A favorite for both beginners and seasoned travelers, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers 100,000 bonus points after $5,000 in the first 3 months. It earns 5× points on travel through Chase, 3× on dining, streaming, and online groceries, plus robust travel protections—all for a $95 annual fee.

Perfect for travelers wanting premium benefits without top-tier fees, the Venture X comes with 75,000 bonus miles after $4,000 in 3 months. Every dollar on Capital One Travel earns 10× miles on hotels/car rentals, 5× on flights/vacation rentals, and 2× on everything else. A $300 travel credit and lounge access make the $395 fee easy to justify.

For luxury travelers, the Amex Platinum shines. Its current offer includes up to 175,000 points (after $8,000 in six months) and 5× points on flights and prepaid hotels. High-end perks—like lounge access, elite hotel status, and up to $200 in annual credits—offset the $695 fee when fully utilized.

A top-tier travel card recently updated with major changes. Now featuring a $795 annual fee, it offers new credits—$300 dining, $300 entertainment, $300 travel, $250 Peloton, and $120 digital credits—making it a powerhouse for those leveraging premium perks.

Ideal for foodies and home cooks, the Amex Gold gives 60,000 bonus points after $6,000 in six months. It earns 4× points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (up to annual caps), plus 3× on flights—making the $325 fee worthwhile for active spenders.

A versatile mid-tier travel card with strong earning: 10× on hotels, car rentals and attractions booked via Citi Travel; 3× on airfare, restaurants, groceries, gas, and EV charging; 1× elsewhere. Comes with a 60,000-point welcome offer after $4,000 in three months, for a $95 fee.

Something unique for renters—you can earn 1× points on rent (up to 100,000/year) with no fees, plus 3× on dining and 2× on travel. No annual fee and rent-based rewards make it especially attractive for those who want to maximize a major monthly expense.

For frequent Hilton guests, this premium card offers 175,000 points after $6,000 in six months, automatic Diamond elite status, and up to three free-night awards each anniversary year. It also provides up to $400/year in resort credits and up to $200 in airline fee credits—great value at its $550 fee.