Traveling the world in 2025? Whether you’re planning a Euro trip, a Bali escape, or a business run to London, the right travel credit card can seriously upgrade your experience.
From avoiding annoying foreign transaction fees to getting access to airport lounges and earning points on every purchase, travel credit cards aren’t just plastic—they’re powerful tools for more thoughtful, smoother journeys. But with so many options out there, which one should you carry in your wallet?
Let’s break down the top credit cards for international travel in 2025 based on tangible benefits, personal experiences, and features that make a difference abroad.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Best for: Beginner travelers who want substantial value
- No foreign transaction fees
- 2x points on travel and dining
- Travel insurance and purchase protection
- Sign-up bonus worth up to $750 in travel
This is one of the first travel credit cards I ever used when backpacking across Europe. It struck the perfect balance between perks and affordability. If you’re just getting into the travel rewards game, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is a go-to. Points transfer easily to travel partners like Hyatt and United, and redemption through Chase’s travel portal gives you 25% more value.
https://creditcards.chase.com/rewards-credit-cards/sapphire/preferred
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Best for: Simplicity and flat-rate rewards
- 2x miles on every purchase
- No FX fees
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
- Flexible redemptions for travel expenses
If you don’t want to track spending categories, this card keeps things simple. I used my miles to erase Airbnb charges during a stay in Lisbon—seamless and satisfying. It’s great for travelers who value ease and flexibility.
https://www.capitalone.com/credit-cards/venture/
American Express Gold Card
Best for: Foodies and travelers who love dining abroad
- 4x points at restaurants (worldwide)
- 3x points on flights
- No foreign transaction fees
- Monthly dining credits
This card shines if you enjoy discovering global cuisines. I once used it for a 10-course tasting menu in Tokyo and racked up serious points. Plus, the Membership Rewards program offers excellent airline transfer options.
Note: American Express (AMEX) acceptance is growing internationally, but it is still not as universal as Visa or Mastercard in some regions.
https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/account/get-started/gold/
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Best for: Frequent travelers who want premium perks
- Priority Pass™ lounge access
- 3x points on travel and dining
- $300 annual travel credit
- Comprehensive travel insurance
This card feels like a travel companion. From delayed baggage coverage to lounge access during long layovers, it’s made some of my more hectic travel days feel like a luxury. If you’re a regular flyer, the high annual fee is justified by the perks.
Citi Premier Card
Best for: Well-rounded travelers who want strong earning potential
- 3x points on air travel, hotels, gas stations, dining, and supermarkets
- No foreign transaction fees
- Points transfer to major airline partners
This one’s a sleeper hit. The broad bonus categories help you earn quickly, and the ThankYou Points program has solid partners. I used it to book a discounted business-class ticket from New York City to Barcelona via Turkish Airlines.
Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card
Best for: No annual fee + decent rewards
- 1.5x points on all purchases
- No foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
If you’re a casual traveler or just dipping your toes into international trips, this card gets you started without a fee. It’s gratifying if you’re a Bank of America customer with Preferred Rewards.
https://www.bankofamerica.com/credit-cards/products/travel-rewards-credit-card/
The Platinum Card from American Express
Best for: Luxury travelers who want the best of the best
- Access to Centurion and Priority Pass lounges
- 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels
- $200 airline credit + Uber and hotel perks
- Premium concierge and travel protections
This is the card I use when I want to travel in style. From skipping lines at JFK lounges to scoring hotel room upgrades in Paris, it elevates everything. Just be ready for a hefty annual fee—but for many, it’s worth every penny.
What to Look For in a Travel Credit Card
Not all travel cards are created equal. When choosing a credit card for international travel, prioritize these features:
- ✅ No foreign transaction fees (saves ~3% per purchase abroad)
- ✅ Travel insurance and protections
- ✅ Reward points or miles with good transfer partners
- ✅ Airport lounge access for comfort and convenience
- ✅ Global acceptance (Visa/Mastercard preferred in remote areas)
- ✅ Extra perks like TSA PreCheck, hotel upgrades, or annual credits
Final Thoughts
The world is waiting—and your wallet should be ready. With the right credit card for international travel, you’ll save money, earn rewards, and travel with peace of mind. Whether you’re sipping espresso in Rome or catching a redeye to Singapore, your card should work for you, not against you.
💡 Ready to explore more tips and tools for smarter travel and money moves? Check out our full library of personal finance guides at PassiveMint!
