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Updated October 2026
Best Travel Credit Cards of October 2026
Earn points and miles on every trip, skip foreign transaction fees and get perks like lounge access and travel credits. These are the travel cards our editors rate highest.
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Our picks
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- Bonus worth $900+ in travel
- 5x points on travel booked through Northwind
- Transfer partners for outsized value
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
75,000 bonus points
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
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- Airport lounge access worldwide
- $300 annual travel credit
- 10x miles on hotels and car rentals via Meridian
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
100,000 bonus miles
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
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- 4x points on dining and groceries
- $240 in yearly dining credits
- Strong transfer partners
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
60,000 bonus points
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
Editor’s pick
Our top travel card
Earn up to 5x points on travel, transfer points to 15 airline and hotel partners, and get up to $120 in yearly travel credits.
Rates & fees apply. Offer terms set by the issuer.
How we picked these cards
We compared travel cards on point value, transfer partners, annual fee vs. credits, travel protections and foreign transaction fees. Cards had to earn at least 2x on travel to make the list.
How to choose a travel credit card
- Count your trips. If you travel once or twice a year, a mid-tier card around $95 usually beats a premium card.
- Check the credits. Subtract any travel credits you will actually use from the annual fee to get the real cost.
- Look at transfer partners. Flexible points that move to several airlines are worth more than miles locked to one program.
- Skip foreign transaction fees. Every card on this list charges none.
Ledgerly tip
Not sure which category fits you? Start with what you spend the most on each month, then compare the top card in that category.
Frequently asked questions
Are travel cards worth the annual fee?
If you use the credits and perks, usually yes. Our top pick earns back its $95 fee with a single hotel credit.
Points or miles: which is better?
Flexible points that transfer to many partners give you more options than a single airline’s miles.
Do I need excellent credit?
Most travel cards need good to excellent credit, typically a FICO score of 690 or higher.