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Best Travel Credit Cards With No Annual Fee of December 2024

Review Updated
Natasha Etzel
Author: Natasha Etzel
Natasha Etzel
Natasha Etzel
Writer

Natasha has been a freelance writer since 2015. She specializes in credit card and credit card rewards content. When not busy writing, she's either dreaming up her next credit card rewards redemption or traveling the globe. Her goal is to encourage more people to experience the world around them while making smart financial choices.

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Nathan Alderman
Fact Checked: Nathan Alderman
Nathan Alderman
Nathan Alderman
Fact checker

Nathan Alderman has been a full-time Motley Fool employee since 2005, making errors his arch-enemies in a variety of roles including a six-year stint as the dedicated fact-checker for The Motley Fool's premium newsletter services. As Motley Fool Money's Compliance Lead, he makes sure that all the site's information is accurate and up to date, which ensures we always steer readers right and keeps various financial partners happy. A graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, Nathan spends his spare time volunteering for civic causes, writing and podcasting for fun, adoring his wife, and wrangling his two very large young children.

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Many or all of the products here are from our partners that compensate us. It’s how we make money. But our editorial integrity ensures that our product ratings are not influenced by compensation. Terms may apply to offers listed on this page.

A travel card with no annual fee allows you to earn points or miles without the risk of a yearly fee canceling out your rewards. These cards typically require good or excellent credit, with a credit score of at least 670. Finding no annual fee travel credit cards for fair credit can be tricky.

These credit cards are best for budget-minded travelers or those who like to travel but don't travel often enough to justify paying an annual fee. If you decide to travel less than once a year, no annual fee travel credit cards ensure you're not paying fees for a card that doesn't currently benefit you.

  • Our team of experts reviewed over 260 credit cards
  • We evaluate all credit cards across the same 4 key criteria: value, welcome experience, fees, and perks
  • Our credit card ratings are never influenced by our advertising partners
  • If we wouldn't recommend an offer to a close family member, we won't recommend it to you

Best no annual fee travel credit cards
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Ratings Methodology

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Great for: Intro bonus

Apply Now for Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

On Bank of America's Secure Website.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

On Bank of America's Secure Website.

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR Circle with letter I in it. 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases. 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 18.49% - 28.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers will apply. A 3% fee for 60 days from account opening, then 4% fee applies to all balance transfers.

Purchases: 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases

Balance Transfers: 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days

Regular APR

18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.

1.5 points per dollar

Annual Fee

$0

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases

25,000 points

  • This is a good starter travel card thanks to its simplicity and no annual fee. It offers a strong welcome bonus worth $250, unlimited 1.5X points on all purchases, and no foreign transaction fee. Simply redeem points as a statement credit for travel or dining purchases. The generous 0% Intro APR on purchases for 15 billing cycles might come in handy if you want to pay-off an expensive trip over time without interest. It’s a particularly good fit for Bank of America Preferred Rewards members, who can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase (depending on your tier). Read Full Review

    • Big sign-up bonus
    • No annual fee
    • Competitive rewards rate on purchases
    • Great 0% intro APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
    • Limited ways to use points
    • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
    • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
    • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
    • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
    • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.49% - 28.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
    • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
    • Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
    • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Great for: Sign-up bonus

Apply Now for Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

On Capital One's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

On Capital One's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: 0% intro on purchases for 15 months

Balance Transfers: 0% intro on balance transfers for 15 months (Balance Transfer Fee Applies)

Regular APR

19.49% - 29.49% (Variable)

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

1.25X-5X miles

Annual Fee

$0

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. 20,000 Miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

20,000 Miles

  • What really stands out is the incredibly easy-to-earn sign-up bonus. You can earn a 20,000-mile bonus (worth $200) after spending only $500 in your first 3 months (that's like earning 40x miles on that spend!). Redeem points by reimbursing yourself for travel expenses charged to your card, book through Capital One Travel, or transfer points to 15+ travel partners for potentially even greater value. If a straightforward travel rewards program, 0% Intro APR, & sign-up bonus with a low spending hurdle is most important to you, then this card is a very solid pick. Read Full Review

    • No annual fee
    • Sign-up bonus
    • Rewards on purchases
    • Great intro APR
    • No foreign transaction fee
    • Mediocre rewards rate
    • No bonus categories
    • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
    • Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
    • Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
    • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
    • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
    • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
    • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
    • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.49% - 29.49% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Citi Double Cash® Card

Great for: Redeeming cash back for travel

Apply Now for Citi Double Cash® Card

On Citi's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Citi Double Cash® Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Fair to Excellent (580-850)
Apply Now for Citi Double Cash® Card

On Citi's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Fair to Excellent (580-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: N/A

Balance Transfers: 0%, 18 months on Balance Transfers

Regular APR

18.24% - 28.24% (Variable)

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, a special travel offer, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/25.

2% cash back

Annual Fee Circle with letter I in it. N/A

$0

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

$200

  • This card combines a top-notch balance transfer offer with best-in-class unlimited 2% cash back on purchases. There's no introductory APR for purchases, so you'll need to pay those off in full every month if you want to avoid interest charges. Read Full Review

    • High cash back
    • 0% intro APR balance transfer offer
    • No annual fee
    • Free credit score monitoring
    • Foreign transaction fee
    • No 0% intro APR on purchases
    • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
    • Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, a special travel offer, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/25.
    • Balance Transfer Only Offer: 0% intro APR on Balance Transfers for 18 months. After that, the variable APR will be 18.24% - 28.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
    • Balance Transfers do not earn cash back. Intro APR does not apply to purchases.
    • If you transfer a balance, interest will be charged on your purchases unless you pay your entire balance (including balance transfers) by the due date each month.
    • There is an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer (minimum $5) completed within the first 4 months of account opening. After that, your fee will be 5% of each transfer (minimum $5).
Award Icon 2025 Award Winner

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Great for: Cash Back

Apply Now for Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

On Wells Fargo's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

On Wells Fargo's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR Circle with letter I in it. 0% intro APR on purchases for 12 months from account opening

Purchases: 0% intro APR, 12 months from account opening

Balance Transfers: N/A

Regular APR

19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% Variable APR

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases.

1X-3X points

Annual Fee

$0

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

20,000 bonus points

  • This card offers unlimited 3X points on common things like restaurants, gas stations, travel, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases. This could be a great pick if you spend a lot in those categories. A solid welcome bonus and cell phone protection are the cherries on top. Read Full Review

    • Strong welcome bonus for a no annual fee card
    • Earn Unlimited 3x points on useful categories
    • Cellphone protection
    • Other cards offer larger bonuses, though they usually come with annual fees
    • The 1x points baseline rewards rate on other purchases, though normal for this type of card, can be beat
    • Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
    • Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.
    • Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
    • $0 annual fee.
    • 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% variable APR thereafter.
    • Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
    • Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
    • Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students

Great for: Students

Apply Now for Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students

On Bank of America's Secure Website.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students

On Bank of America's Secure Website.

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR Circle with letter I in it. 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases. 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 18.49% - 28.49% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers will apply. A 3% fee for 60 days from account opening, then 4% fee applies to all balance transfers.

Purchases: 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases

Balance Transfers: 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days

Regular APR

18.49% - 28.49% (Variable)

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.

1.5 points per dollar

Annual Fee

$0

Welcome Offer Circle with letter I in it. 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases

25,000 points

  • With a generous sign-up bonus and a rewards program, it'll be harder to find a better card for students. Read Full Review

    • Big sign-up bonus
    • No annual fee
    • Competitive rewards rate
    • 0% intro APR offer
    • No bonus categories
    • Limited ways to use points
    • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
    • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
    • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
    • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
    • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.49% - 28.49% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
    • When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job. Access your FICO® Score for free within Online Banking or your Mobile Banking app.
    • Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
    • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Discover it® Miles

Great for: Unlimited Miles and versatility

Apply Now for Discover it® Miles

On Discover's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Discover it® Miles
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Credit Score: Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.
Recommended Credit Score required for this offer is: Good/Excellent (670-850)
Apply Now for Discover it® Miles

On Discover's Secure Website.

Rates & Fees External Link Icon

Credit Score Circle with letter I in it. Falling within this credit range does not guarantee approval by the issuer. An application must be submitted to the issuer for a potential approval decision. There are different types of credit scores and creditors use a variety of credit scores to make lending decisions.

Good/Excellent (670-850)

Intro APR

Purchases: 0%, 15 months

Balance Transfers: 0%, 15 months

Regular APR

18.49% - 27.49% Variable APR *Rates as of December 12, 2024.

Rewards Circle with letter I in it. Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase

1.5X miles

Annual Fee

$0

Welcome Offer

Discover will match all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year.

  • A straightforward, no annual fee travel rewards card built for occasional travelers. The unlimited Miles and welcome offer are standout perks. Read Full Review

    • Earn miles on purchases
    • Great sign-up bonus
    • No annual fee
    • No foreign transaction fee
    • Great intro APR
    • Limited ways to use miles
    • Lacks premium travel perks
    • No bonus categories
    • UNLIMITED BONUS: Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. You could turn 35,000 Miles to 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.
    • Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase
    • No annual fee
    • Turn Miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more.
    • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.49% - 27.49% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply. Rates as of December 12, 2024.
    • Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
    • Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
    • Terms and conditions apply.

Compare the best no annual fee travel cards

The Picks
Card Rating Great For
Graphic of Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Great For:

Intro bonus
Graphic of Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Great For:

Sign-up bonus
Graphic of Citi Double Cash® Card
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Great For:

Redeeming cash back for travel
Award Icon 2025 Award Winner
Graphic of Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
Rating image, 4.00 out of 5 stars.
4.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Great For:

Cash Back
Graphic of Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students
Rating image, 5.00 out of 5 stars.
5.00/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
 = Best
= Excellent
= Good
= Fair
= Poor
Great For:

Students
Graphic of Discover it® Miles
Rating image, 4.50 out of 5 stars.
4.50/5 Circle with letter I in it. Our ratings are based on a 5 star scale. 5 stars equals Best. 4 stars equals Excellent. 3 stars equals Good. 2 stars equals Fair. 1 star equals Poor. We want your money to work harder for you. Which is why our ratings are biased toward offers that deliver versatility while cutting out-of-pocket costs.
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Unlimited Miles and versatility

How to compare travel credit cards with no annual fee

If you want to compare across different travel card categories, like with the best travel cards with no annual fee, you'll want to pay attention to the following key features:

  • Check for a sign-up bonus: A bonus offer of at least 10,000 points or miles is a solid offer for a no annual fee card. If you get a travel points credit card with no annual fee offering 25,000 points or miles or more, that's a generous bonus, especially considering you're not paying a yearly fee to use the card.
  • Compare rewards rate: Go for the no fee credit card that rewards the type of spending you're most likely to do since rewards rates can vary from one card to another. Some of the best credit cards for travel rewards will offer bonus points on travel spending, while others might offer bonus points on dining, grocery, or gas station purchases.
  • Find your redemption options: The best travel credit cards with no annual fee offer flexible rewards. These can be redeemed for a variety of different things. Some cards offer cash back, while others offer airline miles or hotel points.
  • Get low interest rates: If you plan to carry a balance, you'll want to opt for a credit card with the lowest interest rate possible. It's wise to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
  • Take advantage of the introductory APR: Some of the best travel credit cards with no annual fee also come with intro APR offers for purchases or balance transfers. 0% intro APR travel credit cards may be a good option if you have existing debt you're working to pay off quickly or want to charge a new purchase and pay it off before interest accrues.
  • Check for foreign transaction fees: If you plan to travel abroad, opt for a best rewards credit card no annual fee with no foreign transaction fees. Some travel credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee on all transactions completed in a foreign country. It's charged as a percentage of each purchase and is usually around 3%.
  • Find your free credit score: Some of the best travel cards with no annual fee also offer free credit scores or free credit monitoring as one of the included credit card perks. This can be a handy tool for improving and maintaining your credit score.

TIP

Avoid redeeming points or miles for cash

Points or miles you earn with the top travel credit cards are generally worth less when redeemed for cash. If you are not certain you will be able to redeem your points for travel, then a cash back credit card will offer more value than a travel credit card.


As a rule of thumb, points or miles that are redeemable for $0.01 each for travel may be worth as little as $0.005 to $0.007 each when redeemed as cash back.

What types of no annual fee travel cards are available?

There are a variety of travel credit cards with no annual fee, including:

  • General flat-rate rewards cards
  • Airline cards
  • Hotel cards

The type of credit card with travel rewards to get will depend on your travel preferences and spending habits. An airline credit card no annual fee may make sense if you're loyal to one airline. A no-fee hotel card may be a good fit if you tend to make reservations at certain hotel chains.

However, if you book a variety of travel and want more flexibility with your rewards, a general rewards card offering flat-rate rewards may be the best option. Here are some of the best international credit card no fees options that might work for you, depending on your specific needs.

Flat rate rewards cards with no annual fee

These cards earn rewards at a flat rate. That means you won't have to spend only on travel purchases or keep track of spending categories to earn rewards. Many of these travel credit cards allow you to redeem your points or miles. Here are some card examples.

  • Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card: This card earns a flat rate of 1.5 points for purchases, making it simple to earn rewards. You can earn unlimited rewards, and this card also offers a hefty sign-up bonus of 25,000 points after you meet the minimum spend of $1,000 within the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees): You'll earn 1.25 miles for every $1 spent on most purchases, with unlimited rewards. For this reason, most consider this to be a flat-rate rewards card. It's worth noting that if you book car rentals or hotel stays through the Capital One Travel portal, you'll earn 5 miles per $1 spent. The card also offers a generous welcome bonus: Earn a bonus of 20,000 Miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months of account opening, equal to $200 in travel.
  • Discover it® Miles: You'll earn 1.5 miles for every $1 spent on purchases, regardless of the category. Plus, earning is unlimited. This card doesn't have a traditional sign-up bonus. Instead, Discover will match all miles earned in the first year. If you spend a lot with this card in the first year, this is an extremely valuable bonus.

Airline credit cards with no annual fee

These cards reward you for making purchases with a specific airline. If you're loyal to one airline brand, this kind of no annual fee card may make sense. Here are some card examples.

  • Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card: Cardholders can earn 10,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 within 6 months of account opening. You'll earn 2X miles per $1 on Delta purchases, restaurants worldwide, and U.S. takeout and delivery, and 1 mile per $1 on other purchases. You'll also earn 20% back as a statement credit on eligible in-flight purchases made with your card.
  • United Gateway℠ Card: This credit card is an option if you fly with United Airlines. You'll earn 1 to 2 miles per $1 spent depending on what you buy with your card. New cardmembers can earn generous bonus miles after meeting the spending requirements. When you use this card to make eligible United in-flight purchases or to buy Club premium drinks, you'll earn 25% back as a statement credit..

Hotel credit cards with no annual fee

These cards reward you for making purchases with a specific hotel chain. If you're loyal to one hotel chain or hotel loyalty program, this kind of no annual fee card may make sense. Here are some card examples.

  • Hilton Honors American Express Card: With this card, you can earn 7 points per $1 spent on eligible Hilton properties. Additionally, you can earn 5 points per $1 on purchases made at U.S. supermarkets, restaurants, and gas stations. New cardmembers can earn 100,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points Hilton Honors Bonus Points if they meet the spending requirements.
  • Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card: You'll earn anywhere from 1 to 14 points per $1, depending on the purchases you make with your card, and you'll automatically achieve Silver Elite status each year that you carry this card. Plus, it offers a sizable welcome bonus after you meet the minimum spend.

How can points be redeemed with travel cards that have no annual fee?

The best free travel credit cards typically offer two types of redemptions: statement credit and a travel portal. The most significant difference between a credit card with travel points and other rewards cards is how the points can be redeemed.

Statement credit redemptions

Points or miles are redeemed to "erase" travel purchases from your statement. Many people prefer statement credit redemptions over portal-based travel cards for several reasons.

  • They're the most flexible method. You can use your rewards to cover any purchase that codes as travel, from bookings through Expedia to stays at local bed and breakfasts and cars booked through your favorite car rental agency.
  • They're better for saving money on everyday expenses. You don't necessarily have to plan a big vacation to take advantage of them.
  • You can take advantage of significant travel discounts. Book travel with your best travel credit card no annual fee, then double-dip by using your statement credits to erase the purchase. This option is great for bargain hunters.

READ MORE: How to travel for free with credit card points

Travel portal redemptions

Points or miles are redeemed through the issuer's portal. Travel portal cards often earn more lucrative rewards than those offering statement credit redemptions, if you know how to use them wisely. Travel portal cards have a few unique advantages.

  • Pay with points or miles. Using a bank's travel portal lets you skip a step and immediately redeem your points or miles for a travel purchase. A statement credit travel card requires you to book a trip with the card and request a credit later.
  • The value of points and miles varies. Statement credits assign a fixed value to each point or mile you earn, but travel portal redemptions can value points at a different rate.

READ MORE: Don't mind paying an annual fee in exchange for more travel perks? Review our list of the best travel rewards credit cards.

Our travel credit cards methodology

At Motley Fool Money, we rate travel credit cards on a five-star scale (1 = poor, 5 = best). Our rating criteria Includes rewards systems and bonus categories, rewards redemption flexibility, and sign-up bonuses.

Our highest-rated travel credit cards have:

  • Rewards system and bonus categories (the earn rate of flat-rate rewards, or tiered spending categories)
  • Rewards redemption flexibility and points programs (booking travel, transfer partners, statement credit, etc.)
  • Sign-up bonuses that can drastically boost card value in the first year
  • Perks that can offset annual fees like airport lounge access, travel credits, and TSA PreCheck reimbursement

We combine these factors with an evaluation of brand reputation and customer satisfaction to ensure you're getting the best travel card recommendations. Our aim is to maintain a balanced best-of list featuring top-scoring travel credit cards from reputable brands.

Ordering within lists is influenced by advertiser compensation, including featured placements at the top of a given list, but our product recommendations are NEVER influenced by advertisers. Learn more about how Motley Fool Money rates credit cards.

FAQs

  • The goal of finding the best free travel credit card that works for you is minimizing your cost and maximizing your rewards. Look for travel cards with minimal fees, including annual fees, foreign transaction fees, and interest fees. At the same time, make sure the card you select offers a high rewards rate for the most frequent spending you typically do, and that the redemption options available to you make sense for how you'd like to use your rewards. A generous sign-up bonus doesn't hurt, and having access to your free credit score will help you maintain good credit health. After all, your credit score can determine whether you qualify for future financial opportunities.

  • When selecting the best no fee travel credit card, one of the first decisions you'll have to make is whether you want to earn travel statement credits, or travel points or miles that can be redeemed through the card's travel portal. The main difference: Travel statement credits tend to be more flexible and easier to use, but travel points and miles often yield a higher return if you can find good redemption options.

    Folks who travel frequently will likely get more use out of a travel portal credit card for booking free flights and hotel rooms, whereas folks who travel only occasionally will reap the rewards of travel statement credits, which can apply to many kinds of travel purchases, from Airbnb stays to Uber rides.

  • A travel card with no annual fee is right for you if:

    • You travel seldomly and on a budget.
    • You want to travel more and prefer to ease into the world of credit card rewards.
    • You don't use credit cards often.

    If you rarely travel, you might want to opt for a cash back credit card, which offers more relevant and flexible rewards and greater perks. If you're a frequent traveler, on the other hand, it might make sense to look into travel credit cards with an annual fee. Though they cost money, they offer better rewards and travel protections, and usually include more plentiful card perks.

  • Whether you should pay an annual fee on a travel card is a matter of how much you spend. High spenders may be better off paying an annual fee for the best travel credit cards (which may give more rewards per $1 spent), whereas lower spenders could be better off with a no annual fee travel card.

    Some of the best credit cards for airline miles no annual fee typically reward cardholders with a yield of 1.5% when miles or points are redeemed for travel. In contrast, cards with an annual fee typically yield 2% or more.