The Ultimate Travel Credit Card Lineup: Top Picks from a Full-Time Travel Influencer
As a full-time travel influencer who's journeyed to over 35 countries in the past three years, averaging at least one international trip every two months, I've become an expert in maximizing travel rewards. What sets my experience apart is my unique approach to partnerships: I've negotiated contracts that allow me to book my own travel, giving me the freedom to maximize credit card points while still collaborating with brands. This strategy has not only enhanced my travels but also deepened my understanding of reward systems.
My extensive experience has taught me that the right credit card strategy can transform your travel game, turning everyday spending into extraordinary adventures. I've carefully curated a lineup of credit cards that have consistently proven their worth across diverse global destinations. These aren't just pieces of plastic in my wallet; they're powerful tools that have opened doors to premium travel experiences I never thought possible.
In this guide, I'm excited to share the credit card strategy that's been the backbone of my globe-trotting lifestyle. Whether you're a frequent traveler or just starting to explore the world of travel rewards, my insights can help you make the most of your spending and elevate your travel experiences.
American Express Business Platinum Card
The Amex Business Platinum is a heavyweight in the world of travel rewards cards. While it comes with a substantial annual fee, the perks more than makeup for it if you're a frequent traveler and a business owner.
💰 Annual Fee: $695 (as of 2024)
🎁 Current Bonus: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on your Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership. (I made sure to line up new tech purchases with the opening of this card to hit the spend bonus)
Key Perks:
5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through amextravel.com
1.5X points on eligible purchases in select business categories and on purchases of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million per calendar year
Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges
Access to Delta Sky Club when flying Delta. Guests cost extra.
$200 annual airline fee credit
Up to $200 in statement credits for U.S. Dell purchases annually (which I use for upgraded office tech like monitors or hue lights)
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
Chase Sapphire Reserve – Updated for 2025
This was the first card I ever opened when I started getting intentional about earning points — and it’s still a powerhouse for travelers who want flexibility, perks, and premium-level benefits.
💰 Annual Fee: $795
🎁 Current Bonus: Best-Ever Offer — 100,000 bonus points plus a $500 Chase Travel℠ promo credit after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months.
Why I Still Keep This Card in My Wallet:
Top Travel Earning:
8x points on travel booked through Chase Travel℠
4x points on flights and hotels booked directly
3x points on dining worldwide
5x points on Lyft through Sept 30, 2027
10x points on Peloton equipment through Dec 31, 2027 (up to 50,000 pts)
Generous Travel Credits:
$300 annual travel credit (redeemable for nearly any travel purchase)
$500 annual hotel credit ($250 every 6 months for bookings via The Edit℠)
$300 annual dining credit at select restaurants
$300 annual StubHub credit
Up to $300 in DoorDash credits ($25/month)
Lifestyle & Entertainment Perks:
Free Apple TV+ and Apple Music through June 2027
Complimentary 12-month DashPass
Up to $120/year in Lyft and Peloton credits
Priority Pass lounge access + Chase Sapphire Lounges
IHG One Platinum Elite status through 2027
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS credit (up to $120)
Travel Protections You’ll Actually Use:
Primary rental car insurance
Trip delay, interruption, and cancellation coverage
Lost luggage reimbursement
Purchase protection, extended warranty & more
No foreign transaction fees
Point Redemption Value:
Points are worth up to 2¢ each with Chase’s new Points Boost feature
Transfer to 14+ airline and hotel partners (like Hyatt, United, Air Canada, and Singapore Airlines)
Access to Pay Yourself Back™ for flexible statement redemptions
Combine Ultimate Rewards from other cards into this account for maximum value
Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card
For frequent Delta flyers, the Delta SkyMiles Platinum card offers great value and perks.
💰 Annual Fee: $250 (as of 2024)
🎁 Current Bonus: 90,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in purchases in the first 3 months
Key Perks:
3X miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels
2X miles at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets
Annual companion certificate for domestic Main Cabin round-trip
First checked bag free on Delta flights
Priority boarding
20% back on in-flight purchases
Maximizing Your Rewards
To get the most out of this credit card lineup:
Use the Amex Business Platinum for large purchases and booking flights through amextravel.com
Use the Chase Sapphire Reserve for general travel and dining expenses
Use the Delta SkyMiles Platinum for Delta flights and to earn status with the airline
Remember, responsible credit use is key. Always pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges that can negate the value of your rewards.
Happy travels and happy points earning!
