Best travel credit cards in the US for 2026

Verified Oct 16, 2026USD

Travel cards ranked by 3-year value on a frequent traveller's spending. Each card shows Year 1 against every year after, so a card that's mostly its welcome bonus is easy to spot.

Advertiser disclosure: we may earn a commission when you apply through some links on this page. It never affects rank: cards are ordered by the value worked out from your spending. How we make money · Methodology

Spending: Frequent traveller · $3,880/moRank these on my own spending

  1. #1Chase IHG One Rewards Premier

    Chase

    IHG One Rewards Premier

    $150 feeDining 5xFlights 5x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,232, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,465, based on 0.59 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $5,163, based on 0.59 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,232, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,465, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,062 / $295Rewards on spending$1,185 / $1,185Credits$135 / $135Fees (taken off the end)−$150 / −$150
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    5x
    Groc
    Groceries
    5x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    5x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    5x
    Air
    Flights
    10x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    3x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    3x
    Stream
    Streaming
    3x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    3x
    Online
    Online shopping
    3x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    3x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #1 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $5,163 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,232 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,062 + rewards $1,185 + credits $135 − fee $150.
    3. Each year after. about $1,465 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $295 + rewards $1,185 + credits $135 − fee $150.
    4. Against #2. Beats Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card by $379 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$548).
    5. Not counted. The anniversary free night is valued at the most points it can cover.

    Points valued at 0.59¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Not counted: The anniversary free night is valued at the most points it can cover.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  2. #2Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card

    Chase

    Air Canada Aeroplan Card

    $195 feeFlights 3xDining 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,668, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,058, based on 1.4 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $4,784, based on 1.4 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $2,668, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $1,058, based on 1.4 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,610 / $0Rewards on spending$1,198 / $1,198Credits$55 / $55Fees (taken off the end)−$195 / −$195
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    3x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #2 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $4,784 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $2,668 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,610 + rewards $1,198 + credits $55 − fee $195.
    3. Each year after. about $1,058 (estimated) = rewards $1,198 + credits $55 − fee $195.
    4. Against #1. Trails Chase IHG One Rewards Premier by $379 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$548).
    5. Against #3. Beats Chase Sapphire Reserve by $596 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$2,499).

    Points valued at 1.40¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  3. #3Chase Sapphire Reserve

    Chase

    Sapphire Reserve

    $795 feeFlights 4xDining 3x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$2,063
    Year 2+$1,063

    3 years $4,188 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$2,063
    Year 2+$1,063
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,000 / $0Rewards on spending$970 / $970Credits$888 / $888Fees (taken off the end)−$795 / −$795
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    4x
    Air
    Flights
    4x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #3 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $4,188 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $2,063 = welcome bonus $1,000 + rewards $970 + credits $888 − fee $795.
    3. Each year after. $1,063 = rewards $970 + credits $888 − fee $795.
    4. Against #2. Trails Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card by $596 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$2,499).
    5. Against #4. Beats Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless by $436 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$2,614).

    Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  4. #4Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless

    Chase

    Marriott Bonvoy Boundless

    $95 feeHotels 6xDining 3x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,844, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $954, based on 0.73 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $3,752, based on 0.73 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,844, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $954, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$1,095 / $256Rewards on spending$794 / $794Credits$50 / $0Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    6x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    2x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #4 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $3,752 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,844 (estimated) = welcome bonus $1,095 + rewards $794 + credits $50 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $954 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $256 + rewards $794 − fee $95.
    4. Against #3. Trails Chase Sapphire Reserve by $436 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$2,614).
    5. Against #5. Beats Chase United Quest by $155 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$928).
    6. Not counted. Free Night Awards are valued at the most points each night can cover.

    Points valued at 0.73¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  5. #5Chase United Quest

    Chase

    United Quest

    $350 feeFlights 4xDining 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,839, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $879, based on 1.2 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $3,597, based on 1.2 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,839, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $879, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$960 / $0Rewards on spending$903 / $903Credits$326 / $326Fees (taken off the end)−$350 / −$350
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    4x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #5 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $3,597 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,839 (estimated) = welcome bonus $960 + rewards $903 + credits $326 − fee $350.
    3. Each year after. about $879 (estimated) = rewards $903 + credits $326 − fee $350.
    4. Against #4. Trails Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless by $155 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$928).
    5. Against #6. Beats Chase World of Hyatt by $58 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$978).

    Points valued at 1.20¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  6. #6Chase World of Hyatt

    Chase

    World of Hyatt

    $95 feeDining 2xFlights 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,629, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $954, based on 1.5 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $3,538, based on 1.5 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,629, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $954, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$675 / $0Rewards on spending$1,049 / $1,049Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    4x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #6 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $3,538 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,629 (estimated) = welcome bonus $675 + rewards $1,049 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $954 (estimated) = rewards $1,049 − fee $95.
    4. Against #5. Trails Chase United Quest by $58 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$978).
    5. Against #7. Beats Wells Fargo Autograph Journey by $18 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$120).
    6. Not counted. The anniversary Category 1–4 free night isn't valued: Chase doesn't state its points value.

    Points valued at 1.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Not counted: The anniversary Category 1–4 free night isn't valued: Chase doesn't state its points value.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  7. #7Wells Fargo Autograph Journey

    Wells Fargo

    Autograph Journey

    $95 feeFlights 4xHotels 5x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,573
    Year 2+$973

    3 years $3,520 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,573
    Year 2+$973
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$1,028 / $1,028Credits$40 / $40Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    4x
    Air
    Flights
    5x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    3x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #7 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,520 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,573 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $1,028 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $973 = rewards $1,028 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    4. Against #6. Trails Chase World of Hyatt by $18 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$120).
    5. Against #8. Beats Citi Strata Premier by $68 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$68).

    Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  8. #8Citi Strata Premier

    Citi

    Strata Premier

    $95 feeDining 3xFlights 3x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,551
    Year 2+$951

    3 years $3,452 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,551
    Year 2+$951
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$1,006 / $1,006Credits$40 / $40Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    3x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #8 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,452 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,551 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $1,006 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $951 = rewards $1,006 + credits $40 − fee $95.
    4. Against #7. Trails Wells Fargo Autograph Journey by $68 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$68).
    5. Against #9. Beats Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent by $222 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$252).

    Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  9. #9Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent

    Bank of America

    Atmos Rewards Ascent

    $95 feeFlights 3xBills 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,577, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $827, based on 1.5 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $3,230, based on 1.5 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,577, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $827, based on 1.5 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$750 / $0Rewards on spending$922 / $922Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #9 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $3,230 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,577 (estimated) = welcome bonus $750 + rewards $922 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $827 (estimated) = rewards $922 − fee $95.
    4. Against #8. Trails Citi Strata Premier by $222 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$252).
    5. Against #10. Beats Chase United Explorer by $13 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$397).

    Points valued at 1.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  10. #10Chase United Explorer

    Chase

    United Explorer

    $150 fee · yr 1 freeDining 2xFlights 3x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,732, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $742, based on 1.2 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $3,216, based on 1.2 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,732, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $742, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$840 / $0Rewards on spending$789 / $789Credits$103 / $103Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / −$150
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #10 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $3,216 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,732 (estimated) = welcome bonus $840 + rewards $789 + credits $103.
    3. Each year after. about $742 (estimated) = rewards $789 + credits $103 − fee $150.
    4. Against #9. Trails Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent by $13 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$397).
    5. Against #11. Beats Chase Sapphire Preferred by $120 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$90).

    Points valued at 1.20¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  11. #11Chase Sapphire Preferred

    Chase

    Sapphire Preferred

    $95 feeDining 3xFlights 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,532
    Year 2+$782

    3 years $3,097 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,532
    Year 2+$782
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$750 / $0Rewards on spending$793 / $793Credits$84 / $84Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    3x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #11 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,097 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,532 = welcome bonus $750 + rewards $793 + credits $84 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $782 = rewards $793 + credits $84 − fee $95.
    4. Against #10. Trails Chase United Explorer by $120 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$90).
    5. Against #12. Beats Wells Fargo One Key Card by $76 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$500).

    Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  12. #12Wells Fargo One Key Card

    Wells Fargo

    One Key Card

    No annual feeDining 3%Groceries 3%
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,173
    Year 2+$923

    3 years $3,020 after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,173
    Year 2+$923
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$923 / $923Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3%
    Groc
    Groceries
    3%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #12 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $3,020 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,173 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $923.
    3. Each year after. $923 = rewards $923.
    4. Against #11. Trails Chase Sapphire Preferred by $76 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$500).
    5. Against #13. Beats Wells Fargo Autograph by $27 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$50).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  13. #13Wells Fargo Autograph

    Wells Fargo

    Autograph

    No annual feeDining 3xFlights 3x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,131
    Year 2+$931

    3 years $2,994 after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,131
    Year 2+$931
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$200 / $0Rewards on spending$931 / $931Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    3x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    3x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    3x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #13 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,994 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,131 = welcome bonus $200 + rewards $931.
    3. Each year after. $931 = rewards $931.
    4. Against #12. Trails Wells Fargo One Key Card by $27 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$50).
    5. Against #14. Beats Bank of America Premium Rewards by $81 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$400).

    Points valued at 1.00¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  14. #14Bank of America Premium Rewards

    Bank of America

    Premium Rewards

    $95 feeDining 2%Flights 2%
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,371
    Year 2+$771

    3 years $2,913 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,371
    Year 2+$771
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$600 / $0Rewards on spending$803 / $803Credits$63 / $63Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    2%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2%
    Air
    Flights
    2%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #14 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,913 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,371 = welcome bonus $600 + rewards $803 + credits $63 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $771 = rewards $803 + credits $63 − fee $95.
    4. Against #13. Trails Wells Fargo Autograph by $81 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$400).
    5. Against #15. Beats Chase IHG One Rewards by $44 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$369).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  15. #15Chase IHG One Rewards

    Chase

    IHG One Rewards

    No annual feeDining 3xGroceries 3x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,448, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $710, based on 0.59 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,869, based on 0.59 cents per point after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,448, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $710, based on 0.59 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$738 / $0Rewards on spending$680 / $680Credits$30 / $30Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    3x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    5x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    2x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #15 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,869 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,448 (estimated) = welcome bonus $738 + rewards $680 + credits $30.
    3. Each year after. about $710 (estimated) = rewards $680 + credits $30.
    4. Against #14. Trails Bank of America Premium Rewards by $44 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$369).
    5. Against #16. Beats Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority by $40 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$687).

    Points valued at 0.59¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  16. #16Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority

    Chase

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority

    $229 feeFlights 4xDining 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,381, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $724, based on 1.25 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,829, based on 1.25 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,381, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $724, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$750 / $94Rewards on spending$830 / $830Credits$30 / $30Fees (taken off the end)−$229 / −$229
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    4x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #16 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,829 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,381 (estimated) = welcome bonus $750 + rewards $830 + credits $30 − fee $229.
    3. Each year after. about $724 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $94 + rewards $830 + credits $30 − fee $229.
    4. Against #15. Trails Chase IHG One Rewards by $40 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$687).
    5. Against #17. Beats Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier by $33 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$240).

    Points valued at 1.25¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  17. #17Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier

    Chase

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier

    $149 feeFlights 3xDining 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,341, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $728, based on 1.25 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,797, based on 1.25 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,341, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $728, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$688 / $75Rewards on spending$772 / $772Credits$30 / $30Fees (taken off the end)−$149 / −$149
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #17 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,797 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,341 (estimated) = welcome bonus $688 + rewards $772 + credits $30 − fee $149.
    3. Each year after. about $728 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $75 + rewards $772 + credits $30 − fee $149.
    4. Against #16. Trails Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority by $33 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$240).
    5. Against #18. Beats Discover it Miles by $3 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$688).

    Points valued at 1.25¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  18. #18Discover it Miles

    Discover

    it Miles

    No annual fee
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$1,397
    Year 2+$698

    3 years $2,794 after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$1,397
    Year 2+$698
    Rewards on spending$1,397 / $698Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #18 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,794 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $1,397 = rewards $1,397.
    3. Each year after. $698 = rewards $698.
    4. Against #17. Trails Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier by $3 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$688).
    5. Against #19. Beats Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus by $232 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$725).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  19. #19Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus

    Chase

    Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus

    $99 feeFlights 2xGroceries 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,246, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $658, based on 1.25 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,562, based on 1.25 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 1

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,246, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $658, based on 1.25 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$625 / $38Rewards on spending$690 / $690Credits$30 / $30Fees (taken off the end)−$99 / −$99
    Pays for itself in month 1 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #19 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,562 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,246 (estimated) = welcome bonus $625 + rewards $690 + credits $30 − fee $99.
    3. Each year after. about $658 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $38 + rewards $690 + credits $30 − fee $99.
    4. Against #18. Trails Discover it Miles by $232 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$725).
    5. Against #20. Beats Chase British Airways Visa Signature by $34 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$200).

    Points valued at 1.25¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  20. #20Chase British Airways Visa Signature

    Chase

    British Airways Visa Signature

    $95 feeFlights 3xHotels 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,374, based on 1.1 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $577, based on 1.1 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,527, based on 1.1 cents per point after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,374, based on 1.1 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $577, based on 1.1 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$825 / $28Rewards on spending$644 / $644Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #20 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,527 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,374 (estimated) = welcome bonus $825 + rewards $644 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. about $577 (estimated) = anniversary bonus $28 + rewards $644 − fee $95.
    4. Against #19. Trails Chase Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus by $34 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$200).
    5. Against #21. Beats Chase United Gateway by $112 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$345).

    Points valued at 1.10¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  21. #21Chase United Gateway

    Chase

    United Gateway

    No annual feeFlights 2xGas 2x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,125, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $645, based on 1.2 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,415, based on 1.2 cents per point after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,125, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $645, based on 1.2 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$480 / $0Rewards on spending$645 / $645Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #21 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,415 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,125 (estimated) = welcome bonus $480 + rewards $645.
    3. Each year after. about $645 (estimated) = rewards $645.
    4. Against #20. Trails Chase British Airways Visa Signature by $112 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$345).
    5. Against #22. Beats Bank of America Travel Rewards by $70 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (+$230).

    Points valued at 1.20¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  22. #22Bank of America Travel Rewards

    Bank of America

    Travel Rewards

    No annual fee
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$948
    Year 2+$698

    3 years $2,345 after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$948
    Year 2+$698
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$250 / $0Rewards on spending$698 / $698Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.5%
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.5%
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.5%
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.5%
    Air
    Flights
    1.5%
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.5%
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.5%
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.5%
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.5%
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.5%
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.5%
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #22 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $2,345 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $948 = welcome bonus $250 + rewards $698.
    3. Each year after. $698 = rewards $698.
    4. Against #21. Trails Chase United Gateway by $70 over 3 years, mostly on welcome bonus (−$230).
    5. Against #23. Beats Wells Fargo Choice Privileges Mastercard by $119 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$319).
    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  23. #23Wells Fargo Choice Privileges Mastercard

    Wells Fargo

    Choice Privileges Mastercard

    No annual feeGroceries 3xHotels 5x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,042, based on 0.75 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $592, based on 0.75 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $2,227, based on 0.75 cents per point after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $1,042, based on 0.75 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $592, based on 0.75 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$450 / $0Rewards on spending$592 / $592Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    3x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    3x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1x
    Air
    Flights
    5x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    3x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #23 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $2,227 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $1,042 (estimated) = welcome bonus $450 + rewards $592.
    3. Each year after. about $592 (estimated) = rewards $592.
    4. Against #22. Trails Bank of America Travel Rewards by $119 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$319).
    5. Against #24. Beats American Express Platinum Card by $254 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$3,301).

    Points valued at 0.75¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  24. #24American Express Platinum Card

    American Express

    Platinum Card

    $895 feeFlights 5x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$657
    Year 2+$657

    3 years $1,972 after fees· pays for itself in month 7Bonus not counted

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$657
    Year 2+$657
    Rewards on spending$452 / $452Credits$1,100 / $1,100Fees (taken off the end)−$895 / −$895
    Pays for itself in month 7 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    5x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #24 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,972 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $657 = rewards $452 + credits $1,100 − fee $895.
    3. Each year after. $657 = rewards $452 + credits $1,100 − fee $895.
    4. Against #23. Trails Wells Fargo Choice Privileges Mastercard by $254 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$3,301).
    5. Against #25. Beats Capital One Venture by $263 over 3 years, mostly on credits (+$3,079).
    6. Not counted. Welcome offer not counted: American Express shows the welcome offer only after you apply.

    Points valued at 0.60¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  25. #25Capital One Venture

    Capital One

    Venture

    $95 fee
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$920
    Year 2+$395

    3 years $1,709 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$920
    Year 2+$395
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$375 / $0Rewards on spending$466 / $466Credits$174 / $24Fees (taken off the end)−$95 / −$95
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    2x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #25 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,709 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $920 = welcome bonus $375 + rewards $466 + credits $174 − fee $95.
    3. Each year after. $395 = rewards $466 + credits $24 − fee $95.
    4. Against #24. Trails American Express Platinum Card by $263 over 3 years, mostly on credits (−$3,079).
    5. Against #26. Beats Chase Marriott Bonvoy Bold by $35 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$285).

    Points valued at 0.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  26. #26Chase Marriott Bonvoy Bold

    Chase

    Marriott Bonvoy Bold

    No annual feeGroceries 2xHotels 3x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1estimated value, about $777, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $449, based on 0.73 cents per point

    3 years estimated value, about $1,674, based on 0.73 cents per point after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1estimated value, about $777, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Year 2+estimated value, about $449, based on 0.73 cents per point
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$329 / $0Rewards on spending$449 / $449Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1x
    Air
    Flights
    3x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #26 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth about $1,674 (estimated) after fees.
    2. Year 1. about $777 (estimated) = welcome bonus $329 + rewards $449.
    3. Each year after. about $449 (estimated) = rewards $449.
    4. Against #25. Trails Capital One Venture by $35 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$285).
    5. Against #27. Beats American Express Gold Card by $181 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$975).

    Points valued at 0.73¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  27. #27American Express Gold Card

    American Express

    Gold Card

    $325 feeDining 4xGroceries 4x
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$498
    Year 2+$498

    3 years $1,493 after fees· pays for itself in month 5Bonus not counted

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$498
    Year 2+$498
    Rewards on spending$603 / $603Credits$219 / $219Fees (taken off the end)−$325 / −$325
    Pays for itself in month 5 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    4x
    Groc
    Groceries
    4x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    3x
    Air
    Flights
    1x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #27 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,493 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $498 = rewards $603 + credits $219 − fee $325.
    3. Each year after. $498 = rewards $603 + credits $219 − fee $325.
    4. Against #26. Trails Chase Marriott Bonvoy Bold by $181 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$975).
    5. Against #28. Beats Capital One Venture X by $14 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (+$413).
    6. Not counted. Welcome offer not counted: American Express shows the welcome offer only after you apply.

    Points valued at 0.60¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  28. #28Capital One Venture X

    Capital One

    Venture X

    $395 fee
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$710
    Year 2+$385

    3 years $1,479 after fees· pays for itself in month 2

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$710
    Year 2+$385
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$375 / $50Rewards on spending$466 / $466Credits$264 / $264Fees (taken off the end)−$395 / −$395
    Pays for itself in month 2 · value so far covers fees so far
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    2x
    Groc
    Groceries
    2x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    2x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    2x
    Air
    Flights
    2x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    2x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    2x
    Stream
    Streaming
    2x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    2x
    Online
    Online shopping
    2x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    2x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #28 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $1,479 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $710 = welcome bonus $375 + rewards $466 + credits $264 − fee $395.
    3. Each year after. $385 = anniversary bonus $50 + rewards $466 + credits $264 − fee $395.
    4. Against #27. Trails American Express Gold Card by $14 over 3 years, mostly on rewards on spending (−$413).
    5. Against #29. Beats Capital One VentureOne by $506 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (−$1,185).

    Points valued at 0.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption
  29. #29Capital One VentureOne

    Capital One

    VentureOne

    No annual fee
    after fees: After the card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees if you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime) aren't included.
    Year 1$391
    Year 2+$291

    3 years $973 after fees· no fee to cover

    Breakdown, earn rates and why it's ranked here
    Year 1$391
    Year 2+$291
    Welcome or anniversary bonus$100 / $0Rewards on spending$291 / $291Fees (taken off the end)-$0 / -$0
    No annual fee
    Year 1Year 2Year 3

    Earn rate by category

    1.25x
    Groc
    Groceries
    1.25x
    Dine
    Dining and takeout
    1.25x
    Gas
    Gas and EV charging
    1.25x
    Air
    Flights
    1.25x
    Hotel
    Hotels and car rentals
    1.25x
    Transit
    Transit and rideshare
    1.25x
    Stream
    Streaming
    1.25x
    Drug
    Drugstores
    1.25x
    Online
    Online shopping
    1.25x
    Bills
    Phone, internet and utilities
    1.25x
    Other
    Everything else
    Why it's ranked here
    1. Ranked #29 of 29. By 3-year value on the frequent traveller preset's spending. Over 3 years it's worth $973 after fees.
    2. Year 1. $391 = welcome bonus $100 + rewards $291.
    3. Each year after. $291 = rewards $291.
    4. Against #28. Trails Capital One Venture X by $506 over 3 years, mostly on annual fees (+$1,185).

    Points valued at 0.50¢ each; move the "Value points as" slider above to see what they're worth transferred.

    Verified Oct 16, 2026Every term and assumption

All values are after each card's annual or monthly fee, and foreign transaction fees when you set foreign spending. Additional-card fees and memberships some benefits need (such as Amazon Prime or Instacart+) aren't included.

Rates, fees and offers are set by the issuer and may change. Check the issuer's terms before you apply. We don't estimate approval odds.

Values for points and miles are estimates based on published redemption valuations; actual value depends on how you redeem.

More best-of lists

The ranking in numbers

Frequent traveller preset, $3,880 a month, after fees. "~" marks estimates.

CardYear 1Year 2+3 years
Chase IHG One Rewards Premier~$2,232~$1,465~$5,163
Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Card~$2,668~$1,058~$4,784
Chase Sapphire Reserve$2,063$1,063$4,188
Chase Marriott Bonvoy Boundless~$1,844~$954~$3,752
Chase United Quest~$1,839~$879~$3,597
Chase World of Hyatt~$1,629~$954~$3,538
Wells Fargo Autograph Journey$1,573$973$3,520
Citi Strata Premier$1,551$951$3,452
Bank of America Atmos Rewards Ascent~$1,577~$827~$3,230
Chase United Explorer~$1,732~$742~$3,216

Frequently asked questions

What are the best travel credit cards?

On frequent traveller spending ($3,880 a month), Chase IHG One Rewards Premier ranks first: ~$2,232 in year 1 and ~$1,465 a year after fees.

How were these cards picked?

Travel cards ranked by 3-year value on a frequent traveller's spending. The order comes from the same calculation as the comparison tool, with the same tie-breakers; commission never changes it.

Will the order be the same for me?

Only if you spend like the preset. Spending more in a card's bonus categories moves it up. Set your own numbers in the tool to see your order.

Sources

Estimates for information only; not financial advice. See how cards are ranked.