4 Amazing Ways Travel Rewards Cards Have Changed How I Travel

When I was younger, I wasn't much of a traveler. I didn't like waiting in airports or feeling uncomfortable in a tight airline seat. I pretty much only took trips to see family, and I didn't enjoy the travel experience itself.

Then, I heard about travel rewards cards. It seemed cool to be able to travel in style, without needing to spend a ton of money. I started opening travel cards, and it has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. Thanks to my credit cards, I've been able to make some huge changes to how I travel.

1. I fly business class or first class on every flight

I always wanted to fly first class, but then I'd see how much it costs and resign myself to a coach seat. The only time I got to sit at the front of the plane was when I could score a cheap, last-minute upgrade.

Now that I have a healthy balance of travel points, I fly first class (or business class on international flights) every trip. While these tickets are expensive if you book them in cash, they're much more affordable if you have points you can transfer to the airline. After that, you just book the ticket in miles instead of cash, and you're only responsible for the taxes and fees.

2. I get to relax before flights in airport lounges

The first time I heard about airport lounges, I was amazed. All this time, there have been lounges with comfortable seating, free food, and free drinks? I don't need to sit in a rock-hard chair and pay an absurd amount for a snack?

I made sure that the first travel card I opened had airport lounge access. This is a popular perk on travel cards with expensive annual fees -- the cards I've found with lounge access cost $395 a year and up.

While that's a lot to pay for a credit card, it can be worth it if you're a frequent flyer. Keep in mind that these cards have plenty of other benefits, in addition to lounge access, that can help balance out what they cost.

3. I've stayed at luxury hotels

In the past, luxury hotels weren't in my budget. Since I hadn't stayed at any, I didn't know what the big deal was. I was fine staying at affordable Airbnbs.

I've since learned to appreciate how much staying at a great hotel can improve a trip. It's convenient having a quality on-site restaurant when you want to go grab a meal or order room service. Staying in a beautiful room that gets cleaned every day is always nice, too.

Hotel credit cards have been a huge help in staying at luxury properties. My hotel card gets me complimentary elite status with my favorite hotel chain, a free night award every year, and points that I can redeem for more free nights. I recently used it to save over $2,500 on a stay at a five-star hotel.

4. I have more money for experiences on my trips

Airfare and accommodations are two of the biggest travel costs. I usually pay for at least one of those with my travel rewards. On many trips, I use points to cover the flight and a hotel.

When you're not paying cash for airfare and accommodations, you can put your entire travel budget toward what you do on your trip. Maybe you want to go parasailing, splurge at a clothing store, or dine at a fancy restaurant. Most people can only spend so much on vacation, so it's fun to be able to spend it all on activities.

With my travel cards, I can travel more, and I get more enjoyment out of each trip. If you like to travel, or you've always dreamed of doing it more, I'd highly recommend getting this type of card.