Turn Everyday Spending into Points and Miles: Top Credit Cards for Air Travel

Travel credit cards earn points (sometimes called miles) each time you make an eligible purchase. The typical earning rate is 1 to 2 points per dollar spent, and many cards give you extra points for certain purchases, typically within travel categories.

The value of a point (or mile) depends on the card that earned it and how you redeem it, but a good rule of thumb is to assume each point is worth an average of about 1 cent.

Your points accumulate in a rewards account, where you can use them to pay for travel. Most cards let you book travel directly using a portal, but instead of paying cash, you can pay with your points or miles. Depending on the card, you may also have the option of booking travel directly from your airline or hotel of choice, then cashing in your points for a credit against those expenses.

There are a few ways to use your travel rewards to book flights:

• Use the card's online travel portal: Many travel credit cards have their own online portal where you can redeem your points or miles for flights. This is often the simplest way to book, as you can search for flights and see how many points or miles it will cost.
• Transfer points to airline partners: Many travel credit cards allow you to transfer your points to partner airlines. This can be a great option if you want to use your points for flights on a specific airline, or if you need to use your points for a flight that isn't available for direct redemption through the card's portal.
• Book directly and get reimbursed: Some travel credit cards allow you to book your flight directly with the airline or through a travel agency and then get reimbursed for the cost using your points or miles. This can be a good option if you need to book a complex itinerary or if you want to use a specific travel agent.

Airline-specific credit cards can be a great option for frequent flyers of a particular airline. These cards often offer bonus points or miles for spending, priority boarding, free checked bags, and other perks. However, it's important to consider whether you'll be able to use the card enough to justify the annual fee (if any) and whether the airline's loyalty program is a good fit for your travel needs.

If you're a flexible traveler who flies multiple airlines, a general travel rewards card may be a better option. These cards often offer more flexibility in how you can use your points or miles, and they may also have better welcome offers and ongoing rewards.

Travel credit cards offer a variety of perks that can make your travel experience more enjoyable. Here are a few examples:

• Priority boarding: This perk allows you to board the plane before other passengers so you can get settled in your seat and avoid the rush.
• Free checked bags: This perk can save you money on baggage fees, especially if you're traveling with checked luggage.
• Lounge access: Some travel credit cards offer access to airport lounges, where you can relax, work, and enjoy complimentary food and drinks before your flight.
• Travel insurance: Many travel credit cards include travel insurance coverage, which can protect you from unexpected expenses such as trip cancellation, lost luggage, and medical emergencies.
• Rental car insurance: This perk can save you money on rental car insurance, as many travel credit cards offer primary rental car insurance coverage.

By choosing the right travel credit card, you can enjoy a more comfortable and convenient travel experience.