11 Best Travel Credit Card No Annual Fee Options for Travelers

Having the best travel credit card no annual fee is a smart way to get more rewards and make your trips better. There are many types of credit cards, but the right one can really make a difference in your travel experience.

In this guide, I’ve reviewed and ranked the top 11 travel credit cards no annual fee, and I’ll share my top 5 picks to help you choose the one that fits your needs.

• Chase Freedom Flex℠: Best travel credit card overall. It is excellent for earning flexible points.

• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: Best no annual fee flat-rate cash back card. It provides a solid welcome bonus and gives you cell phone protection.

• American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp®: Best for Airline travel. It Provides double miles on American Airlines purchases and groceries.

• Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card: Best for general travel and provides a great intro bonus.

• Hilton Honors American Express Card: Best Hotel credit card. This card earns bonus rewards on Hilton stays and in ordinary everyday categories.

When I got a travel credit card, I was so excited because of all the benefits it offered. But I didn’t know anything about the annual fees.

So, imagine my shock when I got it.

Honestly, it took me a while to get over it.

After that experience, I made it a duty to avoid cards with hidden fees.

Thankfully, there are plenty of the best no-annual-fee options that give you the rewards without the headaches.

But, with so many choices, it’s hard to decide which one is best, right?

That’s why in this post, I’m sharing the 11 best travel credit card no annual fee options. These cards help you avoid unnecessary fees while still giving you solid rewards for your travels.

But before I get into my list, let’s see why you should have this type of travel card.

Why You Need a No Annual Fee Travel Credit Card

When you’re planning a trip, saving wherever you can is essential. 

That’s why finding the best travel credit card no annual fee is so important.

According to Forbes Advisor, a no annual fee travel credit card is ideal for travelers who want to earn rewards without the extra cost.

Here is a list of some great benefits a no-annual fee travel credit card can offer:

• No annual fee: You won’t have to worry about paying a yearly charge just to keep the card.

• No foreign transaction fees: Avoid extra charges when you use your card abroad, which saves you money on every purchase.

• Travel rewards: Earn points, miles, or cash back on your flights, hotels, and other travel-related purchases.

• Airport lounge access: Some cards offer access to lounges. It’s a good benefit because, at the lounge, you can relax and enjoy free snacks and drinks during layovers.

• Free travel insurance: Many cards offer coverage for things like trip cancellations, lost luggage, or rental car insurance at no extra cost.

• Fraud protection: You get added security if your card is lost or stolen, giving you peace of mind while traveling.

• No blackout dates: Some cards allow you to redeem your rewards without worrying about restricted travel dates.

• Flexible redemption options: You can often use your rewards for flights, hotel stays, or even cash back, giving you more choices on how to spend your points.

Now, let’s get into the best options.

Review of 11 Best Travel Credit Cards with No Annual Fee

Let’s take a look at some of the best travel credit cards no annual fee.

Whether you’re looking for travel points, no foreign transaction fees, or extra benefits, these cards have something for every traveler.

1. Chase Freedom Flex℠: (5 Stars)– Best for Flexible Rewards

As for me, I believe that when it comes to a card that offers value, flexibility, and a whole host of benefits, it’s hard to ignore the Chase Freedom Flex℠.

This is one of the best travel credit card no annual fee. It is reliable and always there for you, whether you’re shopping close to home or enjoying a meal at a famous restaurant far away.

Highlights

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ is a no-annual-fee credit card that showers you with Chase Ultimate Rewards on travel booked through its portal, dining, drugstore purchases, and other eligible purchases.

Here are the standout features of this credit card.

• No Annual Fee: Traveling the world doesn’t have to come with yearly membership costs!

• Earn Cash Back: Get 5% cash back on categories like grocery stores and gas stations (but Target and Walmart stores are not included). You can also get on a chosen online merchant if you spend up to $1,500 in total combined purchases each quarter you activate.

• Earn Bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

• Varied Rewards: Earn Chase Ultimate Rewards on travel booked through Chase’s portal, dining, drugstore purchases, and other eligible purchases.

• Rotating Categories: Get bonus points on different spending categories that change each quarter, making every season a bit more exciting.

Pros

• Flexibility: You can use Chase Ultimate Rewards not just for travel but also for gift cards, cash back, or even shopping on Amazon.

• No Redemption Minimums: Cash out your rewards whenever you want. There’s no need to wait until you’ve accumulated a certain number.

• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Perfect for the globetrotter who doesn’t want those sneaky fees creeping up!

Cons

Of course, no credit card is perfect, and the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has its share of downsides. Here are a few considerations for this credit card:

• Requires Activation: You’ll need to activate the rotating categories each quarter. Forget to do so, and you’ll miss out on those bonus points.

• Variable Rewards: If your spending habits don’t align with the rotating categories, you might find the rewards less beneficial.

• Conditions Apply: While the card doesn’t charge an annual fee, some benefits come with specific requirements you’ll need to meet to take full advantage.

2. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card: (4.8 Stars)– Best for Simple Cash Back

Let me introduce you to another great credit card option. If you like things simple and prefer flat-rate rewards, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card might be just what you’re looking for.

It’s one of the best travel credit card no annual fee, offering simple rewards with no hoops to jump through.

This card offers a simple 2% cash back on everything. No categories to track or spending limits—just 2% back on every purchase.

Also, it comes with a $0 annual fee, a solid sign-up bonus, and a no-interest promotion for new purchases and balance transfers.

Common now! That’s a lot of value in one card!

Yes, some other cards give higher rewards on things like groceries or dining.

But if you’re someone who prefers to keep things simple with just one card for all your spending, this could be the perfect choice for you.

However, if you have no issues with using multiple cards for different rewards, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card is a card you can still keep with you.

When you think about its combination of easy rewards and no annual fee, it’s hard to find a better deal.

Highlights

• No Annual Fee: Keep your costs down while still enjoying a heap of benefits.

• Uncomplicated Rewards: Earn a flat cash-back rate on all purchases, with no categories to track or activations to worry about.

• Introductory Offer: Enjoy an enticing cash rewards bonus after meeting the spending requirement in the first few months.

• Cell phone Protection: Safeguard your precious phone with coverage of up to $600 for any potential damage or theft when you choose to pay your monthly mobile bill with your qualifying Wells Fargo card. Be aware that a deductible of $25 applies to everything. Terms and conditions are in effect.

• Safety Measures: Elevate the security of your account with our advanced protection features, such as Voice Verification and 2-step Verification at sign-on to ensure your account details stay under lock and key.

Pros

• Simplicity: Earning rewards doesn’t have to be complicated. With this card, you earn a flat rate of cash back on all purchases.

• Flexibility: You can redeem rewards in various ways, including statement credits, direct deposit to a Wells Fargo account, or at a Wells Fargo ATM.

• Bonus Offer: An attractive introductory cash rewards bonus sweetens the deal, putting some extra money back into your pocket.

Cons

• Limited Bonus Categories: While the flat-rate cash back is convenient, you might miss out on higher reward rates on specific categories other cards offer.

• Foreign Transaction Fee: Travelers beware, this card does charge a fee on foreign transactions.

• Wells Fargo Account: To reap some of the card’s redemption benefits, you might need a Wells Fargo account.

3. American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp®: (4.55 Stars)– Best for Airline Miles with No Annual Fee

If the thought of flying gets you excited or hearing the word “travel” makes you daydream about your next trip, then the American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® card might be perfect for you.

This credit card stands out as one of the best travel credit card no annual fee options, especially for those who often fly with American Airlines.

It’s designed to give you great travel rewards without the yearly fee. Also, it’s a smart choice if you’re thinking about balance transfers to make managing your finances easier.

Whether you’re flying for business or planning your next vacation, this card gives you rewards on your everyday purchases and helps you earn miles faster.

It’s a great way to save money and enjoy more travel perks without any extra fees.

Highlights

A few features that really put the American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® card on the map include:

• No Annual Fee: Because nobody enjoys paying fees, right?

• Travel Savings: When you use your card for any inflight food and beverage purchases, you’ll get 25% savings.

• Travel Rewards: Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile on every $1 spent on all other purchases, not just on American Airlines flights.

• Statement Credit: Receive a statement credit after reaching a certain spending threshold within the first few months.

Pros

• Earn Miles: The chance to earn miles on every purchase is a big win, especially for those of us who enjoy earning while spending!

• Bonus Categories: You’ll earn 2 AAdvantage® extra miles when spending $1 at grocery stores, including grocery delivery services, and for every $1 spent on American Airlines purchases.

• Bonus Offer: The potential to earn a statement credit is an attractive benefit that effectively puts money back into your pocket.

Cons

Despite its advantages, there are a few aspects to consider before choosing the American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® card:

• Limited Flexibility: While it’s one of the best travel rewards credit cards for American Airlines loyalists, its benefits may not be as valuable if you prefer to fly with different airlines.

• Limited Redemption Options: AAdvantage® miles are primarily redeemable for flights and upgrades on American Airlines and its partner airlines.

• Foreign Transaction Fee: Unlike many cards with no annual fees, this card does charge a foreign transaction fee, which might sting a bit when you’re roaming abroad.

4. Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card: (4.5 Stars)– Best for General Travel Rewards

You know how reliable a compass is, right? You can say the same for the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card.

It’s a good best travel credit card no annual fee option for travelers who wish to easily gather points toward their next journey.

According to Forbes Advisor, this card is ideal for travelers who want to earn points without worrying about foreign transaction fees or annual costs, making it great for frequent global travelers.

Card users enjoy a limitless earning potential of 1.5 points per dollar spent on purchases.

Your rewards won’t expire as long as your account is in good standing, though some redemption options do come with a time clock.

You can use points for travel or dining purchases. With no foreign transaction fees and a yearly fee of zero dollars, this card keeps your financial backpack light.

Highlights

• No Annual Fee: Say goodbye to the yearly membership charges.

• Straightforward Earnings: Acquire points on every purchase, with no limit on the points you can earn.

• No Foreign Transaction Fees: No unexpected surprises when you’re traveling overseas.

• Intro APR period: There is a 0% Intro APR for your first 18 billing cycles for purchases and any balance transfers made within the first 60 days of opening your account.

• New cardholder bonus offer

• Flexible rewards redemption

Pros

Here’s why the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card could be an attractive choice:

• Easy Earnings: You’ll earn a flat rate on all purchases, which means you don’t have to worry about bonus categories or spending caps.

• Flexible Redemption: Points can be redeemed for a statement credit to pay for flights, hotels, vacation packages, cruises, rental cars, or baggage fees.

• Introductory Offer: You can earn a substantial points bonus as a welcome gift, which can push you closer to your next vacation.

Cons

Even though there’s much to like, there are a few things to keep in mind about the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card:

• No Bonus Categories: While the flat-rate earning system is simple, it also means you might miss out on earning maximum rewards on certain spending categories.

• Limited Additional Perks: This card lacks some of the travel-specific perks and protections offered by some other travel credit cards.

• Rewards Value: The value of points may be less when compared to other travel reward programs, especially if you’re not a Bank of America customer.

5. Hilton Honors American Express Card: (4.3 Stars) – Best for Hotels

If you often stay at Hilton hotels whenever you travel, the Hilton Honors American Express Card could make your trips even more rewarding.

With no annual fee, it’s a great choice for those looking to save money while getting more benefits from their Hilton stays.

This credit card automatically gives you Silver status, which comes with plenty of extras like bonus points on Hilton stays and free breakfast at some hotels.

Also, it’s not just about hotels – you’ll earn good rewards on everyday spending at U.S. restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations.

While it may not offer the expensive benefits of the $95-annual-fee Hilton Honors Surpass Card, like airport lounge access, it’s still a strong option for an annual fee of zero dollars.

Experts at NerdWallet recommend this card for anyone who prefers Hilton properties, as it offers solid rewards without an annual fee, making it a top pick for hotel stays.

So, if you’re focused on saving and earning rewards at Hilton hotels, this card is worth considering.

And if you’re thinking about balance transfers, this best travel credit card no annual fee could help keep your spending simple and reward you along the way.

Highlights

The Hilton Honors American Express Card certainly has bragging rights when it comes to its features:

• No Annual Fee: You can enjoy the card’s benefits without any yearly membership cost.

• Free Night Reward: A free night reward awaits you even after you use points to book five or more nights at a Hilton property.

• Automatic Silver status: This gives you a 20% bonus on Hilton Honors base points

Pros

Here are some reasons why the Hilton Honors American Express Card could be a good fit for your wallet:

• Hotel Perks: Access to Hilton Honors Gold status brings with it a host of benefits that can make your stays even more enjoyable.

• Bonus Points: You’ll earn a generous number of points on Hilton purchases, as well as on common spending categories like restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations.

• Hilton Honors Gold Status: This card unlocks the path to Hilton Honors Gold status, which comes with room upgrades, bonus points, and even free breakfast at participating hotels.

• No Foreign transaction fees

Cons

Before you decide if this card is your perfect travel companion, consider these potential drawbacks:

• Limited Flexibility: While it’s one of the best hotel credit cards for Hilton loyalists, it might not offer the same value if you prefer other hotel chains.

• Variable Reward Value: The value of Hilton Honors points can vary widely depending on how you redeem them.

• High Spending Requirement: To earn the free night reward, you must meet a high spending requirement, which may not be achievable for everyone.

6. Ink Business Cash® Credit Card: (4.5 Stars)– Best for Business Owners

If you have a business you’re running or you travel a lot, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card might be just what you need.

This card is among the best travel credit card no annual fee as it helps you save money without taking a cut of your profits.

Why do I say this card is great for you? First, there’s a $750 bonus after you spend $6,000 in the first three months.

That’s a pretty sweet deal, right?

But there’s more. With this card, you earn bonus points on everyday business expenses, like office supplies, internet, and even business dinners.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• 5% cash back: You’ll get 5% cash back on the first $25,000 you spend on cable, internet, and phone services and at office supply stores each year. That’s 5 points for every dollar spent.

• 2% cash back: Earn 2% on the very first $25,000 you spend at diners and gas stations. Perfect for those business trips or work lunches.

• 1% cash back on everything else.

Though it’s called a cash-back card, you actually earn points for Chase Ultimate Rewards, which can be converted to cash, travel, or gift cards.

Each point is worth 1 cent, no matter how you use it. And don’t forget, this card with no annual fee helps you save even more on your eligible American Airlines purchases.

Highlights

• Zero Annual Fee: That’s right, keep the money where it belongs – in your business.

• Cash Back: Earn up to 5% cash back in selected business categories.

• A Hefty Welcome Bonus: Spend $3,000 in the first three months and get a welcome bonus.

Pros

• High Cash Back Rates: 5% and 2% cash back categories cover everyday business expenses.

• No Annual Fee: Because every dollar counts in business.

• Flexible Rewards: Redeem for cash back, travel, gift cards, and more.

Cons

• Cap on High-Earning Categories: The 5% and 2% categories are capped at $25,000 in combined purchases yearly.

• Foreign Transaction Fee: This card charges 3% for each transaction in a foreign currency.

• High APR: It could get expensive if you carry a balance.

7. Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: (4.4 Stars)– Best for Flexible Travel Rewards

When having discussions about maximizing rewards on travel purchases without worrying about foreign transaction fees, you can’t count Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card out of the conversation.

You see, if you’re not the type to drop loads of cash left and right, then an annual fee for a high-end travel credit card might just leave a bigger dent in your wallet than the rewards you’d earn.

But with this card –the no-annual fee option of Capital One’s superstar travel card – you can start gathering those rewards without stressing over an annoying fee nibbling away at their value.

Now, don’t get me wrong.

There are other best travel credit card no annual fee that might throw a bit more rewards your way, and some even have pretty tempting sign-up bonuses to help kick things off.

So, before you decide, it’s definitely worth your time to check out what other options are on the menu.

Highlights

The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card boasts several noteworthy features:

• Zero Annual Fee: The card charges no annual fee, making your rewards earning virtually cost-free.

• Reward Miles: Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day.

• Travel Flexibility: Miles can be redeemed for various travel purchases.

Pros

Here are a few advantages of the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card:

•  Flexible Rewards: This card allows you to earn miles on all purchases and doesn’t limit you to specific categories.

• No Foreign Transaction Fees: You can use your card abroad without worrying about extra charges.

• Travel Insurance and Protections: Includes auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and 24-hour travel assistance services.

Cons

Before you dive in, here are a couple of things to consider:

• Lower Reward Rate: While earning 1.25X miles on every purchase is decent, other cards offer higher reward rates.

• No Special Categories: Unlike some cards, VentureOne does not offer higher rewards for spending in certain categories.

• No Introductory Bonus: Unlike many cards in its category, this card does not offer an introductory bonus.

8. Discover it® Miles: (4.2 Stars) – Best for Cash Back

According to NerdWallet, the Discover it® Miles is one of the top choices for travelers who want a no-hassle experience, thanks to its no annual fee and straightforward rewards system.

If you’re an occasional traveler who doesn’t want to be bothered about foreign transaction fees, this card might be a perfect fit.

If you want to earn rewards on every purchase and prefer fee travel credit cards, you might want to explore the Discover it® Miles. It’s a unique product that goes beyond the traditional confines of an airline credit card.

A lot of credit cards let you swap your points or miles for cash back instead of travel, but usually, that means you’re getting a bit less bang for your buck.

However, this no annual fee travel credit card plays by its own rules. That’s why I consider it among the best travel credit card no annual fee.

Each mile you earn with this card is worth 1 cent, whether using it to fund your next adventure or turn it into cash back.

You’ll earn 1.5 miles for every dollar you spend with the Discover it® Miles, which isn’t too shabby for a card with a big fat $0 annual fee.

But, it’s worth noting it falls a bit short when compared to other travel cards that do charge an annual fee.

This card really shines in its flexible redemption options and unique sign-up bonus. It’s a pretty solid choice if you’re an occasional traveler looking for a simple, low-cost credit card.

But, if you travel frequently, especially overseas, you might find more value in a travel card with extra rewards, even if it comes with a fee.

Highlights

• No Annual Fee: You can start earning rewards without any yearly membership cost.

• Miles Rewards: You earn miles on every purchase that can be redeemed for travel or as cash back.

• Match Bonus: Discover will match all the miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year, effectively doubling your rewards.

Pros

• Easy Earning: The card offers a simple way to accumulate miles, with no categories to track or caps on earnings.

• Flexible Redemption: You can redeem your miles for travel purchases or as cash back, allowing you to choose how you use your rewards.

• Match Bonus: The first-year match bonus can significantly boost your rewards, making this an appealing card for the first year of use.

Cons

Before you rush to apply for the Discover it® Miles, consider these potential drawbacks:

• Limited International Acceptance: Discover isn’t as widely accepted internationally as other card networks.

• No Premium Travel Perks: If you’re looking for perks like airport lounge access or travel insurance, you won’t find them with this card.

• Low Base Rewards Rate: The base rewards rate isn’t as high as other travel cards. Without the match bonus after the first year, other cards offer better value.

9. Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card: (4.2 Stars)– Best for Occasional Delta Flyers

If you’re the type who doesn’t fly all the time but enjoys taking a Delta flight once in a while, the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card could be a good fit for you.

It’s got a big plus—no annual fee.

But here’s the thing: if you’re a frequent traveler who’s always looking for extra travel bonuses, or if Delta is your preferred airline for most trips, there might be better options out there.

This card is simple and useful, but if you’re after more rewards or benefits, you might want to consider a card with more features.

Highlights

• Earning SkyMiles: Rack up 2x SkyMiles on purchases made directly with Delta and at restaurants worldwide. Plus, earn 1x SkyMiles on all other purchases.

• In-flight savings: Enjoy 20% back as a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases of food, beverages, and audio headsets.

Pros

• No annual fee: Yes, you heard it right. You can enjoy the perks of this card without the worry of an annual fee.

• No foreign transaction fee: Making a purchase abroad? Rest easy because there’s no foreign transaction fee with this card.

• Earn while you dine: With 2x SkyMiles on restaurant purchases, you can earn while you enjoy your favorite meals.

Cons

• Limited bonus categories: If your spending isn’t heavily skewed towards Delta or dining, the earning rate could be somewhat low.

• Lesser perks: While this card has advantages, it lacks some high-end perks like free checked bags or priority boarding that come with Delta’s other cards.

This card is a solid option for casual Delta travelers looking for a low-cost way to earn more SkyMiles, making it one of the best no annual fee travel credit cards out there.

10: IHG® Rewards Traveler Credit Card (4.0 Stars)– Best for Hotel Stays

The Points Guy recommends this card for travelers loyal to IHG hotels who want to maximize their rewards without paying an annual fee.

It’s especially valuable for those looking to earn free nights and accumulate points quickly when staying at IHG properties.

It’s a strong choice for the best travel credit card no annual fee.

Like other annual fee-free hotel cards, there’s a balance—you don’t pay anything to keep it, but you also won’t get a free hotel night every year.

However, the card makes up for it with a lot of bonus points for every dollar you spend at IHG hotels like Holiday Inn, InterContinental, and Crowne Plaza.

Also, it gives you a little boost toward elite status, and there’s a nice sign-up bonus, too.

Sure, it’s not as loaded with benefits as the $99 IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card, but hey, this one doesn’t come with an annual fee.

But, if you prefer more flexible rewards—like using points for things other than hotel stays—you might want to look into a card with more redemption options.

Being a preferred rewards member without an annual fee? Not a bad deal!

Highlights

• No Annual Fee: You heard it right – keep your cash for your travels, not for fees!

• Reward Points: Earn up to 15X points total per dollar at IHG hotels and resorts.

• Free Night: Earn a free night after spending $10,000 in purchases each account anniversary year.

Pros

Here’s what makes this card a standout:

• Bonus Earnings: On top of the base earnings, you also get 2X points at gas stations, grocery stores, and restaurants.

• Free Night: Who doesn’t love a free night stay? Especially after a year of travel.

• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Use this card worldwide without extra charges.

Cons

Nothing’s perfect, of course, and the IHG® Rewards Traveler Credit Card is no exception:

• Limited High-Earning Categories: Outside of IHG properties, only a few categories earn bonus points.

• Redemption Flexibility: Points are most valuable when redeemed for IHG stays.

• Large Spending for Free Night: $10,000 spend requirement for a free night might be steep for some.

11. United Gateway℠ Card: (3.8 Stars)- Best for Airline Travel

If you fly United Airlines every now and then but don’t travel enough to pay for a card with a high annual fee, the United Gateway℠ Card from Chase should be something to consider.

Why?

It’s one of the few airline credit cards with no annual fee. That’s right – it’s free to keep in your wallet, even if you only use it once in a while.

You can still earn United MileagePlus frequent flyer miles, which can come in handy for future trips.

However, this card doesn’t offer all the extra perks, like free checked bags or early boarding, that you might want from an airline card.

If you’re a big United Airlines fan and fly more often, you might want to look at the United℠ Explorer Card instead.

It comes with a $0 fee for the first year and then $95 after that, but it’s packed with more benefits, like those airline perks you may be looking for.

While it doesn’t offer premium incentives like free checked bags, it still lets you earn miles every time you fly with United.

The Points Guy highlights it as one of the best no-fee airline cards for casual travelers who want to earn United miles without committing to a higher-end card like the United Explorer Card.

In short, the United Gateway℠ Card is great if you want a simple, no-cost way to earn miles without worrying about extra fees.

But if you fly United a lot, you may get more value from other best travel credit card no annual fee with more features.

Highlights

Bonus Miles: You get 20,000 bonus miles after spending up to $1000 on purchases in the first 3 months of opening your account.

Here’s how you earn miles:

• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United Airlines purchases.

• 2 miles per $1 on gas station purchases.

• 2 miles per $1 on local transit and commuting.

• 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Pros

• No annual fee, making it a strong contender for the best no-annual-fee travel credit card.

• Reward rates are great for frequent travelers, especially those who often fly with United.

• There are no foreign transaction fees, so international trips won’t incur extra charges.

• A 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages, and Wi-Fi onboard United-operated flights when you pay with your United Gateway℠ Card.

Cons

• You may find limited value if you’re not a frequent United flyer.

• It lacks some of the luxurious perks you’d find in more premium cards, like lounge access or free checked bags.

• Low introductory APR offer.

How to Maximize the Benefits of a No Annual Fee Travel Credit Card

It’s important to know how to use it wisely to get the most out of your no annual fee travel credit card.

Here’s how you can get the most out of your no-annual-fee travel credit card:

1. Use sign-up bonuses: When you open your account, try to spend enough to earn the bonus many cards offer during the first few months.

2. Pay your balance in full: Stay away from interest charges by paying off your card every month. This way, you’ll enjoy the rewards without losing money to fees.

3. Use your card for everyday purchases: Buy things like groceries, gas, and other essentials to earn more points without extra spending.

4. Avoid cash advances: Taking out cash with your credit card can lead to high fees, so use it for purchases instead of withdrawing money.

5. Protect your personal information online: Shop on secure websites and avoid using public Wi-Fi when entering your card details to keep your information safe.

6. Keep track of rewards: Check when and how you can redeem your points to make sure you’re getting the best value for them.

I believe that if you manage your spending wisely, you can make the most of your travel credit card while keeping costs down.

With these points in mind, you’ll make the most of your no-annual-fee travel credit card and avoid any unnecessary costs!

How to Avoid Common Credit Card Mistakes

Using a credit card can be helpful, but there are some common mistakes that can cost you if you’re not careful.

Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Carrying a Balance
   One of the major mistakes is not paying the balance of your credit card in full.

   According to Experian, carrying over a balance from month to month can lead to high interest charges, making your purchases more expensive. Always try to pay off your balance to avoid these costs.

2. Ignoring the Terms During Account Opening
   Many people rush through the account opening process without fully reading the terms. Missing details like interest rates or fees for cash advances can surprise you later.

   Take your time to review the terms so you know what to expect.

3. Overusing Cash Advances
   Cash advances might seem like an easy way to get cash fast, but they often come with high fees and interest rates.

   Experts from NerdWallet recommend avoiding them unless it’s a true emergency.

4. Not Protecting Your Personal Information Online
   With more transactions happening digitally, it’s crucial to protect your personal information online. Always use secure websites and avoid entering your card details on public Wi-Fi.

Avoiding these mistakes can help you use your credit card wisely and save money in the long run.

Comparison with Premium Travel Cards

Premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the American Express Platinum Card offer high-end benefits.

Still, they come with a hefty price tag.

For example, these cards often include benefits like airport lounge access, travel credits, and free checked bags.

However, these benefits usually come with annual fees of $500 or more.

On the other hand, the best travel credit card no annual fee options offers many of the same rewards without the extra cost.

While you may not get luxury perks like lounge access, you can still enjoy cash back, miles, and points on everyday purchases with no annual fee and fewer restrictions.

If you don’t travel often enough to justify a high annual fee, a no-annual-fee travel card can still give you valuable rewards without the commitment.

For most travelers, no-annual-fee cards provide all the essentials without the added pressure of recouping high fees.

If you’re a casual traveler or don’t need the luxury perks, stick with a no-annual-fee travel card. You’ll still earn rewards and avoid the cost of a premium card.

Conclusion

As I’ve shared in this post, the benefits of having a no-annual-fee travel credit card are numerous. The most important of them all – you don’t have to shell out any annual fee.

That’s a significant plus for both infrequent and seasoned travelers.

However, choosing the right card is not a one-size-fits-all matter.

It’s essential to consider your unique spending habits, travel frequency, and what specific card benefits appeal to you most.

• Are you after maximum rewards?

• Are you aiming to meet minimum spending for a juicy welcome bonus?

• Or are you trying to avoid those pesky foreign transaction fees?

Take a moment to reflect, weigh the pros and cons we’ve discussed, and consider what matters most to you.

Remember, the world is at your fingertips, and the right card (best travel credit card no annual fee) can take you there in style.