platinum Card from American Express

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Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business

In 2025, Chase introduced its premium business card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business, oriented toward high-spending business owners who could maximize the multiple credits offered by the product.

Many of the benefits are statement credits toward purchases that business owners may find themselves making.

• Total potential first-year value: $6,240
• Annual fee: $795
• Net first-year value: $5,445

The Sapphire Reserve for Business also offers lounge access, IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status through Dec. 31, 2027, and Visa Infinite purchase protection and travel insurance perks.

To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business.

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Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business

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Chase Sapphire Reserve

The premium Chase Sapphire Reserve was revamped in 2025 to include a long list of new statement credits that help offset the card’s high $795 annual fee.

Still, the Sapphire Reserve’s annual travel credit is one of the most flexible credits available, making it easy to maximize that part of its first-year value.

• Total potential first-year value: $4,873
• Annual fee: $795
• Net first-year value: $4,078

Note that this calculation does not include perks like lounge access and complimentary IHG One Platinum elite status, as these are difficult to quantify.

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Reserve.

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Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve

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American Express Gold Card

The American Express Gold Card is one of the best cards out there for foodies because of its dining-focused perks.

Here’s what to know about this solid Membership Rewards-earning card.

**Enrollment is required. Terms apply.
^Add your qualifying Amex card to your Uber account and pay with any Amex card.

• Total potential first-year value: $2,424
• Annual fee: $325
• Net first-year value: $2,099

This card can provide some serious value if you’re willing to use all of the credits and make the most of the welcome bonus.

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Gold.

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Apply here: American Express Gold Card

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Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

In addition to the fantastic welcome bonus offered by the Ink Business Preferred, this card’s primary value is its earning structure.

Regardless, the Chase Ultimate Rewards points you’ll receive from the welcome bonus catapult this card’s first-year value to over $1,000.

• Total potential first-year value: $1,845
• Annual fee: $95
• Net first-year value: $1,750

Here are the related earning rates, which could be beneficial depending on your spending habits:

• 3 points per dollar spent on the first $150,000 in combined purchases in the following categories each account anniversary year: travel, shipping, advertising, internet, cable and phone services
• 1 point per dollar spent on everything else

Value from the earning structure can be hard to quantify since it depends entirely on your spending habits.

This card only charges a $95 annual fee, making it easy to consider keeping it for the long term.

To learn more, read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred.

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Citi Strata Elite Card

Citi launched its latest premium travel card, the Citi Strata Elite Card, in 2025, with a solid list of quantifiable perks and statement credits.

Here’s what to know about the card:

• Total potential first-year value: Up to $2,340
• Annual fee: $595
• Net first-year value: Up to $1,745

The Strata Elite’s quantifiable benefits don’t include the card’s four Admirals Club Citi Strata Elite passes each calendar year, Priority Pass membership and solid points earning in multiple bonus categories.

To learn more, read our full review of the Citi Strata Elite.

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Apply here: Citi Strata Elite Card

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Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the best cards for beginners.

Much of the value of the Sapphire Preferred comes from its welcome bonus. However, that’s not the only quantifiable benefit for its $95 annual fee.

• Total potential first-year value: $1,804
• Annual fee: $95
• Net first-year value: $1,709

You’ll also receive a 10% points bonus on your cardmember anniversary based on the total amount you spent in the previous year. However, since the value of this perk depends on your spending activity, it’s not included in the above calculation.

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Preferred.

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Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

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Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card

The announcement of the Atmos Rewards loyalty program for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines loyalists came with the rollout of the premium Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card.

Here’s what to know about this excellent airline card:

• Total potential first-year value: $1,995
• Annual fee: $395
• Net first-year value: $1,600

This card provides solid first-year value along with a suite of non-quantifiable benefits, such as eight Alaska lounge passes per year (two per calendar quarter), a quick path to Alaska elite status and stellar earnings on purchases abroad.

To learn more, read our full review of the Atmos Rewards Summit card.

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Apply here: Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card

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United Quest Card

The United Quest Card offers multiple perks that send its first-year value over $1,000.

Here’s what to know about this airline credit card:

• Total potential first-year value: $1,920
• Annual fee: $350
• Net first-year value: $1,570

Certain non-quantifiable perks, like the PQPs included in the welcome offer, earned through spending and annual PQP boost, are not included in the card’s value here. However, if you frequently fly with United and are working toward status, these benefits could take the card over the edge.

To learn more, read our full review of the United Quest Card.

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Apply here: United Quest Card

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Capital One Venture Rewards Card

While the Venture Rewards card doesn’t have a long list of benefits, it offers a strong welcome bonus relative to its annual fee.

Transferring your miles to one of Capital One’s 15-plus loyalty partners is the best way to maximize your rewards.

• Total potential first-year value: Up to $1,508
• Annual fee: $95
• Net first-year value: Up to $1,413

This card’s benefits are similar to those of the Venture X. It’s important to weigh the value you’ll receive with the lower annual fee Venture Rewards compared to the premium option.

To learn more, read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards.

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Learn more: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Venture X makes a splash in the premium cards space thanks to its non-quantifiable lounge access perks for a more modest annual fee compared to other similar options.

Let’s tally up the value you could receive from this travel card.

• Total potential first-year value: $1,808
• Annual fee: $395
• Net first-year value: Up to $1,413

Venture X cardholders also receive complimentary cellphone protection, access to Capital One’s Premier Collection of luxury hotels, Hertz President’s Circle elite status**** and trip cancellation and interruption insurance as a Visa Infinite card.

Note that this calculation omitted the 10,000 bonus miles that you’ll receive every account anniversary since this perk doesn’t begin until you renew your card, so it’s technically a benefit in year two.

To learn more, read our full review of the Capital One Venture X.

****Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at that status level through the duration of the offer. Please note that enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g., at hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program, and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.

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Learn more: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

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Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

The Hilton Honors Aspire is the top-tier card in the Hilton cobranded card lineup.

If you stay with Hilton regularly, the card’s benefits can be very valuable.

**Enrollment is required.

• Total potential first-year value: $1,559
• Annual fee: $550
• Net first-year value: $1,009

In addition to the quantifiable benefits listed, you’ll also get complimentary Hilton Diamond status, a free night each year (plus a second if you spend $30,000 in a calendar year and a third if you spend $60,000 on your card in a calendar year) and complimentary National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status (enrollment required).

To learn more, read our full review of the Hilton Aspire Card.

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Apply here: Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

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Bottom line

Many popular travel credit cards can get you well over $1,000 in value in just the first year of card membership. This guide lists the dollar values of benefits when they were easily available. However, many perks are more subjective.

If you have a card where you spend a lot each year within its bonus categories, you can easily get more than $1,000 in value from a card just based on spending alone. But if you aren’t taking full advantage of the benefits offered by a card (such as lounge access, yearly statement credits or elite status), you could get less value from a specific card, as it isn’t suited to your needs.

Hopefully, this gives you a starting point to see which cards offer $1,000 or more in value in the first year to those who can use the benefits to their fullest.

Related: Credit card perks and benefits you should be using each month

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For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of The Platinum Card from American Express, click here.
For rates and fees of The American Express Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors Aspire Card, click here.

Avios are quickly becoming one of the most popular loyalty currencies in Europe — and worldwide.

While British Airways Club, Iberia Club and Aer Lingus AerClub have long used Avios as their loyalty currency, Loganair Loyalty and Finnair Plus are the most recent additions. Qatar Airways Privilege Club and Vueling Club are also part of the Avios program.

What is unique and valuable about Avios is that you can transfer your Avios between these programs in any direction at a 1:1 rate as often as you want.

Several cobranded credit cards are available from airlines that use Avios, and every major credit card program has at least one Avios program as a transfer partner at a 1:1 ratio.

So, with Avios so easy to earn, move around and redeem, what are the best cards for Avios redemptions?

While there isn’t a single best card that wins in every category, depending on your priorities, here are the best options.

You want to earn a large welcome bonus

There are plenty of great welcome bonuses available right now on many of our favorite cards. This includes the three Chase-issued Avios cards:

The information for the Aer Lingus Visa Signature and Iberia Visa Signature cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

With TPG’s September 2025 valuations of Avios at 1.4 cents each, these welcome bonuses are worth $1,190 each. That’s enough for a first-class flight to London (plus fees, taxes and carrier-imposed surcharges).

Just keep in mind that you won’t be able to earn a welcome bonus on one of these cards if you currently hold it or have earned a bonus on it in the past 24 months.

Related: Best Avios sweet spots: How to redeem for domestic and international award flights

You spend a lot on flights

If you earn and redeem Avios, you’re likely to make some purchases directly with airlines, whether it’s paying for the fees, taxes and surcharges associated with your redemption or boosting your Avios balance by purchasing cash fares.

If you mainly fly on Aer Lingus, British Airways or Iberia, adding one of these cobranded airline cards to your wallet makes sense. If you’re not loyal to one airline, though, consider the following options for your airline spending:

Related: British Airways Visa Signature credit card review: Earn flexible Avios — a must-have for frequent BA flyers

You want to maximize transfer bonuses

Occasionally, credit card issuers offer transfer bonuses for select airline and hotel partner programs. There is no certainty as to when these bonuses will occur, and the number of points and miles you can receive from the bonus can vary from as low as 10% to over 40%.

American Express generally comes out on top as far as the frequency of transfer bonuses is concerned. With that in mind, these are the best Amex card offers currently available:

• The Platinum Card from American Express: Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 175,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
• American Express® Gold Card: Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
• The Business Platinum Card from American Express: Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on purchases within the first three months of card membership.
• American Express® Business Gold Card: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership.

You want to enjoy elite status-like perks

Earning elite status in an airline loyalty program usually requires significant spending directly with the airline and/or on a cobranded credit card. Fortunately, if you wish to enjoy the perks of elite status, you can do so with the right Avios credit card.

The Qatar Airways Privilege Club Visa Infinite Credit Card has a welcome offer of up to 50,000 Avios — 25,000 Avios after the first transaction and an additional 25,000 Avios and 150 Qpoints after spending $5,000 in the first three months of account opening. The card comes with a $499 annual fee.

The information for the Qatar Airways Privilege Club Visa Infinite Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

While this welcome bonus is lower than the Chase Avios-earning cards, it also offers one year of complimentary Qatar Airways Privilege Club Gold status (equivalent to Oneworld Sapphire), which includes benefits like priority boarding, preferred seating, lounge access and a 75% bonus on earning Avios with eligible flights.

You can also receive worldwide lounge access through the right credit card.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300-plus lounges, including Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required).

Lounge access changes are coming to Venture X cardholders starting Feb. 1, 2026. After this date, Venture X cardholders will no longer be able to bring complimentary guests with them to Priority Pass and Capital One lounges (unless they spend $75,000 in a year for the latter).

Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) cardholders get access to Chase Sapphire Lounges as well as access to Priority Pass lounges.

Finally, eligible Amex Platinum cardmembers can access the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion, Delta Sky Clubs*, Escape, Plaza Premium lounges, Priority Pass and select Lufthansa lounges. Enrollment may be required.

*When traveling on same-day Delta flights, eligible Platinum Card members will receive 10 visits per eligible Platinum Card per year to the Delta Sky Club or to Grab and Go when traveling on a same-day Delta-operated flight.

You want to save money on airfares and redemptions

While each of the three Chase Avios-earning cards offers a companion voucher or discount for spending $30,000 yearly on the card, the British Airways Visa Signature Card offers extra benefits when booking cash and Avios redemptions.

Each year, in addition to earning a companion voucher, you can:

• Get 10% off British Airways-operated revenue flights departing the U.S. to London and beyond, including fees, taxes and carrier-imposed surcharges (excluding excess baggage or seat selection fees) when you book through the website provided in your welcome materials.
• Get a $100 statement credit ($200 for business- and first-class seats) up to three times a year when you book a reward flight to London on British Airways and pay your taxes and fees with your card (up to $600 annually).
• Use Avios to pay for taxes, fees and carrier charges when you redeem a British Airways ticket, though this is not usually a good deal.

You spend in non-travel categories

While Avios enthusiasts may be directing plenty of credit card spending to airfare, if you spend a lot of money on other categories like dining, groceries and other travel, you can earn lots of rewards with increased earning rates in these categories with the following cards:

• The American Express Gold Card earns 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar) and 4 points per dollar spent on groceries at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).
• The Citi Strata Premier® Card (see rates and fees) earns 3 points per dollar spent at electrical vehicle charging and gas stations, restaurants and supermarkets.

You fly to Europe regularly

The British Airways Visa Signature Card has numerous discounts and statement credits when flying with British Airways for both cash fares and Avios redemptions.

With BA’s notorious carrier-imposed surcharges, you could save plenty of money on cash fares and Avios redemptions when you book multiple seats or flights each year.

Related: Quick Points: Here’s why you shouldn’t end your European trip in the UK

You want to travel in premium cabins with your family

You might want to earn lots of Avios quickly to redeem for luxury products like British Airways’ first class or Qatar Airways’ award-winning Qsuite business class. In that case, you’ll want a card with a high welcome bonus and generous category bonuses.

New cardholders of the Citi Strata Elite℠ Card (see rates and fees) can earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months from account opening. You can earn a higher welcome offer of 100,000 bonus points with the same spending requirements if you apply at a Citi branch in person.

The card also has impressive earning rates, allowing you to earn bonus points on travel booked via Citi Travel and on dining.

If you spend heavily in these categories, you can boost your balance quickly, giving you a solid stash of Avios to use for those high-end bookings.

Bottom line

Even if you don’t fly to Europe often, Avios is worth your consideration. Avios are easy to earn from many different credit cards and easy to redeem through the seven different programs that use the currency. You also have the unique flexibility of transferring Avios between each program at no cost at a 1:1 rate in any direction.

While there is no slam-dunk Avios or transferable points-earning credit card for every traveler, there are excellent options to help you book your next trip.

Related: New user-friendly tool lets you easily transfer Avios between all 7 airline programs

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

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines loyalists, meet your new loyalty program: Atmos Rewards.

The new Atmos Rewards program heralds a complete rebranding of Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan and includes a new premium card for frequent Alaska flyers: the Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card.

As for the existing cards, the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® (no longer available) is now the Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® Credit Card. The Alaska Airlines Visa® Business credit card (no longer available) is now the Atmos Rewards Visa Signature® Business.

The information for the Alaska Airlines Visa Business card, the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature card and the Atmos Rewards Visa Signature Business has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

These cards include valuable welcome bonuses for cardholders to earn.

Since the Atmos Rewards program will replace Alaska Mileage Plan, the value of these bonuses is based on TPG’s August 2025 valuation of Alaska miles at 1.45 cents per mile.

With this in mind, let’s dive into the three Atmos Rewards cards and their current welcome offers.

Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card

The new premium option for Alaska Airlines loyalists, the Atmos Rewards Summit, features a high-value welcome bonus, useful earning rates and a solid suite of benefits.

Welcome offer: Earn 100,000 bonus points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,000 or more on purchases within the first 90 days from account opening.

Based on TPG’s August 2025 valuations, this bonus is worth up to $1,813 when you include the value of the 25,000-point Global Companion Award.

Annual fee: $395.

Earning rates:

• Earn 3 points per dollar spent on eligible Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases.
• Earn 3 points per dollar spent on eligible dining and foreign transaction purchases.
• Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Key benefits:

• Eight Alaska Lounge passes each year (two per calendar quarter).
• 10,000 status points every year upon account anniversary, plus 1 status point for every $2 spent on the card.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all points earned if you have an eligible Bank of America account.
• Free checked bag on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines for the cardholder and up to six guests on the same reservation (when you pay for your flight with your card).
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Priority boarding on Alaska Airlines for the cardholder and up to six guests on the same reservation (when you pay for your flight with your card). In the fall, priority boarding will also apply on Hawaiian Airlines flights.
• Up to $120 in statement credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry every four years.

Why we like it: This welcome offer includes a new perk, the Global Companion Award, with points that can be redeemed for travel on Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines or a partner (including Oneworld members) for an award ticket in any class. The 25,000-point award is earned upon account opening and after each card anniversary.

Cardholders can earn a second 100,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $60,000 or more in a card anniversary year.

They’ll also receive a $50 voucher for Alaska Airlines flight cancellations within 24 hours or departure delays that exceed two hours, and pay no change fee for same-day changes to Alaska Airlines flight plans. This benefit will extend to Hawaiian Airlines-operated flights once both carriers are operating on the same reservation system, expected in 2026.

For frequent international travelers, earning 3 points per dollar on foreign transaction purchases is an industry first, and could lead to Atmos rewards racking up rather quickly.

All in all, this is a solid option for frequent flyers of either airline. Plus, this card offers the exclusive ability to transfer its points to hotel partners. This isn’t a feature on the other cards in the suite.

These partners (and transfer ratios) are:

• IHG One Rewards (1:1) — available through early November initially; returning on a recurring basis thereafter
• Marriott Bonvoy (1:1)
• Preferred Hotels I Preferred (1:2)
• Shangri-La Circle (8:1)
• Wyndham Rewards (1:1)

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Apply here: Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card

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Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature Credit Card

Semifrequent Alaska and Hawaiian flyers who aren’t looking to budget for a higher annual fee are the target audience for the Atmos Rewards Ascent, a mid-tier option with useful perks of its own.

Welcome offer: Earn 80,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $4,000 or more on purchases within the first 120 days from account opening.

TPG’s August 2025 valuations deem this offer to be worth $1,160 in points plus the value of the Companion Fare.

Annual fee: $95.

Earning rates:

• Earn 3 points per dollar spent on eligible Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases.
• Earn 2 points per dollar spent on gas, electric vehicle charging stations, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride-hailing services).
• Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Key benefits:

• Ability to earn an annual Companion Fare(plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $6,000 on purchases within the prior card anniversary year.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all points earned if you have an eligible Bank of America account.
• Free checked bag on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines for the cardholder and up to six guests on the same reservation (when you pay for your flight with your card). In the fall, priority boarding will also apply on Hawaiian Airlines flights.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Priority boarding on Alaska Airlines for the cardholder and up to six guests on the same reservation (when you pay for your flight with your card).

Why we like it: The Atmos Rewards Ascent is a rebranding of the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature (no longer available), so the earning structure and primary benefits remain the same.

It’s an excellent choice for anyone who flies Alaska or Hawaiian at least a couple of times each year and could find value in the card’s perks, including the ability to spend toward a Companion Fare benefit each year, a free checked bag and elevated earning rates in popular bonus categories.

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Apply here: Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® Credit Card

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Atmos Rewards Visa Signature Business Card

Small-business owners who fly Alaska Airlines, this one’s for you. The Atmos Rewards Business Card provides multiple perks when you fly with Alaska or Hawaiian, good rewards-earning opportunities and a solid welcome offer for a reasonable annual fee.

Welcome offer: Earn 80,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $5,000 or more on purchases within the first 90 days from account opening.

This bonus is worth $1,160 in points, per TPG’s August 2025 valuations, plus the value of the Companion Fare.

Annual fee: $70 for the company and $25 per card.

Earning rates:

• Earn 3 points per dollar spent on eligible Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases.
• Earn 2 points per dollar spent on gas, EV charging stations, shipping and local transit (including ride-hailing services).
• Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Key benefits:

• $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ membership purchased with your card.
• Ability to earn an annual Companion Fare after spending $6,000 on purchases within the prior card anniversary year.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all points earned if you have an eligible Bank of America business account.
• Free checked bag on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines for the cardholder and up to six guests on the same reservation (when you pay for your flight with your card).
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Priority boarding on Alaska Airlines.

Why we like it: The Atmos Rewards Visa Signature Business is a rebranded version of the Alaska Airlines Visa Business (no longer available), and remains a great option for business owners who would benefit from the perks related to flying on Alaska.

The Lounge+ membership included on the Atmos Business card is notably not included on the personal Atmos cards, so if you value lounge access, that’s something worth considering.

Plus, with a long list of bonus categories and the opportunity to earn an annual Companion Fare, this is a strong option for a relatively low annual fee.

Bottom line

Alaska loyalists have a new loyalty program to dive into, as Atmos Rewards has burst onto the scene with a rebranded suite of cards, a new premium card and elevated offers to accompany them.

If you’re ready to maximize this new program and collect Atmos Rewards points, collecting one of these offers is a fantastic way to start.

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Apply here: Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card
Apply here: Atmos Rewards Ascent Visa Signature Credit Card

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As soon as people find out that I work for The Points Guy, they almost always follow up with one question: “What’s the best credit card?”

My answer is usually, “It depends” — because there truly is no one-size-fits-all credit card that’s best for everyone. Several factors go into determining the best credit card for your situation, including your spending habits, your credit score and the type of rewards you want to earn.

Some regular contenders frequently make the cut when I recommend new credit cards since they offer solid value for a variety of spenders and their lifestyles. I’ve had my fair share of them over my 20-plus years of collecting points and miles.

Here are my top picks for the best credit cards you can add to your wallet.

The best credit cards

*TPG founder Brian Kelly is a Bilt adviser and investor.

**The information for the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Comparing the best credit cards

Check out how my top recommendations for the best credit cards stack up against each other.

Card	Best for	Welcome offer	Earning rates	Annual fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred	Beginner travelers	Earn 75,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.	Earn 5 points per dollar spent on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. Earn 3 points per dollar spent on dining, select streaming services and online groceries (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs). Earn 2 points per dollar spent on other travel purchases. Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.	$95
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card	Premium travel	Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.	Earn 10 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5 miles per dollar spent on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on all other purchases.	$395
Amex Gold	Groceries and dining at restaurants	Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer	Earn 4 points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar). Earn 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar). Earn 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. Earn 2 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on amextravel.com. Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.	$325 (see rates and fees)
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card	Nonbonus spending	Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.	Earn 5 miles per dollar spent on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on all other purchases.	$95
Amex Platinum	Luxury benefits	Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.	Earn 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel® (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar). Earn 5 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com. Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.	$695 (see rates and fees)
Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex	Sky Club access and Medallion status	Earn 70,000 miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership.	Earn 3 miles per dollar spent on Delta Air Lines purchases. Earn 1 mile per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.	$650 (see rates and fees)
Chase Freedom Flex	Rotating bonus categories	Earn $200 after spending $500 on eligible purchases within the first three months of account opening.	Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate. Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel. Earn 3% cash back on dining and drugstores. Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.	$0
Ink Business Preferred	Bonus-earning	Earn 90,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.	Earn 3 points per dollar spent on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.	$95
Bilt Mastercard	Renters	N/A	Earn 3 points per dollar spent on dining. Earn 2 points per dollar spent on travel. Earn 1 point per dollar spent on rent without the transaction fee (up to 100,000 points in a calendar year; see rates and fees)†. Earn 1 point per dollar spent on other purchases. †You must use the card five times each statement period to earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases.	$0 (see rates and fees)
Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card	Free nights and hotel status	Earn 175,000 points after spending $6,000 on purchases in your first six months of card membership.	Earn 14 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio. Earn 7 points per dollar spent on select travel, including flights booked directly with the airline or on amextravel.com and car rentals booked directly with select car rental companies. Earn 7 points per dollar spent on dining at U.S. restaurants, including takeout and delivery. Earn 3 points per dollar spent on other eligible purchases.	$550

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Standout benefits: The Chase Sapphire Preferred was one of the first cards I opened that carried an annual fee. Initially, I got the card because it didn’t charge foreign transaction fees, but I quickly fell in love with the rewards I was earning — both abroad and back in the U.S.

Chase Ultimate Rewards points are among the most valuable currencies out there, pegged at 2.05 cents each per TPG’s August 2025 valuations. As a Sapphire Preferred cardholder, you can redeem your points through Chase Travel at a rate of 1.25 cents apiece, but my favorite way to use Chase points is by transferring them to travel partners like Air Canada Aeroplan and World of Hyatt.

Hyatt is my go-to redemption option here, as I almost always get well over 2 cents per point in value from my award stays. For example, I splurged for four nights at the Hyatt Centric Park City earlier this year, and even though it set me back 180,000 points, the paid rate would’ve been nearly $6,000. I was even able to apply a suite upgrade as a Hyatt Globalist.

Related: Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred should be your first card out of college

Beyond that, the card offers an incredible set of travel protections if things go wrong on your trip, including primary car rental coverage. You’ll also enjoy a $50 annual hotel credit for reservations made through Chase Travel.

I eventually upgraded to the card’s more premium sibling — the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) — a few years ago, but my wife continues to hold her Sapphire Preferred and still gets incredible value from it.

New applicants can earn 75,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. The Sapphire Preferred features a $95 annual fee.

For more information, check out our review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

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Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Standout benefits: I picked up the Capital One Venture X shortly after it launched in November 2021, and it quickly became a workhorse in my wallet because it earns at least 2 miles per dollar spent on every purchase. I charge my utility bills and most of my online shopping to it, since those purchases generally aren’t eligible for bonuses on other cards.

The card also offers a ton of premium perks without a premium price tag. You’ll enjoy access to Capital One Lounges and a Priority Pass Select membership, along with the ability to enjoy value-added benefits on luxury hotel stays via the Premier Collection and Lifestyle Collection. All of this comes with an annual fee of just $395.

However, even that is super easy to offset with other perks on the card. You’ll get an annual $300 credit for purchases via Capital One Travel — including flights, hotels and rental cars. You can also use the card for up to $120 in statement credits to cover the cost of a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership every four years.

Related: Capital One Venture Rewards vs. Capital One Venture X

Finally, when you renew your card, you’ll receive 10,000 bonus miles on your account anniversary. Those are worth at least $100 if used for travel, but they have the potential for even more value when you redeem them with Capital One’s 15-plus transfer partners.

I recently transferred 70,000 Capital One miles to Air Canada Aeroplan to book a one-way business-class flight to Europe for Thanksgiving — a trip that would’ve otherwise set me back over $3,000. And that’s just one method of maximizing your Capital One miles.

New applicants can earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. This card features a $395 annual fee.

For more information, check out our review of the Capital One Venture X.

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Learn more: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

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American Express Gold Card

Standout benefits: Believe it or not, I first added the Amex Gold to my wallet without earning a welcome bonus. I held an earlier version of the card, so I wasn’t eligible. However, I still earn tens of thousands of points on the card every year — and last year’s refresh made me love it even more.

I love dining out and cooking in, and the Amex Gold rewards you in both categories. You’ll earn 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 in purchases each year, then 1 point per dollar) and 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in purchases each year, then 1 point per dollar). Membership Rewards points are super valuable — with partners like ANA Mileage Club and Air France-KLM Flying Blue.

Related: How to maximize the Amex Gold’s benefits

However, the card can also save you money on everyday purchases as well, thanks to the following benefits (enrollment required):

• Resy: Earn up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at Resy-affiliated restaurants in the U.S. and on other eligible Resy purchases (up to $50 January-June and up to $50 July-December).
• Dunkin’: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits when you use the Amex Gold at U.S. Dunkin’ locations.
• Uber: Get $10 in Uber Cash each month, valid for rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S.***
• Dining: Earn up to $10 in monthly statement credits when you use the Amex Gold at select dining partners, including Grubhub and Five Guys.

***Uber Cash is valid on purchases in the U.S. and you must first add your Amex Gold to your Uber account. You can then redeem with any Amex card.

In fact, I was getting so much value out of this card that my wife was convinced to get her own Amex Gold card last year — essentially doubling the value we can get from these statement credits every year.

With the Amex Gold, you can find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer. This card’s annual fee is $325.

For more information, check out our review of the Amex Gold Card.

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Apply here: American Express Gold Card

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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Standout benefits: Before I got the Capital One Venture X, I had the regular Venture Card — which is a great alternative for those who aren’t willing to pay for a premium rewards card.

You’ll enjoy the same base earning rate of 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases, and you’ll enjoy access to Capital One’s Lifestyle Collection of hotels around the world. The card also includes up to $120 in statement credits for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership every four years — a rarity for a card with just a $95 annual fee.

In addition, the Venture Card can be the perfect option for those just getting started who value simplicity but may want the option of maximizing rewards in the future. Capital One miles can be used to offset any travel purchase charged to the card at a value of 1 cent per point. However, you also have the ability to leverage Capital One’s transfer partners for even more value. This gives you a great starting point — with the chance to unlock more rewards down the road.

New applicants can earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. This card features a $95 annual fee.

For more information, check out our review of the Capital One Venture Rewards.

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Learn more: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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The Platinum Card from American Express

Standout benefits: I’ve held the Amex Platinum for years, and it’s among the priciest travel cards out there, with a massive $695 annual fee. However, each time my card comes up for renewal, I crunch the numbers and realize that I easily get that much in value every year — and then some.

For example, when you add the Amex Platinum to your Uber account, you’ll receive $15 a month in Uber Cash plus a one-time bonus of $20 in the month of December (valid for rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S.; can pay using any Amex card). I also enjoy the up to $20 a month in statement credits I receive for select digital entertainment providers, which I use to offset the cost of my daughter’s Disney+ obsession (enrollment is required).

Then there’s the up to $200 airline fee statement credit each calendar year — which I mainly use for Sky Club guest access for my daughter. These three perks alone can offer me up to $640 in annual benefits, nearly covering the card’s entire annual fee. Enrollment is required.

Related: Maximizing the Amex Platinum’s benefits

Beyond these statement credits, the Amex Platinum offers unparalleled airport lounge access, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment is required) and Plaza Premium locations. You can also access Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta Air Lines, though you are capped at 10 visits per year unless you spent $75,000 in the current (or previous) calendar year.

There’s nothing I love more than relaxing in a quiet space prior to a flight — and the Platinum Card delivers just that.

With the Amex Platinum, you can find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as 175,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer. This card’s annual fee is $695.

For more information, check out our review of the Amex Platinum Card.

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Apply here: Amex Platinum

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Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card

Standout benefits: I’ve been a longtime Delta flyer. In fact, I was a charter Diamond Medallion member when that elite status first launched in 2010 — qualifying entirely on domestic segments, no less. And even though I’m no longer a road warrior, I still love flying Delta. And the Delta Reserve Card helps make those trips even more rewarding.

Even though it carries a hefty annual fee, the perks are extensive. You’ll receive 2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) each year just for having the card, putting you halfway to Silver Medallion status. You can then earn 1 MQD for every $10 spent on the card, allowing you to spend your way to status.

The card also includes 15 visits to Sky Clubs every year plus four, one-time-use guest passes — though you can unlock unlimited visits as the primary cardmember when you spend $75,000 on purchases in a calendar year.

But my favorite perk is the annual companion certificate you receive upon renewal. This allows you to bring a travel companion on select Delta-operated flights just by paying the taxes and fees. It’s even valid on select Comfort+ and first-class tickets. Last year, I used this for a flight to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) for me and my daughter to go skiing, a ticket that would’ve otherwise been over $900.

New applicants can earn 70,000 miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. This card’s annual fee is $650.

For more information, check out our review of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve.

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Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex

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Chase Freedom Flex

Standout benefits: You may be surprised to see a cash-back credit card on this list, but the Freedom Flex is so much more — let’s start with the earning rates. Cardholders earn 5% cash back on the first $1,500 in combined purchases you spend each quarter in rotating bonus categories (after activation).

With a wife and 10-year-old daughter, I spend a ton at Amazon, so that’s a great return on purchases I’m already making.

However, I’m not just earning cash back. Instead, since I also have the Chase Sapphire Reserve, I have the ability to combine these rewards in my Sapphire account — which effectively converts them to fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points.

In other words, this card allows me to earn 5 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on these rotating categories.

Related: 4 reasons I recommend the Chase Freedom Flex to beginners

In fact, I max out the quarterly bonus so frequently that I have both this card and the old Chase Freedom card (no longer available to new applicants) — which means I have double the earning potential each month.

With this no-annual-fee card, new applicants can earn $200 after spending $500 on eligible purchases within the first three months of account opening.

For more information, check out our review of the Chase Freedom Flex.

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Apply here: Chase Freedom Flex

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Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Standout benefits: The Ink Business Preferred can be a great fit for virtually any small business — but especially those with a big online presence. That’s because of the bonus categories on the card.

Each year, you’ll earn 3 points per dollar on up to $150,000 in combined spending across the following categories:

• Shipping purchases
• Online advertising with social media platforms and search engines
• Internet, cable and phone services
• Travel

If you fully max out that bonus, you’ll take home 450,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points — which can then be used for cash back, gift cards or trips through Chase’s lucrative transfer partners.

It also has no foreign transaction fees when you’re outside the country, and with extensive travel and purchase protections for business trips, it can give you valuable peace of mind when on the road.

New applicants can earn 90,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening. This card features a $95 annual fee.

For more information, check out our review of the Ink Business Preferred.

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Apply here: Ink Business Preferred

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Bilt Mastercard

Standout benefits: The Bilt Mastercard is the one card on this list that I’ve never had. However, that’s solely due to the fact that I own my home. If you’re a renter, and you’re not currently earning points on your monthly rent, this card should absolutely be in your wallet.

That’s because you can earn 1 point per dollar spent on rent (up to 100,000 points each calendar year) without paying any transaction fees (see rates and fees), as long as you charge at least five purchases to the card each month. This holds true even if your landlord or apartment management company isn’t part of the Bilt Rewards program and doesn’t accept credit cards. You can log in to the Bilt Rewards app and use your Bilt Mastercard to send a monthly rent check or direct deposit, earning points in the process.

Related: Guide to the Bilt Rewards program

In addition to rent, you also earn 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft (after you link your Bilt and Lyft accounts), 3 points per dollar spent on dining, 2 points per dollar spent on travel and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases. And Bilt Rewards Points are incredibly valuable, with a wildly lucrative list of transfer partners — including World of Hyatt and Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan.

Plus, Bilt runs Rent Day promotions that allow you to earn even more points on your everyday purchases — and potentially get even more value from your redemptions.

The Bilt card does not come with a welcome offer and does not charge an annual fee (see rates and fees).

For more information, check out our review of the Bilt Mastercard.

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Apply here: Bilt Mastercard

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Hilton Honors American Express Aspire

Standout benefits: It’s true that I have a lot of premium credit cards, but if you’re looking to up your hotel game, the Hilton Aspire Card can be a great option. Beyond the hefty welcome bonus, it also unlocks a ton of perks — both when staying at Hilton properties and across other spending activities.

For starters, you’ll enjoy automatic top-tier Hilton Honors Diamond status, just by holding the card. This grants you complimentary upgrades as well as a daily food-and-beverage credit at eligible properties in the U.S. (or complimentary breakfast at international locations). This status normally requires 60 nights to achieve, so this is a remarkable shortcut.

Related: 7 reasons to get the Hilton Amex Aspire card

In addition, you get a free night certificate when you open the card and then every year after renewal, and this can be used at virtually any Hilton property worldwide (with just a few exceptions). In addition, you’ll enjoy up to $400 in annual statement credits at Hilton resort properties — up to $200 from January to June and up to $200 from July to December.

Last year, I used the certificate to book the Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach when the room rates were over $800 per night — and I used the $200 credit for the second half of the year to cover most of a spa treatment for my wife (it was her birthday). Talk about rewarding!

Finally, I love the up to $200 in statement credits for airline purchases each year, broken up as $50 each quarter. I’ve used this for taxes and fees on award tickets as well as inflight food and beverage purchases.

New applicants can earn 175,000 points after spending $6,000 on purchases in your first six months of card membership. This card features an annual fee of $550.

For more information, check out our review of the Hilton Aspire Card.

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What to consider when choosing the best card

There’s no denying that there are a lot of credit card options from which to choose. However, there are a few important things to consider when trying to pick the one that’s best for you.

However, one of the great things about having so many cards at your disposal is that you’re not locked into a long-term commitment. If you want to try a new card, you can earn the welcome bonus and utilize the perks for the first year. Then, if it’s not worth keeping, you can cancel it. (Just don’t do it before the first year is up.)

Preferred rewards

First, it’s critical to think about your preferred rewards currency. Do you want cash back or travel points? Are you interested in rewards in a specific airline or hotel loyalty program? Part of this may be geographical. After all, earning American miles if you’re based in Atlanta may not be worthwhile, given Delta’s hub. However, if you live in Charlotte or Philadelphia, American may be a much better option.

Alternatively, consider earning transferable rewards on cards like the Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold or Capital One Venture. These points or miles convert to a number of airline and hotel partners, allowing you to book premium flights or luxury hotels by leveraging program sweet spots.

Welcome bonus

Most cards offer welcome bonuses to new applicants, and these are a great way to quickly boost your account balance. Cards sometimes offer limited-time, elevated offers, so if you time it right, you could take home a ton of points or miles that can go a long way toward your next trip.

Spending habits

Before you commit to a new card, take stock of your everyday spending habits. Most cards offer extra rewards in select categories of purchases, so you should pick one that matches where you spend your money.

Are you a prolific chef at home? Go for a card with a category bonus at grocery stores. Love dining out? Get one with a bonus at restaurants. Or, if your spending is all over the place, get a card that offers a solid earning rate on all purchases.

Annual fee

Finally, consider whether the cost of the card is worth it. The most rewarding cards out there typically impose an annual fee, and while this confers many perks, not all of them may be useful to you. While the welcome bonus typically offers enough value in year one, it’s a harder decision after that. Crunch the actual, real-world value you can get from the card to make sure you get at least enough to cover the annual fee.

Related: The 7 best credit cards with annual fees under $100

How we chose the best credit cards

We chose the best credit cards based on a range of factors, including earning rates, welcome offers, benefits and perks.

To read more about how TPG evaluates and chooses cards to spotlight in our roundups, check out our methodology.

Redemption options for the best credit cards

It’s no coincidence that the vast majority of the cards on this list earn transferable rewards (the only exceptions are the Delta SkyMiles Reserve and the Chase Freedom Flex, though the latter becomes transferable in my wallet when paired with the Sapphire Reserve). That’s because this type of rewards offers immense flexibility to book incredibly valuable trips.

For example, let’s say you want to book a flight to London by leveraging your Amex Platinum. Your first option is through American Express Travel, which offers a value of 1 cent per point. Alternatively, you can transfer Amex points to Delta, though SkyMiles award rates tend to be sky high.

However, there’s another option: Transfer your Amex points to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, which can offer incredibly low rates to Europe — including economy and business class.

Bottom line

Whenever someone asks me to name the best credit card, I always say that it depends. There are so many cards that could work for the average traveler, so it’s critical to take some time to analyze what you want out of a card and where you spend your money.

And if you’re still overwhelmed, you really can’t go wrong with any of the cards on this list — especially if you want to dip your toes into maximizing your rewards for your next trip.

Related: Why there’s no such thing as the ‘best’ credit card

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here.
For the rates and fees of the Amex Gold, click here.
For the rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve, click here.
For rates and fees of the Bilt Mastercard, click here.
For rewards and benefits of the Bilt Mastercard, click here.

For many, the $600-plus annual fees that come with ultra-premium travel cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) and The Platinum Card® from American Express (see rates and fees) aren’t justifiable. If you aren’t traveling regularly and utilizing the full lineup of perks and credits, it may not be worth adding those cards to your wallet.

However, both Chase and Amex have excellent mid-tier cards: the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) and the American Express® Gold Card.

While both of these products act as sister cards to their luxury counterparts, there are many differences between them. In this showdown, we’re walking through a side-by-side comparison of these cards to help you determine which is right for you — or whether both deserve spots in your wallet.

Sapphire Preferred vs. Amex Gold comparison

Here’s a quick overview that compares the key perks on these two cards:

Card	Chase Sapphire Preferred	Amex Gold
Welcome bonus	Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.	Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on eligible purchases in your first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.
Annual fee	$95	$325 (see rates and fees)
Earning rates	Earn 5 points per dollar spent on travel booked through Chase Travel℠ Earn 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft (through Sept. 2027) Earn 5 points per dollar spent on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases of $150 or more (through Dec. 2027, with a limit of 25,000 bonus points) Earn 3 points per dollar spent on dining, select streaming services and online groceries (excludes Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs) Earn 2 points per dollar spent on all other travel Earn 1 point per dollar spent on everything else	Earn 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar) Earn 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar) Earn 3 points per dollar spent on airfare purchased directly from the airline or through amextravel.com Earn 2 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked through amextravel.com Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases
Point valuation (based on TPG’s July 2025 valuations)	2.05 cents apiece	2 cents apiece
Perks	$50 annual credit on hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel Cardmember anniversary bonus — earn bonus points equal to 10% of your spending the previous year Complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership (activate by Dec. 31, 2027)	Up to $120 per calendar year in Uber Cash (up to $10 each month, for U.S. services; Uber Cash will only be deposited into one Uber account when you add the Amex Gold as a payment method and redeem with any Amex card.)* Up to $120 each calendar year in dining statement credits for purchases at select merchants (up to $10 credit per month)* Up to $100 statement credit per calendar year for purchases at U.S. Resy-affiliated restaurants (up to $50 bi-annually)* Up to $84 statement credit each calendar year for purchases at U.S. Dunkin’ Donuts (up to $7 per month)*
Travel protections	Trip cancellation and interruption insurance Primary car rental insurance Baggage delay insurance Trip delay reimbursement Travel and emergency assistance services	Baggage insurance** Trip delay coverage*** Rental car insurance^

*Enrollment is required for these benefits.

**Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

***Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

^Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered, and geographic restrictions apply. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

Sapphire Preferred vs. Amex Gold welcome offer

The Sapphire Preferred offers a compelling welcome bonus. New applicants can earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Based on TPG’s July 2025 valuations, Ultimate Rewards points are worth 2.05 cents each, making this bonus worth $1,538.

THE POINTS GUY

With the Amex Gold, you can find out if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 points after spending $6,000 on eligible purchases in your first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. This offer is worth up to $2,000, based on TPG’s July 2025 valuations.

Winner: Amex Gold. It’s welcome offer could potentially be higher.

Related: The best credit card welcome bonuses

Sapphire Preferred vs. Amex Gold benefits

In exchange for a $95 annual fee, the Sapphire Preferred offers some solid perks, including a $50 annual hotel credit for bookings through Chase Travel, a 10% points bonus on your cardholder anniversary and a complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership (activate by Dec. 31, 2027).

Other benefits include protections like rental car insurance, trip delay and cancellation insurance and baggage delay insurance. These are a great safety net while you travel, but they don’t do much to enhance your day-to-day life when everything goes according to plan.

For more than triple the Sapphire Preferred’s annual fee ($325 vs. $95), the Amex Gold offers several excellent perks (enrollment is required for select benefits; terms apply):

• Up to $120 in Uber Cash per calendar year: Receive up to $10 in Uber Cash each month, valid on Uber rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S. Your Amex Gold must be added as a payment method, and you can redeem with any Amex card.
• Up to $120 in dining credits each calendar year: Receive up to $10 a month in statement credits for purchases with your Amex Gold at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com and Five Guys.
• Up to $100 in statement credits for purchases made at Resy restaurants per calendar year: Receive up to $50 in statement credits biannually for eligible Resy purchases and dining at U.S. Resy restaurants; just pay with your card to receive the credit. No reservation is required.
• Up to $84 in statement credits for Dunkin’ Donuts purchases: Receive up to $7 per month in statement credits for purchases made at U.S. Dunkin’ Donuts.

Enrollment is required; terms apply.

Amex Gold cardmembers also receive travel and purchase protections.

Winner: Amex Gold. The Amex Gold’s statement credits are valued higher than the card’s annual fee. That’s a lot more value than you’ll get from the Sapphire Preferred each year.

Related: Why you’ll want to pay the Chase Sapphire Preferred’s $95 annual fee

Earning points on the Sapphire Preferred vs. Amex Gold

The Sapphire Preferred offers useful bonus categories. The real highlight isn’t just the categories themselves but how broadly they’re defined. With this card, you’ll earn:

• 5 points per dollar spent on travel booked through Chase Travel (excluding hotel reservations that qualify for the $50 credit)
• 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft (through Sept. 2027)
• 5 points per dollar spent on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases of $150 or more (through Dec. 2027, with a limit of 25,000 bonus points)
• 3 points per dollar spent on dining, select streaming services and online grocery stores (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs)
• 2 points per dollar spent on other travel, including hotels, airfare, rental cars, taxis and parking meters
• 1 point per dollar spent on everything else

These are solid rates on a wide range of purchases.

Still, the Amex Gold may shine brighter when it comes to its earning structure:

• 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar)
• 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
• 3 points per dollar spent on airfare purchased directly from the airline or through amextravel.com
• 2 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked through amextravel.com
• 1 point per dollar spent on other eligible purchases

Despite the spending cap, earning 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets is an 8% return on both purchases, according to TPG’s July 2025 valuations. That makes it one of the best cards for dining at restaurants worldwide and grocery shopping within the U.S.

Winner: Amex Gold. Its higher earning rates on dining worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets, as well as on flights booked directly with an airline, give it the upper hand.

Related: Why the Amex Gold is the perfect ‘in-between’ credit card

Redeeming points on the Sapphire Preferred vs. Amex Gold

Both of these cards are similar in that they earn some of the most valuable transferable points currencies around.

The Sapphire Preferred earns Ultimate Rewards points that you can redeem for travel through Chase Travel or for other items such as gift cards and statement credits.

You’ll get up to 1.75 cents per point for some travel booked through Chase Travel (depending on the specific redemption) with the Points Boost feature. But you’ll get the most value by transferring your points to one of Chase’s hotel and airline transfer partners.

The Amex Gold earns similarly valuable Membership Rewards points, which you can redeem for travel directly through AmexTravel.com or for gift cards and statement credits; however, all at lackluster rates, with some even being less than 1 cent per point.

Again, you’ll get the best value from your points by transferring them to one of Amex’s 20 hotel and airline partners.

Winner: Tie. Both cards earn transferable rewards and give you a wide range of valuable redemption options.

Transferring points on the Sapphire Preferred vs. Amex Gold

TPG’s April 2025 valuations peg Chase Ultimate Rewards at 2.05 cents each and Amex Membership points at 2 cents each, but your travel habits might make one currency better than the other for you.

For example, if you live in a Delta hub, you might get more value out of transferring your Membership Rewards points to Delta SkyMiles, while those who have a coveted Southwest Companion Pass can get some incredible value by transferring Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Southwest Rapid Rewards.

TPG contributing editor Matt Moffitt uses his Sapphire Preferred often to transfer points to British Airways Club to take advantage of sweet spots on American Airlines flights.

Meanwhile, TPG credit cards editor Olivia Mittak transfers the Membership Rewards points she earns on her Amex Gold to Air Canada Aeroplan and Delta SkyMiles.

Winner: Tie. Both cards transfer to various partners, all with their respective redemption options and sweet spots.

Related: Why transferable points are worth more than other rewards

Should I get the Sapphire Preferred or Amex Gold?

If you spend most of your budget on groceries in the U.S. or dining and can utilize its monthly credits, the Amex Gold is likely a better fit for you.

However, the Sapphire Preferred is a better fit if you prefer Ultimate Rewards points and want to earn bonus points on general travel expenses. Still, remember that it doesn’t have to be a “this or that” decision; there’s room for both of these cards in a well-developed points strategy.

Bottom line

The Sapphire Preferred and Amex Gold are two of the most valuable mid-tier cards on the market. Both can provide excellent value in the right hands, and the question of one card versus another largely depends on how you derive value from your credit cards.

However, they’re one of our top card pairings, so it might be worth having both in your wallet.

To learn more, read our full reviews of the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Amex Gold.

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Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred
Apply here: Amex Gold

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

Purchasing a car is a huge expense. And unfortunately, it’s usually a diminishing investment that loses value over time, starting with the moment you drive it off the lot.

The silver lining here is that a car purchase can earn you some serious rewards if you put some or — in rare cases — all of the cost on a credit card to earn valuable points and miles. A large purchase, such as a car down payment, is also a great way to meet the minimum spending requirements for a credit card welcome offer.

If you’re considering purchasing a car with a credit card, here are some cards to consider and key things to be aware of.

Best cards for buying a car

Choosing the right card can earn you more rewards on your car purchase, making the process more rewarding. Here are some of the best cards to use when buying a car or making a down payment.

American Express Platinum: Best for large purchases

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees)

Welcome offer: New cardmembers can find out their offer and see if they’re eligible to earn as high as 175,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases on the new card in the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Earning rate on car purchases: 1 point per dollar spent

Why it’s a good choice: The Platinum Card® from American Express is an excellent choice because it has no preset spending limit, making it ideal for a large purchase like a new car. No preset spending limit doesn’t mean unlimited funds, but if you’re looking to make a large down payment or even purchase an entire car, this card is a better option than one with a fixed credit limit. The amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.

The Amex Platinum requires the balance to be paid in full each month, but with Pay Over Time, cardmembers can carry a balance (though it accrues interest). If purchasing a car, it’s recommended you pay off the card as soon as possible and avoid losing value you gained from earning a nice sum of points.

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Platinum.

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Apply here: American Express Platinum

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American Express Business Platinum: Best for big spenders

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees)

Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months of card membership.

Earning rate on car purchases: 1.5 points per dollar spent on eligible U.S. purchases over $5,000 (on up to $2 million in purchases per calendar year)

Why it’s a good choice: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is similar to the personal Amex Platinum and has no preset spending limit. This card is another ideal choice as it earns 1.5 points per dollar spent on purchases of $5,000 or more. A $10,000 down payment on a new car would earn you 15,000 Amex points, worth $300 according to TPG’s July 2025 valuations. The amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.

To make the most of this card, make sure the car purchase or down payment is at least $5,000; otherwise, you’re better off using a no-annual-fee card that provides rewards on nonbonus categories, such as The American Express Blue Business Cash Card (see rates and fees), which earns 2% cash back (on the first $50,000 spent each calendar year, then 1%).

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Platinum.

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Apply here: American Express Business Platinum

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American Express Blue Business Plus: Best for maximum points

Annual fee: $0 (see rates and fees)

Welcome offer: Earn 15,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of card membership. Plus, receive a 0% introductory annual percentage rate for 12 months from the date of account opening. (After that, the APR will be a variable rate from 17.49%-27.49%.)(see rates and fees)

Earning rate on car purchases: 2 points per dollar on the first $50,000 spent each calendar year (then 1 point per dollar)

Why it’s a good choice: For a card with no annual fee, The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express earns an impressive 2 points per dollar spent on the first $50,000 in purchases each calendar year (and 1 point per dollar thereafter).

Since the card comes with a 0% introductory APR, it can be easy to make a purchase with it and pay it off within 12 months to avoid interest charges.

Unlike the two Platinum cards, this one comes with a preset limit, so be sure you can cover the cost of the car or down payment before purchasing.

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Blue Business Plus.

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Apply here: American Express Blue Business Plus

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Chase Freedom Unlimited: Best for earning cash back

Annual fee: $0

Welcome offer: New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $500 in the first three months from account opening.

Earning rate on car purchases: 1.5% cash back

Why it’s a good choice: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® (see rates and fees) can be a great way to earn cash back — and turn it into valuable points.

A $15,000 car purchase would earn you $225 cash back. However, if you have an Ultimate Rewards points-earning credit card, you can maximize your cash back by turning it into 22,500 points, which are worth $461, according to TPG’s July 2025 valuations.

Cardholders also receive a 0% introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from account opening. After the introductory period, a variable APR of 18.99%-28.49% applies. This can give you time to pay off your car purchase without interest.

To learn more, read our full review of the Freedom Unlimited.

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Apply here: Chase Freedom Unlimited

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Citi / AAdvantage Platinum Select: Best for American Airlines loyalists

Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee the first year, then $99

Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after spending $3,500 on purchases in the first four months from account opening.

Earning rate on car purchases: 1 mile and 1 Loyalty Point per dollar spent

Why it’s a good choice: Although the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® only earns 1 mile per dollar spent, the real benefit for American Airlines frequent flyers is that the card earns 1 Loyalty Point per dollar spent. If a dealership allows you to put a large down payment or the entire purchase on the card, you could earn a nice chunk of Loyalty Points toward elite status.

I put the down payment for my last car purchase on my wife’s Citi / AAdvantage Platinum because she was a few thousand Loyalty Points short of Executive Platinum status, and this purchase helped her secure it.

To learn more, read our full review of the Citi / AAdvantage Platinum card.

The information for the Citi Platinum Select has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

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Purchasing a car with a credit card FAQ

Although buying a car with a credit card may seem easy, here are some things to keep in mind.

What is the maximum amount I can put on a credit card?

The maximum amount you can put on a credit card depends on the car dealership. You may be able to negotiate how much it can charge, as this was the case for me. I was able to negotiate with my local dealership to increase the maximum allowed charge on a credit card from $5,000 to $8,000.

Do all dealerships accept credit cards?

If you’re looking to purchase a car entirely on a credit card, it’s recommended to call ahead and speak to a finance manager at the dealership. Some may not accept credit cards for the entire vehicle purchase, while others will be happy to accept them. In my experience, a down payment when financing or leasing a car is usually payable with a credit card, provided it’s within the allowed limit of charges.

What dealerships charge fees for using credit cards?

This varies by dealership, and while some can charge a fee for a credit card transaction, other dealerships may choose not to charge any fee. When I put a down payment on my car last year, the dealership did not charge me a transaction fee, even after I negotiated charging a higher amount of the payment to my credit card. The easiest way to find out is by calling dealerships in your area, but that may require more effort on your part.

Can I pay a portion of the price with my credit card?

Again, this depends on the dealership, as some may only allow you to use a credit card for a down payment toward a lease or financed vehicle. Others may allow you to put the entire purchase price of the car on a credit card.

Do I need to pay my full balance?

If you make the car purchase on a card that is offering a 0% interest rate, then you can pay the minimum balance per month (usually 1% of the entire balance) or make enough of a payment to pay off the entire card within the promotional period. If you put the charge on a card that charges interest, your best course of action is to pay the balance in full to avoid interest.

Does buying a car with a credit card affect my credit score?

When purchasing a car on your credit card, your credit utilization will surely increase, and this can negatively affect your credit score. To keep your utilization down, pay off the balance as soon as possible, and you’ll minimize the long-term impact.

Bottom line

Purchasing a car with a credit card can be a great way to earn a large sum of points, miles or cash back. It’s also an easy way to meet the minimum spending requirement on a new card.

Just keep in mind that not all dealerships will allow you to charge the full purchase price — many only accept credit cards for down payments — so be sure to check ahead of time.

Related: Best credit cards

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

For rates and fees of the Amex Blue Business Cash, click here

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) charges a hefty $795 annual fee — so is it worth adding to your wallet? For travelers who value luxury perks, it’s likely worth it.

The Sapphire Reserve delivers exceptional value to those ready to maximize its benefits. However, budget-minded travelers may not appreciate what the card has to offer.

Right now, new applicants can earn a welcome bonus of 100,000 points plus a $500 Chase Travel℠ promo credit* after spending $5,000 in the first three months from account opening.

This bonus is worth up to $2,550 per TPG’s July 2025 valuations of Chase points, and is an excellent way to collect a chunk of points upfront.

Here’s who might — and might not — want to add the Chase Sapphire Reserve to their wallet.

*The promotional credit is valid for a one-time use only; if you apply the promotional credit to a transaction less than $500, you will forfeit the remaining balance.

Who should get the Chase Sapphire Reserve?

Let’s explore why you may want to add the Chase Sapphire Reserve to your wallet.

You spend a lot on travel

The Sapphire Reserve offers a $300 annual travel credit. This credit is very flexible and automatically applies to the first $300 spent on travel with the card.

Travel is a broadly defined category on the Sapphire Reserve, so it’s easy for frequent travelers to use.

You value lounge access

The Sapphire Reserve grants access to Chase Sapphire Lounges and more than 1,700 Priority Pass lounges for cardholders and up to two guests at no charge. When traveling with a Star Alliance airline, cardholders also receive access to more than 20 Air Canada Maple Leaf lounges.

If you fly frequently in or out of an airport with a Chase lounge or value Priority Pass membership, this card is the ticket.

You want luxury hotel perks

Sapphire cardholders also receive access to The Edit by Chase Travel, Chase’s luxury hotel collection. This program is only open to those who hold a Sapphire Reserve or J.P. Morgan Reserve® Card.

The information for the J.P. Morgan Reserve Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

If you don’t have elite status with popular programs such as Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors — or you want to stay at boutique properties outside of these programs and still receive perks — The Edit properties provide comparable benefits like complimentary breakfast, early check-in, late checkout and complimentary upgrades (when available). Plus, the Sapphire Reserve offers up to $500 annually in The Edit credits.

If you enjoy staying at IHG properties, this card also provides automatic IHG One Platinum elite status (through Dec. 31, 2027).

You want to maximize redeeming your points

Sapphire Reserve cardholders are eligible to redeem Chase points through the Chase Travel portal with the Points Boost accelerator. With Points Boost, you can redeem your Chase points for select hotel bookings and flights through Chase Travel at a value of up to 2 cents per point. (This depends on the redemption you choose; see your rewards program agreement for full details.)

With Points Boost, we’ve seen hotels near Disneyland for just 17,000 Chase points a night — instead of 57,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

You’re willing to book through a portal to earn double the points

If you’re open to booking with the Sapphire Reserve through the Chase Travel portal, you’ll earn 8 points per dollar on those purchases. This is double the return you’d receive with the card on flight or hotel bookings made directly with the airline or property (4 points per dollar spent).

If you don’t have elite status or loyalty to a particular airline or hotel, booking with the portal could help you earn more on your booking.

You have a Chase card that earns cash back

Pairing the Sapphire Reserve with a Chase cash-back card is a smart way to boost your rewards.

That’s because you’ll be able to transfer your points to one of Chase’s 14 loyalty program partners when you also hold the Sapphire Reserve. Transferring to partners allows you to unlock the value of Chase points at 2.05 cents per point, per TPG’s July 2025 valuations.

If you have a Chase cash-back card — but not one that allows you to transfer Chase points to transfer partners such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees), Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ (see rates and fees) or the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (see rates and fees) — adding the Sapphire Reserve could be a good option.

Some cards that pair well with the Sapphire Reserve are:

The information for the Chase Freedom Flex has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

You value strong travel protections

The Sapphire Reserve is an excellent card for travel and shopping protections. The card provides trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, purchase protection and extended warranty coverage.

Related: The ultimate guide to the best credit card combinations

Who shouldn’t get the Chase Sapphire Reserve?

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a great choice for many travelers, but it isn’t for everyone. Here are some reasons this card may not be ideal for you.

You rarely travel

The Sapphire Reserve is designed for frequent travelers. Its flexible annual travel credit and multiple statement credits toward travel-related purchases are geared toward them. Plus, if you don’t need airport lounge access because you aren’t flying much, the Sapphire Reserve likely isn’t the card for you.

You prefer cash back

The Sapphire Reserve earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points for spending. If you’d prefer cash-back rewards, apply for a card that earns cash back instead.

You won’t maximize most of the statement credits

The Sapphire Reserve comes with a long list of statement credits for multiple types of spending. This includes up to $300 in annual StubHub and Viagogo credits through Dec. 31, 2027 ($150 biannually), up to $300 in annual dining credits with Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables and up to $300 in annual promos with DoorDash through Dec. 31, 2027.

Maximizing these credits is a sure-fire way to get the full value out of the card in exchange for its high $795 annual fee. However, if you aren’t interested in keeping track of statement credits or want a simpler card, the Sapphire Reserve may not be for you.

You currently hold the Sapphire Preferred

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card does not cancel out the Sapphire Reserve by any means, since the cards are quite different. The Sapphire Preferred doesn’t offer lounge access and the Sapphire Reserve no longer has a general travel bonus category, so it may make sense to hold both cards in some circumstances.

The reason you may not want the Sapphire Reserve if you already hold the Sapphire Preferred is the welcome bonus. Due to Chase’s updated welcome bonus eligibility requirements, you’re unlikely to earn the Sapphire Reserve welcome bonus if you currently hold the Sapphire Preferred.

This could mean missing out on a significant part of the Sapphire Reserve’s overall value, so you may want to skip the premium card if you’re happy with your Sapphire Preferred.

If you’re thinking of upgrading to the Sapphire Reserve from the Sapphire Preferred, you’ll gain more from Points Boost redemptions — but you’d lose out on the general travel bonus category. Consider what you’d gain and what you’d lose before making the decision.

You’ve applied for 5 or more cards in the last 24 months

Chase’s famous 5/24 rule restricts those who have opened five or more cards in the last 24 months from being approved for one of its cards.

If you’re over 5/24, you may want to consider another premium card until you’re back under the threshold. The Platinum Card® from American Express or Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card could be good options in its place — or you could wait to submit your Sapphire Reserve application.

As with most premium cards, you may also have trouble qualifying if you’re new to credit entirely.

Bottom line

Despite its high $795 annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Reserve could make an excellent addition to the luxury traveler’s wallet. This is especially true if you’re a frequent traveler who values lounge access, wants to maximize their points redemptions and would book through the Chase Travel portal often.

Occasional travelers, budget-conscious consumers and those who prefer cash-back rewards would be better with another option.

To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

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Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve

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The Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) has long been a top-tier travel card for points enthusiasts, prized for its flexible rewards, generous travel protections and broad transfer partner network. But with a suite of recent changes, including a significantly higher annual fee and an overhaul of some benefits, many cardholders are now reconsidering whether it’s still the right fit for their wallet.

As of June 2025, the Sapphire Reserve’s annual fee has increased from $550 to $795, making it one of the most expensive consumer travel cards on the market. Authorized user fees have also gone up from $75 to $195, and Chase is replacing its longstanding 50% redemption boost (when using points through Chase Travel℠) with the new Points Boost program, though existing cardholders will receive a two-year grace period before that switch takes effect.

During this grace period (until Oct. 26, 2027), existing cardholders will automatically receive the best value between Points Boost and their 50% redemption boost.

Not everything is changing, though: popular benefits like the $300 annual travel credit, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS credit, Priority Pass lounge access and best-in-class travel protections are staying put.

For some travelers, these new benefits may add meaningful value. But for others, particularly those who don’t spend heavily enough to trigger new perks or redeem primarily through Chase Travel, the math may no longer work in the Reserve’s favor.

If you’re reevaluating your wallet strategy, here are five strong alternatives that may better suit your needs and spending style.

Related: Chase Sapphire Reserve changes: New earning rates, more statement credits for a higher annual fee

If you want to stay with Chase

If you’re not ready to leave the Chase ecosystem, you can still access Chase’s valuable transfer partners without the hefty annual fee.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Annual fee: $95

If you still want access to Chase Ultimate Rewards but but can’t justify the Sapphire Reserve’s $795 price tag, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) is a fantastic alternative, and one of our favorite overall travel cards here at TPG.

It’s the card I use most in my wallet — thanks, in part, to its lack of foreign transaction fees — and the one I personally recommend most often to friends and family who want flexible points, great travel value and a reasonable annual fee.

With the Sapphire Preferred, you’ll earn 5 points per dollar spent on travel booked through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar spent on dining, 2 points per dollar spent on all other travel and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

While it lacks some luxury perks like lounge access, it still delivers a ton of value for the price, making it ideal for travelers who want to earn and use Ultimate Rewards points without the pressure of maximizing high-end benefits. If you still love the Chase ecosystem but want something more cost-effective, this card is truly hard to beat.

Related: Does it make sense to hold both the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve?

How to downgrade the Chase Sapphire Reserve

If you want to switch from the Sapphire Preferred to another Chase card, you can request a product change by calling the number on the back of your card or sending a secure message through your Chase account.

Popular downgrade options include the aforementioned Sapphire Preferred (which retains point transfer capabilities) and the Chase Freedom Unlimited® (see rates and fees), a no-annual-fee option that earns 1.5% cash back and keeps your points alive.

It’s generally recommended to downgrade rather than cancel to preserve your account age, avoid a potential dip in your credit score and maintain access to your points. Just make sure your account is at least 12 months old, as Chase generally doesn’t allow product changes earlier than that.

Related: When can you downgrade your credit card?

If you want a premium travel card

If you’re still chasing airport lounges, luxury perks and travel credits — just not at the Reserve’s new $795 price point — these other premium travel cards may offer better value. Both come with strong protections and travel-centric benefits, but at significantly lower annual fees.

The Platinum Card from American Express

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees)

With the Sapphire Reserve’s new $795 price tag, The Platinum Card® from American Express is now less expensive, and still loaded with luxury perks.

You’ll get access to Amex’s Global Lounge Collection, $200 in annual airline fee credits for a qualifying airline of your choice, $200 in Uber Cash for U.S. Uber purchases* and up to $199 in Clear Plus credits, along with 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or American Express Travel® (on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year). Just note: Many benefits are monthly and require enrollment; terms apply.

*Uber Cash will only be deposited into one Uber account when you add the Amex Platinum as a payment method and redeem with any Amex card.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Annual fee: $395

If you love the premium perks of the Sapphire Reserve but are looking for a more straightforward, cost-effective option, you might want to consider the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

Like the Sapphire Reserve, the Venture X offers airport lounge access (including Priority Pass, Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges), along with a $300 annual travel credit for travel bookings through Capital One Travel. With a lower annual fee and less complicated points earning structure, the Venture X provides a more streamlined travel rewards experience.

It’s important to note, however, that starting Feb 1, 2026, additional Venture X cardholders (including authorized users and account managers) will no longer receive complimentary lounge access. Primary cardholders can add lounge access to additional cardholder accounts by paying $125 per card.

By comparison, the Sapphire Reserve allows cardholders to bring up to two guests for free into Chase Sapphire Lounges and Priority Pass lounges, with additional guests incurring a $27 fee per visit. This gives the Reserve a slight edge when it comes to lounge access, especially if you frequently travel with others.

When it comes to earning rates, while the Sapphire Reserve earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and dining, the Venture X delivers 2 miles per dollar spent on every purchase, plus an impressive 10 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Add in 10,000 bonus miles annually (available via the Capital One portal) and no-annual-fee authorized users, and the Venture X packs incredible value for frequent travelers who want premium benefits without the hefty annual fee. Per our July 2025 valuations, those 10,000 miles are worth approximately $185.

Overall, with comparable perks and a more affordable annual fee, the Venture X is an attractive alternative for those who want a simpler, premium travel card that still delivers solid value.

Related: The best premium credit cards: A side-by-side comparison

If you want premium hotel benefits

The Sapphire Reserve has long been a go-to for travelers seeking broad travel rewards, airport lounge access and flexible redemptions. But with a rising annual fee and many of its best perks leaning heavily toward general travel rather than hotel-specific benefits, you might be looking for more targeted value, especially if you consistently stay with a single hotel brand.

Hilton Honors American Express® Aspire Card

Annual fee: $550

As far as premium hotel cards go, there is a lot to like about the Hilton Aspire Amex. While diverging from the Sapphire Reserve in terms of flexible points earned, it offers concrete elite perks and ongoing value you can use every year, especially if Hilton hotels are already part of your travel routine (or could be).

The card offers automatic Hilton’s top-tier Diamond status a Free Night Reward every year (plus a second one after spending $30,000) and up to $400 in Hilton resort statement credits annually. That alone can offset the fee if you stay at Hilton properties even just once or twice a year.

Plus, like the Sapphire Reserve, the Aspire includes Priority Pass Select airport lounge access and airline incidental fee credits, giving it some travel perks beyond hotels. But its real value is clear if hotel status and luxury stay perks matter more to you than transferable points or flexible redemptions.

Related: Best hotel credit cards

If you want top rewards on dining

If the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s dining benefits were a major draw for you, I have good news: there’s another card that does it even better.

American Express Gold Card

Annual fee: $325 (see rates and fees)

The Reserve has long been a favorite for foodies, thanks to its earning 3 points per dollar spent on dining. But the American Express® Gold Card card one-ups it with 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery, up to $50,000 per year, then 1 point per dollar after) and 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year, then 1 point per dollar after).

With the Amex Gold, you’ll also earn 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or through amextravel.com (a nice nod to travel spend), up to $120 in dining credits and up to $120 in Uber Cash annually for U.S. Uber purchases* (both dining and Uber Cash are disbursed as up to $10/month statement credits) (enrollment required for select benefits; terms apply). It’s a top pick for anyone whose spending is focused more on dining out than airport lounges.

*Uber Cash will only be deposited into one Uber account when you add the Amex Platinum as a payment method and redeem with any Amex card.

Related: Best dining credit cards of July 2025

Bottom line

The Sapphire Reserve still offers tremendous value for travelers who can maximize its perks — and some of the new benefits may appeal to those who frequently book through Chase Travel or spend heavily across categories. But with the annual fee now at $795, it’s worth reassessing whether the card aligns with your current lifestyle.

Whether you’re looking to stay loyal to Chase, switch to a more affordable premium card or opt for something better suited to your travel or dining habits, there’s no shortage of strong alternatives. The best card is the one that delivers the most value for you, and with these changes to the Sapphire Reserve, now might be a great time to find the perfect fit.

Related: Why I’m keeping my Chase Sapphire Reserve — even with its pricier $795 annual fee

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

Points, miles and credit card bonuses are what lit the travel flame for me once I entered my mid-30s and decided to prioritize travel in my life.

I have more than two dozen credit card accounts on my credit report, which have fed my travel addiction and enabled me to fly in the front of the plane all over the world. Since I started at TPG more than five years ago, my credit card habit has only grown.

But the biggest transformation for me has been in seeing how credit card bonuses can unlock the world of travel for everyone.

No matter if you want to fly business class to Asia or are eager to see grandma for Christmas for free, there is a credit card that can empower you, too.

These are my picks for the best credit cards that unlock amazing travel experiences thanks to points and miles.

The best credit cards

*TPG founder Brian Kelly is a Bilt adviser and investor.

**The information for the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Comparing the best credit cards

Here are my top recommendations for the best credit cards.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 points after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $95.

Standout benefits: The Sapphire Preferred offers lucrative earning rates and valuable perks like 2 points per dollar spent on travel and 3 points per dollar spent on dining purchases. It’s one of the best beginner credit cards, and I tell newbies to go with this card first when they’re ready to get into the world of credit card rewards.

That being said, the Sapphire Preferred isn’t just for beginners. I consider myself an expert, and it’s a card I use again and again because of its lucrative earnings and — the best part — its roster of more than a dozen stellar Chase transfer partners.

If you’re looking for a product that offers several lifestyle credits, excellent travel perks and is still within the Chase family, consider the recently refreshed Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees).

Both Chase Sapphire cards let you transfer points directly to World of Hyatt and Air France-KLM Flying Blue, where you can book hotel rooms and flights that provide maximum value. Over the years, I’ve used Chase points to book stays at some of the nicest hotels in the world, including the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome.

I’ve also used my Chase points to transfer to Air France for some amazing redemptions in business class. This allows me to get even higher value when redeeming my points.

Of course, leveraging transfer partners may not be for everyone. If this is you, the easiest way to use your stash of points may very well be through Chase Travel.

I love the points-earning power of my Chase Sapphire Preferred. I also manage to use the $50 Chase Travel hotel credit every year, which helps offset more than half of the $95 annual fee. If you are looking for a great card with a low annual fee and lots of perks, the Sapphire Preferred is an excellent place to start.

For more information, check out our review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

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Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred

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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $395.

Standout benefits: If your goal, like mine, is to earn more than 1 point or mile per dollar on everyday purchases, the Capital One Venture X can be a solid addition to your wallet. This card earns 2 miles per dollar spent on nonbonus items like toys, clothes and utilities.

Most cards only offer bonus rewards in special categories like dining, groceries and gas. The base earning rate on the Capital One Venture X is like having a guaranteed bonus. Plus, cardholders earn 10 miles per dollar spent on hotels and car rentals booked via Capital One Travel, which equates to a pretty sweet deal.

The Venture X has a $395 annual fee, but that’s easily offset by a $300 annual Capital One Travel credit and an extra 10,000 bonus miles received each account anniversary.

Remember that Capital One also has 15-plus transfer partners, so you can send your miles to airlines and hotel partners to really maximize your redemptions. This card also gets you access to Capital One Lounges and lounges in Capital One’s partner network.

For more information, check out our review of the Capital One Venture X.

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Learn more: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

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American Express Gold Card

Welcome offer: Find out your offer and see if you are eligible to earn as high as 100,000 points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Annual fee: $325.

Standout benefits: This card has been on my wish list for years, but Amex won’t issue it to me since I already have over two dozen cards. The best thing about the Amex Gold (aside from the welcome bonus, of course) is that you get bonus miles in two huge categories: dining and groceries.Cardholders earn 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar) and 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar). This is a generous earning bonus for these two categories, which make up a big chunk of my budget. I also love that cardholders can earn 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

The plethora of statement credits almost entirely offsets the card’s annual fee. This includes up to $120 in Uber Cash (up to $10 per month, valid for rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S. after using any Amex card when adding the Amex Gold to your Uber account) and up to $120 in dining statement credits with eligible dining partners (up to $10 per month). Enrollment is required.

Pro tip: Remember to look for transfer bonuses that Amex runs with travel partners so you can turn your points into miles and book airfare.

For more information, check out our review of the Amex Gold Card.

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Apply here: Amex Gold

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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $95.

Standout benefits: This is another great card, whether you are new to points and miles or use it as part of a bigger strategy. Just like the Venture X, you earn 2 miles per dollar spent on all purchases. This makes the Venture Rewards a solid earner on purchases that don’t otherwise fall into a bonus category.

I like that you can redeem these miles at 1 cent each against any travel charges you put on the card, which makes for a decent baseline redemption. You can also book flights, rental cars and hotels through Capital One Travel with your miles — also at a value of 1 cent apiece.

However, to get the maximum value out of your miles, you should transfer them to one of Capital One’s 15-plus hotel and airline programs.

Just one example? Transfer the miles to Air France-KLM Flying Blue and book fancy business-class seats from the U.S. to Europe starting at 60,000 miles plus taxes and fees each way.

For more information, check out our review of the Capital One Venture Rewards.

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Learn more: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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The Platinum Card from American Express

Welcome offer: Find out your offer and see if you are eligible to earn as high as 175,000 after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Annual fee: $695.

Standout benefits: The Amex Platinum remains my favorite card because it offers an impressive number of benefits, perks and statement credits, plus stellar lounge access. While I find the $695 annual fee outrageous, the statement credits alone more than make up for it, so much so that I wrote a whole article about why I’ll never close it.These are among the benefits that, to me, justify the annual fee:

• Complimentary Gold status with Marriott and Hilton
• Up to $200 per calendar year in airline fee statement credits with an airline of my choosing
• Complimentary car rental status: Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President’s Circle, Avis Preferred Plus and National Emerald Club Executive
• Up to $200 in Uber Cash per calendar year, valid on Uber rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S. (this credit is divvied into monthly up to $15 credits, plus an up to $20 bonus in December; Uber Cash will only be deposited into one Uber account when you add the Amex Platinum as a payment method and redeem with any Amex card)
• Up to $200 statement credit per calendar year for prepaid bookings with American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts and The Hotel Collection when you pay with your Amex Platinum (note that Hotel Collection stays require a two-night minimum)

Enrollment is required for each benefit in the bulleted list above.

I also put all my airfare purchases on my Amex Platinum because I earn 5 points per dollar spent on airfare (on up to $500,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar) when I book directly with an airline or via Amex Travel.

I love getting access to Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges and Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta, too. (Enrollment is required for select benefits.)

Additionally, I’ve had amazing success using my American Express Membership Rewards points several times in the past few years to transfer Amex points to Air France-KLM’s Flying Blue program. This allowed me to fly business class from New York to Paris and back for as few as 60,000 miles.

This remains my favorite card, even if I don’t typically use it for everyday spending.

For more information, check out our review of the Amex Platinum Card.

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Apply here: Amex Platinum

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The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 points after spending $20,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership.

Annual fee: $695.

Standout benefits: While I don’t have this card (yet), the best benefit by far is Pay with Points. Cardholders receive a 35% bonus when they Pay with Points on first- or business-class tickets through Amex Travel (up to 1 million points per calendar year). That means you essentially get to fly in the front of the plane on a steep discount when you pay with points.

The Amex Business Platinum comes with premium travel perks and business statement credits similar to the consumer Platinum Card, including Centurion Lounge access, a Priority Pass membership, an airline credit fee of up to $200 annually and Gold elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy (as outlined above for the consumer Platinum Card; enrollment may be required).

Several perks are also unique to the Business Platinum Card (enrollment required for select benefits; terms apply):

• Dell: up to $150 in statement credits on U.S. Dell purchases each calendar year, and an additional $1,000 in statement credits after spending $5,000 on the same card each calendar year
• Indeed: An up to $360 statement credit per calendar year (up to $90 per quarter)
• Adobe: A $250 statement credit after spending $600 on U.S. Adobe purchases each calendar year
• Up to $200 in Hilton credits per calendar year (up to $50 per quarter; Hilton for Business membership required)
• Up to $120 in statement credits per calendar year for U.S. wireless telephone providers (up to $10 per month)

While I haven’t gotten the Business Platinum Card myself, it’s high on my wish list. I’ll try my luck at applying when I know I have some big purchases in the pipeline and can earn its massive welcome bonus.

For more information, check out our review of the Amex Business Platinum.

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Apply here: Amex Business Platinum

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Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Welcome offer: Earn 90,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

Annual fee: $95.

Standout benefits: I love my Ink Business Preferred card and its bonus categories — especially the online internet advertising category, which earns 3 points per dollar spent on up to $150,000 a year (then 1 point after that).

If you max out this annual bonus, those 450,000 points you earn can be used for travel bookings via Chase Travel for 1.25 cents each — but possibly more if you leverage Chase’s network of airline and hotel transfer partners and transfer bonuses (when available).

Chase points are very versatile, and I use mine as quickly as I earn them. If you own a small business or even have a business idea, you can apply using your Social Security number. If you’re looking for a solid business card, the Ink Business Preferred is a heavyweight, especially for the low annual fee of $95.

For more information, check out our review of the Ink Business Preferred.

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Apply here: Ink Business Preferred

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Bilt Mastercard

Welcome offer: None.

Annual fee: $0 (see rates and fees).

Standout benefits: The best benefit of the Bilt card is the ability to earn points on paying rent without a transaction fee (see rates and fees).

As long as you make at least five purchases with the card each statement period, you can earn reward points on your rent payments — an incredible proposition for renters (since rent is typically a person’s largest monthly bill).

As a renter in New York City, the Bilt card is a must-have in my wallet. What’s even better is that this card offers the ability to make transaction fee-free rent payments without charging cardholders an annual fee (see rates and fees). Even if your landlord only takes checks, Bilt can send checks and automated clearing house direct deposits so you can earn points on the transactions (up to 100,000 points per year).

But that’s not the card’s only selling point. I also earn a large number of points on dining and pharmacy purchases every month. I use my Bilt card at Walgreens, where Bilt Rewards members can earn extra Bilt Points on purchases, no matter what credit card they use.

I earn 1 point per dollar spent on all Walgreens purchases, 2 points per dollar spent on Walgreens-branded items and 100 points per prescription refill (subject to certain exclusions). This specific perk alone has netted me thousands of points.

Dining is another solid Bilt reward-earning category. I earn 3 points per dollar spent on dining and 2 points per dollar spent on travel purchases. But on the first day of every month (aka “Rent Day”), these earnings double (excluding rent, up to 1,000 points).

Here’s an example of how those earnings can add up. On May 1, I spent $7.65 at the Chicago Athletic Association, $24.31 at Shake Shack and $20 at Starbucks. Because it was a Bilt Rent Day, I earned 22 points for dining on that $7 purchase, plus another 22 points for Rent Day. Shake Shack earned me 144 points, and Starbucks got me 60 points. That’s 248 points on just $51 in purchases.

With Bilt Rewards, the points really add up. The best feature, I think, is that Bilt often runs transfer bonuses to one or more of its 19 transfer partners. For example, back in January 2024, Bilt ran a 100% transfer bonus to Air France-KLM Flying Blue. I transferred 32,000 Bilt points to Air France, and, thanks to that transfer bonus, 32,000 points became 64,000 miles in my Flying Blue account — a truly stellar deal.

For more information, check out our review of the Bilt Mastercard.

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Apply here: Bilt Mastercard

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Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card

Welcome offer: Earn 100,000 miles after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first six months from account opening.

Annual fee: $650.

Standout benefits: I’ve written extensively about the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex over the years, and while the benefits have changed, it continues to hold a place in my wallet despite a high $650 annual fee.

The card gives some valuable statement credits (several of which require enrollment), including an up to $20 monthly Resy credit (up to $240 each calendar year) to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants. I’ve been able to use this credit at local Upper West Side neighborhood restaurants.

I’ve also been able to maximize the up to $10 per month credit for ride-hailing services (up to $120 each calendar year) with eligible providers within the U.S. I usually use it to get a Revel car service ride at least once a month.

The card also comes with an up to $200 annual Delta Stays statement credit. Last year, I was able to use it to save some cash on an Atlanta hotel reservation.

I like the annual companion certificate benefit as well. It lets you bring a companion with you on a round-trip ticket within the continental U.S. or to Mexico, the Caribbean or Central America for the cost of taxes and fees. This can even be used for domestic first-class tickets.

Then there’s the TakeOff 15 benefit, which I think is one of the Delta Reserve’s standout features, as it gives you a 15% discount on all Delta award tickets.

For more information, check out our review of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve.

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Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex

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Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Welcome offer: Earn 175,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first six months from account opening.

Annual fee: $550.

Standout benefits: The Hilton Aspire is another of my favorite credit cards. It comes with automatic top-tier Hilton Honors Diamond status, which has come in handy during multiple stays over the years of holding the card.

That status means you’re eligible for suite upgrades and get automatic executive lounge access (where there’s a lounge). You’ll also sometimes be granted early check-in or late checkout. No other hotel chain offers top-tier status just for keeping its branded card.

I recently got access to the swanky lounge at the Conrad Seoul in South Korea just for having Diamond status, saving me hundreds of dollars on food.

The card also has valuable bonus categories where you can really rack up the Hilton Honors points. Among the bonus categories are 14 points per dollar spent at hotels within the Hilton portfolio, 7 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through amextravel.com, 7 points per dollar spent on select dining at U.S. restaurants and 3 points per dollar spent on all other purchases.

As a Hilton Diamond, you also get a 100% points bonus at most Hilton properties.

You’ll get a bunch of statement credits to boot as well. These include up to $200 a year in airline incidental credits (broken up as up to $50 per quarter statement credits for eligible flights made directly with an airline or through amextravel.com) and another up to $400 in Hilton resort credits (broken up as up to $200 semiannually).

Finally, and potentially most lucratively, the card gets you a free night award that can be used at almost any Hilton property in the world. I’ve used mine over the years at the Niepce Paris Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton; the Waldorf Astoria Chicago; and the incredible Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel.

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Learn more: Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

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What to consider when choosing the best card

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy for picking the best credit cards. There are several factors you should analyze before selecting which ones deserve a spot in your wallet.

Preferred rewards

First, consider the type of rewards you want to earn for your purchases. If you want simplicity, a cash-back card may be a great option since you generally have few limitations on how those rewards can be used. On the other hand, if you’re after free travel or want to really maximize your spending, you may be better off with a transferable rewards currency like American Express Membership Rewards or Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Welcome bonus

Earning a big haul of points or miles as a welcome bonus is typically the best way to quickly boost your rewards balance. This is particularly lucrative if one of the cards you’re considering has a limited-time offer. Just be sure to review each issuer’s eligibility requirements, and consider checking your credit score in advance of your application so you have an idea of whether you’ll be approved.

Spending habits

Before opening any credit card (or opening a new one), take some time to analyze your spending habits over the last year, along with how you’re earning rewards on any cards currently in your wallet.

If you spend a ton at restaurants, be sure you have a card that rewards you when making dining purchases. If you have a significant commute, pick up a card that rewards you for gas or transit expenses. It’s easy to double or even triple your earning rates for many purchases with the right combination of cards.

Annual fee

Finally, you should consider the out-of-pocket cost of any new card on your radar. While some have no annual fee (or skip the annual fee for the first year), others have hefty ones, as you saw in the list above.

In the first year, almost every card with a solid welcome offer will pay for itself (and then some), but you should take some time before you apply to make sure you can truly take advantage of that card’s benefits, both now and in the future.

How we chose the best credit cards

Many factors go into our selection of the best credit cards, including earning rates, welcome offers, benefits and perks. The cards I list above have personally allowed me to earn tens of thousands of dollars worth of rewards over the years.

You can learn more about how we analyze cards here at TPG on our methodology page.

Redemption options for the best credit cards

Most of the cards I list above have something in common: Several of them earn transferable points or miles … and that’s no coincidence. These rewards are incredibly valuable because of the flexibility they offer.

In most cases, you’re not locked into one airline and its partners or one hotel program and its participating brands. You are in the driver’s seat when it comes time to redeem.

For example, I want to fly business class on Virgin Atlantic from London’s Heathrow Airport (LHR) home to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in the carrier’s Upper Class on July 28.

The one-way flight I need is $10,185. I could use more than a million American Express Membership Rewards points to book it through American Express Travel. However, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club has prices as low as 66,000 points (plus $898 in taxes and fees), and it, too, partners with Amex.

That means I can transfer 66,000 points from Amex to Virgin to book a seat that would have cost more than $10,000 in cash. That’s the power of points and miles.

Bottom line

My journey through the world of travel has been fueled by credit card bonuses and rewards. I always tell people that since they are going to be spending money anyway, they might as well earn points and miles on every charge and get something back.

Sometimes, the things we get back can be a whole lot better than just getting 1% to 2% cash back.

While there isn’t one perfect card, the ones I’ve discussed here are some of the best that work for my earn-and-redeem reward strategy. I hold several of the cards on this list and use them frequently, even paying exorbitant annual fees year after year after year, simply because of all the benefits these cards provide.

Weigh the pros and cons of each card before deciding which ones might work best for your unique spending patterns. And remember, if you’re unable to pay off your card balances every month, then opening a new card with a higher spending requirement to earn a welcome bonus may not be the best call. Instead, consider starting with a product that features a manageable spending threshold — and that you’ll use responsibly. The value of your credit card rewards significantly decreases if you accrue high-interest debt to earn them.

Apply the right strategy so you come out ahead. Happy shopping!

For rates and fees of the Amex Gold, click here.
For the rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click termsConditions pid=”22504813″ overridetext=”here”].
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex, click here.
For rates and fees of the Bilt Mastercard, click here.
For rewards and benefits of the Bilt Mastercard, click here.