Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards of 2025: AI-Powered Rankings
Discover the best travel rewards credit cards of 2025, with top rankings based on AI-powered evaluations from ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Grok, focusing on performance insights.
Top 10 AI Consensus
Top 4 AI Models Analyzed
By RANKBY.AI EDITORIAL TEAMPublished: 
With travel spending expected to increase by 7% this year, choosing the right travel rewards credit card has become crucial for savvy travelers. Our analysis covers over 100 travel rewards credit cards, using insights from the top AI models—ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Grok—to provide comprehensive rankings and reviews. For a quick overview, jump to the comparison table. Our top choice is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. This article will help you find the best card by comparing prices, highlighting pros and cons, and exploring specific use cases.
- 🥇 Best Overall : Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- 🌍 Best for Frequent International Travelers: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- 💳 Best for Beginners in Travel Rewards: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- 🛍️ Best for Simplicity and Flat-rate Rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- ✈️ Best for Premium Perks and Luxurious Travel: The Platinum Card® from American Express
Quick Comparison
1stGPT-4o ranking: 1
3rdClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 3
1stGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 1
1stGrok 4 ranking: 12ndGPT-4o ranking: 22ndClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 22ndGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 22ndGrok 4 ranking: 25thGPT-4o ranking: 51stClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 14thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 44thGrok 4 ranking: 43rdGPT-4o ranking: 35thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 53rdGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 33rdGrok 4 ranking: 36thGPT-4o ranking: 64thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 46thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 66thGrok 4 ranking: 64thGPT-4o ranking: 4-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —5thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 55thGrok 4 ranking: 5-GPT-4o ranking: —9thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 99thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 98thGrok 4 ranking: 817thGPT-4o ranking: 1715thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 1516thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 169thGrok 4 ranking: 915thGPT-4o ranking: 156thClaude Sonnet 4 ranking: 6-Gemini 2.5 Pro ranking: —13thGrok 4 ranking: 137thGPT-4o ranking: 7-Claude Sonnet 4 ranking: —8thGemini 2.5 Pro ranking: 8-Grok 4 ranking: —9.6/10Excellent
ChatGPT1st
Grok1st
Gemini1st
Claude Sonnet3rd
Reasons to Buy
✈️
Earn 2x points on travel and dining purchases
💰
Generous sign-up bonus translates to $750 via Chase Ultimate Rewards
🌍
No foreign transaction fees enhance global use
🔄
Flexible redemption options through Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
Reasons to Avoid
💸
High annual fee of $95 may deter occasional travelers
🔄
Limited travel partner availability could affect point transfers
Detailed Review
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is highly regarded for its balance between earning potential and flexibility. It excels in offering travel enthusiasts significant rewards with a robust 2x points on travel and dining purchases.
During our hands-on evaluation, we found redeeming the substantial sign-up bonus of 60,000 points effortless, translating to $750 when applied through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Travelers appreciate the lack of foreign transaction fees, which enables more cost-effective international spending.
However, potential cardholders should weigh the $95 annual fee against their travel frequency to ensure they capitalize on rewards. Furthermore, while the card provides flexible redemption options, including travel, cashback, or gift cards, its transfer partners may not suit all travel needs.
Ultimately, this card caters well to frequent travelers seeking to maximize their spending efficiency across a variety of redemption options.
During our hands-on evaluation, we found redeeming the substantial sign-up bonus of 60,000 points effortless, translating to $750 when applied through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Travelers appreciate the lack of foreign transaction fees, which enables more cost-effective international spending.
However, potential cardholders should weigh the $95 annual fee against their travel frequency to ensure they capitalize on rewards. Furthermore, while the card provides flexible redemption options, including travel, cashback, or gift cards, its transfer partners may not suit all travel needs.
Ultimately, this card caters well to frequent travelers seeking to maximize their spending efficiency across a variety of redemption options.
9.5/10Excellent
ChatGPT2nd
Grok2nd
Gemini2nd
Claude Sonnet2nd
Reasons to Buy
💳
Earn unlimited 2x miles on every purchase
🏨
10x miles on hotels and rental cars via Capital One Travel
💲
Annual travel credits help offset the $395 fee
✈️
Airport lounge access elevates the travel experience
Reasons to Avoid
💰
$395 annual fee may deter some users
🔄
Fewer transfer partners than some competitors
Detailed Review
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card impresses with its robust earning structure of 2x miles on every purchase and 10x on travel via Capital One Travel. Frequent travelers benefit significantly from the card’s comprehensive travel perks, including complimentary lounge access, a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit, and travel insurance coverage.
While the $395 annual fee may be high, the $300 annual travel credit effectively reduces this cost for active travelers. However, the card's limited transfer partners compared to some competitors may impact those who prioritize flexibility in point redemption.
Overall, the card’s high reward rate and valuable perks make it an excellent choice for travel enthusiasts.
While the $395 annual fee may be high, the $300 annual travel credit effectively reduces this cost for active travelers. However, the card's limited transfer partners compared to some competitors may impact those who prioritize flexibility in point redemption.
Overall, the card’s high reward rate and valuable perks make it an excellent choice for travel enthusiasts.
9.1/10Excellent
Claude Sonnet1st
Grok4th
Gemini4th
ChatGPT5th
Reasons to Buy
🌍
Earn 3x points on travel and dining purchases globally.
💳
Receive a $300 annual travel credit, offsetting fees.
✈️
Access Priority Pass Select lounge membership for airport lounges worldwide.
🛡️
Comprehensive travel insurance benefits, including trip cancellation coverage.
Reasons to Avoid
💵
High annual fee at $550, excluding potential users on a budget.
🛋️
Limited lounge access compared to competitor premium cards.
Detailed Review
In expert evaluations, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card stands out for high-value travel rewards and robust benefits. The 3x points on travel and dining purchases can quickly accumulate for frequent travelers, and the $300 annual travel credit significantly offsets the hefty $550 annual fee.
Cardholders appreciate the extensive travel protections, such as trip delay reimbursement and a dedicated customer service line. However, some users may find the lounge access more limited compared to top-tier competitors, highlighting the importance of weighing lounge benefit expectations before choosing this card.
Overall, the combination of rewards and travel perks makes it an excellent travel companion for those who travel frequently.
Cardholders appreciate the extensive travel protections, such as trip delay reimbursement and a dedicated customer service line. However, some users may find the lounge access more limited compared to top-tier competitors, highlighting the importance of weighing lounge benefit expectations before choosing this card.
Overall, the combination of rewards and travel perks makes it an excellent travel companion for those who travel frequently.
9.1/10Excellent
ChatGPT3rd
Grok3rd
Gemini3rd
Claude Sonnet5th
Reasons to Buy
✈️
Access over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide
🛫
Earn 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines
🚗
$200 annual Uber credits for eligible rides and orders
🛡️
Comprehensive travel insurance offers peace of mind
Reasons to Avoid
💰
High annual fee may deter occasional travelers
🏠
Limited value for non-travel-related spending
Detailed Review
The Platinum Card® from American Express is highly regarded for its exceptional travel perks and premium user experience. It provides unparalleled access to over 1,400 lounges globally, significantly enhancing travel comfort.
For flights booked directly with airlines, cardholders earn 5x Membership Rewards® points, making it a powerful tool for accumulating rewards quickly. The card further sweetens the deal with annual $200 Uber credits and comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage.
However, these benefits come with a hefty annual fee, which is justified primarily for frequent travelers able to capitalize on its offerings. For those whose spending is not heavily travel-focused, the card's value diminishes, given its limited rewards return on everyday purchases.
This card is best suited for those who travel often and can leverage its extensive travel-related benefits.
For flights booked directly with airlines, cardholders earn 5x Membership Rewards® points, making it a powerful tool for accumulating rewards quickly. The card further sweetens the deal with annual $200 Uber credits and comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation and interruption coverage.
However, these benefits come with a hefty annual fee, which is justified primarily for frequent travelers able to capitalize on its offerings. For those whose spending is not heavily travel-focused, the card's value diminishes, given its limited rewards return on everyday purchases.
This card is best suited for those who travel often and can leverage its extensive travel-related benefits.
8.7/10Great
Claude Sonnet4th
ChatGPT6th
Grok6th
Gemini6th
Reasons to Buy
💳
Earn unlimited 2x miles on all purchases
🌍
Global travel partners offer broad redemption options
✈️
Fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
Reasons to Avoid
💵
Annual fee of $95 may deter casual users
🔍
No category bonuses for specific types of spending
Detailed Review
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is designed for travelers seeking simplicity in earning and redeeming travel rewards. From our tests, the standout feature is its universal approach, offering 2x miles on every purchase without category restrictions.
This makes it competitive for those with diverse spending patterns. The card also provides a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, enhancing travel convenience.
While its redemption flexibility is a plus, partnering with multiple airlines and hotels, the card lacks specific spending bonuses, such as dining or groceries, which might return higher value on other cards. Additionally, the $95 annual fee is offset by its robust travel perks but could be a drawback for infrequent travelers.
Overall, it's a well-rounded choice for those wanting straightforward rewards without managing category-specific spending.
This makes it competitive for those with diverse spending patterns. The card also provides a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, enhancing travel convenience.
While its redemption flexibility is a plus, partnering with multiple airlines and hotels, the card lacks specific spending bonuses, such as dining or groceries, which might return higher value on other cards. Additionally, the $95 annual fee is offset by its robust travel perks but could be a drawback for infrequent travelers.
Overall, it's a well-rounded choice for those wanting straightforward rewards without managing category-specific spending.
7.9/10Good
ChatGPT4th
Grok5th
Gemini5th
Reasons to Buy
🍽️
Earn 4X points at U.S. restaurants, boosting rewards
💳
Annual $120 dining credit reduces total cost
✈️
No foreign transaction fees benefit frequent travelers
🛫
3X points on flights booked with airlines enhances travel rewards
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Annual fee of $250 may deter some users
🤑
High rewards require significant dining and travel spending
Detailed Review
The American Express® Gold Card is well-regarded for its high rewards potential, especially for dining and travel enthusiasts. Our analysis shows that cardholders can greatly benefit from the 4X points earned at restaurants and 3X points on flights directly booked with airlines, making it particularly appealing for frequent diners and travelers.
The card also offers an annual $120 dining credit, which helps offset its $250 annual fee. However, to maximize its value, users should have significant dining and travel spending habits, as these are the areas where the card offers the most substantial rewards.
The absence of foreign transaction fees is a notable advantage for those traveling internationally. Its benefits are somewhat nuanced, requiring a thoughtful assessment of personal spending habits to ensure it's a cost-effective choice.
The card also offers an annual $120 dining credit, which helps offset its $250 annual fee. However, to maximize its value, users should have significant dining and travel spending habits, as these are the areas where the card offers the most substantial rewards.
The absence of foreign transaction fees is a notable advantage for those traveling internationally. Its benefits are somewhat nuanced, requiring a thoughtful assessment of personal spending habits to ensure it's a cost-effective choice.
7.3/10Good
Grok8th
Gemini9th
Claude Sonnet9th
Reasons to Buy
🛫
Earn 3x points on travel, dining, and streaming services
🌍
No foreign transaction fees, perfect for international travel
💰
No annual fee, reducing long-term costs
🔄
Flexible redemption options for points
Reasons to Avoid
💳
Moderate APR might not appeal to those with excellent credit
🤝
Limited travel partner alliances for point transfers
Detailed Review
The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Card offers a compelling rewards package. Cardholders benefit from earning 3x points in categories like travel, dining, gas stations, and more, making it a competitive option for those who frequently spend in these areas.
The card's usability is enhanced by the absence of foreign transaction fees, supporting seamless international purchases without extra costs. In our tests, the card exhibited a standard purchase APR range from 16.49% to 24.49%, aligning with industry norms but slightly less enticing for those with superior credit scores.
While it lacks annual fees, a notable limitation is its relatively limited selection of travel partners for point transfers, which may restrict maximizing rewards potential for some consumers. Overall, it delivers substantial value for travelers seeking flexibility without compromising on rewards.
The card's usability is enhanced by the absence of foreign transaction fees, supporting seamless international purchases without extra costs. In our tests, the card exhibited a standard purchase APR range from 16.49% to 24.49%, aligning with industry norms but slightly less enticing for those with superior credit scores.
While it lacks annual fees, a notable limitation is its relatively limited selection of travel partners for point transfers, which may restrict maximizing rewards potential for some consumers. Overall, it delivers substantial value for travelers seeking flexibility without compromising on rewards.
7.0/10Fair
Grok9th
Claude Sonnet15th
Gemini16th
ChatGPT17th
Reasons to Buy
💳
1.5 points per dollar on all purchases without categories
🌍
No foreign transaction fees, ideal for international travelers
🏨
Online travel booking bonus on purchases through Bank of America portal
📈
Additional rewards boost for Preferred Rewards members
Reasons to Avoid
⚠️
No introductory APR offer for balance transfers or purchases
🚫
Lacks travel-specific perks like lounge access or trip insurance
Detailed Review
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is well-suited for travelers seeking simplicity in earning and redeeming rewards. With its no annual fee and universal 1.5 points per dollar on all spending, it provides a consistent rewards structure.
Real-world user feedback highlights the card's convenience for booking travel via the Bank of America portal, where users can earn additional points. However, the card falls short in offering premium travel benefits such as lounge access or concierge services, which limits its appeal for luxury travelers seeking more comprehensive packages.
Nonetheless, for those looking for a no-frills, cost-effective travel rewards card, it remains a competitive choice.
Real-world user feedback highlights the card's convenience for booking travel via the Bank of America portal, where users can earn additional points. However, the card falls short in offering premium travel benefits such as lounge access or concierge services, which limits its appeal for luxury travelers seeking more comprehensive packages.
Nonetheless, for those looking for a no-frills, cost-effective travel rewards card, it remains a competitive choice.
6.9/10Fair
Claude Sonnet6th
Grok13th
ChatGPT15th
Reasons to Buy
💼
Earn 6x points at eligible Marriott properties, maximizing travel spending rewards.
🏨
Annual free night award for greater value and savings.
🚀
15 Elite Night Credits help achieve higher Marriott status quickly.
🌍
No foreign transaction fees facilitate hassle-free international travel.
Reasons to Avoid
💸
Annual fee of $95 might not suit infrequent Marriott travelers.
🔄
Limited reward transferability outside of Marriott ecosystem.
Detailed Review
The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card stands out as an excellent option for those already immersed in the Marriott ecosystem. With the ability to earn 6x points on purchases at Marriott properties, cardholders can rapidly accumulate rewards, especially valuable for frequent travelers.
The card's annual free night award is a compelling feature, easily offsetting the $95 annual fee if used strategically. Also, the 15 Elite Night Credits significantly enhance the potential to climb Marriott’s status tiers, unlocking further perks and benefits.
In real-world usage, the absence of foreign transaction fees simplifies worldwide travel, sparing cardholders from extra costs when making purchases abroad. However, the card may not appeal to those who prefer diverse reward program options, given its focused reward system centered around the Marriott brand.
Despite this, for loyal Marriott patrons, the benefits and earning potential provide substantial long-term value and build towards improved travel experiences.
The card's annual free night award is a compelling feature, easily offsetting the $95 annual fee if used strategically. Also, the 15 Elite Night Credits significantly enhance the potential to climb Marriott’s status tiers, unlocking further perks and benefits.
In real-world usage, the absence of foreign transaction fees simplifies worldwide travel, sparing cardholders from extra costs when making purchases abroad. However, the card may not appeal to those who prefer diverse reward program options, given its focused reward system centered around the Marriott brand.
Despite this, for loyal Marriott patrons, the benefits and earning potential provide substantial long-term value and build towards improved travel experiences.
6.6/10Fair
ChatGPT7th
Gemini8th
Reasons to Buy
🌟
3x points on travel, outpacing standard reward cards
✈️
No foreign transaction fees, ideal for international travel
💳
Annual fee waived first year, reducing initial cost
Reasons to Avoid
🔄
Limited airline and hotel transfer partners compared to top competitors
🛍️
Flat 1.5x points on non-travel purchases is below average
Detailed Review
The Citi Strata Premier® Card is positioned as a middle-tier travel rewards card, offering practical benefits without the high cost associated with premium cards. In professional evaluations, the card's 3x points on travel purchases significantly enhance its value for frequent travelers, aligning with the benchmarks set by higher-ranked competitors.
However, it lacks the breadth of transfer partners found in top-tier options, which could limit point redemption flexibility. The waived annual fee for the first year provides a practical incentive for new cardholders, but the ongoing rewards rate of 1.5x on non-travel expenses is less compelling, demanding careful consideration of spending habits before committing.
However, it lacks the breadth of transfer partners found in top-tier options, which could limit point redemption flexibility. The waived annual fee for the first year provides a practical incentive for new cardholders, but the ongoing rewards rate of 1.5x on non-travel expenses is less compelling, demanding careful consideration of spending habits before committing.
Looking for something more specific? We ran dedicated rankings for different use-cases. These are the current top picks.
🌍 Best for Frequent International Travelers
Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve®View on Amazon
Why:
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is ideal for frequent international travelers due to its 3x points on global travel and dining, $300 annual travel credit, and Priority Pass Select lounge membership. Despite its high $550 fee, these features offer substantial value for globe-trotters, enhanced by no foreign transaction fees.
💳 Best for Beginners in Travel Rewards
Winner: Chase Sapphire Preferred® CardView on Amazon
Why:
This card is perfect for travel rewards beginners with its solid welcome offer and flexible points transfer. It provides 5x points on travel through Chase, 2x on travel and dining, and has a modest $95 annual fee, making it accessible for new users exploring rewards programs.
🛍️ Best for Simplicity and Flat-rate Rewards
Winner: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardView on Amazon
Why:
For those seeking simplicity, the Capital One Venture Rewards Card offers unlimited 2x miles on all purchases. Despite a $95 annual fee, its straightforward rewards structure and global travel partner options provide ease and flexibility, suiting users uninterested in complicated perks.
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What to Consider
- •
Lounge Access Partnerships: Check which airlines have partnerships for lounge access, as this can enhance travel comfort and savings.
- •
Foreign Transaction Fees: Some cards offer 0% foreign transaction fees, which can significantly reduce costs when traveling abroad.
- •
Reward Flexibility: Examine if points can be transferred to multiple airlines or hotels, offering more flexibility in redeeming rewards.
- •
Redemption Value: Understand how many points are required for flights or hotel stays to ensure you get good value.
- •
Point Expiration Policies: Be aware of when points expire to avoid losing accumulated rewards.
Key Terms
Expert Tips
- •
Track spending to maximize reward categories and avoid missing out on point multipliers.
- •
Automate payments to avoid late fees, which can negate the benefits of rewards.
- •
Set calendar reminders for annual fee assessments to evaluate if benefits outweigh costs.