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For frequent travelers, having a credit card with travel benefits is a must-have. Capital One Travel and Amex Travel are two popular options, but which one is right for you? In this article, we compare their features, rewards, benefits, and fees to help you decide.
Capital One Travel
Capital One Travel is a travel and booking service offered by Capital One credit cards. With Capital One Travel, you can book flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages using your Capital One rewards or cash back. The service provides price tracking, travel alerts, and personalized recommendations.
Capital One Travel also offers travel insurance, which covers trip interruption, trip cancellation, baggage delay, and auto rental collision damage waiver. The insurance is included with some Capital One credit cards, such as Venture and Quicksilver, but not all.
The rewards program of Capital One cards varies depending on the card type. The Venture card earns 2x miles per dollar on all purchases, while the Quicksilver card earns 1.5% cash back on all purchases. The Capital One Savor card earns 4% cash back on dining and entertainment, 2% cash back at grocery stores, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. The miles and cash back can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credit, or Amazon purchases.
The travel assistance of Capital One includes 24/7 customer service, emergency card replacement, emergency cash advance, and travel accident insurance, which covers accidental death or dismemberment while traveling. The fees of Capital One Travel are minimal, with no foreign transaction fees and no annual fee for most cards.
Amex Travel
Amex Travel is a travel and booking service offered by American Express credit cards. With Amex Travel, you can book flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and vacation packages using your Amex rewards or points. The service provides travel planning, concierge service, and exclusive offers.
Amex Travel also offers travel insurance, which covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical and dental, baggage delay, and lost or stolen luggage. The insurance is included with some Amex credit cards, such as Platinum and Gold, but not all.
The rewards program of Amex cards varies depending on the card type. The Platinum card earns 5x points per dollar on flights and hotels booked through Amex Travel, while the Gold card earns 4x points per dollar on dining and supermarkets, 3x points per dollar on flights booked through airlines or Amex Travel, and 1x points per dollar on all other purchases. The Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or statement credit.
The travel assistance of Amex includes 24/7 concierge service, global assistance hotline, medical and legal referrals, and roadside assistance. The fees of Amex Travel are higher than Capital One, with foreign transaction fees ranging from 2.7% to 3.5% and annual fees ranging from $95 to $550 depending on the card type.
Capital One Travel vs Amex Travel Comparison
| Features | Capital One Travel | Amex Travel |
|---|---|---|
| Booking options | Flights, hotels, car rentals, vacation packages | Flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, vacation packages |
| Price tracking | Yes | No |
| Personalized recommendations | Yes | Yes |
| Travel insurance | Yes | Yes |
| Rewards rate | 2x miles, 1.5%-4% cash back | 1-5x points |
| Rewards redemption | Travel, gift cards, statement credit, Amazon purchases | Travel, gift cards, merchandise, statement credit |
| Travel assistance | 24/7 customer service, emergency card replacement, emergency cash advance, travel accident insurance | 24/7 concierge service, global assistance hotline, medical and legal referrals, roadside assistance |
| Foreign transaction fees | No | Yes, from 2.7% to 3.5% |
| Annual fees | No, for most cards | Yes, from $95 to $550, depending on the card type |
Overall, both Capital One Travel and Amex Travel offer competitive travel benefits, including booking services, travel insurance, rewards programs, and travel assistance. However, Capital One Travel may be a better option for budget-conscious travelers who want to avoid foreign transaction fees and annual fees, while Amex Travel may be a better option for luxury travelers who want exclusive perks and higher rewards rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which credit cards offer Capital One Travel?
Capital One Venture, Quicksilver, Savor, and Spark cards offer Capital One Travel.
Which credit cards offer Amex Travel?
American Express Platinum, Gold, Green, and Everyday cards offer Amex Travel.
Do Capital One and Amex offer the same travel insurance coverage?
No, their coverage may vary depending on the card type and the travel insurance provider.
Can I use both Capital One Travel and Amex Travel?
Yes, you can use both services to compare prices and benefits and choose the best option for your travel needs.
How do I redeem my Capital One rewards or Amex points for travel?
You can redeem them through the respective travel portals, which allow you to browse and book flights, hotels, and other travel services using your rewards or points.
In conclusion, choosing between Capital One Travel and Amex Travel depends on your travel habits, preferences, and financial situation. Consider the features, rewards, benefits, and fees of each service to make an informed decision and maximize your travel experience.