Discover the Best Credit Cards for Airline Miles and take your travel experience to new heights with unbeatable savings and spectacular rewards! Whether you’re a jet-setter or gearing up for your next vacation, these top-tier cards offer you the opportunity to earn generous miles and enjoy low APRs. Explore the cards below
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Bonus Miles: 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
Regular Miles: Points can be redeemed for travel with an increased value through Chase.
Reward Rates: 5x points on travel purchased through Chase, 2x on other travel purchases, and 1x on all other purchases.
APR: 21.49% – 28.49% variable APR.
Annual Fee: $95.
Who Should Consider This Card: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is perfect for frequent travelers who spend significantly on travel and dining. With high rewards rates on travel booked through Chase and dining, along with a generous initial bonus, this card is ideal for those looking to maximize travel rewards.
The points boost when redeemed for travel via Chase adds additional value, making it a top choice for those who travel often
Discover it Miles
Bonus Miles: All miles earned at the end of the first year will be matched by Discover.
Regular Miles: 1.5x miles on every dollar spent on all purchases.
Reward Rates: Flat rate on all purchases, with no categories or caps.
APR: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases, then 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR.
Annual Fee: $0.
Requirements to Get This Card: Good to excellent credit is likely required.
Who Should Consider This Card: The Discover it Miles card is well-suited for individuals who prefer simplicity in their rewards structure, offering a flat rewards rate across all purchases.
It’s especially appealing for those new to travel cards or those who dislike dealing with category restrictions. The unique first-year mile match by Discover can significantly enhance the miles earned, making it a compelling choice for everyday use
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Bonus Miles: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months.
Regular Miles: Unlimited 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, 5X miles on hotel stays and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
Reward Rates: High earning potential on every purchase.
APR: 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR.
Annual Fee: $95.
Requirements to Get This Card: Requires good to excellent credit.
Who Should Consider This Card: This card is a solid option for those who spend broadly and travel frequently, appreciating straightforward, high rewards rates on all purchases.
The generous bonus and the ability to earn 5x miles on bookings via Capital One Travel make it particularly valuable for frequent travelers.
Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card
Bonus Miles: 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
Regular Miles: Unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases.
Reward Rates: Straightforward and unlimited earning on all purchases.
APR: 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR.
Annual Fee: $0.
Requirements to Get This Card: Good to excellent credit is recommended.
Who Should Consider This Card: The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card is ideal for individuals seeking a no-fuss travel rewards card without an annual fee.
It’s particularly suitable for Bank of America customers who can benefit from customer loyalty bonuses, making it an excellent choice for those looking for simple yet effective travel rewards
American Airlines AAdvantage MileUp Card
Bonus Miles: 10,000 AAdvantage miles and a $50 statement credit.
Regular Miles: 2x miles on grocery store purchases, including grocery delivery services.
Reward Rates: 2x miles on American Airlines purchases, 1x miles on all other purchases.
APR: 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR.
Annual Fee: $0.
Requirements to Get This Card: Requires good to excellent credit.
Who Should Consider This Card: The AAdvantage MileUp Card is ideal for occasional American Airlines flyers who want to earn miles without paying an annual fee.
It’s particularly appealing for those who also spend regularly on groceries, allowing them to accumulate miles for everyday purchases
Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card
Bonus Miles: Offers a welcome bonus (varies; check latest offers).
Regular Miles: 2x miles on Delta purchases and at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants.
Reward Rates: 1x miles on all other eligible purchases.
APR: 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR.
Annual Fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
Requirements to Get This Card: Generally requires good to excellent credit.
Who Should Consider This Card: This card is well-suited for regular Delta flyers who can benefit from the miles earned on dining and grocery purchases, as well as from Delta travel expenses. The initial annual fee waiver makes it a low-risk option for trying out its benefits
United Gateway Card
Bonus Miles: 30,000 miles.
Regular Miles: 2x miles on United purchases, at gas stations, and on local transit and commuting.
Reward Rates: 1x miles on all other purchases.
APR: 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR.
Annual Fee: $0.
Requirements to Get This Card: Good to excellent credit is needed.
Who Should Consider This Card: Travelers who prefer United Airlines and want a card with no annual fee will find this card valuable. It’s particularly beneficial for those who spend regularly on transit and fuel, allowing them to earn miles on everyday travel expenses
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
Bonus Miles: 85,000 bonus points.
Regular Miles: 2x points on Southwest purchases and Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases.
Reward Rates: 1x points on all other purchases.
APR: 18.24% – 28.24% variable APR.
Annual Fee: $69.
Requirements to Get This Card: Requires good to excellent credit.
Who Should Consider This Card: Ideal for frequent Southwest flyers, this card offers significant rewards on airline and travel-related purchases. The bonus points are a major perk for those looking to save on future Southwest flights
Bottom Line
Choosing the right credit card can significantly enhance your travel experiences and savings. With the best credit cards for Airline Miles outlined above, you’re equipped to make an informed decision that suits your travel style and financial preferences.
Whether you prioritize low APRs, no annual fees, or high reward rates, there’s a card on this list to meet your needs.
Start racking up miles with every purchase and get closer to your next dream destination. Fly higher and smarter by selecting a card that turns everyday spending into extraordinary adventures!
