Now that summer is officially here, are you planning a dream getaway? Whether it’s hiking national parks, backpacking around Europe, or lounging on a tropical beach, the right travel credit card can turn your vacation plans into a reward-packed, stress-free adventure. These cards not only help you earn points or miles on your purchases, but also they provide benefits like lounge access, travel insurance, and annual credits.
In my role as the Chief Information Officer at TheCardsGuy.com (a comprehensive resource about credit cards,) I have seen firsthand how savvy credit card use can unlock incredible travel savings. With the right strategy, travelers can save hundreds, even thousands of dollars on flights, hotels, and other expenses. Here is what to know about the best travel credit cards for summer 2025 and how to maximize their rewards for unforgettable (and affordable) adventures.
Top Travel Credit Cards for Summer 2025
With countless options out there, it can be difficult to assess which credit card is the best for travelers. Below are seven standout cards that each offer a unique mix of value, perks, and earning potential for summer travelers.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
This credit card is best for flexible travel rewards and beginners in the points game. As a sign-up perk, this card offers 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, which is worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel℠. Other rewards include 5x points on travel booked through Chase Travel℠, 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases. The annual fee is also only $95.
This card continues to be a favorite among both beginners and experienced travelers. A major perk is that you can transfer points to top travel partners like United, Hyatt, and Southwest. This card also has built-in travel protections, such as trip cancellation insurance and baggage delay reimbursement. These help ensure peace of mind during summer trips. On top of this, primary rental car insurance is a rare but valuable perk.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
This credit card is a must for simplicity and consistent earning. As a sign-up bonus, users receive 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in 3 months. They also get 2x miles on every purchase, which can be easily redeemed through Capital One Travel (travel expenses can also be erased with a statement credit). The card is also compatible with 15+ airline transfer partners, including Air France/KLM and Emirates. Travelers going abroad will also appreciate the lack of foreign transaction fees. And the annual fee is also only $95.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
This card is best for premium perks at a mid-tier price. As a sign-up perk, users get 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in 3 months. Other rewards include 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5x miles on flights through the portal, and 2x miles on everything else. There is also a $395 annual fee, which seems steep, but the $300 annual travel credit offsets most of it.
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is worth the investment, as you’ll also receive Priority Pass lounge access, Capital One Lounge access, 10,000 anniversary bonus miles (worth $100), and strong travel protections. The card is ideal for frequent travelers who want a premium experience without the higher cost of luxury cards like the Amex Platinum.
American Express® Gold Card
This card is a must for foodies and domestic travelers. As a sign-up bonus, users receive 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 in 6 months. Other rewards include 4x points at restaurants worldwide, 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000/year), and 3x points on flights booked directly or through Amex Travel
The card’s annual fee is $325, but its strong earning potential on food makes it perfect for travelers who love dining out or buying groceries while on the road. Users also get monthly dining credits and Uber Cash, which adds even more value. Membership Rewards points can also be transferred to Delta, JetBlue, and other partners, giving you flexibility.
U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
This credit card is perfect for value seekers and road trippers. As a sign-up bonus, you will receive 20,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days. Other rewards include 4x points on travel and gas and 2x points on dining, streaming, and transit. Other unique features include 4 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits per year, a $100 TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit, Free global Wi-Fi and cellular data in 125+ countries and Cell phone protection.
The annual fee is $0 the first year, then $95. This card is an underrated gem, especially for domestic road trippers and travelers who want premium perks without a premium fee. The travel and gas rewards make it a natural fit for summer adventures by car.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
This credit card is perfect for cashback fans who still want travel rewards. As a sign-up bonus, users will receive $200 (or 20,000 points) after spending $500 in 3 months. Other perks include 5% cashback on travel through Chase Travel℠, 3% cashback on dining and drugstores, and 1.5% cashback on everything else. The annual fee is also $0.
Perfect for everyday purchases when traveling or at home, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a really great companion card. On its own, it’s a strong cashback card, but paired with a Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve, your cashback becomes transferrable Ultimate Rewards points. This adds serious value!
The New United℠ Explorer Card
This is the perfect credit card for loyal United Airlines travelers. As a signup bonus, users receive 60,000 MileagePlus miles after spending $3,000 in 3 months. Other rewards include 7x miles on United flights, 5x miles on United Hotels, and 2x miles on dining and other United purchases. This card offers perks like free first checked bag, two United Club passes per year, and expanded award seat access. The annual fee is $0 first year, then $150. If you’re flying United this summer, this card offers convenience and savings that can easily outweigh the fee.
What to Look for in a Summer Travel Credit Card
Choosing the right card depends on your travel goals, habits, and spending. Here’s what to consider when selecting the best credit card for your lifestyle:
- A Strong Sign-Up Bonus
The most lucrative time to get a travel card is often right when you open it. Bonuses of 50,000–75,000 points can be worth $500–$1,000 or more toward your summer travel.
- Bonus Categories That Match Your Lifestyle
If you spend heavily on dining, flights, or groceries, pick a card that rewards those categories. Travelers who prioritize flexibility should look at cards with transferable points.
- Flexible Redemption Options
Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Amex Gold let you transfer points to hotel and airline programs. Oftentimes, this is a better deal than using fixed-value travel portals.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees
International travelers should steer clear of cards that charge 3% on purchases made abroad.
- Built-in Travel Protections
Coverage for trip delays, baggage loss, and rental car damage can save you money and stress in unexpected situations.
Tips for Maximizing Travel Rewards in 2025
Selecting the right card is just the beginning! Here are even more smart ways to optimize your credit card use:
- Time Your Sign-Up Bonus
Try to open your card 2–3 months before any major travel expenses. Use big purchases like flights or hotel bookings to help meet the spending requirement for the bonus.
- Book Through Travel Portals
Chase Travel℠, Amex Travel, and Capital One Travel sometimes offer better rates, bonus rewards, and exclusive deals.
- Transfer Points for Maximum Value
Instead of redeeming points directly through your credit card’s portal, consider transferring them to airline or hotel programs (especially for premium cabin flights or luxury stays).
- Pair Cards for Better Returns
For example, combining Chase Freedom Unlimited with Chase Sapphire Preferred allows you to maximize both cashback and travel redemptions.
- Use All Your Credits
Don’t forget to activate and use your annual travel credits, dining credits, and TSA PreCheck reimbursements before they expire. These can easily offset your annual fee if used strategically.
Final Thoughts
The best travel credit cards for summer 2025 offer more than just points, as they provide a better way to travel, save, and enjoy your adventures. Whether you’re looking for luxury, value, or simplicity, there’s a perfect credit card for your needs. By pairing the right card with smart usage, your summer vacation could be smoother, cheaper, and far more rewarding. Now is the perfect time to apply and start earning, because your dream summer trip should reward you in more ways than one.
Karl Brown is the Chief Information Officer at The Cards Guy, a comprehensive credit card comparison platform that helps consumers find the best credit card offers tailored to their financial goals. With a vast selection of cards (including travel, cashback, business, and student options), the site provides detailed information on rewards, fees, and benefits. Users can filter choices by credit score, benefits, and issuer to make informed decisions. The Cards Guy partners with major financial institutions like Chase, Capital One, and Citi to offer a broad range of options. Additionally, the site may receive compensation through affiliate links, which helps support its operations. https://thecardsguy.com/