Top 10 Best Travel Credit Cards with No Annual Fee

Summary: With these top 10 travel credit cards, you may explore a world of travel rewards without having to pay annual fees. For travelers on a tight budget looking for excitement, each card offers a different set of rewards, such as extra points for meals and travel or infinite cash back.

1) Chase Freedom Unlimited®

2) Discover it® Miles

3) Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

4) United Gateway℠ Card

5) Hilton Honors American Express Card

6) American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Mastercard®

7) Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card

8) Citi Rewards+® Card

9) Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi

10) Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Best Travel Credit Cards with No Annual Fee:

1) Chase Freedom Unlimited®:

• Do you have a passion for traveling and seeing new places? Do you see yourself dreaming of gorgeous mountains, busy cities, or exotic beaches? The Chase Freedom Unlimited® travel credit card is going to be your pass to a world of rewarding experiences, so fasten your seatbelt.
• The Chase Freedom Unlimited® travel card treats every transaction like a first-class experience, in contrast to many other travel cards that restrict your bonus points to particular categories. Get an endless 1.5% cash back on anything you buy, including hotel and airfare as well as memories and street food.

But there’s still more. With its captivating extra categories, this card ups the level of rewards:

Triple Points Paradise:

Enjoy your inner delicious foods and get 3% cash back at restaurants, including takeaway and delivery services, with Triple Points Paradise. At pharmacies, restock on necessities for vacation and earn the same satisfying 3% cash back.

Go Like a King at a Lower Cost:

Organizing your ideal getaway? When you book your trip with Chase Travel, you’ll receive a remarkable 5% cash back in rewards, which will increase. That would be like receiving a vacation ticket each time you see a new place!

Bonus Notice:

Up to $20,000 in purchases made in the first year, new cards receive an additional 1.5% cash back on everything they make. That’s $300 more to enjoy your travels.

Freedom to Explore Without Breaking the Bank:

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® recognizes that expensive annual costs shouldn’t be a barrier to travel. Because of this, this card has the benefit that every budget traveler wishes for at no annual cost!

Additionally, take advantage of a special 15-month 0% APR on purchases and debt transfers, which will allow you to manage your money while you explore.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

• Infinite 1.5% cash back on every transaction
• 3% cash back at pharmacies and restaurants
• On bookings made via Bank Travel, earn 5% cash back.
• No annual fee
• Introductory APR of 0% on debt transfers and purchase

Cons:

• Cashback is in the form of rewards, not kilometers or points (which may not be useful to frequent travelers or hotel guests).
• No access to airport lounges
• Diminished proportion of cash back with certain travel cards including distinct spending categories.

2) Discover it® Miles:

• The Discover it® Miles credit card is the ideal option if you want to travel without breaking the bank.
• This travel card isn’t your typical Discover it® Miles. It does away with the guidelines and allows you to earn a phenomenal 1.5x miles for every transaction. That’s correct, every purchase you make, including a new travel backpack and a morning cappuccino, contributes to your mileage.
• Discover’s Double Miles Match after the conclusion of the first year will blow your mind. The secret is that they will match every mile you accrued throughout your first year, thereby doubling your travel benefits. Thus, you will receive a pleasant 60,000 miles as a bonus if you reach 30,000 miles, which is enough to go on some truly amazing journeys.

Freedom Reigns:

The Discover it® Miles travel card encourages flexibility, unlike other cards that tie you down to particular hotels or airlines. It’s like carrying along a travel genie who can arrange hotels, flights, and even the use of your miles to obtain statement credits for future travel expenses. Do you have an impulsive feeling? You can choose to utilize your miles to purchase the ideal travel item or to cash in your points for a weekend holiday.

The Sweetest Part: No Annual Fee

The icing on the cake is that Discover it® Miles has an amazing $0 annual charge in contrast to many other travel cards. Yes, you may enjoy all the benefits of travel and flexibility without having to pay annual fees. A travel hacker’s paradise has been reached.

Initial APR Offer:

 For the first 15 months, take advantage of a delicious 0% interest rate on purchases; after that, the regular variable APR will apply.

Free of Foreign Transaction Fee

 Travel the world without unexpected currency exchange fees.

Good Credit Score:

Applicants with strong credit scores are given an advantage when applying for this card.

So, is the Discover it® Miles a Perfect Fit?

Every story has two sides, just as there are in life. Here’s a quick summary to help in your decision:

Pros:

• Continuous 1.5 times the miles per purchase
• First-year Double Miles Match at the end
• No yearly charge
• Options for flexible return (hotels, flights, and statement credits)
• first 0% APR offer
• Absence of fees for online transactions

Cons:

• Needs a high credit score.
• Fewer miles in comparison to several high-end travel cards

3) Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card:

• The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is the key to unlocking a world of travel benefits without having to pay an annual fee.
• With its travel-friendly rewards scheme, this tiny card has a lot of power. You can say “bon journey” to boring trips and hello to exciting adventures.

Pros:

Miles on Every Milestone:

Collect 1.25 base miles for every transaction made anywhere at any time. There are no category limitations, just a constant flow of miles to fulfill your travel ambitions.

Bonus Bonanza:

After fulfilling required spending requirements within the first three months, swipe your way to a wealth of 20,000 additional miles. Imagine getting away with a free flight or a five-star hotel stay.

Rocket Flights & Hotel Haven:

Get 5x miles on hotel and car booking made via Capital One Travel to up your travel game.

Zero Annual Fee:

The VentureOne keeps things sweet with a $0 annual fee, as opposed to other travel cards that have high annual fees. Spend more on experiences and mementos and less on plastic gifts.

International Transaction Independence:

Travel the world without unexpected cost. Venture One offers free international transaction costs, allowing you to spend money freely without going over budget.

Cons:

Medium Miles Multiplier:

Although the 1.25x basic is good, it may not be as exciting as cards with greater multipliers for travelers looking to get the most out of their trips.

Lack of Airport Lounge Access:

The VentureOne does not provide free access to airport lounges, in contrast to certain other high-end travel cards. This card might not be the best fit for you if relaxing in an expensive refuge before your travel is your #1 goal.

Capital One Travel Highlight:

 The 5x mile bonus can only be used for bookings made via Capital One Travel. Although practical, it limits options for travelers who would rather use other booking services.

4) United Gateway℠ Card:

Do you have a burning desire to travel but are limited by the expensive travel credit card fees? The United GatewayTM Card is the only card you need to explore amazing experiences without having to pay a yearly fee.

This card is your traveling partner in crime, providing a wealth of advantages to fuel the desire to travel. Fasten your seatbelt and get ready to go!

Pros:

Soar with extra Miles:

After spending just $1,000 in the first three months, take off with a phenomenal 30,000 extra mile windfall. That is essentially an opportunity to get a free aircraft ticket!

Enjoy Frequent Flyer Fun Twice as Much:

Get double miles for every purchase made on United, fill up at a petrol station, and swipe on local transit. You’re getting closer to your ideal location with each touch.

Boost Your Savings:

With no costs associated with international transactions, save money. You are free to explore the planet by yourself and won’t face charges for doing so.

Traveler peace of mind:

Take advantage of trip cancellation and delay insurance, which acts as a safety net in the event of unexpected events. You can now travel with confidence since you are safe.

Cost-effective Flyer:

No yearly charge! For regular travelers who wish to collect travel points without making an annual determination, this card is ideal.

Cons:

Travel Matchmaker (possibly):

United travel is the only way to use earned miles. If you love other airlines or have a flexible travel schedule, this might not be the best option for you.

Limitation on Airport Lizards:

This card does not allow entry to airport lounges. You may want to think about getting a higher-tier United card if your main goal is to unwind in luxurious pre-flight havens

5) Hilton Honors American Express Card:

This card has an exciting NO ANNUAL FEE benefit that makes it a powerful option for explorers on a tight budget. Yes, you may get lots of travel benefits without going over budget.

This is why the Hilton Honors American Express Card is unique in the travel industry:

Boost Your Stays:

Receive an amazing 7X points for each dollar you spend at Hilton Hotels. Imagine using this amazing piece of plastic to transform that weekend trip into a luxurious week-long retreat.

Food Store Goldmine:

At some U.S. food stores, you may earn a nice 5X points in addition to satisfying your desire to travel. Gain points for upcoming travels by stocking up on food supplies or travel necessities.

Welcome Bonus Bonanza:

After spending $2,000 on purchases within the first six months, new cardholders can earn a huge 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points. That is essentially a guaranteed complimentary hotel stay!

Easy Benefits:

Avail automatically free Hilton Honors Silver Status, opening the door to special advantages like late check-out and hotel upgrades (based on availability).

Worldwide Identification:

Because of American Express’s support, your card is accepted at millions of locations globally, allowing you to spend as you like wherever your travels take you.

Travel Protection Features:

Purchase protection and travel injury coverage are included to give you peace of mind.

Let’s now discuss travel, or should we say turkey:

Pros :

•  No yearly cost
• Stellar rewards program applicable to certain grocery stores and stays at Hilton
• Rich welcome bonus
• Automatic Hilton rewards Silver Status with worthwhile benefits.
• Acceptance throughout the world

Cons:

•  The rewards are specific to Hilton hotel stays and particular supermarkets.
• No access to airline restrooms
• The reduced pace of point collection for non-bonus categories

6) American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Mastercard®:

Fasten up for an amazing welcome bonus. 10,000 AAdvantage® miles are yours simply for using the AAdvantage® MileUp® Mastercard® during the first three months of purchase, virtually a free national trip. Additionally, you may earn two miles for every dollar you spend on regular grocery store purchases and flights on American Airlines, including ones that are delivered right to your home. You collect one mile for every dollar spent on other purchases, building up your mileage for upcoming travels.

Travel the World Without Going Bankrupt:

For the astute traveler who enjoys a good deal, this card is ideal. Spend money abroad with no additional fees when using the AAdvantage® MileUp® Mastercard®, so forget about the sting of foreign transaction fees. You may now enjoy eating cheap food in Singapore or stocking up on goods in Paris without thinking about going over budget.

Pros:

No yearly charge:

Reduce the amount you spend on credit cards by putting the money toward your trip fund.

Extra-bonanza:

A nice bonus of 10,000 miles begins your journey.

Double drop on miles:

Increase your mileage collection by earning twice as many miles on American Airlines tickets and groceries.

No fees for international transactions:

Travel the world without having to pay extra for changing currencies.

Cons:

No travel benefits:

You’ll need to budget extra for travel expenses because this card doesn’t offer priority boarding or free checked luggage.

Reduced base earn rate:

Except for groceries and American Airlines, the majority of your transactions will only earn you one mile for every dollar.

7) Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card:

This travel credit card is also an ideal option for frequent travelers who want to optimize their miles and cut down on expenses because it offers a wide range of benefits without the heavy annual fee.

Pros:

Welcome Aboard Bonus:

After just $1,000 in transactions made with your card during the first six months, sit up and get ready to receive a wonderful 10,000 bonus miles. That would be almost like getting a free vacation right there!

Double Miles on Delta & Dining:

Enjoy your inner luxury and earn a delicious 2 miles for the dollar spent at restaurants worldwide, including food and delivery, with Double Miles on Delta & Dining. Additionally, every dollar you spend with Delta will earn you two miles, satisfying your need to travel and getting you closer to the ideal place sooner.

No Foreign Transaction Fees:

Take over the world without going broke! You may travel the world without worrying about unexpected expenses because this card removes those unpleasant foreign transaction fees.

Unexpected Extras:

Savor an excellent selection of extra advantages, such as access to special Gold Offers and an extended guarantee on purchases.

Cons:

For the Basics, Miles:

For all other purchases, seatbelt up for the customary 1 mile per dollar. It may not be a rate that causes noise, but it guarantees that each touch advances your kilometers traveled.

No Entry to the Room:

This card does not provide you access to those luxurious airline restrooms, as compared to certain other luxury travel cards. However, who needs expensive rooms when you’re traveling to paradise?

Interest Rates to Take Into Account:

If you don’t pay off your amount in full each month, the variable APR (20.99% – 29.99%) might send your miles bonanza into a downward slide. Spending carefully is essential!

If cost is important to you, the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card is an excellent choice for loyal Delta customers. It may not have as many luxuries as more expensive cards, but it does have a good rewards program with bonus miles for regular purchases and a welcome bonus. For those who enjoy traveling and are often on the road, this card could be the ideal travel partner. Recall that responsible spending is essential to optimizing your gains and preventing interest rate uncertainty.

8) Citi Rewards+® Card:

Are you filling up on gas and groceries? Get a remarkable two ThankYou® Points for every dollar spent at supermarkets and gas stations, up to a maximum of $6,000 each year. It’s similar to receiving prizes for traveling while refueling your appetite and desire!

Bonus Bonanza:

After fulfilling the spending limit within three months, those with new cards can get a delightful 20,000 ThankYou® Point welcome bonus. That can be used to start your trip fund with $200 in gift cards or statement credits.

Travel Online Power:

Until June 30, 2024, take advantage of the power of five ThankYou® Points for every dollar spent on hotels, auto accommodations, and attractions when you book through the Citi Travel® portal. With these extra points, picture boosting your stay into a true vacation.

Benefits from Points:

Use your ThankYou® Points to book a range of travel-related accommodations, flights, and statement credits. Take advantage of a 10% points bonus on your annual payments for the first 100,000 points, which can extend your travel benefits even further.

Every Purchase Counts:

Every Purchase Matters Here, there is an understanding of categories. Get one ThankYou® Point for every dollar spent on other qualifying purchases. Little purchases compound up and help you get closer to your vacation targets.

Pros:

• No yearly cost – Save money as you earn awards!
• Extra categories for regular expenses: groceries, gas, and necessities for travel add to your travel money.
• Welcome bonus, get a point boost to get started on your vacation ambitions.
• Exchange options, you have the freedom to decide how to use your points.

Cons:

• Compared to certain travel cards, the points rate on non-bonus categories is lower.
• The Citi ThankYou® program is linked to points, and not all preferred travel partners may provide transfers of points.

The Citi Rewards+® Card is an excellent choice for regular consumers who have a strong desire for travel benefits. Earning points towards your next journey is simple with its bonus categories and no annual cost structure. However, you may want to look into cards with transfer point systems if you value earning as many points as possible for particular travel partners.

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9) Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi:

Calling all lovers of Costco! If you’re in the mood for huge savings on anything from bulk purchases to thick beef the Citi Costco Anywhere Visa® Card is your ticket to a wealth of cash-back benefits. Drive your buying fever and observe as rewards collect more quickly than complimentary samples leave!

Pros:

Unbelievable Cash Back Spree:

For the first $7,000 spent each year, this card offers a remarkable 4% cash back at gas stations and electric vehicle charging stations. It would be like receiving money back for filling up your car with savings! You will still receive a solid 1% after that.

Eat and Run for Prizes:

Foodies, enjoy! Enjoy a wonderful 3% cash back on dining-out purchases and qualifying travel costs with this card, which includes Costco Travel. Enjoy a luxurious retreat or a restaurant date, and watch the cash-back rewards stack up.

Costco Cash Back Paradise:

Enjoy 2% cash back on all of your Costco in-store and online purchases with Costco Cash Back Paradise. Get huge savings on all of your storage space purchases!

Daily Rewards:

You will receive a handsome 1% cash back on all other purchases, so no activity will go without a reward.

RIP, Annual Fee Enemies:

The magic words on this card are “No annual fee,” provided that your Costco membership is still active. Yes, you read correctly—pure cash-back benefits free from annual fees!

Cons:

Benefits at the storage facility:

Every year, cash-back rewards are sent out as Costco cash rewards certificates, which can only be used in-store or online at Costco.com.

Limited Travel advantages:

Although the card itself doesn’t include specific travel advantages like access to airport restrooms or travel protection, you will still get cash back on purchases made for travel.

Are You an Excellent Match for the Costco Anywhere Visa® Card?

This card is a treasure if you’re a regular Costco customer who spends a lot on food, travel, and transportation. It’s an attractive option because it doesn’t have an annual fee and offers high cash-back rewards. But you should think about getting a different card if you value travel benefits or would rather have more choices when it comes to collecting your rewards.

10) Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card:

The Wells Fargo AutographTM Card can be your ideal travel companion, so fasten your seatbelt. Examining this fascinating credit card in detail will help us determine whether it is the key to unlocking remarkable travel experiences.

Pros:

Three Stars a Stronghold:

Get three times as many points on dining, travel, and cell phone bills. That’s right while earning thousands of reward points, give in to your foodie needs, discover new places, and maintain your connections.

Bonus Bonanza:

Get off to a great start on your travels! After spending $1,000 on purchases during the first three months, take advantage of a bonus of 20,000 points. That means maybe complimentary nights or airfare—hello, ideal getaway!

No Annual Fee:

Compared to certain travel cards, the AutographTM Card offers an amazing $0 yearly charge. That means that instead of using your credit card for purchases, you can use all of the money you’ve saved to travel.

The Maximum in Simplicity:

There’s no need to handle several cards for various categories. With a streamlined rewards program that meets your travel needs, the AutographTM Card makes life easier.

Cons:

Moderate Rewards Rate:

The base rate of 1X point on other purchases may not be ideal for daily spending, despite the remarkable 3X points on eating and travel.

Limited Transfer Partners:

Compared to other premium travel cards, the card’s transfer choices to various travel reward programs may not be as extensive.

Foreign Transaction Fees:

If your travels take you abroad, be aware that there is a 2.5% foreign transaction fee.

Travelers on a tight budget who value dining and travel benefits will find great value in the Wells Fargo AutographTM Card. This card lets you collect points toward your ideal trip without breaking the budget thanks to its attractive initial offer, generous points system on travel necessities, and lack of an annual charge. On the other hand, you might want to look into other solutions if you travel abroad frequently or wish to have access to a larger pool of transfer partners.

Frequently Asked Questions: