When To Add a Co-Branded Card to Your Wallet (And When To Skip It)

It’s no secret that transferable rewards reign supreme in the world of points and miles. Having access to flexible currencies such as Chase Ultimate Rewards, Amex Membership Rewards points, Citi ThankYou Points, and Capital One miles, among others, means greater award availability and more flexibility in planning.

But there’s an argument for adding co-branded cards to your wallet, almost as building blocks. Co-branded cards, whether they’re connected to an airline or hotel loyalty program, give you perks and benefits tied to those brands that generic travel cards simply cannot offer.

Here’s when you should consider adding co-branded cards to your wallet, and which ones we recommend based on your travel habits.

Why I Recommend Starting With Transferable Points

Transferable points and miles are those tied to the “umbrella” programs, if you will: Chase, American Express, Citi, Wells Fargo, Capital One, and Bilt. These banks and programs issue cards that earn their own currencies, such as Chase Ultimate Rewards and Capital One miles.

An easy example of this is the Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card, which earns Ultimate Rewards points on any purchases.

BEST FIRST TRAVEL CARD

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

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.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

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

Welcome Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

75,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49 - 27.74% 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 card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), gas, EV charging, vacation home rentals with top brands, and streaming services.

It offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and strong travel insurance coverage, including primary car rental insurance. If you travel a few times a year and spend on dining, the card is likely to be a good choice, but it’s hard to justify if you don’t dine out or travel often.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on all travel booked via Chase Travel
• 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), gas, EV charging, vacation home rentals with top brands (such as Airbnb and Vrbo), and select streaming services
• 2x points on all other travel worldwide

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Subject to Chase’s 5/24 application restrictions

Read Full Review

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 Travel℠, 3x on dining, 3x on vacation homes at top brands, 3x on gas & EV charging, 3x on top streaming services and online groceries (excluding Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs), 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.
• Earn up to $100 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Emergency Evacuation and Transportation, and more.
• Get a year of complimentary Apple TV when activated by December 31, 2026 - a value of $180.
• Complimentary DashPass membership, a $120 value for 12 months. Enjoy $0 delivery fees and reduced service fees on eligible DoorDash orders, plus exclusive Chase savings on grocery, everyday essentials, and more. Activate by 12/31/29.
• Receive one statement credit of up to $120 every four years as reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card for a Global Entry, TSA Precheck^® or NEXUS application.
• Transfer points to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49 - 27.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

The Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Plus Credit Card, on the other hand, is still issued by Chase, but purchases made with that card earn Southwest Rapid Rewards points.

When you have a pool of Ultimate Rewards points, you can transfer those points to any of Chase’s airline and hotel partners, which include United, Aeroplan, Marriott, and Southwest itself.

The same goes for Membership Rewards, Citi ThankYou Points, and the points issued by most other banks. Each program has its own set of transfer partners, and while some overlap, there are also unique partnerships. But when you earn Southwest Rapid Rewards via purchases on your Southwest Plus card, for example, those points can mainly be used to book Southwest flights.

If you’re someone who values options and flexibility when it comes to award bookings, transferable currencies are the clear winner. But as you build your wallet, adding co-branded cards can become part of your rewards strategy, especially as you consider loyalty program perks and benefits.

When a Co-Branded Card Makes Sense

There are certainly times when a co-branded card adds value. As a practical example, my parents live about 20 minutes from Nashville (BNA), their home airport. Because Nashville is a Southwest hub, our family has been flying Southwest for my entire life.

Southwest flights are the most convenient at the Nashville airport, where the airline dominates. The same goes for Delta flights in Atlanta (ATL), United in Chicago (ORD), and so on.

When you live near one of these “hub” airports, holding a co-branded card with that airport’s most popular airline can be practical. Because my parents primarily fly Southwest, they have the Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card, which includes the first checked bag free for the main cardmember and up to 8 additional passengers on their reservation.

Now, would I recommend that as the only card they carry? No. But they already have the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, and adding a $229 annual fee is small potatoes compared to how much they’ll save on bags, seat selections, and so on.

How To Choose Co-Branded Cards

Start by selecting the airline you fly with the most or the hotel where you spend the most nights in a year, and research the best co-branded card offered by that program. Based on what’s already in your wallet, you should also consider earning categories. Are you lacking a card that earns well on gas purchases? Groceries? Streaming? That could help in your decision-making process. Here’s a good starting place.

Best Airline Co-Branded Cards

Depending on which airline you fly with most frequently, I’d consider looking at the following:

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

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 card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, preferred boarding and seat selection, and money back on inflight purchases.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Southwest Rapid Rewards^® Priority Credit Card

This card focuses on the Southwest traveler with anniversary points, preferred boarding and seat selection, and money back on inflight purchases.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$780

Annual Fee

$229

APR

19.49% - 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 card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

The Southwest Priority card is the most premium personal Southwest card offering from Chase. It offers multiple bonus categories to help you earn more Southwest Rapid Rewards points and is loaded with valuable benefits for Southwest flyers.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points on Southwest Airlines eligible purchases
• 2x points at gas stations and restaurants
• 1x points on all other purchases

Cons

• $229 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable points

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• 7,500 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 4 points per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines^® purchases, including flights, inflight, and Southwest gift cards.
• Earn 2 points for every $1 you spend at gas stations and restaurants
• First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.
• Select a Preferred seat at booking, at no additional charge, when available.
• Cardmembers and up to 8 passengers in the same reservation will board with Group 5 giving them earlier access to overhead bins.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: $0

Rewards Center

Southwest Rapid Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

LAST CHANCE

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card

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 card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with free checked bags, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.

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.

Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card

This card provides bonus SkyMiles on all purchases, along with free checked bags, priority boarding, and discounted award flights.

Welcome Offer

Apply and find out your welcome offer: As High As 80,000 Bonus Miles + Earn a $250 Statement Credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. You may not be eligible for the maximum welcome offer amount. Offer ends 11/04/2026.

As High As 80,000 Miles + $250. Find Out Your Offer.

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,210

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.

APR

19.74%-28.74% 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 card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

Frequent Delta flyers will love the Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card. The card offers great benefits that will help save you money, effectively mimics low-level elite status with Delta SkyMiles, and helps you earn miles even faster, all for a low annual fee. Let’s dive into the benefits to see if the Delta Gold card is a good fit for your needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• $100 Delta Stays Credit: You can earn up to $100 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings on delta.com.
• Receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel after you spend $10,000 in purchases in a year.
• Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.

Cons

• Moderate annual fee
• Earn rate for Delta flights is relatively low compared to other travel cards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Apply and find out your welcome offer: As High As 80,000 Bonus Miles + Earn a $250 Statement Credit after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership. You may not be eligible for the maximum welcome offer amount. Offer ends 11/04/2026.
• Enjoy a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.
• Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• $120 Rideshare Credit: With your $120 Rideshare Credit, earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after your first Card renewal when you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
• $200 Delta Flight Credit: After you spend $10,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit to use toward future travel.
• When you use your Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card, you can earn: 2X miles on Delta Purchases, 2X miles at restaurants, 2X miles at U.S. supermarkets, 1X miles on all other eligible purchases. Every mile you earn brings you closer to the places you want to go. Turn them into your next trip, use them for seat upgrades, and more.
• Check your first bag for free on Delta flights worldwide and get your second bag free when flying domestically.
• $100 Delta Stays Credit: Get up to $100 back per year as a statement credit after using your Delta SkyMiles^® Gold American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
• Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
• Want even more flexibility? Take up to $50 off the cost of your flight for every 5,000 miles you redeem with Pay with Miles when you book on delta.com.
• Receive a 20% savings in the form of a statement credit on eligible Delta in-flight purchases after using your Card.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
• Send money, split purchases, and focus on the moments that matter – with Send & Split^®. Powered by Venmo and PayPal. Enrollment Required. Terms apply.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74%-28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Delta SkyMiles Frequent Flyer Program

ELEVATED OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

United℠ Explorer Card

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.

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

United℠ Explorer Card

With priority boarding privileges, no foreign transaction fees and more, MileagePlus members will definitely enjoy their partnered card.

Welcome Offer

Earn 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

Up to 80,000 miles

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$960

Annual Fee

$150

APR

19.99% - 28.49% 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 card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

You travel United all the time, but you have heard that there could be ways to make your travel experiences even better, including priority boarding, free bags, and more miles.

You should consider the United℠ Explorer Card, because this card does all that and more!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 9x total miles per $1 on eligible United flights
• 3x miles per $1 on all other eligible United purchases
• 2x miles per $1 on dining purchases (including delivery services), and hotel stays when booked with the hotel

Cons

• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $150
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 80,000 bonus miles
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
• 9x total miles on eligible United flights and 3x miles on all other eligible United^® purchases.
• 2x miles on dining and hotel stays when booked with the hotel. 1x mile on all other purchases.
• Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $200 per roundtrip. Terms Apply. Plus, Group 2 priority boarding on United^® flights.
• 2 United Club one-time passes per year - over a $100 value
• Over $500 in partner credits each year
• Save 10% or more when booking flights with miles. Premier members save even more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

United MileagePlus Frequent Flyer Program

Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature^® card

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.

Provides the potential to earn plenty of points to fly with Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) when you spend at least $6,000 a year on the card!

Atmos™ Rewards Ascent Visa Signature^® card

Provides the potential to earn plenty of points to fly with Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines or over a dozen partners. Plus, get an annual companion fare from just $122 ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) when you spend at least $6,000 a year on the card!

Welcome Offer

Limited-time online offer: Earn up to 80,000 bonus points. Get 60,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 or more on purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account. Earn an additional 20,000 bonus points after spending a total of $5,000 or more on purchases within the same 90-day period.

Up to 80,000 points + $99 Companion Fare

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,280

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.74% to 27.74% 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 card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

With the Atmos Rewards Ascent card in your wallet, you can get great perks and earn points at the same time. This is a win-win if Alaska or Hawaiian is the airline you prefer to fly with! Plus, its annual companion fare is a great benefit for traveling couples.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x points per $1 spent on Alaska and Hawaiian purchases
• 2x points per $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging, local transit (including rideshare), cable, and select streaming services
• 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases

Cons

• Charges a $95 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Limited-time online offer: Earn up to 80,000 bonus points. Get 60,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 or more on purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account. Earn an additional 20,000 bonus points after spending a total of $5,000 or more on purchases within the same 90-day period.
  
• Alaska’s Famous Companion Fare™. Get a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines flights booked direct.
• Free checked bag. Any cardholder who purchases airfare with their card, and up to 6 additional guests traveling on the same reservation, may check their first bag free.
• Enjoy priority boarding so you can get to your seat quicker, when you pay for your flight with your card.
• Earn unlimited 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your points don’t expire on active accounts.
• Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all points earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America^® account.
• Enjoy 20% back on all Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines inflight purchases and get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership when you pay with your new card.
• With oneworld^® Alliance member airlines and Alaska’s Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem points.
• Flexibility with no blackout dates on Alaska Airlines flights when booking with points or a companion fare.
• Plus, no foreign transaction fees.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74% to 27.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards Frequent Flyer Program

Chase Air Canada Aeroplan^® Credit Card

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 Aeroplan card is good for Air Canada flyers who want to earn more points and receive automatic elite status.

Chase Air Canada Aeroplan^® Credit Card

The Aeroplan card is good for Air Canada flyers who want to earn more points and receive automatic elite status.

Welcome Offer

For a limited time, new Chase Air Canada Aeroplan cardmembers can earn up to 115,000 bonus Aeroplan points: 75,000 bonus Aeroplan points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, plus an additional 40,000 bonus Aeroplan points after spending $20,000 on purchases in the first 12 months from account opening.

115,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$1,725

Annual Fee

$195

APR

19.99% - 28.49% 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 card application.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

U.S.-based flyers may think they have little need for the Chase Air Canada Aeroplan^® Credit Card, but it can be useful for travelers who frequently redeem Aeroplan points or fly with Air Canada.

The card offers benefits including Aeroplan elite status, bonus points, statement credits, and travel protections.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on Air Canada purchases
• 3x points on travel purchases
• 2x points at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining at restaurants (including takeout and eligible delivery services)

Cons

• $195 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn up to 115,000 bonus points
• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, 40,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 in the first 12 months.
• $195 Annual Fee
• Enjoy automatic 25K Aeroplan Status with benefits such as Priority Check-In, Priority Boarding (Zone 2), Additional Baggage Allowance, Star Alliance Recognition and eUpgrade Credits.
• Earn up to 5X total points for each dollar spent on Air Canada. Earn 3X points on travel purchases.
• Earn 2X points for each dollar spent at grocery stores, on dining at restaurants, and at gas stations. Earn 1X point for each dollar spent on all other purchases.
• Up to $100 in Air Canada statement credits (delivered as up to two $50 credits semi-annually).
• Save 15% on eligible Air Canada flight redemptions as a cardmember.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.99% - 28.49% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

The JetBlue Plus Card

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.

Earn major points to redeem for JetBlue flights and more! Earn up to 6x points in various categories and a yearly point bonus.

Apply Now(at Barclays' secure site)

The JetBlue Plus Card

Earn major points to redeem for JetBlue flights and more! Earn up to 6x points in various categories and a yearly point bonus.

Welcome Offer

Earn 70,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.

70,000 points

Annual Fee

$99

Why We Like This Card

The information regarding the JetBlue Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. 

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The JetBlue Plus card is a must-have for frequent JetBlue flyers. Not only does it help you earn more points on all of your JetBlue flights, but also offers perks like a rebate on award tickets, free checked bags, discounts on inflight purchases, and more.

Plus, The JetBlue Plus card can help you qualify for JetBlue TrueBlue Mosaic elite status, making your future flights with JetBlue even more rewarding.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 6x points on eligible JetBlue purchases
• 2x points at restaurants and eligible grocery stores
• Free first checked bag for you and up to 3 eligible travel companions on JetBlue-operated flights

Cons

• Charges an annual fee
• Does not earn transferable rewards

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 70,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.
• Earn 6X points on eligible JetBlue purchases.
• Earn 2X points at restaurants and eligible grocery stores.
• Earn 1X points on all other purchases.
• Earn 5,000 bonus points every year after your account anniversary.
• Enjoy Mosaic benefits if you spend $50,000 or more on purchases each calendar year with your card.
• Enjoy an annual $100 statement credit after purchasing a JetBlue Vacations package of $100 or more with your JetBlue Plus Card.
• 50% inflight savings on cocktails and food purchases.

Financial Snapshot

• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

JetBlue TrueBlue Frequent Flyer Program

Best Hotel Co-Branded Cards

Same thing here. Each hotel program offers its own selection of cards, but these are a good starting point:

LIMITED TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card

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.

An excellent high-earning Hilton credit card that comes with perks like Hilton Honors Gold status and up to $200 in Hilton credits every year.

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.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card

An excellent high-earning Hilton credit card that comes with perks like Hilton Honors Gold status and up to $200 in Hilton credits every year.

Welcome Offer

Earn 130,000 Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 01/13/2027.

130,000 points + Free Night Reward

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $650

Annual Fee

$150

APR

19.74%-28.74% 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 card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you’re someone who loves traveling and loves staying in Hilton hotels, adding a co-branded Hilton hotel card to your wallet is almost a no-brainer. From automatic Hilton elite status to up to $200 in Hilton credits every year, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card can be a great fit for Hilton loyalists looking to up their travel game.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 12x points per $1 at Hilton hotels
• 6x points per $1 at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and U.S. restaurants
• 4x points per $1 at U.S. online retail purchases

Cons

• $150 (rates & fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 130,000 Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 01/13/2027.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors Gold Status with benefits like an 80% Points earning Bonus on Stays, daily food & beverage credit or continental breakfast (varies by brand & region), space-available room upgrades at select properties, and more.
• Get up to $50 in statement credits each quarter for purchases made directly with a property in the Hilton portfolio on your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card. That’s up to $200 in statement credits annually.
• Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
• 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 Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 4X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of U.S. Online Retail purchases.
• Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year. With Hilton Honors Diamond status, enjoy benefits like: A 100% Bonus on all Base Points you earn on every stay, Premium Wi-Fi at select properties, Daily food & beverage credit at select brands in the U.S. and complimentary continental breakfast at select brands outside of the U.S., Space-available room upgrades at select properties, and Executive lounge access at select properties.
• Hilton Honors American Express Surpass^® Card Members can enjoy complimentary National Car Rental^® Emerald Club Executive^® status, including perks like Executive Area Access (for full-size reservations and above) in the USA and Canada. Card Members must enroll in the National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status through their American Express online account using their Card. Terms apply.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
• $150 annual fee.
• Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.74%-28.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Hilton Honors

LIMITED-TIME OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The New IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

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.

An excellent card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Gold Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

The New IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card

An excellent card for IHG fans, offering a free night every year, automatic Gold Elite status, and your fourth night free on award stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn 180,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

180,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$900

Annual Fee

$150

APR

19.49%- 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 card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you regularly visit IHG hotels throughout the year, then the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is probably a perfect card to have in your wallet.

The IHG Premier card offers a great bundle of perks and benefits, including automatic Gold elite status, an annual free night certificate, and travel protections.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Up to 24x points on IHG stays
• 5x points on flights booked directly and car rental agencies, dining, gas stations, and grocery stores
• 3x points on all other purchases

Cons

• $150 annual fee
• Does not earn transferable points

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Card Highlights

• Limited Time Launch Offer! Earn 180,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• Earn up to 24X total points on stays at IHG Hotels & Resorts
• Earn 5X points on flights booked directly, car rental agencies, at gas stations, grocery stores (new!) and restaurants. Earn 3X points per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• Get an Anniversary Free Night each year. Plus, redeem 3 nights, get 4th night free when you redeem points for a consecutive four-night IHG hotel stay.
• NEW! Enjoy up to $100 in Food & Beverage Rewards annually at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
• This card offers over $700 in value your first year!
• Automatic Gold Elite Status as long as you remain an IHG One Rewards Premier cardmember. Plus, get 15 Elite Night Credits each year (new!).
• IHG One Rewards Bonus points are redeemable at Hotels & Resorts such as InterContinental^®, Kimpton^®, Hotel Indigo^®, Crowne Plaza^®, EVEN^® Hotels, & Holiday Inn^®
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49%- 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

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 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 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.

Apply Now(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 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.

Up to 60,000 points

UP's Offer Valuation*:

$840

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49% - 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 card application.

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: 19.49% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

World of Hyatt

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

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.

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Apply Now(at Chase's secure site)

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card

Marriott loyalists will love this card's annual Free Night Award, automatic elite status, and up to 17x points per $1 on Marriott hotel stays.

Welcome Offer

Earn 3 Free Night Awards (valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases in the first 3 months spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening.

3 Free Night Awards

UP's Offer Valuation*:

Up to $1,050

Annual Fee

$95

APR

19.49% -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 card application.

Good to Excellent

Why We Like This Card

If you’re a frequent traveler and a Marriott loyalist, there’s a lot to love about the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Credit Card. The card comes packed with several great benefits like a free hotel night once a year, automatic Silver Elite status (with a fast-track to Gold Elite status), and multiple options for redeeming points.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Earn big when you use your card at thousands of participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels
• Earn big at grocery stores, gas stations, and dining
• Automatic Silver Elite Status

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• Marriott Silver Elite Status is the lowest status tier

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 3 Free Night Awards (valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $3,000 on qualifying purchases in the first 3 months spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within 3 months of account opening.
• Special Offer through 6/30/2027: Get up to $100 in statement credits after spending $500 on eligible airline purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually.
• Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases annually on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
• Earn 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 you spend.
• 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary.
• Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy^® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless^® Card.
• Receive 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status, and path to Gold Status when you spend $35,000 on purchases each calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Your points don't expire as long as you make purchases on your card every 24 months.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 19.49% -27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Marriott Bonvoy

When To Skip a Co-Branded Card

If you’re just getting started with points and miles, I would prioritize travel cards with transferable currencies. This will simply give you more options. Start with one of our favorite cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, the Capital One Venture X card, the Citi Strata Premier^® Card, or the American Express^® Gold Card.

These cards give you access to airline and hotel partners, both domestic and international, and the freedom to move rewards across multiple programs on multiple trips. And again, if you don’t live near an airline’s hub, such as Delta in Atlanta or Southwest in Nashville, and only fly a few times each year, having a co-branded card makes less sense.

Why I Don’t Recommend Store Co-Branded Cards

Store co-branded cards are credit cards offered by a particular brand. While these cards reward frequent shoppers, you’re simply not getting the best value, especially if we’re talking travel.

These rewards will likely be funneled back into whatever store you’re earning with, and the redemption options will be slim to none. While cash-back rates can be decent, for most points-and-miles people, the opportunity cost of using a store co-branded card doesn’t outweigh that of earning transferable rewards.

Final Thoughts

If you live near an airline’s hub airport or find yourself spending most hotel nights with the same chain, adding a co-branded card from that program can be beneficial. You’ll likely score perks such as elite status, free night awards, checked bags, and so on.

That said, I’d still prioritize a card that earns transferable rewards as your main character and let the co-branded card play a supporting role.