Best Credit Cards for International Travel in 2025: Fly Farther, Earn More
Our winner
Our winner
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the best international travel card for travelers because of its flexible rewards, extensive travel protections and complimentary airport lounge access. Its anniversary bonus, annual travel credits and attractive welcome bonus also add a ton of value for international travelers.
Key takeaways
- International travel cards offer travel perks and can help you earn free flights and hotel stays.
- Paying a higher annual fee typically unlocks access to higher earning power and more benefits, like lounge access, elite status and annual travel credits.
- Some of the best credit cards for international travel include over $1,000 in benefits and welcome bonuses worth up to $900 or more in travel.
- (Winner) Best credit card for international travel overall: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
- Best credit card for international travel with no annual fee: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
- Best card for international travel with lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Best airline credit card for international travel: Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- Best flexible rewards card for international travel: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Best business credit card for international travel: Capital One Venture X Business
- Best hotel credit card for international travel: Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*
- Best student credit card for international travel: Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students
- Best international travel card for bad credit: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card
- Best international travel card for dining: American Express® Gold Card
- Best travel credit card for international transfer partners: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
11 Best international travel credit cards
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Welcome Offer | Rewards Rate | Annual Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
|
(Winner) Best credit card for international travel overall
|
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
| 2X - 10X miles
| $395 | |
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
|
Best credit card for international travel with no annual fee
|
20,000 miles
Earn $300 in travel bonuses with a limited-time $100 Capital One Travel credit, plus earn 20K bonus miles with $500 spend within 3 months from account opening - that's equal to $300 in travel
| 1.25X - 5X Miles
| $0 | |
The Platinum Card® from American Express
|
Best card for international travel with lounge access
|
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.
| 5X points
| $695 | |
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
|
Best airline credit card for international travel
|
125,000 miles
Earn 125,000 Bonus Miles after spending $15,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 10/29/25.
| 3X miles
Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases.
| $650 | |
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
|
Best flexible rewards card for international travel
|
75,000 miles
75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
| 2X - 5X Miles
| $95 | |
Capital One Venture X Business
|
Best business credit card for international travel
|
150,000 miles
150,000 Miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
| 2X - 10X Miles
| $395 | |
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*
|
Best hotel credit card for international travel
|
150,000 points
Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card after you spend $6,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
| 3X - 14X points
| $550 | |
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students*
|
Best student credit card for international travel
|
25,000 points
25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases
| 1.5X points
Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases. | $0 | |
Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card
|
Best international travel card for bad credit
|
N/A | 1.5% - 5% Cash Back
| $0 | |
American Express® Gold Card
|
Best international travel card for dining
|
As high as 100,000 points
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 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.
| 1X - 4X points
| $325 | |
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
|
Best travel credit card for international transfer partners
|
125,000 points
Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
| 1X - 8X points
| $795 |
Apply Now Methodology: How we chose the best international travel credit cards
We take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify the best credit cards for international travel. 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 U.S. 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.
Note that our ratings are a starting point for comparing and choosing the best travel credit card. However, your needs may be different from the average cardholder. You should consider the amount you’re likely to spend in a card’s bonus categories and which benefits you value to choose the best card for you.
(Winner) Best credit card for international travel benefits
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.Rewards: 2X - 10X miles
- Earn 2X Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
- Earn 10X Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn 5X Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn an outstanding sign-up bonus
- Solid earning rate on all purchases
- Up to a $120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® credit
- Attractive anniversary bonus
- $395 annual fee
- Doesn’t offer hotel or airline elite status
- Enhanced miles earnings only on Capital One’s travel portal
- Annual travel credit restricted to Capital One’s travel portal
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is our pick for the best card for international travel because of its flexibility and versatility. Capital One has more than 15 hotel and airline transfer partners, allowing you to maximize your miles no matter where you’re going. You’ll earn 2X Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 10X Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 5X Miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
The card charges a $395 annual fee, but it’s more than worth it if you take advantage of the card’s perks. It gives you an annual $300 travel credit on bookings made with the Capital One travel portal and awards you 10,000 Venture miles (equal to $100 toward travel) on your account anniversary.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- 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
- Rates & Fees
Best credit card for international travel with no annual fee
Capital One VentureOne 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.Rewards: 1.25X - 5X Miles
- Earn 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5 Miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- $0 annual fee
- Simple rewards structure
- Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
- Low earning rate on everyday purchases
- Earn a relatively low welcome offer compared to other cards
- Balance transfer fee applies
If you want a no-annual-fee travel credit card you can use abroad without racking up foreign transaction fees, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a good way to go. While you’ll earn a lower welcome bonus and lower earning rate than some other travel cards, it can be a good choice if you’re looking to lower the amount you pay in fees. The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card also comes with an introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers (a balance transfer fee applies), so you can pay off your international travel during the intro period without incurring interest charges.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn $300 in travel bonuses. Enjoy $100 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $300 in travel
- $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
- Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.24% - 29.24% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
- 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
- Rates & Fees
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for the best no-annual-fee travel credit card
Best international lounge access card
The Platinum Card® from American Express
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.Rewards: 5X points
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel®.
- Terms apply.
- Valuable welcome offer
- Airport lounge access and other luxury perks
- Hotel, airline and entertainment credits
- $695 annual fee
- Can be difficult to keep track of and use all annual credits
- Low earning rate for most non-travel purchases
If you’re a frequent traveler looking for luxury perks, you’ll want to consider The Platinum Card® from American Express, our pick for best international travel card for lounge access. This premium card offers the most robust airport lounge membership program of any travel card on the market today.
With the American Express Global Lounge Collection, eligible cardmembers can get Priority Pass™ Select* membership, exclusive access to ultra-swanky Amex Centurion lounges and Delta Sky Club lounge access (subject to visit limitations) each time you fly with Delta. Other travel benefits include a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership, as well as automatic Hilton Honors Gold status* and Marriott Bonvoy Gold status*.
→ Learn more: Is The Platinum Card® from American Express Worth the Yearly Fee?
- 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.
- Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel® up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel®.
- $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
- Enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection, with over $500 of annual value if you visit Centurion Lounges and each of our partner lounges including Delta Sky Club® lounges when flying an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations) , select Lufthansa lounges when flying Lufthansa, Plaza Premium lounges and Escape Lounges, and enroll in Priority Pass Select. See terms.
- A Walmart+ membership can get you free shipping with no order minimum on eligible items shipped by Walmart. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) and receive one statement credit for up to $12.95 (plus applicable taxes. Plus Ups not eligible) each month. Free Shipping excludes most Marketplace items, freight & certain location surcharges. Paramount+ Essential plan only, separate registration required.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your 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.
- $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can ride or dine in style with $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus a bonus $20 in December after adding their Card to their Uber account. Use your Uber Cash on rides and orders in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
- $199 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. Receive up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for your CLEAR Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) with the Platinum Card®.
- Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
- Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- Use Global Dining Access by Resy to access premium dining experiences. Receive Priority Notify and unlock insider access to some of the world's most sought-after restaurants with Global Dining Access by Resy. Download the Resy iOS app or log into Resy.com and add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile to take advantage of your special benefits and discover restaurants near you.
- $695 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
- Rates & Fees
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for the best lounge access credit card
Best airline credit card for international travel
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.Rewards: 1X - 3X miles
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
- Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
- Can earn an attractive welcome offer
- Airport lounge access and other travel perks
- Complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge
- Travel statement credits and 15% off award flights
- High $650 annual fee
- Limited to 15 Sky Club visits per year unless you meet spending requirements
- Bonus rewards are earned only on Delta purchases
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is our choice for the best airline credit card for international travel, due to its array of luxe travel perks. The card offers some of the best benefits on the market, including more than $500 worth of credits (enrollment required), an annual companion certificate after your cardmember anniversary good for a Delta First, Delta Comfort or Delta Main round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your card (baggage charges and other restrictions apply; Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit) and complimentary airport lounge access. You should know, however, that its annual fee is also one of the highest on the market, so this card is best for frequent travelers who will get enough value from the perks to make that cost worthwhile.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn 125,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 10/29/2025.
- 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 flexible rewards card for international travel
Capital One Venture 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.Rewards: 2X - 5X Miles
- Earn 2X Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5X Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn an excellent welcome bonus
- Great flexibility with miles
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit
- $95 annual fee
- Enhanced earnings for hotels and rental cars only through Capital One’s travel portal
For a simple travel card with rewards that are as easy to redeem as they are to earn, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is hard to beat. Plus, one of the card‘s best features is the flexibility of the rewards you earn — you can redeem them as a statement credit for any type of travel or transfer them to any of Capital One’s airline and hotel partners.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
- Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
- Enjoy a $50 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Lifestyle Collection
- Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- 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
- Rates & Fees
Best business credit card for international travel
Capital One Venture X Business
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.Rewards: 2X - 10X Miles
- Earn 2X Miles on every purchase
- Earn 5X Miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One's travel booking site
- Earn 10X Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One's travel booking site
- Can earn a generous sign-up bonus
- Earns extra rewards in popular business travel spending categories
- $300 annual travel credit and renewal bonus
- Lounge access
- Up to $120 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit
- No preset spending limit
- $395 annual fee
- High spending required for sign-up bonus
- Balance must be paid in full each month
The Capital One Venture X Business is one of the most flexible and valuable business cards for travel. You can earn a generous sign-up bonus and a high rate on travel purchases to pile up rewards quickly. The card has no preset spending limit, so it offers more flexibility than other business cards, though you do have to pay your balance in full every month. It also offers complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide and free employee cards.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- Earn 150,000 bonus miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
- Earn 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One's travel booking site
- With no preset spending limit, enjoy big purchasing power that adapts so you can spend more and earn more rewards
- Empower your teams to make business purchases while earning rewards on their transactions, with free employee and virtual cards. Plus, automatically sync your transaction data with your accounting software and pay your vendors with ease
- Redeem your miles on flights, hotels and more. Plus, transfer your miles to any of the 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Every year, you'll get 10,000 bonus miles after your account anniversary date. Plus, receive an annual $300 credit for bookings made through Capital One's travel booking site
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®. Enjoy access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
- Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
- This is a pay-in-full card, so your balance is due in full every month
- 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
- Rates & Fees
Best hotel credit card for international travel
Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*
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.Rewards: 3X - 14X points
- Earn 14X points on eligible purchases at hotels or resorts in the Hilton Portfolio.
- Earn 7X points on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies and U.S. restaurants.
- Earn 3X points on other purchases.
- Excellent welcome offer
- High rewards-earning potential
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Diamond status (enrollment required)
- More than $800 in annual credits
- $550 annual fee
- Valuable only for Hilton loyalists
- Hilton resort credits only apply to select properties
The Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express is our top pick for hotels due to its welcome offer, earning rate on Hilton hotel stays and excellent travel perks. And although a $550 annual fee applies, cardholders get more than $800 in annual credits — including a $400 Hilton resort credit (up to $200 semi-annually), $200 flight credit (up to $50 per quarter, enrollment required), $100 property credit and $199 CLEAR Plus credit (enrollment required). Additional perks include Hilton Honors Diamond status (enrollment required) and an uncapped free night reward every year upon card renewal and more.
- 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio worldwide
- 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies and at U.S. restaurants
- 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points on other purchases
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Diamond status (enrollment required)
- One Free Night Reward in your first year of Card Membership and every year upon Card renewal
- Up to $400 Hilton Resort credit (up to $200 semi-annually)
- Up to $200 flight credit (up to $50 per quarter, enrollment required)
- Up to $209 CLEAR credit (enrollment required)
- $100 on-property credit at Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts and Conrad Hotels & Resorts when booking the exclusive Aspire Card package
- National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® Status (enrollment required)
- Access to 24/7 American Express concierge
- No foreign transaction fees
- Terms apply
Best student travel credit card for international travel
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students*
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.Rewards: 1.5X points
Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases.
- $0 annual fee
- Nice welcome offer
- Intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers
- No bonus categories
- Rewards aren’t transferable
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students is the best card to use abroad for students since it has a $0 annual fee and a simple rewards structure. It also offers a decent sign-up bonus: Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases. This is a card that may work well for students who want to keep their options open as they figure out their travel style.
- Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
- 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
- Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
- Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a 18.24% to 28.24% Variable APR will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
- When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job. Access your FICO® Score for free within Online Banking or your Mobile Banking app.
- Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for best student credit cards
Best international travel credit card for bad credit
Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash 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.Rewards: 1.5% - 5% Cash Back
- Earn 1.5% Cash Back on every purchase, every day
- Earn 5% Cash Back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- $0 annual fee
- Solid cash back earnings on every purchase
- Earn an enhanced cash back rate on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One’s travel portal
- Refundable security deposit and automatic credit line reviews
- Requires a minimum $200 refundable security deposit
- High purchase APR
- Lacks travel perks
The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card is the best option for international travel among credit cards for bad credit since it has a $0 annual fee and solid rewards. This card is marketed to those with limited / poor credit, while travel credit cards generally target consumers with good to excellent credit. You’ll need to put down a security deposit of at least $200 to secure a $200 credit line. In as little as six months, Capital One will start automatic reviews of your account for potential credit limit increases or upgrades to an unsecured card.
You can earn a solid flat rate of cash back on everyday purchases, with a bonus earning rate on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One’s travel portal.
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- No annual or hidden fees, and you can earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. See if you're approved in seconds
- Put down a refundable $200 security deposit to get at least a $200 initial credit line
- Building your credit? Using a card like this responsibly could help
- Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
- You could earn back your security deposit as a statement credit when you use your card responsibly, like making payments on time
- Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months with no additional deposit needed
- Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
- 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
- Rates & Fees
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for best credit cards for bad credit
Best international travel card for dining
American Express® Gold 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.Rewards: 1X - 4X points
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- Terms apply.
- High earning rate at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets
- Generous dining and Uber benefits (enrollment required)
- Travel and purchase protections
- $325 annual fee
- Redeeming your points for non-travel options isn’t a good value
The American Express® Gold Card is an attractive option if you spend the most on dining and groceries. There is a $325 annual fee, but you can more than cover the cost if you take full advantage of benefits, which include up to $120 in credits toward select dining purchases (up to $10 each month in statement credits; enrollment required), up to a $120 Uber Cash credit ($10 each month; enrollment required), up to an $84 Dunkin’ credit for U.S. locations ($7 each month; enrollment required) and up to a $100 Resy credit (enrollment required).
- Click APPLY NOW to apply online.
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 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.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
- Rates & Fees
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for the best credit cards for dining
Best international travel credit card for travel insurance
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.Rewards: 1X - 8X points
- Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠
- Earn 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct
- Earn 3x points on dining worldwide
- Earn 1x points on all other purchases
- Generous welcome bonus
- Solid earning rate on travel and dining purchases
- $300 flexible travel credit
- Priority Pass lounge access
- Excellent travel insurance
- $795 annual fee
- Requires excellent credit
Even the best-laid travel plans can go astray. When that happens, you want a travel credit card with extensive travel protections to cover any scenario. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers the most robust travel coverage of any premium credit card. Its benefits include primary auto rental coverage, trip delay reimbursement starting at six hours, lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay and more. It includes emergency evacuation and transportation for medical services up to $100,000, which normally requires a separate travel insurance policy.
In addition to travel protections, cardholders receive complimentary airport lounge access (including Priority Pass and Chase Sapphire Lounges) and a $300 annual travel credit. Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed for travel cash back, gift cards and more, or you can transfer to more than 10 airline and hotel partners.
- 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
→ See all of LendingTree’s picks for best credit cards for travel insurance
Types of international travel credit cards
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Airline credit cards
Airline credit cards are co-branded between a specific airline and a credit card issuer. They usually earn miles of one particular airline, and typically come with airline-specific benefits like priority boarding, free checked bags or help qualifying for airline elite status. They’re best for people who typically travel with one particular airline.
Airlines usually offer multiple versions of their cards, but getting the best airline credit card doesn’t always make sense. Compare the benefits and fees of each card to ensure that you’ll actually use the benefits to justify paying the card’s annual fee. -
Hotel credit cards
Hotel credit cards are co-branded between a credit card issuer and a particular hotel chain. These cards usually earn hotel points that can be used for stays and also offer hotel-specific benefits like complimentary night certificates, elite status or bonus rewards earning rates. They’re best for hotel brand loyalists.
Hotel credit cards offer many levels of fees and benefits. While you may receive elite status benefits and annual free night certificates as a cardholder, make sure that you’ll use enough of the benefits to cover the cost of the card. -
General travel credit cards
General travel credit cards are great for international travel due to their flexibility and perks. These cards may earn flexible, transferable points (for example, Chase Ultimate Rewards® points or Amex Membership Rewards points), which can be transferred to airline and hotel transfer partners to maximize their value. General travel credit cards also typically come with travel perks and insurance and usually don’t charge foreign transaction fees.
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Business travel credit cards
Business travel credit cards allow cardholders to maximize earnings, enjoy travel perks and take advantage of travel protections while traveling for business. Some of these cards are general business credit cards that offer travel perks like airport lounge access or travel credits, while others are co-branded airline or hotel credit cards with brand-specific perks, such as free checked bags or complimentary elite status.
Adding employee cards earns rewards on their purchases, and you may extend some benefits and protections to their cards as well. Some business travel credit cards offer employee cards for free, while others charge an annual fee for them.
How to choose an international travel credit card
The best credit card for international travel for you will depend on your travel style and needs, but you’ll want to consider the following factors when shopping for an international travel credit card.
Whenever you use a debit or credit card outside of the U.S., your issuer may charge you a fee of about 3% of each purchase. While it may not seem like a huge deal, these charges can quickly add up to hundreds of dollars — or more. Look out for a credit card with no foreign transaction fees if you’re planning a trip abroad.
One of the most frustrating experiences you can encounter during international travel: having your card declined. While Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted around the world, you might have a harder time paying with American Express or Discover. In fact, Amex isn’t accepted at all in countries like North Korea, Cuba, Syria or Iran. Before leaving for your trip, make sure the card you’re interested in is accepted in your planned travel destination(s).
Some travel credit cards offer robust travel coverage that provides peace of mind and protection on your next trip, while other cards have minimal coverage or none at all.
The best credit cards for travel insurance typically include a full slate of travel protection, such as trip cancellation and delay insurance, travel accident insurance, lost or delayed luggage coverage and car rental insurance that works abroad. Primary rental car insurance is better than secondary since you don’t need to involve your personal auto insurance if there’s a claim.
The rewards earning rate is an important consideration when choosing a credit card for international travel. Look for a credit card that has higher earning rates on airline purchases, general travel and dining, so you can maximize your trip earnings. If you travel infrequently, you might want to look for a card that also has a more generous earning rate on everyday purchases.
Many of the best credit card sign-up bonuses happen to be offered on cards that work well for international travel. In some cases, the bonus may be worth up to $900 when used for travel, which could be enough to cover plane tickets or a hotel for your next trip. With some cards (like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates & fees) or Chase Sapphire Reserve®), you may even get an increased redemption rate if you use the card issuer’s travel portal, stretching your sign-up bonus even further.
The best credit cards for international travel tend to offer rewards redemption flexibility. Having redemption options allows you to maximize the value of the rewards you earn, especially when redeeming your points or miles for free travel. Many issuers offer a travel portal where you can book hotels, rental cars, vacation packages and more. However, the best cards also let you transfer your rewards to airline and hotel partners at a 1:1 (or more advantageous) ratio.
Watch out for limited-time transfer bonuses that offer extra miles or points when transferring to eligible airline or hotel partners. These promotions can be an excellent way to stretch the value of your travel rewards further.
Many of the best international travel cards offer travel perks to make your trips a little nicer. Premium travel cards, which tend to charge higher annual fees, may offer airport lounge access, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® application fee credits and other travel credits to offset the cost of your trips. Even cards with lower annual fees may offer perks like free checked bags, priority boarding or complimentary elite status.
While contactless credit card payments are becoming more popular in Europe, some transactions, such as buying tickets at an unattended terminal at a train station in France or Germany, may still require a card with both an EMV chip and a PIN. While most credit cards issued within the U.S. include an EMV chip, credit cards with PINs are rare. However, some issuers (such as Bank of America) allow you to add a PIN to your travel credit card. You should check with your issuer to see if they offer this option.
International travel tips: how to use your credit card
Getting the best credit card for international travel is a step in the right direction, but you also need to know how to use it. Here are a few tips and tricks — and pitfalls to avoid — when using your credit card internationally.
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) is when you pay in your own currency, rather than the local currency, while traveling internationally. When you use a credit card abroad, you may get a choice on whether to use DCC when paying. While it might seem like a good idea, since you’ll see the final cost in your own currency, you should generally avoid DCC due to less favorable exchange rates.
Even when you’re not traveling, spending on everyday purchases can earn travel rewards toward your next trip. This is why it is important to have an international travel credit card that offers bonus rewards on categories you spend the most. Your spending can also get you closer to elite status, earn annual hotel nights and other valuable perks. Consider setting up recurring bills (like household utilities) on automatic payment to avoid late fees and earn rewards.
Many premium travel credit cards come with benefits that can make your trip more affordable and comfortable. Check to see if your card offers these benefits and learn how to take advantage of them ahead of your next international trip.
- Room or seat upgrades
Some airline or hotel credit cards offer upgrades to cardholders. An international trip can be a great time to redeem some of these card benefits. With Diamond status from the Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express*, you’ll enjoy complimentary, space-available upgrades on every stay. - Free checked baggage
Many airline credit cards offer free checked bags. If you need to fly with a lot of luggage, consider signing up for an airline credit card as an alternative to paying baggage fees. With United Airlines charging $35 or more for a checked bag, you’ll quickly cover the cost of the The New United℠ Explorer Card (see rates & fees), which offers the first checked bag free for you and one travel companion. - Free lounge access
If your international trip involves spending a lot of time in airports, look for cards that offer airport lounge access as a perk. An airport lounge can be a great way to make your trip more relaxing and less stressful, so you should look for a card that will give you lounge access in the airports you’re traveling through. The Platinum Card® from American Express offers complimentary access to an extensive array of lounges globally. - Companion passes
Some airline credit cards offer a companion pass or certificate after you meet certain criteria, like earning enough points or taking a certain number of flights. A companion pass allows a travel companion to fly with you for free or at a reduced cost. A companion pass on an expensive international trip can be very valuable. Points earned from the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card (see rates & fees) welcome bonus and everyday purchases count toward the airline’s companion pass.
Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® are two very popular trusted traveler programs. These programs can make your travel much nicer and less stressful by shortening your wait times, helping you avoid crowds and allowing you to skip some security steps. Many cards offer credits that cover the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®.
If you’re looking at Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry is the clear winner for international travel and includes TSA PreCheck® benefits. Global Entry gives you expedited re-entry into the United States when you return from an international trip, while TSA PreCheck® helps you speed through security for domestic travel.
Frequently asked questions
Most U.S. credit cards can be used internationally, though acceptance varies by country and merchant. Visa and Mastercard are more accepted worldwide than American Express and Discover.
Many travel credit cards offer some kind of travel insurance, but the coverage varies greatly from card to card. Some cards offer only very basic coverage, such as travel accident insurance. Other cards offer a robust slate of coverage that may include: trip cancellation and delay insurance, lost or delayed baggage coverage and car rental insurance. Some premium cards even offer emergency evacuation and transportation, which could help you get home if you got sick or injured on a trip abroad.
It’s a good idea to let your credit card company know about any international travel to make sure your purchases aren’t flagged as fraudulent. You can typically let your card issuer know about your travel plans through your online account or by calling the number on the back of your card.
Both Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted around the world in over 200 countries, but Visa generally offers significantly better travel benefits and insurance than Mastercard. Benefits do vary by card, so it’s important to read the fine print on any card you’re considering for international travel.
To see rates & fees for American Express cards mentioned on this page, visit the links provided below:
- The Platinum Card® from American Express
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- American Express® Gold Card
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business 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 Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express, Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, The New United℠ Explorer Card and Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
