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Best Airline Credit Cards for 2025: Unlock Award Flights and Travel Perks

Review Updated
Brendan Byrnes
Author: Brendan Byrnes
Brendan Byrnes
Brendan Byrnes
Director

Currently Managing Director of Motley Fool Money, Brendan has worked full-time for The Motley Fool since 2011. He has written hundreds of articles for The Motley Fool and provided analysis on TV outlets including CNBC and Fox. He holds a degree in finance from Virginia Tech.

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Nathan Alderman
Fact Checked: Nathan Alderman
Nathan Alderman
Nathan Alderman
Fact checker

Nathan Alderman has been a full-time Motley Fool employee since 2005, making errors his arch-enemies in a variety of roles including a six-year stint as the dedicated fact-checker for The Motley Fool's premium newsletter services. As Motley Fool Money's Compliance Lead, he makes sure that all the site's information is accurate and up to date, which ensures we always steer readers right and keeps various financial partners happy. A graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, Nathan spends his spare time volunteering for civic causes, writing and podcasting for fun, adoring his wife, and wrangling his two very large young children.

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For travel enthusiasts like me, there's nothing quite like the rush of booking a flight using credit card miles. Unless, of course, it’s snagging a free hotel stay, a complimentary checked bag, or an upgraded seat along the way. The right airline credit card can make all that happen, turning your everyday purchases into a treasure chest of travel perks. But here’s the catch: not all airline cards deliver the same value.

You’ve basically got two camps: general travel cards that offer a mix of airline benefits, and airline-specific cards that reward loyal flyers. I've narrowed it down to the top four in each group and will walk you through what sets each one apart.

  • Our team of experts reviewed over 260 credit cards
  • We evaluate all credit cards across the same 4 key criteria: value, welcome experience, fees, and perks
  • Our credit card ratings are never influenced by our advertising partners
  • If we wouldn't recommend an offer to a close family member, we won't recommend it to you

Our aim is to maintain a balanced best-of list featuring top-scoring credit cards from reputable brands. 'Best for' category selections on this page are determined by our editors, and a single card may be recognized in multiple categories.

Best credit cards for airline miles

The Platinum Card® from American Express
Apply Now for The Platinum Card® from American Express

On American Express' Secure Website.

Terms apply

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Best for lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Featured Offer

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Apply Now for The Platinum Card® from American Express

On American Express' Secure Website.

Terms apply

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

The Platinum Card® from American Express
4.90/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
4.90/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent
Apply Now for The Platinum Card® from American Express

On American Express' Secure Website.

Terms apply

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel® up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel®. 1X Membership Rewards® Points on other purchases. Terms apply.

1X-5X Membership Rewards® Points

Annual Fee

$895

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

As High As 175,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express isn’t just a credit card — it’s a status symbol. With over $3,500 in annual credits like $400 for dining with Resy, $600 in luxury hotel stays, and $300 in digital entertainment, plus VIP access to 1,550 airport lounges and automatic Hilton and Marriott Bonvoy elite status (enrollment required), it delivers prestige few cards can match. The fee is steep, but for those who want the best, the Platinum can more than pay for itself — starting with a powerful welcome offer. Terms apply.

    Read Full Review
    • Big welcome offer
    • Substantial spending credits
    • Airport lounge access
    • Hotel benefits
    • Flexible travel points
    • Annual fee
    • Limited bonus categories
    • Spending credits can be complicated to manage
    • You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
    • Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
    • More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
    • More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
    • More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
    • More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
    • New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
    • More Value! $209 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
    • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
    • Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts® through American Express Travel®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
    • New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
    • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card®. *Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
    • $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
    • Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
    • $895 annual fee.
    • Terms Apply.

If you're all about a VIP airport experience -- and willing to pay up for it (see rates and fees) -- the Amex Platinum Card is hard to beat. It offers access to more than 1,400 lounges worldwide, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, and more, making long layovers and delays a lot more bearable. Terms apply; enrollment may be required.

Best for casual travelers: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Award Icon 2025 Award Winner

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Apply Now for Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

On Chase's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

On Chase's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

19.99% - 28.24% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases

5x on Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, 2x on all other travel

Annual Fee

$95

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

75,000 bonus points

  • This card easily justifies the (very reasonable) annual fee with benefits that deliver real value. Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months, which we estimate is worth at least $750 in Chase Travel℠ value. Plus, enjoy bonus travel and dining rewards, a $50 annual hotel credit, and 10% anniversary points boost. With added travel protections like rental car insurance and trip reimbursement, we think this card is a game-changer for any traveler.

    Read Full Review
    • Big sign-up bonus
    • Travel rewards
    • Dining rewards
    • Flexible travel points
    • Consumer and travel protections
    • Annual fee
    • Limited-time perks
    • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
    • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
    • Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
    • 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
    • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
    • Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
    • Member FDIC

For only $95 a year, Chase Sapphire Preferred (see rates and fees) allows you to earn 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, where you also get a 1:1 transfer ratio with several airline partners and your points often go even further. Plus, the welcome offer is insane. For casual travelers who don't care as much about luxury perks like lounge access, this is a great card.

Best for no annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph® Card

Award Icon 2025 Award Winner

Wells Fargo Autograph® Card

Apply Now for Wells Fargo Autograph® Card

On Wells Fargo's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Wells Fargo Autograph® Card
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Wells Fargo Autograph® Card

On Wells Fargo's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR Circle with letter I in it. 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from account opening

Purchases: 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from account opening

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

18.99%, 23.99%, or 28.99% Variable APR

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases.

1X-3X points

Annual Fee

$0

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

20,000 bonus points

  • This card offers unlimited 3X points on common things like restaurants, gas stations, travel, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases. This could be a great pick if you spend a lot in those categories. A solid welcome bonus and cell phone protection are the cherries on top.

    • Strong welcome bonus for a no annual fee card
    • Earn Unlimited 3x points on useful categories
    • Cellphone protection
    • Other cards offer larger bonuses, though they usually come with annual fees
    • The 1x points baseline rewards rate on other purchases, though normal for this type of card, can be beat
    • Apply Now to take advantage of this offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
    • Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
    • Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
    • $0 annual fee.
    • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 18.99%, 23.99%, or 28.99% variable APR thereafter.
    • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
    • Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
    • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

A card that earns flight benefits for a $0 annual fee? Sign me up. The Wells Fargo Autograph® Card (see rates and fees) earns 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans, making it a high-earning card for frequent travelers, with the ability to transfer points to airline partners.

Best for luxury benefits: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Read Review
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
4.90/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
4.90/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Read Review
Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

20.24% - 28.74% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases

8x points on Chase Travel℠, 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct, 3x points on dining, 1x points on all other purchases

Annual Fee

$795

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

125,000 bonus points

  • All the perks we've come to expect from a top travel card, including a $300 annual travel credit, airport lounge access, and big bonuses on travel and dining. Points are transferable to airline and hotel partners or worth up to 2x if you book through Chase Travel℠. The annual fee is hefty, but if you can use all its features, this card could be well worth the cost.

    • Travel credits
    • Airport lounge access
    • Travel and dining rewards
    • Welcome offer
    • Flexible travel points
    • Annual fee
    • Limited-time benefits
    • Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
    • Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
    • Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
    • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
    • Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years
    • Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
    • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
    • Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
    • Member FDIC
The information related to Chase Sapphire Reserve® was collected by Motley Fool Money and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product. Card information may be outdated. Motley Fool Money does not receive commission for this product/card.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card (see rates and fees) is our favorite pick for travelers that love more high-end perks like lounge access, comprehensive travel insurance, and annual travel credits. Although the annual fee is steep at $795, the welcome bonus and airline transfer partners make this card a top pick for travelers. Plus, it's one of the best cards for international travel.

Best airline-specific credit cards

Best for United flyers: The New United℠ Explorer Card

The New United℠ Explorer Card

Rates & Fees External Link Icon
The New United℠ Explorer Card
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Rates & Fees External Link Icon
Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

20.49% - 28.99% Variable

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel. 1x mile on all other purchases

N/A

Annual Fee Circle with letter I in it. $0, First Year

$150

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Debut Offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

Earn 80,000 bonus miles

  • With a big sign-up bonus and rewards for United and dining purchases, the miles will accumulate quickly if you're a frequent traveler.

    • Big sign-up bonus
    • United, restaurant, and hotel rewards
    • Free first checked bag
    • Travel statement credits
    • United travel benefits
    • Annual fee
    • No access to Polaris lounges
    • Debut Offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles
    • $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
    • 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel
    • Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
    • Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
    • Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
    • Earn a $100 United travel credit after spending $10,000 on purchases with your United℠ Explorer Card within a calendar year
    • Over $400 in partner credits each year
    • Member FDIC
The information related to The New United℠ Explorer Card was collected by Motley Fool Money and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this product. Card information may be outdated. Motley Fool Money does not receive commission for this product/card.

The New United℠ Explorer Card (see rates and fees) is an excellent choice for frequent United flyers, offering perks like 80,000 bonus miles when you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months, free checked bags for the cardholder and a companion, and complimentary United Club passes.

With an annual fee of $150 after the first year, it provides valuable travel benefits such as priority boarding, TSA PreCheck reimbursement, and no foreign transaction fees.

Best for American Airlines flyers: Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

Rates & Fees External Link Icon
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Rates & Fees External Link Icon
Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

20.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases.

1x - 2x miles

Annual Fee Circle with letter I in it. N/A

$99, waived for first 12 months

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. For a limited time, earn 75,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $3,500 in purchases within the first 4 months of account opening.

75,000 miles

  • The rewards program makes this a compelling card to carry with OK earning opportunities beyond just American Airlines purchases.

    • Big sign-up bonus
    • Free checked bag
    • Preferred boarding
    • Earn a flight discount certificate
    • Annual fee
    • Lackluster rewards rate
    • Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
    • Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases
    • Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
    • No Foreign Transaction Fees
    • First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to four companions traveling with you on the same reservation
    • Enjoy preferred boarding on American Airlines flights
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is unavailable on Motley Fool Money. All information was collected independently from the issuer. Some items may be out of date.

This card is a solid choice for budget-conscious American Airlines travelers, with perks like a free checked bag, preferred boarding, and a nice sign-up bonus. Although its rewards rate isn't the most competitive, frequent flyers can still benefit from the airline discounts and Loyalty Points that count toward elite status.

Best for Alaska Airlines flyers: Alaska Airlines Visa® Card

Alaska Airlines Visa® Card

Alaska Airlines Visa® Card
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases and unlimited 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases. Earn 2X miles per $1 on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services, and local transit purchases. Plus, earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned on card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.

1x - 3x miles

Annual Fee

$95

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Limited-time offer: 50,000 Bonus Miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening.

50,000 Bonus Miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™

  • This is one of the better sub-$100 airline credit cards we've seen. It has the standard perks for a card in that price range, including free checked baggage, priority boarding, and 20% back on eligible in-flight purchases. It also has a few features that stand out, including a companion fare and bonus miles in multiple everyday categories. Just know that Alaska Airlines has a smaller footprint than some airlines.

    • Valuable welcome bonus
    • Companion fare offer
    • Earn miles with Alaska Airlines
    • Free checked luggage
    • 20% back on in-flight purchases
    • Annual fee
    • Limited route selection
    • Limited-time offer: 70,000 Bonus Miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of your account opening.
    • Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™. Every year on your credit card account anniversary you’ll receive a companion fare which allows you to book a companion flight from $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23). Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
    • Free checked bag for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation – that's a savings of $60 per person roundtrip!
    • Priority boarding, $100 off a new Alaska Lounge membership when you pay with your new card, and a 20% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
    • Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases and unlimited 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, earn a 20% rewards bonus on all miles earned on card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
    • With oneworld® Alliance we’ve expanded our global reach to over 900 destinations worldwide, bringing you more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
    • Flexibility with no blackout dates on Alaska Airlines flights when booking with miles or a companion fare.
    • Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
    • This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card is unavailable on Motley Fool Money. All information was collected independently from the issuer. Some items may be out of date.

For frequent Alaska Airlines travelers, this card offers solid value at a reasonable price. You'll get perks like a free checked bag, priority boarding, and discounts on in-flight purchases, but the real standout is the Alaska Companion Fare, which can more than justify the annual fee. Plus, you'll earn bonus miles on a variety of everyday purchases.

We rate travel credit cards based on how well they reward frequent travelers — not just with points and miles, but with valuable perks and flexible redemption options. Our scoring prioritizes cards that offer strong earning rates and a rewarding travel experience.

Our highest-rated travel cards have:

  • Elevated rewards on travel or everyday purchases, with the ability to transfer points
  • Flexible redemption options through travel portals or transfer partners
  • Welcome bonuses that meaningfully offset the annual fee in the first year
  • Perks that improve the travel experience, like airport lounge access, statement credits, and trip protections

We combine these factors with an evaluation of brand reputation and customer satisfaction to ensure you're getting the best travel card recommendations. Our aim is to maintain a balanced best-of list featuring top-scoring travel credit cards from reputable brands. 'Best for' category selections on this page are determined by our editors, and a single card may be recognized in multiple categories.

Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list, but our product recommendations are NEVER influenced by advertisers. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates credit cards.

We rate travel credit cards based on how well they reward frequent travelers — not just with points and miles, but with valuable perks and flexible redemption options. Our scoring prioritizes cards that offer strong earning rates and a rewarding travel experience.

Our highest-rated travel cards have:

  • Elevated rewards on travel or everyday purchases, with the ability to transfer points
  • Flexible redemption options through travel portals or transfer partners
  • Welcome bonuses that meaningfully offset the annual fee in the first year
  • Perks that improve the travel experience, like airport lounge access, statement credits, and trip protections

We combine these factors with an evaluation of brand reputation and customer satisfaction to ensure you're getting the best travel card recommendations. Our aim is to maintain a balanced best-of list featuring top-scoring travel credit cards from reputable brands. 'Best for' category selections on this page are determined by our editors, and a single card may be recognized in multiple categories.

Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list, but our product recommendations are NEVER influenced by advertisers. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates credit cards.

How to choose the right airline travel card for you

Picking the right airline credit card comes down to your travel habits and the perks that matter most. Some cards are great for earning flexible rewards, while others are designed for die-hard loyalists of a single airline. Here's how to make the right pick:

1. Decide between a general travel card and an airline-specific card

If you like to shop around for flights and don't stick to one airline, a general travel card is probably your best bet. These cards let you earn points you can use with multiple airlines and often come with extras like travel credits and lounge access. But if you always fly the same airline, an airline-specific card can be a game-changer, offering free checked bags, priority boarding, and discounts on in-flight purchases.

2. Consider the perks that matter most to you

Not all perks will apply to everyone. If you check a bag every time you fly, a card that waives baggage fees can save you serious cash. If you're all about a stress-free airport experience, priority boarding and lounge access might be worth more to you. And if you travel with a partner, some airline cards offer companion tickets that can more than cover the annual fee.

3. Compare earning rates and redemption options

Some cards earn bonus points on flights, while others reward everyday spending like dining and groceries. If you want to rack up miles fast, pick a credit card that aligns with your biggest spending categories. And check redemption options -- most of the time, you'll get more value by transferring them to partner airlines.

4. Weigh the annual fee against the benefits

A premium airline card with a $500-plus annual fee might sound high, but if it gets you lounge access, free checked bags, and statement credits, it could be a great deal. On the other hand, if you don't travel often, a lower-fee or no-annual-fee airline card would make more sense.

5. Look for sign-up bonuses

Many airline cards offer welcome bonuses that can score you an award flight (or two) right off the bat. Just make sure you can meet the spending requirement without overspending.

FAQs

  • A general travel card offers rewards that can be used at any airline, and an airline-specific card is tied to a specific airline and offers perks for that airline specifically. If you're a loyal customer of one airline, an airline-specific card is hard to beat. Otherwise, a general travel card is a great choice for airline perks.

  • Most airline loyalty programs will let you put your miles towards hotel stays, rental cars, and seat upgrades. It depends on the airline card, but generally, yes, cards offer other things besides flight benefits.

  • Some airline credit cards offer built-in travel protections like trip delay insurance, baggage delay coverage, and rental car insurance. However, coverage varies by card, so it's important to read the benefits guide to know exactly what's included.