Best Credit Cards for American Travelers in 2025 — Earn Miles and Save More

For U.S. travelers, the right credit card can make every trip more rewarding. From free flights and hotel stays to no foreign transaction fees, travel credit cards are essential in 2025. Whether you’re flying across the world or taking a short business trip, a well-chosen card can save hundreds of dollars each year.

Here’s a list of the best credit cards for American travelers in 2025 — perfect for earning miles, cashback, and exclusive travel perks.

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

• Welcome Bonus: 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in 3 months

• Why It’s Great: Points are worth 25% more when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards

• Annual Fee: $95

• Best For: Frequent international travelers

Tip: Great balance of rewards, travel insurance, and redemption flexibility.

2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Rewards: 2 miles per $1 spent on every purchase

• Perks: Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, no foreign transaction fees

• Annual Fee: $95

• Why Travelers Love It: Simple flat-rate rewards system

3. American Express® Gold Card

• Rewards: 4x points on dining and groceries, 3x on flights

• Perks: Up to $120 dining credit annually

• Annual Fee: $250

• Why It’s Ideal: Perfect for foodies and frequent travelers

Pro Tip: Pair it with Amex Travel to unlock additional hotel benefits.

4. Citi Premier® Card

• Welcome Bonus: 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 spend in 3 months

• Rewards: 3x on air travel, hotels, and restaurants

• Annual Fee: $95

• Why It’s Recommended: Transfer points to over 15 travel partners

5. The Platinum Card® from American Express

• Best For: Luxury travelers

• Rewards: 5x points on flights booked directly or through Amex Travel

• Perks: $200 hotel credit, $240 digital entertainment credit, airport lounge access

• Annual Fee: $695

• Why It’s Premium: Elite benefits unmatched by other card

6. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Card

• Rewards: 1.5 points per $1 on all purchases

• Annual Fee: $0

• Why It’s Great: Ideal for casual travelers and beginners

• Bonus: 25,000 points after $1,000 spend

7. United℠ Explorer Card

• Rewards: 2 miles on dining, hotels, and United purchases

• Perks: Free first checked bag, 25% back on inflight purchases

• Annual Fee: $0 for first year, then $95

• Why It’s Strong: Airline-specific perks for United loyalists

8. Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

• Rewards: 2x miles on restaurants, groceries, and Delta purchases

• Perks: First checked bag free, priority boarding

• Annual Fee: $0 intro for first year, then $99

• Why It’s Popular: Reliable airline card with frequent offers

9. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

• Rewards: 12x points on Hilton stays, 6x on dining and groceries

• Perks: Complimentary Gold Status

• Annual Fee: $150

• Why It’s Best: Perfect for hotel lovers

10. Discover it® Miles

• Rewards: 1.5x miles on every dollar spent

• Perks: No annual fee, unlimited mile matching after first year

• Why It’s Good: Great for beginners and casual travelers

How to Choose the Right Travel Credit Card

1. Check the annual fee — make sure the rewards justify it.

2. Look for no foreign transaction fees for global travel.

3. Compare airline partners if you’re loyal to one carrier.

4. Consider travel insurance built into the card.

5. Take advantage of welcome bonuses early in the year.

Conclusion

In 2025, U.S. travelers have more choices than ever when it comes to rewarding credit cards. Whether you prefer Chase Sapphire Preferred for flexibility or Amex Platinum for luxury perks, choosing the right one can turn your everyday spending into unforgettable travel experiences.