Best Credit Cards for Travel Rewards
Choosing the right credit card with travel rewards can be a valuable tool for frequent travellers, offering benefits like air miles, discounts on flights, and hotel stays. However, it’s essential to evaluate the rewards program and associated costs to ensure the card aligns with your spending habits and travel needs. You can find credit cards with travel rewards, cashback or retail rewards so choose the right one for you.
Below, we explore some of the top credit cards offering air mile rewards, highlighting their features and benefits.
British Airways American Express
The British Airways American Express card is an excellent option for frequent flyers, particularly those loyal to the British Airways brand. One of the card's significant advantages is its lack of an annual fee, making it accessible to many users. For every £1 spent on everyday purchases, cardholders earn 1 Avios point, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.
Additionally, new cardholders can earn a bonus of 5,000 Avios points by spending £2,000 within the first three months of opening the account. Another enticing feature is the companion voucher, which can be earned by spending £12,000 within each membership year. This voucher allows cardholders to book a second seat on the same flight without extra Avios points, making it a valuable perk for those who travel frequently with a companion.
Moreover, the card offers a referral program where you can earn up to 90,000 bonus points by inviting friends to join, further enhancing your earning potential. The British Airways American Express card is a strong choice for those who regularly travel with British Airways or its partners, offering generous rewards without the burden of an annual fee.
Barclaycard Avios
The Barclaycard Avios is another excellent travel rewards credit card, particularly for those who prefer a no-fee option. Cardholders earn 1 Avios point for every eligible £1 spent, allowing them to accumulate points quickly on everyday purchases. The card also includes a complimentary Apple subscription, adding extra value for tech-savvy users.
New cardholders can earn 5,000 bonus Avios points by spending £1,000 within the first three months, making it easier to start building your Avios balance. For those who spend at least £20,000 on the card each year, an additional benefit is the annual cabin upgrade voucher. This voucher allows you to upgrade one cabin class (excluding First Class) on any flight booked using Avios, which can significantly enhance your travel experience.
However, it’s important to note that the card comes with a 2.99% foreign exchange fee, which can add up if you frequently travel abroad. Additionally, there is an assumed credit limit of £1,200, which may limit spending flexibility for some users.
Sainsbury’s Bank Nectar Credit Card
For frequent shoppers at Sainsbury’s, the Sainsbury’s Bank Nectar Credit Card offers a unique way to earn air miles by converting Nectar points into Avios. For every 400 Nectar points, you can purchase 250 Avios, which can be redeemed for flights with British Airways and its partner airlines. If you change your mind, you can also convert 300 Avios back into 400 Nectar points, offering flexibility in how you use your rewards.
The card requires a Nectar membership, but neither the card nor the membership carries an annual fee, making it an attractive option for those looking to earn air miles without incurring additional costs. This card is particularly beneficial for those who regularly shop at Sainsbury’s, as it allows you to earn points on everyday purchases that can later be used for travel rewards.
Virgin Atlantic Reward Credit Card
The Virgin Atlantic Reward Credit Card is ideal for those who frequently fly with Virgin Atlantic or Virgin Holidays. Cardholders earn 0.75 Virgin Points for every eligible £1 spent, with an increased earning rate of 1.5 points for every £1 spent with Virgin Atlantic or Virgin Holidays. These points can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses.
The card does not have an annual fee, making it accessible to many consumers. Additionally, it offers fee-free balance transfers during the first six months, which can be beneficial for managing existing credit card debt. However, it’s worth noting that the card has a representative APR of 26.90% and a foreign exchange fee of 2.99%, which could reduce its value for frequent international travellers.
While the Virgin Atlantic Reward Credit Card does not currently offer a welcome bonus, its ability to earn points on everyday spending and the enhanced earning rate for Virgin-related purchases make it a strong contender for those loyal to the Virgin brand.
