Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology.

The Ultimate Guide to Offsetting Credit Card Annual Fees

Jarrod West's image
Jarrod West
Edited by: Michael Y. Park
& Jestan Mendame
Jump to Section

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Key Takeaways

  • To break even on a credit card with an annual fee, you must calculate whether the card’s rewards, perks, and benefits outweigh the fee.
  • You can calculate the effective annual fee by subtracting the value of statement credits from the annual fee as well as what the other card perks and benefits are worth to you.
  • Bonus categories like travel and dining can help you accumulate points faster, making the annual fee more justifiable.

Credit cards are one of the easiest ways to get a chunk of your spending back, usually in the form of cash-back, points, or miles rewards. But with a dizzying array of credit cards with various pros and cons, how can you know if a credit card is worth it for your needs?

Most worthwhile credit cards come with an annual fee, though that doesn’t mean that every credit card with an annual fee is worth it.

In this guide, we’ll help you demystify just how much you need to spend on a given credit card for it to be worth it. It’s all about break-even spending!

How Do You Offset a Credit Card Annual Fee?

To calculate the break-even point for a credit card, we’ll look only at how much you have to spend for your rewards to offset the annual fee. This calculation excludes credit card benefits with a subjective valuation (like annual free night certificates). Calculating based on rewards spending, annual fee, and objectively valued benefits offers an apples-to-apples comparison.

For example, a flexible $300 travel credit should be valued as such, while the value of a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership is subject to each member’s travel habits. Using a Priority Pass Select membership 20 times per year is a lot more valuable than using it once a year, for example.

We also won’t look at any welcome bonus offers, because almost all welcome bonus offers make it worthwhile to hold a card for at least a year.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 100,000 bonus points + $500 Chase Travel promo credit after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
100,000 points + $500 Chase Travel credit
$2,000
$795
20.24% - 28.74% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent
Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like worldwide airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus, it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to cover you at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the more than $2,000 in annual credits, which can offset the annual fee!

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 8x points on all Chase Travel purchases
  • 5x points on Lyft rides
  • 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly
Cons
    • $795 annual fee
Card Highlights
  • Earn 100,000 bonus points + $500 Chase Travel℠ promo credit after you spend $5,000 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
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 20.24% - 28.74% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card comes with an annual fee of $795. But to help offset that annual fee, it also comes with a variety of helpful statement credits, including:

  • $300 annual travel credit
  • $500 annual credit with the Edit, delivered in 2 separate $250 biannual credits (2-night minimum stay required)
  • $300 annual dining credit and primetime reservations at Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables, available for booking on OpenTable, delivered in 2 separate $150 biannual credits
  • $300 annual StubHub credit on concert and event tickets, delivered in 2 separate $150 biannual credits for StubHub and Viagogo
  • $120 in annual Lyft in-app credits, up to $10 monthly
  • $300 annually in monthly DoorDash promos and a complimentary DashPass membership worth $120 annuallywhich includes a $5 restaurant credit and 2 $10 credits to spend on groceries, beauty, electronics, and more (value does not carry over month to month)
  • $250 annual value through complimentary subscriptions to Apple TV+ and Apple Music (separate activation required)
  • Up to $120 in annual statement credits toward Peloton memberships

While that certainly is a lot of credits, the overall value of each of them depends on how likely you are to use them. For instance, you might find it fairly easy to use the $300 annual travel credit and $300 annual dining credit, but maybe you seldom use Lyft or DoorDash, meaning those credits aren’t as worthwhile to you.

However, since you have over $2,000 in annual credits here, if you value even half of them at face value or all of them at 50% of their stated value, you still come out ahead on the card’s annual fee before you even start to factor in the value of the rewards you’d earn from your daily purchases.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
75,000 points
$1,500
$95
19.99% - 28.24% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
  • 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
  • 2x points on all other travel worldwide
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
Card Highlights
  • 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 TravelSM, 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 TravelSM
  • 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
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: 19.99% - 28.24% Variable
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card has a mild annual fee of $95. It comes with a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards hotel credit, which we consider to be worth face value. That means the effective annual fee is $45.

With the ability to earn 3x points on online grocery purchases, dining, and select streaming services, you only need to spend $750 per year to break even on this card.

Similarly, if you earn 5x points on Lyft purchases (through September 30, 2027) and travel purchased through Chase Travel (excluding the $50 hotel credit), you only need to spend $450 per year to break even.

Lastly, you could spend $1,125 on other travel purchases (2x points) to break even.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

NEW OFFER
The Platinum Card® from American ExpressTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
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.
Up to $3,850
$695
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
Cons
  • $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
Card Highlights
  • 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.
  • 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®.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • Enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection, with over $500 of annual value if you visit Centurion Lounges and each of our partner lounges including Delta Sky Club® lounges when flying an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations) , select Lufthansa lounges when flying Lufthansa, Plaza Premium lounges and Escape Lounges, and enroll in Priority Pass Select. See terms.
  • A Walmart+ membership can get you free shipping with no order minimum on eligible items shipped by Walmart. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) and receive one statement credit for up to $12.95 (plus applicable taxes. Plus Ups not eligible) each month. Free Shipping excludes most Marketplace items, freight & certain location surcharges. Paramount+ Essential plan only, separate registration required.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your 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.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can ride or dine in style with $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus a bonus $20 in December after adding their Card to their Uber account. Use your Uber Cash on rides and orders in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
  • $199 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. Receive up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for your CLEAR Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) with the Platinum Card®.
  • Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Use Global Dining Access by Resy to access premium dining experiences. Receive Priority Notify and unlock insider access to some of the world's most sought-after restaurants with Global Dining Access by Resy. Download the Resy iOS app or log into Resy.com and add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile to take advantage of your special benefits and discover restaurants near you.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of as high as 175,000 points with the Amex Platinum. Welcome offers may vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

The Amex Platinum card is one of the most exclusive cards with tons of luxury travel benefits.

Sure, it has a $695 annual fee, but it also has an incredible range of benefits that deliver lots of value (rates & fees).

For our purposes, we’ll consider up to $200 prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, the $199 CLEAR Plus credit, and up to $200 Uber Cash benefit to be face value. Therefore, the effective annual fee is $96. Enrollment might be required for some of these benefits.

The Amex Platinum card earns 5x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines, as well as flights and prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com. Note that there is a cap of 5x earnings on flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com to up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.

According to our valuations, you’d need to spend around $872 every year on qualifying flight and hotel bookings to offset the fee.

Bottom Line:

For this analysis, we excluded a lot of high-value perks and benefits of the Amex Platinum card. For most people interested in luxury travel, it makes sense to keep this card open even if you don’t make a single purchase on the card!

American Express® Gold Card

NEW OFFER
American Express® Gold CardTerms Apply / Rates & Fees
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Apply Now(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 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 100,000 Points. Find Out Your Offer.
Up to $2,200
$325
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card

The American Express® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
  • 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
  • 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com
Cons
Card Highlights
  • You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 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.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
  • $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
  • $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
  • Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $325.
  • Terms Apply.
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Apply and find out if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer as high as 100,000 points with the Amex Gold card. Welcome offers may vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.

The Amex Gold card is one of the best cards out there, thanks to a generous rewards structure.

The card comes with a $325 annual fee (rates & fees), though we subtracted $120 for the up to $10 monthly Uber Cash benefit that can be used on Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. Enrollment is required, and terms apply.

We’ve also subtracted the $10-per-month dining credit, giving you up to $120 in value per year, since it is quite flexible and can be used at Grubhub, the Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment is required.

Similarly, we’ve deducted the value of the Resy credit of up to $100, as all it requires is for you to use your Amex Gold card at any restaurant that takes reservations through Resy. That said, we’ve omitted the Dunkin’ credit of up to $84, as it is more limited in usefulness. Enrollment is required for these benefits.

If you maximize the full value of the Uber Cash credit, monthly dining credit, and Resy credit, you can receive up to $340 in annual value — a net of $15 more than the annual fee you’d pay for the card.

In which case, the value from the 4x points at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 in spending per calendar year, then 1x), 4x points on U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in spending per calendar year, then 1x), and up to 3x points on flights booked directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com, is all just a bonus to you.

Bottom Line:

If you can use all of the dining-related credits and perks, then having the Amex Gold card in your wallet is almost a no-brainer!

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.

The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles
$1,350
$395
Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-840)
Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.

Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.

Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.

 

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
Cons
  • $395 annual fee
  • Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status
Card Highlights
  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

The Capital One Venture X card is quite popular when it comes to premium travel rewards cards since it comes with quite a few excellent perks at a much lower annual fee than many other premium credit cards.

With the Capital One Venture X card, you pay an annual fee of $395. But this annual fee is relatively easy to offset each year thanks to the card’s 10,000 annual bonus points and $300 annual travel credit for purchases made through Capital One Travel.

In fact, if you travel at least once per year, those 2 items combined should offer you at least $400 in annual value, offsetting the annual fee.

Then, when you factor in the other card benefits, such as 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel, 2x miles on all other purchases, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, and access to Capital One lounges and Priority Pass lounges, it is easy to see why the card is a fan favorite and how simple it is to come out ahead each year.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Star rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating iconStar rating icon
U.P. Rating 
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!
Earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
75,000 miles
$1,350
$95
Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent Credit (670-850)
Why We Like This Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • 5x miles per $1 on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
  • Up to a $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
Cons
  • $95 annual fee
  • Limited elite benefits
Card Highlights
  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
Financial Snapshot
  • APR: Purchases: 19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None
Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

If you’re not in the market for a premium credit card or are just starting your journey in the world of points and miles, then the Capital One Venture card is a good option.

Not only does it have a much lower annual fee of $95, it still comes with a lot of solid perks and benefits to help provide value to cardholders.

For starters, each year you receive a $50 annual experience credit that you can use on bookings made with Lifestyle Collection properties through Capital One Travel. If this is something you think you’ll easily be able to use each year, that effectively lowers the annual fee of the card to $45.

From there, you’d only need to spend $1,250 on the card each year to earn 2,500 miles, which would offset the remaining $45, based on our valuation of Capital One Miles.

However, you’d likely also receive some value out of the other card benefits, like Hertz Five Star status, a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, rental car insurance, and access to the Capital One transfer partners.

The card products we discussed above are some of the most popular options on the market, but seeing as this is an ultimate guide, we will provide a breakdown of what credits and benefits will help you offset the annual fee of other top cards.

American Express

Amex Gold Upgraded Points LLC 07 Large
Go Platinum! Image Credit: Upgraded Points
SCROLL FOR MORE

Card

Annual fee

Earning rates

Credits and benefits to bring annual fee down

American Express® Business Gold Card$375

(rates & fees)

1x-4x pointsAmerican Express® Business Gold Card
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the top two eligible categories where your business spends the most each month from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Terms Apply.
  • Up to $240 flexible business credit upon enrollment (up to $20 in statement credits monthly toward eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and office supply Stores)
  • Up to $155 Walmart+ credit (statement credit for 1 monthly Walmart+ membership after you pay with your card each month)
American Express® Green Card*

$150 1x-3x pointsAmerican Express® Green Card
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on travel, including airfare, hotels, cruises, tours, car rentals, campgrounds, and vacation rentals.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® Points on transit purchases, including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways.
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the US.
  • Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on the American Express® Green Card.
  • Terms Apply
  • $209 annual CLEAR Plus credit

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95

(rates & fees)

1%-6% cash-backBlue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
  • 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
  • 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
  • 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
  • 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
  • 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
  • Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
  • Terms Apply.
  • Up to a $10 monthly statement credit after using your enrolled card for a subscription purchase, including a bundle subscription purchase, at disneyplus.com, Hulu.com, or Plus.espn.com U.S. websites. Subject to auto-renewal.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express$695

(rates & fees)

1x-5x pointsThe Business Platinum Card® from American Express
  • Earn 5x Membership Rewards® points on eligible travel purchases like flights, prepaid hotels, and prepaid short-term rentals booked through Amex Travel
  • Earn 1.5x points on each eligible purchase at:
    • U.S. construction material
    • Hardware suppliers
    • Electronic goods retailers
    • Software & cloud system providers
    • Shipping providers
  • Earn 1.5x points on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
  • Earn 1x points on other eligible purchases
  • Up to $200 airline fee credit
  • Up to $200 Hilton credit
  • Up to $120 wireless statement credit
  • Up to $250 Adobe Creative Solutions credit
  • Up to $209 CLEAR Plus credit
  • Up to $1,150 in annual Dell credits
  • Up to $360 Indeed credit
  • Access to Amex Centurion lounges and Priority Pass lounges upon enrollment
  • Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status and Hilton Honors Gold status
  • Enrollment is required for some of these benefits

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150

(rates & fees)

1x-2x milesDelta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
  • Earn 2X SkyMiles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • Earn 1X SkyMiles on all other eligible purchases.
  • Up to $100 Delta Stays credit
  • $200 Delta flight credit after you spend $10,000 on the card in a calendar year
  • Free checked bags
  • 15% off Delta award bookings using SkyMiles)
  • 20% back on inflight purchases

Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150

(rates & fees)

1x-2x milesDelta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card
  • Earn 2x SkyMiles on purchases at U.S. Shipping providers and at U.S. providers for Advertising in select media on up to $50,000 of purchases per category, per year.
  • Earn 2x SkyMiles on eligible purchases made directly with Delta and on every eligible dollar spent at restaurants.
  • Earn 1x SkyMiles on every eligible dollar spent on other purchases.
  • Up to $150 Delta Stays credit
  • $200 Delta flight credit after you spend $10,000 on the card in a calendar year
  • Free checked bags
  • 15% off Delta award bookings using your SkyMiles
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card$350

(rates & fees)

1x-3x milesDelta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
  • Earn 3X SkyMiles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
  • Earn 2X SkyMiles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
  • Earn 1X SkyMiles on all other eligible purchases.
  • Up to $120 ride-sharing credit (up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your card to pay for U.S. ride-sharing purchases with select providers)
  • Up to $120 Resy credit (up to $10 in statement credits each month after you pay with your card at U.S. Resy restaurants)
  • Up to $150 Delta Stays credit
  • Free checked bags
  • 15% off Delta award bookings using your SkyMiles
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Annual Companion Certificate
  • Complimentary upgrades on Delta flights (subject to availability)
  • Enrollment is required for some of these benefits
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card$350

(rates & fees)

1x-3x milesDelta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card
  • Earn 3x SkyMiles spent on purchases made directly with Delta and hotels
  • Earn 1.5x SkyMiles on eligible transit and U.S. shipping purchases, plus single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more. Terms and miles cap apply. *If your purchase qualifies for a category that has a higher mileage accelerator, only the higher accelerator will apply.
  • Earn 1x SkyMiles on other purchases
  • Up to $120 ride-sharing credit (up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your card to pay for U.S. ride-sharing purchases with select providers)
  • Up to $120 Resy credit (up to $10 in statement credits each month after you pay with your card at U.S. Resy restaurants)
  • Up to $200 Delta Stays credit
  • Free checked bags
  • 15% off Delta award bookings using your SkyMiles
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Annual Companion Certificate
  • Complimentary upgrades on Delta flights (subject to availability)
  • Enrollment is required for some of these benefits
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card$650

(rates & fees)

1x-3x milesDelta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
  • Earn 3x SkyMiles on purchases made directly with Delta
  • Earn 1x SkyMiles on other eligible purchases
  • Up to $120 ride-sharing credit (up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your card to pay for U.S. ride-sharing purchases with select providers)
  • Up to $240 Resy credit (up to $20 in statement credits each month after you pay with your card at U.S. Resy restaurants)
  • Up to $200 Delta Stays credit
  • Free checked bags
  • 15% off Delta award bookings using your SkyMiles
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Annual Companion Certificate
  • Complimentary upgrades on Delta flights (subject to availability)
  • Access to Amex Centurion Lounges and 15 visits to Delta Sky Clubs (with the ability to unlock unlimited visits through spending)
  • Enrollment is required for some of these benefits
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card$650

(rates & fees)

1x-3x milesDelta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
  • Earn 3x SkyMiles on purchases made directly with Delta
  • Earn 1.5x SkyMiles on eligible transit, U.S. shipping & office supply store purchases
  • Earn 1x SkyMiles on other purchases
  • Up to $120 ride-sharing credit (up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your card to pay for U.S. ride-sharing purchases with select providers)
  • Up to $240 Resy credit (up to $20 in statement credits each month after you pay with your card at U.S. Resy restaurants.)
  • Up to $250 Delta Stays credit
  • Free checked bags
  • 15% off Delta award bookings using your SkyMiles
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Annual Companion Certificate
  • Complimentary upgrades on Delta flights (subject to availability)
  • Access to Amex Centurion Lounges and 15 visits to Delta Sky Clubs (with the ability to unlock unlimited visits through spending)
  • Enrollment is required for some of these benefits

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card*

[up cc_id="13695"name="hilton-aspire-annual-fee-number"] 3x-14x pointsHilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
  • Earn 14x Hilton Honors Bonus Points when you make eligible purchases on your card at participating hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio
  • Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for eligible travel purchases: on flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com and on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
  • Earn 7x Hilton Honors Bonus Points on dining at U.S. restaurants, including takeout and delivery
  • Earn 3x Hilton Honors Bonus Points for other eligible purchases on your card
  • Terms Apply
  • Annual Free Night Reward (earn up to 2 more free nights after spending $30,000 and $60,000 on your card in a calendar year)
  • Up to $400 annual Hilton resort credit ($200 semi-annually)
  • Up to $200 annual flight credit ($50 per quarter)
  • $209 CLEAR Plus credit
  • $100 annual property credit (at participating Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts and Conrad)
  • Complimentary top-tier Hilton Honors Diamond status
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150. Offer Ends 8/13/2025.

(rates & fees)

3x-12x pointsHilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
  • Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
  • Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
  • Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
  • Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
  • Terms Apply.
  • Up to $200 annual Hilton credit ($50 per quarter)
  • Free Night Reward (after you spend $15,000 on the card in a calendar year
  • Complimentary Hilton Gold status
The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card$195

(rates & fees)

3x-12x pointsThe Hilton Honors American Express Business Card
  • Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on eligible Hilton purchases.
  • Earn 5X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on other purchases made using the Hilton Honors Business Card on the first $100,000 in purchases each calendar year, 3X points thereafter.
  • Terms apply.
  • Up to $240 annual Hilton credit ($60 per quarter)
  • Complimentary Hilton Gold status
 
$250

(rates & fees)

2x-6x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
  • Earn 4X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on up to $15,000 in combined purchases at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets per calendar year, then 2X points).
  • Earn 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Terms Apply.
  • Complimentary Marriott Gold status
  • Free Night Award redeemable at properties costing up to 50,000 points per night (after spending $15,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • 1,000 bonus points per stay
  • 15 Elite Night Credits
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card$650

(rates & fees)

2x-6x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
  • Earn 3X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines
  • Earn 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card.
  • Terms Apply.
  • Annual Free Night Award redeemable at properties costing up to 85,000 points per night
  • Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status
  • Up to $300 annual dining credit ($25 per month)
  • Priority Pass airport lounge access upon enrollment
  • $100 annual property credit (at participating Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis properties)
  • 25 Elite Night Credits
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card$125

(rates & fees)

2x-6x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card
  • Earn 6x Marriott Bonvoy® points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
  • Earn 4x Marriott Bonvoy® points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
  • Earn 2x Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Terms Apply.
  • Free Night Award redeemable at properties costing up to 35,000 points per night (and a second after spending $60,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • Complimentary Marriott Gold Elite status
  • 7% discount on eligible bookings at Marriott hotels
  • 15 Elite Night Credits

*All information regarding the American Express® Green Card and Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Hot Tip:

Another great way to help offset the annual fees of American Express credit cards is by taking advantage of Amex Offers, which allows you to earn additional cash-back or additional rewards with over 100 select merchants each month.

Capital One

Capital One Venture X removing from wallet
Capital savings! Image Credit: Upgraded Points
SCROLL FOR MORE

Card

Annual fee

Earning rates

Credits and benefits to bring annual fee down

Capital One Venture X Business CardInformation collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One.

$395 2x-10x milesCapital One Venture X Business Card
  • Earn 10X miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One's travel booking site
  • Earn unlimited 2X per dollar miles on every purchase.
  • $300 annual travel credit (for purchases through Capital One)
  • 10,000 annual bonus points
  • Access to Capital One lounges and Priority Pass lounges
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Hertz Presidents Circle status
Capital One Spark Cash Plus CardInformation collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One.$150 2%-5% cash-backCapital One Spark Cash Plus Card
  • Earn unlimited 5% cash-back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One's travel booking site
  • Earn unlimited 2% cash-back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
  • Get your annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000 on the card
  • Earn an additional $2,000 bonus for every $500,000 spent in the first year of holding the card
Capital One Spark Miles for BusinessInformation collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One.$0 intro for the first year, $95 after that 2x-5x milesCapital One Spark Miles for Business
  • Unlimited 5X miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One's travel booking site
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, everywhere, no limits or category restrictions, and miles won’t expire for the life of the account
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Hertz Five Star elite status

Chase

Chase Sapphire Preferred Upgraded Points LLC 05 Large
A potential gem of a card. Image Credit: Upgraded Points
SCROLL FOR MORE

Card

Annual fee

Earning rates

Credits and benefits to bring annual fee down

Sapphire Reserve for Business℠$795 1x-8x points
  • $300 annual travel credit
  • $500 annual credit with the Edit
  • $400 ZipRecruiter credit
  • $120 in Lyft credits
  • $200 annual Google Workspace credit
  • $100 in annual credits from Giftcards.com
  • $300 in DoorDash credits
  • Access to Chase Sapphire lounges and Priority Pass lounges
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Complimentary IHG Platinum Elite status
Aer Lingus Visa Signature® Card$95 1x-3x pointsAer Lingus Visa Signature® Card
  • Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, and LEVEL.
  • Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
  • Earn 1 Avios per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Economy companion ticket (after you spend $30,000 on the card in a calendar year)
Aeroplan® Credit Card$95 1x-3x pointsAeroplan® Credit Card
  • Earn 3X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and Air Canada directly.
  • Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
  • Receive Aeroplan 25K Elite status your first year of card membership (and each year you spend $15,000 on the card)
  • Free checked bags
  • Preferred pricing on flight rewards
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus credit
  • 10% bonus on Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfers
British Airways Visa Signature® Card$95 1x-3x pointsBritish Airways Visa Signature® Card
  • Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with British Airways, Aer Lingus, Iberia, and LEVEL.
  • Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
  • Earn 1 Avios per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • 10% off British Airways flights starting in the U.S.
  • Up to $600 in reward flight statement credits toward taxes and fees
  • Travel Together Ticket (after you spend $30,000 on the card in a calendar year)
Iberia Visa Signature® Card$95 1x-3x pointsIberia Visa Signature® Card
  • Earn 3 Avios per $1 spent on purchases with Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL.
  • Earn 2 Avios per $1 spent on hotel accommodations when purchased directly with the hotel.
  • Earn 1 Avios for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • 10% discount on Iberia flights starting in the U.S.
  • $1,000 Iberia airfare discount voucher (after you spend $30,000 on the card in a calendar year)
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card$99 3x-26x pointsIHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
  • Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants.
  • Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Anniversary Free Night Award (redeemable at properties costing up to 40,000 points per night)
  • Complimentary IHG Platinum Elite status (and top-tier Diamond status after you spend $40,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • Earn $100 and 10,000 bonus points (after spending $20,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • Get your fourth night free on IHG award bookings
  • 20% discount on IHG point purchases (excludes point sales)
IHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card$99 3x-26x pointsIHG One Rewards Premier Business Credit Card
  • Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels and Resorts.
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, select advertising, and restaurants.
  • Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Anniversary Free Night Award (redeemable at properties costing up to 40,000 points per night)
  • Complimentary IHG Platinum Elite status (and top-tier Diamond status after you spend $40,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • Earn $100 and 10,000 bonus points (after spending $20,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • Get your fourth night free on IHG award bookings
  • 20% discount on IHG point purchases (excludes point sales)
Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card$95 2x-17x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
  • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • Earn 2X points for every $1 you spend on all other purchases.
  • Annual Free Night Award (redeemable at properties costing up to 35,000 points per night)
  • Complimentary Marriott Silver Elite status
  • 15 Elite Night Credits
Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ Credit Card$250 2x-18.5x pointsMarriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ Credit Card
  • Earn up to 18.5X total points for every $1 spent at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
  • Earn 4X points per $1 on the first $15,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores and dining
  • Earn 2X points per $1 spent on other travel purchases
  • Earn 2X points per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Free Night Award redeemable to properties costing up to 50,000 points (after you spend $15,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • 1,000 bonus points per stay
  • Complimentary Marriott Gold Elite status
  • Annual 15 Elite Night Credits
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card$299 1x-4x pointsSouthwest® Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
  • Earn 4X points on Southwest® purchases
  • Earn 2X points on spend at gas stations and restaurants, with no annual cap
  • Earn 2X points on all hotel purchases
  • Earn 2X points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services
  • Earn 2X points per $1 spent on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases (through December 31, 2025)
  • Earn 2X points per $1 spent on social media and search engine advertising, internet, cable, and phone services (through December 31, 2025)
  • Earn 1X on all other purchases
  • Complimentary Preferred seat at booking
  • Free checked bags
  • Complimentary extra-legroom seat upgrades (48 hours prior to departure if available)
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
  • 9,000 anniversary bonus points
  • 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points boost each year
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus credit
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card$99 1x-2x pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
  • Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
  • Earn 2X points on the first $5,000 in combined spending at grocery stores and gas stations each anniversary year.
  • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare (through December 31, 2025).
  • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming (through December 31, 2025).
  • Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
  • Free checked bags
  • Complimentary Standard seat (within 48 hours of departure if available)
  • 3,000 anniversary bonus points
  • 10% annual flight discount
  • 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points boost each year
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
Southwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card$149 1x-3x pointsSouthwest® Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
  • Earn 3X points on Southwest Airlines® purchases.
  • Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners through December 31, 2025.
  • Earn 2X points on the first $8,000 in combined spend at gas stations and restaurants each anniversary year.
  • Earn 2X points on local transit and rideshare through December 31, 2025.
  • Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Free checked bags
  • Complimentary Preferred or Standard seat (within 48 hours of departure if available)
  • 6,000 anniversary bonus points
  • 15% annual flight discount
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card$149 1x-3x pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
  • Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
  • Earn 2X points on the first $8,000 combined spend at grocery stores and restaurants yearly.
  • Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare (through December 31, 2025).
  • Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming (through December 31, 2025).
  • Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
  • Free checked bags
  • Complimentary Preferred or Standard seat (within 48 hours of departure if available)
  • 6,000 anniversary bonus points
  • 15% annual flight discount
  • 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points boost each year
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card$229 1x-4x pointsSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
  • Earn 4X points on Southwest Airlines eligible purchases
  • Earn 2X points at gas stations and restaurants, with no annual cap
  • Earn 2X points per $1 on local transit and commuting, including rideshare purchases (through December 31, 2025)
  • Earn 2X points per $1 on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming purchases (through December 31, 2025)
  • Earn 2X points per $1 on Rapid Rewards Hotels and Car Rental Partners (through December 31, 2025)
  • Earn 1X point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Free checked bags
  • Complimentary Preferred Seat at booking
  • Complimentary extra-legroom seat upgrades (48 hours prior to departure if available)
  • 7,500 anniversary bonus points
  • 10,000 Companion Pass qualifying points boost each year
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
The New United℠ Business Card$150 1x-5x milesThe New United℠ Business Card
  • Earn 5x total miles per $1 spent on hotel stays purchased through United® Hotels
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
  • 2 United Club one-time passes per year
  • $125 United travel credit annual (after you make 5 United flight purchases of $100 or more each calendar year)
  • Up to $100 in credits annually toward United Hotels ($50 biannually)
  • Up to $100 in annual ride-sharing statement credits
  • Up to $50 in United travel credits annually (when you book Avis or Budget car rental directly through cars.united.com)
  • Up to $120 in Instacart credits each calendar year
  • Up to $100 in JSX credits annually
  • Up to $25 in credits on FareLock purchases annually
  • Free checked bags
  • 2 continental U.S. Economy Plus seat upgrades (after spending $25,000 each calendar year)
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
The New United Club℠ Business Card$695 1.5x-5x milesThe New United Club℠ Business Card
  • Earn 5x miles on stays purchased through Renowned Hotels and Resorts for United® Cardmembers
  • Earn 2x miles on United purchases
  • Earn 1.5x miles on all other purchases
  • United Club lounge access
  • Free checked bags
  • Up to $200 in credits annually on prepaid hotel stays purchased directly through Renowned Hotels and Resorts
  • Up to $150 in annual ride-sharing statement credits
  • Up to $240 in Instacart credits each calendar year
  • Up to $100 in United travel credits annually (when you book Avis or Budget car rental directly through cars.united.com)
  • Up to $200 in JSX credits annually
  • Up to $50 in credits on FareLock purchases annually
  • Free checked bags
  • Earn 2 global Economy Plus seat upgrades (after spending $40,000 each calendar year)
  • Premier upgrades on award tickets
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
The New United Club℠ Card$695 1x-4x milesThe New United Club℠ Card
  • Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • United Club lounge access
  • Free checked bags
  • Up to $200 in credits annually on prepaid hotel stays purchased directly through Renowned Hotels and Resorts
  • Up to $150 in annual rideshare statement credits
  • Up to $240 in Instacart credits each calendar year
  • Up to $100 in United travel credits annually (when you book Avis or Budget car rental directly through cars.united.com)
  • Up to $200 in JSX credits annually
  • Free checked bags
  • Earn a 10,000-mile award flight discount (after $20,000 in purchases up to 2 times each calendar year)
  • Premier upgrades on award tickets
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
  • IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status
The New United℠ Explorer Card$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $150 1x-5x milesThe New United℠ Explorer Card
  • Earn 5 total miles per $1 spent on hotel stays purchased through United® Hotels
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Free checked bags
  • 2 United Club one-time passes per year
  • Earn a 10,000-mile award flight discount (after $20,000 in purchases up to 2 times each calendar year)
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus Statement credit
  • $100 United credit (after you spend $10,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • Up to $100 in credits annually toward United Hotels ($50 biannually)
  • Up to $60 in annual ride-sharing statement credits
  • Up to $50 in United travel credits annually (when you book Avis or Budget car rental directly through cars.united.com)
  • Up to $120 in Instacart credits each calendar year
  • Up to $100 in JSX credits annually
  • Premium upgrades on award tickets
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
The New United Quest℠ Card$350 1x-5x milesThe New United Quest℠ Card
  • Earn 5 miles per $1 on stays purchased through Renowned Hotels and Resorts for United® Cardmembers
  • Earn 3 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel, dining and select streaming services
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Annual 10,000-mile discount to use toward an eligible award flight (plus a second after you spend $20,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • Earn 2 global Economy Plus seat upgrades (after spending $40,000 each calendar year)
  • $200 annual United Travel credit
  • Up to $150 in credits annually toward United Hotels ($50 biannually)
  • Up to $100 in annual ride-sharing statement credits
  • Up to $80 in United travel credits annually (when you book Avis or Budget car rental directly through cars.united.com)
  • Up to $180 in Instacart credits each calendar year
  • Up to $150 in JSX credits annually
  • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus credit
  • Free checked bags
  • 25% back on inflight purchases
World of Hyatt Business Credit Card$199 1x-9x pointsWorld of Hyatt Business Credit Card
  • Up to 9 points total per $1 spent at Hyatt - 4 Bonus Points per $1 on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • 2 bonus points per $1 spent in your top three spend categories each quarter.
  • 2 bonus points per $1 spent on fitness club and gym memberships
  • 1 bonus point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
  • Up to $100 in Hyatt statement credits each year
  • 10% redemption bonus on award stays (after you spend $50,000 in a calendar year, on up to 20,000 points back)
  • Hyatt Leverage membership (up to 15% off standard rates)
The World of Hyatt Credit Card$95 1x-9x pointsThe World of Hyatt Credit Card
  • Earn up to 9x points total for Hyatt stays – 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent on qualified purchases at Hyatt hotels & up to 5 Base Points per $1 from Hyatt as a World of Hyatt member
  • Earn 2x points per $1 at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit, rideshares, and fitness clubs/gym memberships
  • Earn 1x point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Annual Free Night Certificate (redeemable at a Category 1-4 hotel, and a second certificate after you spend $15,000 on the card in a calendar year
  • Complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status
  • 5 Elite Qualifying Nights

Citi

Citi Strata Premier Upgraded Points LLC 01 Large
Join the upper strata. Image Credit: Upgraded Points
SCROLL FOR MORE

Card

Annual fee

Earning rates

Credits and benefits to bring annual fee down

Citi Strata Elite℠ Card$595 1.5x-12x pointsCiti Strata Elite℠ Card
  • Earn 12x points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on cititravel.com
  • Earn 6x points on air travel booked on cititravel.com
  • Earn 6x points at restaurants, including restaurant delivery services, every Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. ET, and 3x points any other time
  • Earn 1.5x points on all other purchases
  • Up to $300 annual hotel credit when you purchase through Citi Travel
  • Up to $200 annual Splurge credit with select merchants (including 1stDibs, American Airlines, Best Buy, Future Personal Training, and Live Nation)
  • Up to $200 annual Blacklane credit
  • Priority Pass lounge access
  • 4 Admirals Club passes each year
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Qualifying Citigold clients receive a $145 banking relationship statement credit toward their annual fee
Citi Strata Premier℠ Card$95 1x-10x pointsCiti Strata Premier℠ Card
  • Earn 10X points on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked through CitiTravel.com.
  • Earn 3X points on air travel, other hotel purchases, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and EV charging stations.
  • Earn 1X point per $1 on all other purchases.
  • $100 annual hotel benefits through Citi Travel (on purchases of $500 or more)
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®$595 1x-10x milesCiti® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
  • Earn 10x AAdvantage® miles on eligible hotels booked through aa.com/hotels and on eligible car rentals booked through aa.com/cars
  • Earn 4x AAdvantage® miles spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
  • Earn 5x AAdvantage® miles after you spend $150,000 in purchases in a calendar year on eligible American Airlines purchases for the remainder of the year
  • Earn 1x AAdvantage® miles on all other purchases
  • American Airlines Admirals Club lounge access
  • Free checked bags
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Up to $120 in annual Lyft credits
  • Up to $120 in annual Grubhub credits
  • Up to $120 in annual Avis or Budget rental credits
  • 25% savings on inflight purchases
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®$0 intro annual fee, then $99 after the first year 1x to 2x milesCiti® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
  • Earn 2x AAdvantage® miles at restaurants
  • Earn 2x AAdvantage® miles at gas stations
  • Earn 2x AAdvantage® miles on eligible American Airlines purchases
  • Earn 1x AAdvantage® mile on all other purchases
  • Free checked bags
  • Priority boarding
  • 25% savings on inflight purchases
CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard®$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $99 1x-2x milesCitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard®
  • Earn 2x AAdvantage® miles on eligible American Airlines purchases, and on purchases at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and at gas stations
  • Earn 1x AAdvantage® miles spent on other purchases
  • Free checked bags
  • Priority boarding
  • 25% savings on inflight purchases
  • 25% savings on inflight Wi-FI
  • Annual companion certificate (after you spend $30,000 on the card in a calendar year)

Bank of America

Bank of America logo on phone
BoA offers benefits. Image Credit: sdx15 via Adobe Stock
SCROLL FOR MORE

Card

Annual fee

Earning rates

Credits and benefits to bring annual fee down

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card$95 1.5x-2x pointsBank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Up to $100 in airline incidental statement credits annually
  • Up to $120 in airport security statement credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card$550 1.5x-2x pointsBank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every dollar spent on travel and dining purchases
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases
  • Up to $300 in airline incidental statement credits annually
  • Up to $150 annually for lifestyle conveniences (including video streaming services, food delivery, fitness subscriptions, and ride-sharing services)
  • Up to $120 in airport security statement credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
  • Priority Pass lounge access
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card$95 1x-3x milesAlaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card
  • Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases.
  • Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases.
  • Earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare (annually after you spend $6,000 on the card in a calendar year)
  • Free checked bags
  • 20% back on inflight purchases
  • $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ membership

Alaska Airlines Visa® Business credit card$70 for the company and $25 per card 1x-3x milesAlaska Airlines Visa® Business Credit Card
  • Earn 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases
  • Earn 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, shipping and local transit (including rideshare) purchases
  • Earn 1 mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases
Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard®$0 introductory fee for the first year, then $79 thereafter. 1x-3x pointsFree Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard®
  • 3 points per $1 spent on eligible Spirit purchases
  • 2 points per $1 spent on eligible dining and grocery store purchases
  • 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • $100 Companion Flight Voucher each anniversary (after making $5,000 in purchases within the prior year)
  • Priority boarding
  • 25% rebate on inflight purchases
Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard®$89 1.5x-3x milesAir France KLM World Elite Mastercard®
  • Earn 3 Miles per $1 spent directly on Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and SkyTeam member airlines purchases
  • Earn 1.5 Miles per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • 5,000 bonus miles every year on your account anniversary (after you spend $50 or more on purchases within the anniversary year)
  • 20 XP every year on your account anniversary

Barclays

Barclays
Barclays cards might work for you. Image Credit: David Franklin via Shutterstock
SCROLL FOR MORE

Card

Annual fee

Earning rates

Credits and benefits to bring annual fee down

Breeze Easy™ Visa Signature® Credit Card$89 None 
  • 7,500 anniversary bonus points
  • One-Way Bundle upgrade (with every $15,000 in purchases)
  • Priority boarding
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
Emirates Skywards Premium World Elite Mastercard®$499 1x-3x milesEmirates Skywards Premium World Elite Mastercard
  • Earn 3 Skywards Miles on eligible Emirates purchases
  • Earn 2 Skywards Miles on eligible travel purchases
  • Earn 1 Skywards Mile on all other purchases
  • Complimentary Emirates Gold elite status during your first year (retain it by spending $40,000 per year)
  • 10,000 anniversary bonus miles (after $30,000 in spending)
  • 25% discount when you buy or gift miles
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
Emirates Skywards Rewards World Elite Mastercard®$99 1x-3x milesEmirates Skywards Rewards World Elite Mastercard
  • Earn 3 Skywards Miles for every $1 spent on emirates.com or at the Emirates Sales office.
  • Earn 2 Skywards Miles on eligible travel purchases.
  • Earn 1 Skywards Mile on all other purchases.
  • Complimentary Emirates Silver elite status during your first year (retain it by spending $20,000 per year)
  • 25% discount when you buy or gift miles
Frontier Airlines World Mastercard®$99 1x-5x milesFrontier Airlines World Mastercard®
  • Earn 5x miles on eligible purchases at flyfrontier.com.
  • Earn 3x miles on eligible restaurant purchases.
  • Earn 1x miles on all other purchases.
  • 2 free checked bags
  • Free seat upgrades (if you have Gold elite status
  • Award redemption fee waiver
  • Priority boarding
  • Earn a $100 flight voucher each year (after spending $2,500 or more)
The JetBlue Plus Card $99 1x-6x pointsThe JetBlue Plus Card
  • Earn 6x points on eligible JetBlue purchases
  • Earn 2x points at restaurants and eligible grocery stores
  • Earn 1x points on all other purchases
  • Free checked bag
  • 10% of your redeemed points back
  • 5,000 anniversary bonus points
  • 50% savings on inflight purchases
  • Receive a $100 statement credit (after you purchase a JetBlue Vacations package of $100 or more)

The JetBlue Business Card$99 1x-6x pointsThe JetBlue Business Card
  • 6x points on JetBlue purchases
  • 2x points at restaurants and office supply stores
  • 1x points on all other purchases
$499 1x-6x pointsJetBlue Premier World Elite Mastercard®
  • 6X points on eligible JetBlue and Paisly purchases
  • 2X points at restaurants and eligible grocery stores and 1X points on all other purchases
  • Access to Priority Pass and JetBlue lounges
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • Up to $300 in statement credits on Paisly purchases per calendar year
  • Priority boarding
  • 50% savings on inflight purchases
  • 5,000 anniversary bonus miles
  • 10% of your redeemed points back
Wyndham Rewards® Earner℠ Plus Card$75 1x-6x pointsWyndham Rewards® Earner℠ Plus Card
  • Earn 6 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at Hotels By Wyndham as well as on qualifying gas purchases.
  • Earn 4 points per $1 spent on eligible dining and grocery purchases (excluding Target® and Walmart®).
  • Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham Timeshare resorts down payments). That means paying bills, buying home office supplies, car repairs, and more are earning you your next great vacation!
  • Automatic Platinum elite status
  • 10% discount on Wyndham award nights
  • 7,500 anniversary bonus points
Wyndham Rewards® Earner℠ Business Card$95 1x-8x pointsWyndham Rewards® Earner℠ Business Card
  • Earn 8 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at Hotels By Wyndham as well as on qualifying gas purchases.
  • Earn 5 points per $1 spent on eligible marketing, advertising services, and utilities.
  • Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases (excluding Wyndham Timeshare resorts down payments). That means paying bills, buying office supplies, purchasing inventory, and other business expenses can help you earn your next great vacation!
  • Automatic Diamond elite status
  • 10% discount on Wyndham award nights
  • 15,000 anniversary bonus points

Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo branch Salt Lake City
Wells Fargo has a suite of credit cards. Image Credit: Ryan Smith
SCROLL FOR MORE

Card

Annual fee

Earning rates

Credits and benefits to bring annual fee down

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card$95 1x-5x pointsWells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card
  • Earn 5X points on hotels
  • Earn 4X points on airlines
  • Earn 3X points on other travel and restaurants
  • Earn 1X points on other purchases
  • $50 annual statement credit (with $50 minimum airline purchase)
One Key+™ Card$99 2%-9% cash-backOne Key+™
  • Earn up to 9% in OneKeyCash on Expedia and Hotels.com.
  • Earn 5% in OneKeyCash on Vrbo properties in the U.S.
  • Earn 3% in OneKeyCash at gas stations, grocery stores, and dining.
  • Earn 2% in OneKeyCash on other purchases.
  • Automatic One Key Gold status
  • $100 in OneKeyCash each year on your card anniversary
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard®$95 1x-10x pointsChoice Privileges® Select Mastercard®
  • 10X points on stays at participating Choice Hotels® properties, plus on Choice Privileges point purchases.
  • 5X points on purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, home improvement stores, and phone plan services.
  • 1X points on other purchases.
  • 30,000 bonus points each year on your account anniversary
  • Complimentary Choice Privileges Platinum Elite status
  • Automatic 20 Elite night credits each year
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit

Final Thoughts

Making an informed decision on whether getting a specific credit card is worthwhile can involve a bit of math, along with personal valuations.

Some credit card annual fees will be easier to justify than others, but ultimately, it all comes down to how much you value specific benefits and perks. After all, just because something says it offers a specific dollar amount of value doesn’t mean you get that value out of it if you don’t use it.

This is why it is very important to run your own numbers and consider your own travel habits and preferences when deciding which credit card is right for you.

Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at that status level through the duration of the offer. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are credit cards with annual fees worth it?

Credit cards with annual fees can be extremely worth it for you depending on your situation. In fact, many credit cards with annual fees offer more value in benefits and perks than the fee you’ll pay. That said, this depends heavily on how much use you’ll get out of these benefits and perks, so be sure to run the numbers for yourself to be sure it makes sense.

Are credit cards with annual fees bad?

Not at all! In fact, many of the best credit cards from a perks and benefits perspective charge an annual fee, and with that can come with benefits like airport lounge access, elite status, complimentary upgrades, annual credits, free night certificates, and more.

How can you offset the annual fee on your credit card?

The easiest way to offset the annual fee on your credit card is by taking full advantage and maximizing all of its benefits. For instance, if a cards annual fee is $199 but comes with $400 worth of credits, then you can come out ahead each year just by taking full advantage of the cards credits before factoring in its other benefits and rewards.

What perks do credit cards with annual fees offer?

Credit cards with annual fees can come with a wide range of perks, with cards charging a higher annual fee usually offering more perks. These can include benefits like annual statement credits, airport lounge access, elite status, a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, free checked bags, and more.

Jarrod West's image

About Jarrod West

Boasting a portfolio of over 20 cards, Jarrod has been an expert in the points and miles space for over 8 years. He earns and redeems over 1 million points per year, and his work has been featured in outlets like The New York Times.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy  and terms of service  apply.

Deluxe Travel Provided by UP Pulse
DMCA.com Protection Status