Credit Cards
While owning travel related credit cards is not required in any way, they accelerate your ability to access and reap a multitude of benefits prior to (and during) your travels.
PROs:
-Can earn a LOT of currency on everyday purchases
-Can use for recurring payments and (possible) credit toward elite status
-Initial sign-ups come w/ LARGE bonuses
-Many SIDE benefits that include monthly credits, discounts, cash back coupons, and special access
CONs:
-Very High APR rates
-Good/Excellent Credit Required
-HIGH Annual Fees
—NOTE: fees can be negated if you max out card benefits
-Tracking of benefits can be tedious and time consuming
-Utilization of all benefits depends on your purchasing habits
-Redemption for some benefits require specific steps or milestones
RECOMMENDED CARDS
If you are an avid traveler, considering one (or a few) of these cards may be worth your while!
(Note: Annual fees are waived for Active Duty military. Highly recommend AD personnel consider applying for one or more!)
#1 Pick: CHASE Sapphire Reserve Card
-$2,700 in potential savings annually
($795 annual fee)
If interested in a 125K point signing bonus,
#2 Pick: AMEX Platinum Card
-$3,500 in potential savings annually
($895 annual fee)
If interested in a 200K point signing bonus,
Depending on your brand loyalty and desired benefits, card recommendations #3, #4, and #5 have more to do with maximizing your utility than an overall ‘great’ card (like options #1 & #2). These card round out the best options out there, in my opinion, but there are many others:
#3 Pick:
Chase United Club Card
($695 annual fee)
#4 Pick:
Citi/AAdvantage Exec World Elite MC
($595 annual fee)
#5/a Pick:
Hilton HHonors AMEX Aspire
-$550 Annual fee
#5/b Pick:
Marriot Bonvoy Brilliant AMEX
-$650 Annual fee
Contact us
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