Travel hacking has become an increasingly popular way for people to save money on their trips. By using credit card rewards and bonuses, you can earn free flights, hotel stays, and other travel perks. However, not all credit cards are created equal when it comes to travel hacking. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best credit cards for travel hacking and how to get the most out of your rewards.
Chase Sapphire Preferred
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the most popular travel rewards credit cards on the market. With this card, you can earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. You also earn 2x points on travel and dining, and 1x point on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, with no blackout dates or restrictions.
In addition to earning points, the Chase Sapphire Preferred also comes with some great travel benefits. You get primary rental car insurance, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and baggage delay insurance. There are also no foreign transaction fees.
American Express Gold Card
The American Express Gold Card is another great option for travel hacking. With this card, you can earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 in the first six months. You also earn 4x points on restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year), 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through amextravel.com, and 1x point on all other purchases.
Like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, the American Express Gold Card also comes with some useful travel benefits. You get $120 in annual dining credits (enrollment required), up to $100 in annual airline fee credits, and no foreign transaction fees.
Citi Premier Card
The Citi Premier Card is a great option for those who want to earn points on a variety of purchases. With this card, you can earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. You also earn 3x points on restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and air travel, and 1x point on all other purchases.
In addition to earning points, the Citi Premier Card also comes with some travel benefits. You get $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) once per calendar year, and no foreign transaction fees. However, it’s important to note that this card is subject to Citi’s 24-month rule, which means that you can’t earn a sign-up bonus if you’ve opened or closed any Citi card within the past 24 months.
FAQ
Question | Answer |
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What is travel hacking? | Travel hacking is the practice of using credit card rewards and bonuses to get free or discounted travel. |
What should I look for in a travel rewards credit card? | You should look for a card that offers a high sign-up bonus, bonus points on travel and dining, no foreign transaction fees, and useful travel benefits. |
How can I maximize my rewards? | You can maximize your rewards by using your credit card for all your purchases, paying off your balance in full every month, and taking advantage of any bonus categories or promotions. |
Are there any downsides to travel hacking? | Some downsides of travel hacking include the potential for overspending, damaging your credit score if you don’t make payments on time, and the risk of fraud or identity theft. |
Overall, travel hacking can be a great way to save money on your trips and get more out of your credit card rewards. By choosing the right card and using it wisely, you can earn free flights, hotel stays, and other travel perks. Just be sure to read the fine print and use your rewards responsibly.