For frequent travelers, a credit card that offers travel rewards can be a game-changer. The right card can help accumulate points, earn air miles, and provide travel-related perks such as airport lounge access and travel insurance. In this article, we highlight some of the best travel reward credit cards available in the UK.
1. American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Card
Key Benefits:
- Earn 20,000 Membership Rewards points when you spend £3,000 in the first three months
- Earn 1 point per £1 spent and 2 points per £1 spent on flights or travel purchases
- Complimentary airport lounge access (four visits per year)
- No annual fee for the first year (£195 thereafter)
Who It’s Best For:
Ideal for those who frequently travel and want to maximize rewards on flights and travel-related expenses.
2. British Airways American Express Premium Plus Card
Key Benefits:
- Earn 25,000 Avios when you spend £3,000 in the first three months
- Earn 3 Avios per £1 spent with British Airways and 1.5 Avios per £1 elsewhere
- Companion Voucher when you spend £10,000 per year
- Travel insurance benefits included
Who It’s Best For:
Best suited for British Airways travelers who want to accumulate Avios quickly and make use of the Companion Voucher.
3. Barclaycard Avios Plus Credit Card
Key Benefits:
- Earn 25,000 Avios when you spend £3,000 in the first three months
- Earn 1.5 Avios per £1 spent on everyday purchases
- Upgrade voucher when you spend £10,000 per year
- Travel benefits including overseas spending with no foreign transaction fees
Who It’s Best For:
Great for those who prefer collecting Avios and want added flexibility when booking flights.
4. Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Credit Card
Key Benefits:
- Earn 15,000 Virgin Points after your first purchase
- Earn 3 Virgin Points per £1 spent with Virgin Atlantic and 1.5 points per £1 elsewhere
- Free companion ticket or upgrade when spending £10,000 per year
- No foreign transaction fees on international purchases
Who It’s Best For:
Perfect for those who frequently fly with Virgin Atlantic and want to maximize Virgin Points.
5. Halifax Clarity Credit Card
Key Benefits:
- No foreign transaction fees worldwide
- Competitive interest rates on purchases and cash withdrawals
- No annual fee
- Simple and straightforward travel credit card with no complex rewards structure
Who It’s Best For:
A great choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to avoid extra fees on international transactions.
Choosing the Right Travel Credit Card
When selecting a travel rewards credit card, consider the following factors:
- Annual Fees: Some cards charge high fees but offer valuable perks that may outweigh the cost.
- Reward Structure: Choose a card that aligns with your spending habits to maximize rewards.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: If you frequently travel abroad, opt for a card with no foreign transaction fees.
- Travel Perks: Consider benefits such as lounge access, travel insurance, and companion vouchers.
By carefully selecting a travel credit card that matches your needs, you can make the most of your spending and enjoy additional travel benefits. Always compare the terms and conditions before applying.