Do You Really Need a Credit Card To Book a Hotel Room?

You don’t have to use a credit card to book most hotel rooms, but using a credit card can make it easier. Hotels generally require a card on file for booking and at check-in to secure your reservation and cover incidental charges and potential damages. If you don’t have a credit card, there are alternative ways to book and pay for a hotel stay.

This guide explains why hotels require credit cards, how incidental holds work on credit and debit cards, and what happens if your credit card doesn’t have enough available credit for a hold at a hotel. 

We also detail alternative hotel payment methods, including debit cards, prepaid cards, and cash deposits if you prefer not to use credit. Finally, we explore the benefits of using a credit card for hotel bookings, from rewards and points to travel insurance, security protections, and cardholder benefits.

Why Hotels Require Credit Card Information

Hotels require credit card information when you book and check in to secure your reservation and cover incidental charges. 

With a valid payment method on file, the hotel can collect payment for your reservation even if you don’t show up. Hotels often require cancellation at least 24 to 48 hours before check-in time and will charge a fee (usually equivalent to a night’s stay) if you cancel too late or are a no-show to your reservation.

Incidental Holds

In addition to covering the room rate, hotels typically require a credit card on file for incidental expenses. These are charges beyond the room rate, such as parking, food, minibar usage, or spa treatments. With your credit card on file, the hotel can easily charge you for incidentals at checkout without authorizing each charge during your stay.

Hotels also keep credit card information on file to cover potential damage, such as smoke stains or odors in a nonsmoking room, broken furniture, or stained carpets. With a credit card on file, the hotel can charge you for serious damage after you’ve checked out. If the damages exceed the incidental hold amount, it may process an additional charge. For example, if you have an authorization hold of $200 but cause $300 in damage, the hotel can initiate another charge for the remaining $100 in damage.

Hotels generally hold authorization on your credit card when you check in. The hold isn’t a charge but temporarily holds funds against your credit limit. For example, a hotel with a $200 incidental hold temporarily reserves $200 of your card’s credit line. The authorization hold is released after you check out, and you’ll usually see it released within a few business days — or used as a charge if you had incidentals beyond your room rate.

How much a hotel requires for an incidental charge depends on the hotel. You should expect a larger hold for luxury hotels and resorts with numerous optional services, including spa treatments and dining facilities, while budget hotels may have smaller holds. You’ll likely have a minimal hold of around $50 at a budget hotel. Midrange hotels may hold about $100 to $200, while luxury hotels and resorts may have holds ranging from $200 to $500.

Can a Hotel Put a Hold on a Maxed-Out Credit Card?

A hotel may be unable to place an incidental hold authorization on a credit card at or near its credit limit. Authorization holds require sufficient available credit, so a maxed-out card may not have enough credit to secure the hold. 

The hotel’s system will likely decline the hold request if your credit card is close to its limit. To check in with an incidental hold, you must use a different credit card or other payment option the hotel accepts.

If you know your credit card is close to its limit, try to pay down the balance before arrival to free up available credit and make room for the hotel’s authorization hold. You can contact the hotel before arrival to confirm the hold amount.

Bottom Line:

You may be refused check-in if you don’t have a valid credit card with available credit or another acceptable deposit method.

Can You Book a Hotel Without a Credit Card?

You can book a hotel without a credit card, but we don’t recommend it. Your options for booking and checking in to a hotel without a credit card include using a debit card, prepaid debit card, cash, or check. However, these options have limitations and can be more complicated than providing a credit card.

Booking a Hotel With a Debit Card

Using a debit card is one of the most common credit card alternatives for booking a hotel. Most hotels accept debit cards, which function similarly to credit cards in payment. 

Major hotel brands that accept debit cards include:

• Hilton, including Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree by Hilton, Embassy Suites by Hilton, and Hampton by Hilton
• Hyatt, including Hyatt Regency, Grand Hyatt, Hyatt Place, and Hyatt House
• IHG, including Holiday Inn, Staybridge Suites, and Candlewood Suites
• Marriott, including Marriott Hotels, Sheraton, Courtyard by Marriott, and SpringHill Suites by Marriott

However, the biggest problem with using a debit card at a hotel is that the funds are drawn directly from your checking account. Any holds or charges the hotel places will immediately affect your available balance. 

When you check in, and the hotel places an authorization hold for incidentals, the amount is frozen in your account and unavailable to use for anything else. So if you check in to a hotel with $500 in your bank account and the hotel places a $200 incidental hold, you’d only have $300 left in available funds. 

The hold stays in place until you check out and should be released within a few business days after checking out. But that’s $200 less in your checking account that you could use while traveling.

Compare that to a credit card. The incidental hold is placed against your credit line and could make a difference if you spend close to your credit limit. But if you have plenty of room between your balance and credit limit, you should be able to spend normally and see the incidental hold clear quickly after checking out.

Other Hotel Payment Options

Hotels may accept other payment options, including prepaid debit cards, cash, or checks. However, you shouldn’t assume these will be accepted, as hotels may have policies against them. 

Hotel brands with flexible payment options include:

• Motel 6 accepts advance payments made with cash or traveler’s check. Checks received 21 days before the arrival date are accepted.
• Extended Stay America accepts a $100 cash deposit per room.
• Additional hotels, particularly independent and budget hotels, may accept cash and other payments. Some major brand hotels accept cash, but policies vary between hotel locations.

Prepaid debit cards can be used in most places where credit cards are accepted, but hotels may not accept them because they are difficult to use for incidental holds. Because prepaid cards are loaded with an exact amount, hotels may face challenges processing holds and verifying funds. You might have to load extra funds to cover holds and other expenses. 

Hot Tip:

Confirm with the hotel before arrival that prepaid debit cards are accepted. It may be more suitable to use a prepaid card for the room rate and a credit or debit card for incidentals.

Hotels are unlikely to accept cash or checks as the primary payment method before you arrive, particularly if you book online. However, some hotels allow cash payments for room rates and incidental deposits at check-in. Usually, these are independent or budget hotels, and you should expect to pay a higher deposit than you would with a card payment. 

Checks are usually not accepted at check-in, as hotels can’t get immediate verification of funds or the flexibility of placing an incidental hold.

In some cases, such as corporate bookings or extended stays arranged by companies, hotels may accept direct bank account transfers as payments. However, hotels usually avoid this option for regular reservations. Transfers usually cover the room rate, and the hotel still requires a card on file for incidentals and potential damages.

Bottom Line:

Travelers without a credit card should plan alternative hotel payment methods. Confirm policies in advance to understand how you can pay. If possible, bring a backup payment method to avoid complications at check-in.

Benefits of Using Credit Cards for Hotel Bookings

Using a credit card for hotel bookings and incidental holds is easier, but that’s not the only reason you should use a credit card. You can earn valuable rewards, take advantage of consumer protections, get travel insurance, and take advantage of travel-related perks when you use certain credit cards for hotel purchases.

Earning Credit Card Rewards on Hotels

Many credit cards earn rewards on hotel purchases. These range from basic cash-back cards to cobranded hotel cards that earn bonus rewards points with participating hotel brands. 

Many travel credit cards earn elevated points on travel-related purchases, including hotel stays. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® earns 3 Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on travel, including hotels, and 10 points per $1 on hotels booked with Chase Travel.

Book a stay with a cobranded hotel credit card and you can earn bonus points at a higher rate than a typical cash-back or travel credit card. For example, the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card* earns 14 points per $1 on Hilton purchases. These can help maximize your rewards when you book directly with the brand and pay with your cobranded credit card.

*The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

Whether you earn cash-back, points, or miles on your hotel purchase, you have various options for redeeming credit card rewards. Depending on the card, you may be able to redeem your rewards for free stays, room upgrades, and discounted travel benefits such as dining or spa treatments. Travel credit cards, particularly hotel cobranded cards, can help you stretch your hotel budget.

Covering Expenses With Travel Insurance

Often, travel credit cards offer travel insurance benefits, which can include valuable benefits for hotel stays and beyond. These benefits are generally complimentary with your annual fee and can give you peace of mind as you travel, letting you know you’re covered if your plans go awry.

Credit card travel insurance often includes trip cancellation and interruption insurance, trip delay insurance, rental car insurance, and lost luggage reimbursement. For example, if you need to cancel a trip, your credit card’s trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you up to the allowable amount for nonrefundable payments made for a hotel booking. Credit card rental insurance allows you to decline the rental car company’s coverage and use your card’s benefits instead.

Benefiting From Cardholder Perks

Beyond rewards and trip protection, cardholder benefits can make your hotel stay more comfortable. Some travel cards, particularly hotel cobranded cards, offer perks to cardholders such as early check-in, late checkout, complimentary breakfast, on-property credits, available room upgrades, and even free night certificates.

Using Protection and Security Benefits

An often overlooked but no less important benefit of using credit cards instead of debit cards or other payment options for hotel bookings is the security. Credit cards offer robust fraud protection and are safer overall, typically offering zero liability for unauthorized charges and easier options for disputing credit card charges.

If your card information is compromised during the booking or while on a trip, your credit card issuer can turn off your compromised card and reissue a new card, sometimes offering overnight delivery to your location if you need it. A bank may offer similar speedy service with a compromised debit card, but the risk is greater because fraudulent charges come from your bank account. 

With a credit card, the issuer is likely to resolve fraudulent charges before you have to pay for them. With a debit card, your compromised bank account funds could be locked up, leaving you stuck without spending money while traveling if you don’t have a backup payment method.

Another area of protection where credit cards typically outshine other payment methods is disputes. If a hotel overcharges or fails to deliver promised services, you can initiate a dispute with your credit card issuer. If you win the dispute, the credit card company investigates the claim and reverses the charge. 

Debit cards typically offer dispute options, but a dispute claim is stronger with a credit card — remember that a debit card is your money at stake, while a credit card puts the bank’s money at risk. 

If you use other payments for a hotel, such as cash or check, don’t expect liability protection or the ability to dispute charges.

Best Cards for Booking Hotels

Hotel and travel credit cards are the best options for booking hotels. Generally, these cards offer robust rewards and benefits that can help you save money and enhance your stay with perks and protections. Let’s look at some of the best hotel and travel credit cards for booking hotels.

Hilton Aspire Card

The Hilton Aspire card earns 14 points per $1 on Hilton purchases, has up to $400 in annual Hilton Resort credit, and offers up to $100 to spend at Waldorf Astoria and Conrad properties. Cardholders get an annual free night reward and can earn additional nights after spending $30,000, then $60,000 on the card in a calendar year.

The card comes with Hilton Honors Diamond status, which gives you a 100% points earning bonus on stays, space-available room upgrades, executive lounge access, and a daily food and beverage credit or continental breakfast. Though the benefits are steep, so is the annual fee of $550 (rates & fees).

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

All information about Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected independently by Upgraded Points.

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.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Automatic Hilton Diamond status, an annual free night, and a travel and resort credit make this the perfect card for those who stay in Hilton hotels.

Welcome Offer

Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership

175,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$875

Annual Fee

$550

APR

20.99% - 29.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

---

Paying hundreds of dollars for an annual fee on a co-branded hotel card might seem ridiculous, but you should know that the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is much more than your run-of-the-mill hotel credit card.

The Hilton Aspire card is not only a phenomenal card for Hilton Honors loyalists, but even those who visit Hilton hotels just a few times a year can still get excellent value out of all the benefits that are packed into this card.

So let’s have a look at what makes the card so valuable to travelers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 14x points per $1 on Hilton purchases
• 7x points per $1 on select travel and at U.S. restaurants
• 3x points per $1 on all other eligible purchases

Cons

• High annual fee of $550

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 175,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership
• 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
• Enjoy up to $400 in Hilton Resort Credits (up to $200 in statement credits semi-annually) on your card each anniversary year when you stay at participating resorts within the Hilton portfolio
• Enjoy complimentary Diamond status
• $550 annual fee

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The World of Hyatt Card

The World of Hyatt card packs a lot of value into a $95 annual fee. It earns 9 points per $1 on Hyatt purchases and gives cardholders 5 elite night credits each year. Cardholders get an annual Category 1-4 Free Night Certificate and can earn another certificate after spending $15,000 on the card in a calendar year.

With the card, you get automatic World of Hyatt Discoverist status with available room upgrades, elite check-in, and 2 p.m. late checkout.

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

The World of Hyatt Credit Card

The World of Hyatt card offers a fast track to Hyatt elite status, an annual free night, and up to 9x points per $1 on Hyatt stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months. Plus, up to 30,000 more points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, up to $15,000 spent.

Up to 60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The World of Hyatt Credit Card makes your Hyatt stays more rewarding and helps you get coveted World of Hyatt elite status faster. This card is a must-have for any traveler who regularly stays at Hyatt hotels, or even for anyone who’s able to take advantage of the card’s annual free night certificate.

When you factor in all the benefits the World of Hyatt card offers, it’s easy to see why it is one of the best co-branded hotel credit cards on the market.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 9 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
• 2x points per $1 at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airline, local transit, rideshares, and fitness clubs/gym memberships
• 1x point per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• $95 annual fee

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 60,000 Bonus Points. Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. Plus, up to 30,000 More Bonus Points by earning 2 Bonus Points total per $1 spent in the first 6 months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 Bonus Point, on up to $15,000 spent.
• Enjoy complimentary World of Hyatt Discoverist status for as long as your account is open.
• Get 1 free night each year after your Cardmember anniversary at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel or resort
• Receive 5 tier qualifying night credits towards status after account opening, and each year after that for as long as your account is open
• Earn an extra free night at any Category 1-4 Hyatt hotel if you spend $15,000 in a calendar year
• Earn 2 qualifying night credits towards tier status every time you spend $5,000 on your card
• Earn up to 9 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 2 Bonus Points per $1 spent at restaurants, on airline tickets purchased directly from the airlines, on local transit and commuting and on fitness club and gym memberships
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

World of Hyatt

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

The top-tier Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card with a $650 annual fee (rates & fees) earns 6 points per $1 on Marriott purchases. It comes with an annual free night award you can redeem at Marriott hotels that cost up to 85,000 points per night.

The card offers Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, which gives you 50% more points on eligible hotel purchases, enhanced room upgrades, lounge access, 4 p.m. late checkout, and a welcome gift of points, breakfast, or an amenity that varies by brand. 

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Learn More(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.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

95,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$665

Annual Fee

$650

APR

20.24%-29.24% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program
• 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases

Cons

• Steep annual fee of $650 (rates & fees)
• 6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express^® Card

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy^® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
• 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 and 2X Marriott Bonvoy^® points on all other eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton^® or St. Regis^® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck^®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck^® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant^® American Express^® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy^® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
• Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.24%-29.24% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

Chase Sapphire Reserve card

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card rewards travel spending, including hotels. You can earn 3 Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on travel and 10 points per $1 on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel. Though there’s a $550 annual fee, you can offset $300 with the card’s $300 annual travel credit. You can also get elite benefits when you book hotel stays with The Edit, which offers daily breakfast for 2, a $100 property credit, and room upgrades.

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$550

APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

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 (740-850)

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 out there.

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

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025

Cons

• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card*×Information collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One. earns 2 Capital One miles per $1 on all purchases — including hotels — and 10 miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Book with the Premier Collection for a $100 experience credit at luxury hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals, or the Lifestyle Collection for a $50 experience credit at hotels and vacation rentals. You pay a $395 annual fee for this card (rates & fees), largely offset by the $300 annual travel credit redeemable with Capital One Travel.

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

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

Welcome Offer

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

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,350

Annual Fee

$395

APR

19.99% - 29.74% (Variable)

Credit Recommended

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 (rates & fees)
• 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

Read Full Review

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
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• 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: 19.99% - 29.74% (Variable)
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Capital One Miles

 

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum card earns 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com. There’s a $695 annual fee (rates & fees), but you can get up to $200 back in statement credits on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings with AmexTravel.com.

You also get benefits at Fine Hotels + Resorts, including daily breakfast for 2, room upgrades, a $100 credit toward eligible charges, noon check-in (when available), and guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout. Stays with The Hotel Collection offer a $100 credit toward eligible charges on bookings of 2 nights or more.

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's 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.

Learn More(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 Platinum Card^® from American Express

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

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

80,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

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 (670-850)

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, 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)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• 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.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card^® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $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^®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card^® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
• $199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• 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.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile.
• $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:

Read our guide to the best hotel credit cards for more recommendations.

Final Thoughts

Using a credit card to book a hotel offers unbeatable convenience and security, but staying at a hotel without paying by credit card is possible. If you prefer not to use a credit card, hotels may accept alternative payment options such as debit cards, prepaid cards, or cash deposits.

We recommend using a credit card when you book a hotel and leaving a card on file for incidentals. You can use credit cards to earn rewards for future travel or cash-back and get strong consumer protections, including fraud protection, dispute options, and travel insurance. Frequent travelers can benefit from hotel or travel credit cards to get perks, from complimentary breakfasts to room upgrades.