Find the Best Credit Card for Airline Miles for You in 2025
Key takeaways
- Airline cards deliver extra value through perks. From free checked bags to lounge access, these benefits can save frequent fliers hundreds each year.
- The right card depends on your loyalty and habits. Co-branded airline cards are best if you stick with one carrier, while flexible travel cards shine if you want redemption options across multiple airlines.
- Welcome offers carry a lot of weight. Most cards feature generous sign-up bonuses, but annual fees can range from $95 to $750, with richer perks tied to higher fees.
- General travel cards may be better for casual travelers. If your main goal is free flights rather than airline-specific perks, flexible rewards cards often provide more long-term value.
Find the best card for you
| Scenario | LendingTree's Recommendation |
|---|---|
| I’m a frequent Delta flier seeking premium perks | Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card |
| I’m an American Airlines traveler wanting everyday value | Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® |
| I’m a Delta flier who wants low fees | Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card (see rates & fees) |
| I’m a Southwest loyalist and Companion Pass chaser | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card |
| I’m a United flier wanting lounge access at a lower annual fee | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
| I’m a West Coast and Alaska Airlines traveler | AtmosTM Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® credit card |
| I’m a JetBlue loyalist who flies domestic and Caribbean routes | JetBlue Plus Card |
| I want a no annual fee airline card | American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Card |
| I’m a small business owner who flies American Airlines | Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard® |
| I’m an International Star Alliance traveler | Aeroplan® Card |
| I want premium travel perks and lounge access across airlines | American Express Platinum Card® |
| I want flexibility and easy redemptions for international trips | Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card |
| I want strong travel rewards and protections without a high annual fee | Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card |
| I’m a frequent traveler who wants to maximize premium benefits | Chase Sapphire Reserve® |
What are the typical perks to look for?
Airline credit cards may earn you miles, but their real value lies in the money-saving perks and travel upgrades that make every journey smoother. Keep an eye out for these:
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Free checked bags
Potential savings: Around $35 to $45 per bag, each way. For a round-trip flight, that’s $70 to $90 saved. If you’re traveling with a companion, savings can double to $140 to $180 per trip.
Fine print: You usually must book directly with the airline, pay with your airline card and have your frequent flier number attached to the reservation. Third-party bookings often won’t trigger the benefit.
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Companion certificates
How it works: Some premium cards issue an annual certificate letting a companion fly for only taxes and fees when you buy a ticket.
Potential savings: Can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars. For example, the Alaska Airlines companion fare starts at $99 plus taxes and fees starting from $23. Let’s say you purchased a $650 flight to Hawaii and paid around $150 for a companion fare ticket with the taxes and fees factored in — that’s around $500 in savings.
Fine print: Limited booking windows, blackout dates and higher fare class requirements.
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Lounge access
Why it matters: Airport lounges offer free Wi-Fi, food, drinks and a quiet space to recharge. If you travel often, this can make long layovers much more bearable and can save money on airport food.
Fine print: Not every lounge is included. Your access depends on the network tied to your card, like Delta Sky Club®, Priority Pass™ or Centurion® Lounges. Guest rules vary, too. Sometimes you can bring one or two free guests, but other times there’s a charge.
Pro tip: To maximize lounge access, start by checking which lounges are available at your home airport. From there, choose the airline that best fits your travel needs and explore the lounge options tied to it. Some airlines let you reserve lounge entry in advance for a fee because waits can be long. -
Priority boarding
Why it matters: Getting on the plane earlier means overhead bin space is almost guaranteed, and you’ll be seated sooner.
Fine print: Priority boarding doesn’t mean you’ll be in the very first group to board. Airlines often call families, elite status members and premium cabin passengers first. You’ll still be ahead of the main boarding groups, but exact placement varies by airline and fare type.
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Complimentary upgrades
Why it matters: Moving up to premium seats means more legroom, comfort and better service.
Fine print: Complimentary upgrades aren’t guaranteed and there’s a lot of competition since they’re also a perk for elite members, who get priority. As people on Reddit point out, you may be “way down the list” on popular routes, making upgrades sporadic.
How do I choose the best airline credit card for me?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The best card for you depends on whether you stick with one airline, want flexible rewards or care most about perks like free bags and lounge access. Here’s what to look at when deciding:
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Pick loyalty or flexibility first
When to choose a co-branded airline card: If you’re loyal to one airline and fly it at least three times per year, perks like free checked bags, priority boarding and companion tickets can pay off.
When to choose a flexible points card: If you’d rather shop around for flights, avoid blackout dates or keep multiple redemption options open, a flexible program (like Chase Ultimate Rewards®, Amex Membership Rewards® or Capital One Miles) gives you more freedom.
→ Traveler insight: Many frequent fliers on Reddit say their biggest regret was hoarding miles in one airline program, only to find them hard to use. As one user puts it: “Saving towards a goal is fine, but don’t hoard. You’re missing out and running the risk of points being devalued.” Flexible points help avoid that frustration.
Co-branded airline card General travel card Estimated value of miles/points* ~1 to 1.7 cents each (varies by airline) ~0.5 to 2 cents each when redeemed strategically Perks Free checked bag, priority boarding, upgrades and more Broader transfer partners, fewer blackout dates Flexibility Locked into one airline Redeem across different airlines and hotels Best for Loyal fliers of a single airline Travelers who want options *This estimate is based on LendingTree’s value methodology.→ Learn more about how we calculate the value of airline miles.
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Calculate perk value vs. annual fee
Airline credit cards often charge annual fees, but the perks can easily outweigh the cost if you use them regularly. The key is to compare what you’ll realistically save with the benefits against the card’s fee.
- Free checked bags: At around $35 each way, one round-trip flight saves you $70. Add a companion, and you’re saving $140 per trip. Two round-trip flights a year with a partner equals $280 in value, which more than covers a $95 fee.
- Lounge access: Day passes typically can cost as much as $79 per visit. If your card includes complimentary lounge entry, just two or three visits per year can offset a $150 to $250 annual fee.
- Priority boarding: While it’s harder to assign a dollar value, the benefit of guaranteed overhead bin space and a smoother boarding experience adds consistent convenience, especially for families or frequent fliers.
Redditor insight: “Lounge access is great, but only if you actually use it — many regret paying for perks they don’t touch.” -
Check redemption ease
Earning miles is only half the battle. The real test is how easily you can redeem them. Some programs make it simple to book award flights, while others frustrate travelers with limited options.
- Award availability: Not all flights or routes can be booked with miles (especially during peak seasons).
- Blackout dates: Many airline programs restrict redemptions around holidays or busy travel windows.
- Dynamic pricing: Instead of fixed award charts, some airlines now adjust mileage prices based on demand. High-demand flights can be much more expensive.
Pro tip: To avoid these headaches, look for cards that earn flexible points with transfer partners. Being able to move your points to multiple airlines gives you more award availability and better odds of finding seats at a reasonable rate. -
Consider your departure airports and routes
Where you fly from matters just as much as how often you fly. Some airline programs are strongest in certain regions, so picking a card tied to your home airport’s dominant carrier can make all the difference.
- Regional strengths: Southwest shines for U.S. domestic flights, Alaska is especially valuable on the West Coast and United dominates many international routes.
- Match your hub: If your local airport is a Delta hub, a United-branded card may not deliver as much value.
Methodology: How we chose the best airline credit cards
We take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify the best airline credit cards. We use an objective rating and ranking system that evaluates over 200 credit cards from more than 50 issuers. All recommendations are made by LendingTree’s editorial team, completely independent of affiliate partnerships or compensation. Every card is selected based on its merit and ability to help people achieve their financial goals. We use the following criteria to make our picks:
We calculate the value of rewards and perks for the average cardholder using Bureau of Labor Statistics data and an annual spend of $20,000, minus the annual fee. This value includes the card’s sign-up bonus, annual bonus (including free night certificates) and travel perks like lounge access and travel credits. We look at the average rewards earned over two years to balance out a card’s ongoing value with its first-year value.
We consider how easy the rewards are to use, looking at factors like expiration dates, minimum thresholds to redeem, blackout dates and the availability of flexible redemption options like travel statement credits and cash back.
We also compare a card’s benefits, such as purchase protections, travel protections and elite status benefits against benefits from other cards.
Our top picks
Best for Delta fliers seeking premium perks
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? Complimentary Delta Sky Club® and Centurion® Lounge access — a benefit that alone can outweigh the annual fee if you fly Delta often.
- Delta Sky Club® and Centurion® Lounge access
- 15% discount on Delta flight awards
- Annual Companion Certificate good for Delta First Class (terms and restrictions apply)
- TSA PreCheck® or Global Entry credit (enrollment required)
- Complimentary Delta upgrades when available
- Status boost features
- Over $600 in annual statement credits (enrollment required)
- $650 annual fee
- Delta Sky Club lounge access capped at 15 visits per year (unless $75,000 spend)
- Elevated rewards are only offered on Delta purchases
Even with its $650 annual fee, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is the top choice if you’re a frequent Delta flier looking for luxurious perks. It delivers unmatched value through Delta Sky Club® and Centurion® Lounge access, an annual Companion Certificate good for the First Class cabin (terms and restrictions apply) and over $600 in statement credits (enrollment required).
Plus, it helps you climb the Medallion® elite ladder faster with $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion® Year and extra MQDs from your spending, getting you closer to elite status.
→ Read our full review of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members receive 15 Visits per Medallion® Year to the Delta Sky Club® when flying Delta and can unlock an unlimited number of Visits after spending $75,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Plus, you'll receive four One-Time Guest Passes each Medallion Year so you can share the experience with family and friends when traveling Delta together.
- Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
- Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars with MQD Headstart each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 in purchases on your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card with MQD Boost to get closer to Status next Medallion Year.
- Enjoy a Companion Certificate on a Delta First, Delta Comfort, or Delta Main round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit.
- $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
- $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve 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.
- With your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, receive upgrade priority over others with the same Medallion tier, product and fare experience purchased, and Million Miler milestone when you fly with Delta.
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
- $650 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.
- Rates & Fees
Best for American Airlines travelers wanting everyday value
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.
Apply Now
The biggest perk? A free first checked bag for you and up to four companions on American Airlines domestic itineraries — an automatic savings that can more than cover the card’s annual fee.
- 2X miles at gas stations, restaurants and on American Airlines purchases
- Chance to earn a $125 American Airlines flight discount
- First checked bag free for you and up to four companions on qualifying American Airlines flights
- Preferred boarding on American Airlines flights
- 25% savings on in-flight food and beverage purchases
- Annual fee ($99, waived for first 12 months)
- No built-in travel insurance coverage
If you fly American Airlines and want everyday value, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® is your best bet. It combines a strong sign-up bonus with bonus miles on common purchases like gas and dining, plus travel perks that quickly add up. With a free checked bag on qualifying American Airlines flights for you and four companions, you can save up to $400 on a round-trip flight. Add in the chance to earn a $125 flight credit after $20,000 in spend, and it’s the most practical way to earn and save on American Airlines travel.
→ Read our full review of the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases
- Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
- First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to four companions traveling with you on the same reservation
- Enjoy preferred boarding on American Airlines flights
- Rates & Fees
Best for Delta fliers who want low fees
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? A free first checked bag for you and up to eight travel companions on Delta flights — just one round-trip flight could save you enough to cover the annual fee and then some.
- Earn 2X Miles on direct Delta purchases, at U.S. supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide
- First checked bag free on Delta flights for you and up to eight companions
- Priority Boarding on Delta flights
- 15% savings when booking Delta award flights with Delta SkyMiles*
- $200 Delta flight credit after $10,000 spend on your card in a calendar year
- 20% savings on eligible Delta in-flight food and beverage purchases
- Annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.)
- Doesn’t help earn Delta Medallion status
- No Delta Sky Club access
If you’re a Delta flier who wants low fees, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is the most practical choice. For a modest annual fee, it covers the essentials: a free checked bag on eligible Delta flights (worth $70+ round trip), 15% savings on award bookings* and even a $200 Delta flight credit after $10,000 in purchases on your card in a calendar year.
You’ll miss out on premium perks like lounge access or Medallion boosts, but for everyday Delta travelers, this card delivers solid value at a fraction of the cost.
→ Read our full review of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- 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.
- $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.
- Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights and save up to $70 per person on a round-trip Delta flight.
- Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
- $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.
- 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.
- With Send & Split®, you can send money and split your Card purchases with any other Venmo or PayPal user, directly from the Amex App. Enroll today.
- 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.
- Rates & Fees
Best for Southwest loyalists and Companion Pass chasers
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? Your points all count toward Companion Pass® — a travel hack that lets one companion fly free for a year or more (you just pay taxes and fees).
- 3X points on Southwest purchases
- First checked bag free for you and up to eight companions on the same reservation
- 6,000-point anniversary bonus
- Complimentary Preferred seat within 48 hours of departure, when available
- 10,000 Companion Pass® qualifying points boost each year
- 1,500 tier qualifying points (TQPs) toward A-List status per $5,000 spent annually
- $149 annual fee
- Limited flight network
If you’re a loyal Southwest flier, the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card helps you work toward the famous Companion Pass® and saves you money where it counts. You’ll get a first checked bag free and no seat selection fees, so you can choose your seat at no extra charge within 48 hours of departure. Those built-in savings, combined with perks like anniversary bonus points, make it easy to offset the card’s annual fee.
→ Read our full review of the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card.
- Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 in the first 5 months from account opening.
- 6,000 anniversary points each year.
- Earn 3X points on Southwest® purchases.
- Earn 2X points on grocery stores and restaurants on the first $8,000 in combined purchases per anniversary year.
- First checked bag free for Cardmembers and up to 8 additional passengers in the same reservation.
- Complimentary or Standard or Preferred seat within 48 hours prior to departure, when available
- No foreign transaction fees.
Best for United fliers wanting lounge access at a lower annual fee
The New United℠ Explorer Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? Two United Club one-day passes each year, valued at more than $100 — a lounge benefit that can pay for a big chunk of the annual fee with just one relaxing visit.
- Elevated earnings on dining, hotel stays and United purchases
- Two one-time United Club passes each year
- First checked bag free for you and one companion
- Priority boarding
- Up to $120 statement credit for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS
- 25% back on qualifying in-flight purchases
- $150 annual fee
If you’re a United flier who wants lounge access without a hefty annual fee, The New United℠ Explorer Card is a smart pick. It includes two United Club one-time passes each year (worth more than $100), a free checked bag for you and a companion, which can save you $160 on a single domestic round trip for two passengers and priority boarding. These perks can easily outweigh the annual fee if you fly United regularly.
→ Read our full review of The New United℠ Explorer Card.
- Earn 60,000 bonus miles
- $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150
- 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel
- Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United Club℠ with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
- Free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
- Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
- Earn a $100 United travel credit after spending $10,000 on purchases with your United℠ Explorer Card within a calendar year
- Over $500 in partner credits each year
- Member FDIC
Best for west coast and Alaska Airlines travelers
AtmosTM Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® credit card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? A $99 annual Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) after meeting the $6,000 annual spending threshold — saving you hundreds on a round-trip companion ticket.
- 3X points on Alaska Airlines purchases
- Earn a companion fare each year you spend $6,000
- Free checked bag for you and up to six companions on the same reservation
- Preferred boarding
- $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership
- 20% back on in-flight purchases
- $95 annual fee
- Alaska offers limited flight options
Alaska Airlines is the dominant carrier on the West Coast, with hubs stretching from Seattle to Los Angeles and Anchorage. Bank of America’s AtmosTM Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® credit card is a standout option for loyal fliers. Between points on Alaska purchases, everyday bonus categories and the chance to earn an annual Companion Fare, the card delivers outsized value for travelers who regularly take to the skies with Alaska.
→ Read our full review of the AtmosTM Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® credit card.
- Earn 80,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $4,000 or more in purchases within the first 120 days of opening your account.
- Receive 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 within North America booked on AlaskaAir.com.
- 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.
- Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all points earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
- Free checked bag on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines and enjoy priority boarding on Alaska Airlines, for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card — Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too.
- Earn and redeem across 1,000+ destinations worldwide with oneworld® Alliance member airlines and 30+ global air partners.
- Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
Best for JetBlue loyalists who fly domestic and Caribbean routes
JetBlue Plus Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? A free checked bag for you and up to three eligible travel companions on every JetBlue flight — the savings from one round-trip flight with a family can more than cover the $99 annual fee.
- Solid earning rate on JetBlue purchases, dining and groceries
- Free checked bag for you and up to three eligible companions
- Spend-based path to Mosaic elite status
- 10% point rebate on JetBlue award redemptions
- Earn 5,000 bonus points annually
- $100 annual JetBlue Vacations credit
- 50% off eligible in-flight purchases
- $99 annual fee
- Limited redemption flexibility outside JetBlue
JetBlue is a major player on the East Coast and a leading carrier for routes to the Caribbean, with key hubs in New York (JFK), Boston and Fort Lauderdale. The JetBlue Plus Card is one of the airline’s flagship personal credit cards, designed specifically for JetBlue loyalists.
You’ll get generous points on JetBlue purchases and everyday bonus categories like dining and groceries and a free checked bag for you and up to three eligible companions. With valuable extras like a 5,000-point anniversary bonus and a $100 JetBlue Vacations credit, this card delivers consistent value for travelers who rely on JetBlue for domestic and Caribbean flights.
→ Read our full review of the JetBlue Plus Card.
- Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.
- Earn 6 points per $1 on JetBlue purchases, 2 points per $1 at restaurants and grocery stores and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
- No blackout dates on JetBlue-operated flights & redeem for any seat, any time on JetBlue-operated flights. Points required for an Award Flight will vary based on the published base fare at the time of booking.
- Points awarded in your TrueBlue account don't expire. Earn and share points together with Family Pooling
- Earn 5,000 bonus points every year after your account anniversary
- 50% savings on eligible inflight purchases like cocktails and food & the primary cardmember's first checked bag is free on JetBlue-operated flights
- Enjoy all TrueBlue Mosaic benefits for one year after you spend $50,000 or more on purchases each calendar year with your card
- Enjoy a $100 statement credit after purchasing a JetBlue Vacations package of $100 or more with your JetBlue Plus Card
Best for a no-annual-fee airline card
American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
The biggest perk? A $0-annual-fee entry point into American AAdvantage miles, meaning you can earn miles on everyday spending and on American flights — without paying a dime to start.
- Only AAdvantage card with a $0 annual fee
- Low spending requirement to earn the sign-up bonus
- Earn 2X miles on grocery purchases and eligible American Airlines purchases
- 25% savings on in-flight food and beverage purchases
- 3% foreign transaction fee
- No free checked bag
- No priority boarding
While Delta and United both offer no-annual-fee cards, the American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Card is the most compelling option. It’s the only $0-annual-fee airline card that lets you earn bonus miles on everyday grocery purchases — something no other American Airlines card provides. That makes it a smart way to dip your toes into the AAdvantage program and steadily build miles without paying for the privilege.
Current AAdvantage cardholders should also give it a close look. You can use its grocery bonus to complement your earnings on other cards like the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®.
→ Read our full review of the American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Card.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn 15,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after making $1,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
- 0% Intro APR for 15 months from date of account opening for balance transfers only. After that the variable APR will be 19.99% - 29.99%, based on your creditworthiness. Balance transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
- Balance transfer fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each credit card balance transfer, whichever is greater. Balance Transfers must be completed within 4 months of account opening.
- No Annual Fee
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for each $1 spent at grocery stores, including grocery delivery services
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases
- Save 25% on inflight food and beverage purchases when you use your card on American Airlines flights
- Rates & Fees
Best for small business owners who fly American Airlines
Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard®
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
The biggest perk? A free checked bag for you and up to four companions on every domestic American Airlines flight — one trip can easily cover the card’s modest annual fee.
- Earn 1 Loyalty Point towards AAdvantage status for every $1 spent
- First checked bag free for you and up to four companions on the same reservation
- Preferred boarding
- 25% savings on in-flight purchases
- Earn a Companion Certificate after $30,000 annual spend ($99 for the ticketing fee plus taxes and fees)
- Complimentary employee cards
- Annual fee: $99, waived for first 12 months
- No lounge access for business travelers
- High spend required for Companion Certificate
- No travel or purchase protection
While there are several airline business credit cards to choose from, the Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard® is the best fit for small business owners who fly American Airlines.
It’s one of the few airline business cards that offers bonus miles on everyday categories like gas, car rentals, telecom and cable. You’ll also get valuable travel perks such as a free checked bag for you and up to four companions on the same reservation, priority boarding and 25% off in-flight purchases. Plus, you can issue employee cards at no additional cost with individual spending limits.
→ Read our full review of the Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard®.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Designed for businesses
- For a limited time, earn 75,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $5,000 in purchases within the first 5 months of account opening.
- First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries to reduce travel costs and boost your bottom line.
- 25% savings on American Airlines inflight Wi-Fi when you use your card
- Enjoy preferred boarding on American Airlines flights
- Earn 2 AAdvantage® miles per $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases, and on purchases at telecommunications merchants, cable and satellite providers, car rental merchants and at gas stations
- Earn 1 AAdvantage® mile per $1 spent on other purchases
- Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
- Rates & Fees
Best for International Star Alliance travelers
Aeroplan® Card*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? Automatic Aeroplan 25K elite status, valid immediately and lasting through the next calendar year — a rare perk for an airline card.
- Automatic Aeroplan 25K Elite Status
- Generous bonus categories
- First checked bag free for you and up to eight companions on qualifying Air Canada flights
- Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Fee Credit
- $95 annual fee
- Must spend to maintain elite status
The Aeroplan® Card is the best fit for international travelers who fly across the Star Alliance network because it combines elite-like perks with wide redemption flexibility. You’ll receive automatic Aeroplan 25K elite status, unlocking benefits such as priority check-in, free checked bags, eUpgrade credits and priority boarding — without having to meet the usual flying requirements.
Because Aeroplan miles can be redeemed across more than 45 partner airlines, including United, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines and Turkish Airlines, your rewards stretch far beyond Air Canada itself.
- Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, earn 25,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 on purchases in the first 12 months.
- Cardmembers and travel companions (up to eight) traveling on the same reservation will all enjoy free first checked bags (up to 50lb) when travel originates on an Air Canada flight.
- Receive a statement credit of up to $120 every 4 years as a reimbursement for the application fee charged to your card.
- New cardmembers will automatically receive Aeroplan 25K Status for the remainder of the calendar year, plus the following calendar year.
- No foreign transaction fees when you use your card for purchases made outside the United States
Best for premium travel perks and lounge access across airlines
American Express Platinum Card®
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? Unmatched airport lounge access — including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass (enrollment required), Delta Sky Clubs® (subject to visit limitations) and more — a benefit that can easily outweigh the annual fee if you travel often.
- Access to Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs® (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select* and more
- Up to $200 statement credit for airline incidentals* (see terms & conditions)
- Over $1,000 in other statement credits* (terms apply)
- Generous rewards on flights purchased through American Express Travel® or directly with airlines
- $895 annual fee
- Bonus categories don’t include everyday expenses like groceries, gas or dining
- Recent lounge access restrictions (especially Delta Sky Clubs®)
- Benefits are complex and require active management to maximize
If you want the most comprehensive lounge access and premium travel perks, the American Express Platinum Card® is hard to beat. You’ll get access to a variety of airport lounges across the globe. In addition to Priority Pass Select (enrollment required) and Escape Lounge benefits, American Express has its own Centurion Lounges exclusively for Platinum and Centurion cardholders. Plus, you’ll get access to Delta Sky Club® lounges (subject to visit limitations) when flying on Delta Airlines.
No matter which airline you’re flying, you’ll usually have a comfortable place to relax. Add in extras like valuable travel credits, and this card delivers a luxury travel experience that goes far beyond earning points.
→ Read our full review of the American Express Platinum Card®.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
- More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
- More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
- More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
- More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
- More Value! $209 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
- Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts® through American Express Travel®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
- New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card®.*Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
- $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
- Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
- $895 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
- Rates & Fees
Best for flexibility and easy redemptions for international trips
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? Unlimited airport lounge access — including Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass™, a benefit that easily outweighs the annual fee if you travel even a few times a year.
- Access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass™ lounges
- Earn a high flat rate on all purchases
- Up to $300 annual travel credit for purchases through the Capital One travel portal
- 10,000 bonus miles each year
- Transfer miles to more than 20 hotel and airline partners
- Up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit
- $395 annual fee
- No major U.S. airline partners
- Rewards rate has limited earning categories
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is ideal if you’re an international traveler who prefers to keep your airline options open. It offers the highest earning power of any card when shopping for hotels, flights and rental cars, and those miles can be transferred to Capital One’s airline and hotel partners — including Air Canada, British Airways and Singapore Airlines. That means you’re not locked into one carrier’s award chart, giving you more options to find seats when you need them.
Add in an annual travel credit of up to $300 for purchases through Capital One’s travel portal and 10,000 bonus miles on each anniversary, and the card more than offsets its $395 annual fee.
→ Read our full review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.
- Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
- Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
- Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
- Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
- Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
Best for strong travel rewards and protections without a high annual fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here. Apply Now
The biggest perk? The ability to transfer Ultimate Rewards points 1:1 to 10+ top airline partners — like United, Southwest and JetBlue — giving you flexibility to book flights, upgrades and special award seats with a wide range of carriers.
- Up to 75% bonus on travel portal redemptions for select flights
- Transfer points 1:1 to 10+ travel partners, including United, Southwest and JetBlue
- Elevated earning on travel, dining, select streaming services and online groceries
- Up to $50 annual hotel credit
- Great travel protections
- $95 annual fee
- No airport lounge access
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best option if you want strong travel rewards and protections without paying a steep annual fee. It packs in a valuable mix of benefits, including a bonus on Chase TravelSM portal redemptions, 1:1 transfers to Chase’s 10+ airline and hotel partners and bonus earnings on travel, dining, streaming and online groceries.
On top of that, the card comes with premium travel protections like trip cancellation/interruption insurance, primary rental car coverage and baggage delay reimbursement — perks that usually come with cards with higher annual fees.
→ Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- 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, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases
- Earn up to $50 in statement credits each account anniversary year for hotel stays through Chase Travel℠
- 10% anniversary points boost - each account anniversary you'll earn bonus points equal to 10% of your total purchases made the previous year.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
- Complimentary DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees & lower service fees for a min. of one year when you activate by 12/31/27. Plus, a $10 promo each month on non-restaurant orders.
- Member FDIC
- Rates & Fees
Best for frequent travelers who want to maximize premium benefits
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.The biggest perk? Over $2,700 in annual value — with over $1,200 in travel benefits and over $1,500 in lifestyle credits, including up to a $300 annual travel credit, up to a $300 dining credit and up to $500 in hotel credits.
- High earning rate on travel and dining
- Up to $469 Priority Pass™ Select membership
- Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
- Top-notch travel insurance
- IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status
- Over $1,200 in annual travel credits*
- Over $1,500 in annual lifestyle credits*
- $795 annual fee
- $195 authorized user fee
- Some of its credits may be challenging to use
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is the best choice for frequent travelers who want to maximize premium benefits. It delivers over $1,200 in annual travel value and more than $1,500 in lifestyle perks, including up to a $300 annual travel credit, up to $300 in dining credits and up to $500 in hotel credits.
On top of that, you’ll get complimentary Priority Pass™ lounge access, robust travel protections and accelerated earning on flights, hotels and dining. With a steep annual fee, this card isn’t designed for occasional travelers, but for those who fly often and can fully leverage its credits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers unmatched value and protection.
→ Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
- Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
- Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
- $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
- Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years
- Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
- Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
- Member FDIC
14 best credit cards for airline miles
Below you’ll find our picks for the 14 best credit cards for earning airline miles. Most come with very generous welcome offers, but nearly all charge an annual fee — from $95 for entry-level cards up to $750 for premium options.
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
|
Delta / Premium perks
|
$650 | 1X - 3X miles
| 70,000 miles
Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
| |
|
Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
Apply Now
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
American Airlines / Everyday value
|
$99, waived for first 12 months | 2X miles / 1X points
| 50,000 miles
Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
|
Apply Now
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
|
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
|
Delta / Low fees
|
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150. | 1X - 2X miles
| 50,000 miles
Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
| |
|
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card*
|
Southwest / Companion pass
|
$149 | 2X - 3X points
| 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 bonus points
after you spend $4,000 in the first 5 months from account opening.
| |
|
The New United℠ Explorer Card*
|
United / Lounge access
|
$150 | 1X - 2X miles
| 60,000 miles
Earn 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
| |
|
AtmosTM Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® credit card*
|
West coast / Alaska airlines
|
$95 | 1X - 3X points
| 80,000 points
Earn 80,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $4,000 or more in purchases within the first 120 days of opening your account.
| |
|
JetBlue Plus Card*
|
JetBlue / Caribbean routes
|
$99 | 1X - 6X points
| 60,000 points
Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases and paying the annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days and earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 within the first year.
| |
|
American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Card
Apply Now
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
No annual fee
|
$0 | 2X miles
| 15,000 miles
Earn 15,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after making $1,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
|
Apply Now
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
|
Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard®
Apply Now
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
Small business owners
|
$99, waived for first 12 months | 1X - 2X miles + 1X point
| 75,000 miles
For a limited time, earn 75,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $5,000 in purchases within the first 5 months of account opening.
|
Apply Now
on Citibank's secure site Rates & Fees |
|
Aeroplan® Card*
|
International Star Alliance travelers
|
$95 | 1X - 3X points
| 100,000 points
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. Plus, earn 25,000 bonus points after you spend $20,000 on purchases in the first 12 months.
| |
|
American Express Platinum Card®
|
Premium perks / lounge access
|
$895 | 5X points
| As high as 175,000 points
You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
| |
|
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
|
Flexibility / easy redemptions
|
$395 | 2X - 10X miles
| 75,000 miles
Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
| |
|
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Apply Now
on Chase's secure site Rates & Fees |
Travel protections
|
$95 | 1X - 5X points
| 75,000 points
Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
|
Apply Now
on Chase's secure site Rates & Fees |
|
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
|
Premium benefits
|
$795 | 1X - 8X points
| 125,000 points
Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
|
Redemption spotlight: What you can actually book
Here is a real example of how airline miles translate into travel value:
American Airlines Main Cabin Roundtrip: New York City → Los Angeles
- Award price: 36,500 miles
- Cash price: $462
- Value: 1.3¢ per mile
Values like these will vary by route, airline, and booking date — but they show how quickly miles can add up to real savings.
“We’re using the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® for the majority of our daily expenditures to earn toward our next trip to Italy. From groceries to online shopping, every charge to the card is a step closer to our dream vacation.”
– Kelsey Huffman, credit cards manager at LendingTree
Can airline cards help achieve elite airline status?
Yes, you can earn status, but it’s expensive and generally not worth it. For example, you might have to spend $40,000 or more a year on your card just to reach the lowest status tier and far more for higher levels.
Example: How much you’d need to spend to earn airline status
| Airline program | Status tier | Spend required on card | Example of what you actually get |
|---|---|---|---|
![Delta SkyMiles Elite Stats](https://www.lendingtree.com/content/uploads/2025/09/getcatalogimage-e1758549573385.webp") | Silver Medallion | $25,000 to $50,000, depending on the card
| Lowest elite tier with waived bag fees, unlimited upgrades and priority boarding |
 | Gold | $40,000 to earn 40,000 Loyalty Points at 1 per $1 | Basic elite perks like early boarding and upgrades on short flights |
 | Premier Silver | $90,000 to $120,000 to earn 6,000 PQPs at 1 PQP per $15 to $20 spent, depending on the card | Free bag and upgrades on availability |
Which airline miles rewards program is best for you?
Choosing a miles program isn’t one-size-fits-all — it depends on where you live, how often you fly and what you value most (alliances, flexibility, or perks like companion tickets). See where you fit in the chart below:
| Airline program | Strengths | Weaknesses | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Large U.S. and international network; strong Oneworld alliance partners; no blackout dates | Dynamic pricing can make redemptions unpredictable | Fliers in AA hubs and international travelers using Oneworld partners |
 | Easy-to-understand revenue-based program; no blackout dates; famous Companion Pass | No premium cabins; limited international routes; fewer airline partners | Domestic travelers, families and Companion Pass chasers |
 | Huge Star Alliance network; expanded award access for cardholders | Dynamic pricing makes Saver awards harder to find | International travelers who want Star Alliance flexibility |
 | Strong value on domestic and Caribbean routes; Mosaic elite perks; no blackout dates | Limited global reach; award rates tied directly to cash fares | East Coast fliers and leisure travelers to the Caribbean |
 | Large global network; SkyTeam alliance; frequent flash sales; miles never expire | Dynamic pricing can make redemptions unpredictable; miles are worth less than average | Frequent Delta fliers in hub cities |
 | Valuable redemptions; strong Oneworld and partner network; annual Companion Fare | Smaller U.S. network outside West Coast | West Coast travelers and international fliers leveraging Oneworld partners |
Airline hubs: Which one is closest to you?
- Seattle
- San Francisco
- Los Angeles
- Portland
- Anchorage
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Dallas-Fort Worth
- Lost Angeles
- Miami
- New York
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Washington, D.C.
- Atlanta
- Detroit
- Minneapolis – St. Paul
- New York (JFK)
- New York (LaGuardia)
- Salt Lake City
- Seattle
- Los Angeles
- Boston
- Boston
- Fort Lauderdale – Hollywood
- New York (JFK)
- Los Angeles
- Orlando
- San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Austin
- Boston (Logan)
- Chicago
- Dallas (Love Field)
- D.C./Baltimore area
- Denver
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles area
- Miami
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York (LaGuardia)
- San Diego
- San Francisco Bay area
- Seattle/Tacoma
- Chicago O’Hare
- Denver
- Guam
- Houston
- Los Angeles
- Newark
- San Francisco
- Washington Dulles
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Earning miles with airline credit cards can be rewarding, but simple mistakes often reduce their value. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid leaving money on the table:
- Overspending to chase status:
This rarely pays off; only spend what you would anyway. - Hoarding miles:
Miles lose value over time, so use them often instead of hoarding. - Ignoring booking channel rules:
Booking through third-party sites like Expedia or Priceline can void perks. Stick to the airline’s site to get free bags and other benefits. - Canceling without a plan:
Closing a card on impulse can ding your credit. Downgrade or ask for a retention offer instead. - Hard to use perks:
Lounge access and companion tickets often come with strings attached, so always check restrictions before counting on them.
Ask the experts: Your airline credit card questions, answered
“Even if you don’t travel frequently, an airline card can still be worth it. For example, my husband and I have the AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®. We usually only fly once or twice a year, but because we live in Charlotte (an American Airlines hub), the perks more than justify the $99 annual fee. Each round trip covers the fee in free checked bags for the two of us, and we also appreciate priority boarding and the ability to earn miles on flights.”
– Sammi Scharf, staff writer at LendingTree
It depends on the airline. Some programs, like Delta SkyMiles, United MileagePlus® and JetBlue TrueBlue®, let your miles last indefinitely. Others, including American Airlines AAdvantage®, require account activity (like earning or redeeming miles) every 24 months to keep your balance active. If there’s no activity, your miles could expire. Always check the rules for your program so you don’t lose miles you’ve worked hard to earn.
Almost all airline credit cards require that you have good to excellent credit. If your score isn’t high enough yet, consider starting with a secured card or general rewards card to build credit history before moving up to a co-branded airline card.
For example, the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card is available if you have limited / poor credit. There are many online forums you can use to check the credit profiles of people who have been approved for a specific card.
Canceling a credit card outright can hurt your credit score, since it lowers your available credit and can shorten the length of your credit history. A better option is often to downgrade to a no-annual-fee version of the card. This keeps the account open, preserves your credit history, and avoids paying for perks you no longer use. If you’re thinking about canceling, it’s also worth calling your issuer first. Many will offer a retention bonus (like extra miles or a statement credit) to encourage you to keep the card open.
Most airlines partner with hotels, rental car companies, dining programs, shopping portals and more to let you earn miles on everyday activities. For example, booking a Marriott stay or renting a car through Hertz can earn extra miles. These are excellent options to build your mileage balances for everyday activities and recurring expenses.
Yes, most airline credit cards are issued by Visa, Mastercard or American Express. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards and American Express cards can be used at 99% of all U.S. retailers. When traveling internationally, it is best to have cards from different issuers to ensure that the retailer will accept your payment.
While most airline credit cards have requirements for hitting airline status, there are some that offer perks that can help you get there faster. For example, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offer MQD Headstart and Boost.
The number of award miles needed for an award flight will depend on a variety of factors, including the origin and destination, cabin type and the airline you’re flying with or booking through.
→ Learn more about how many airline miles you need for a free flight.
Real stories from LendingTree experts: What we learned by earning airline miles
Curious what it’s really like to earn and redeem airline miles? We’ve tried it ourselves — here’s what worked, what didn’t and what we’d do differently next time.
|
Writer, insurance |
Rob has the AtmosTM Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® credit card because Alaska Airlines is the most convenient out of Seattle, and it adds easy perks for the California trips he takes often.
|
|
Lindsay Bishop Senior writer, insurance |
Lindsay has the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® because she finds American miles go farther for her than those from other airlines like Delta.
|
|
Senior writer, |
Carol has the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card because she lives near Delta’s main hub in Atlanta. For her, the card offers both travel rewards and peace of mind with purchase protection1 and extended warranties1 on big purchases.
|
- Lindsay appreciates the mileage earning and travel perks:
“I use my miles the most, followed by the free checked bag.” - Carol loves the simplicity of earning airline miles:
“I get the most value from my airline miles.” - Rob is excited to explore several benefits:
“I just got it a few months ago. So far, I’ve used points to book flights to visit family in California, and I’ll be using the companion fare on a trip to New Orleans this spring. Honestly, I got it mainly for the flight benefits.”
- Lindsay’s miles took her overseas:
“My family has taken trips to France and Spain using only miles earned from this card. It was very easy to use.” - Carol redeemed miles in more than one way:
“I booked a flight to New Mexico and even covered a hotel stay with miles. The process was smooth, and even when my flight was canceled, I got my Delta miles back quickly and rebooked a last-minute flight through American, earning more miles in the process.” - Rob ran into booking challenges:
“Booking our upcoming Thanksgiving trip with miles wasn’t as easy as I hoped. I had to re-enter information a few times, and upgrading from economy to premium was tricky.”
- Lindsay recommends maximizing spend:
“Use it for as many expenses as you can to really rack up the miles.” - Carol warns about the annual fee:
“Don’t forget that the card has an annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150.). I forgot about it until I got charged the second year.” - Rob highlights smart, careful use:
“This is a good way to save a little on airfare if you fly Alaska a lot, which many of us do up here in Washington state. Just avoid running up a balance, because the interest rate is high.”
- Lindsay says it’s a solid value:
“Absolutely, I think it’s a great return on investment.” - Carol appreciates the simplicity and rewards:
“Yes, mostly because I’m used to it and have had no trouble with Amex. I don’t have many credit cards and have no reason to switch. Also, I spend a lot on groceries, and 2X points seems pretty generous.” - Rob is cautiously optimistic:
“I’m happy with it for now, but I’m not 100% sure I’ll keep it with the $95 annual fee. Alaska Airlines just rebranded its mileage plan and introduced a new, more exclusive credit card, so I expect some changes are coming. That said, I’ll probably still fly Alaska, we like to visit Hawaii from time to time, and the merger with Hawaiian Air should only make those routes better.”
To see rates & fees for American Express cards mentioned on this page, visit the links provided below:
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- American Express Platinum Card®
- Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
The information related to the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card, The New United℠ Explorer Card, AtmosTM Rewards Ascent Visa Signature® credit card, JetBlue Plus Card, Aeroplan® Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve® and AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
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