Planning a road trip anytime soon? Picking the perfect credit card to fuel your adventure can make a huge difference in your travel experience and save you some serious money. In this article, we'll explore the best credit cards for road trips, so you can hit the road with the perks, rewards, and benefits that will make your journey one to remember. Buckle up, and let's get started!
Best Credit Cards For Road Trips Table of Contents
Why credit cards matter for road tripping
Why credit cards matter for road tripping
When it comes to automobile travel, a credit card can offer numerous benefits that go beyond simply paying for gas and accommodations. These can include cashback rewards, travel perks like hotel and car rental discounts, and even insurance protection for those unexpected situations that can occur during a road trip. So, choosing the right credit card for your specific needs is essential.
Factors to consider when choosing a road trip credit card
Before jumping into the top cards for road trips, it's important to understand the factors you should consider:
- Rewards Program: Cashback, miles, or points – make sure the card rewards align with your spending habits and preferences.
- Travel Benefits: Some cards come with perks like car rental insurance, roadside assistance, or hotel discounts, which can save you money on the road.
- Annual Fee: While some cards waive their annual fee in the first year, consider whether the benefits are worth the cost in the long run.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: If you plan on a road trip across borders, watch out for cards that charge fees for purchases made outside your home country.
- Interest Rate: In case you need to carry a balance, choose a card with a low interest rate to minimize interest charges.
Top picks for the best credit cards for road trips
Here are our top selections for credit cards that can enhance your next road trip adventure:
Card 1: Chase Sapphire Preferred
- 2x points on travel and dining expenses, 1x point on everything else.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Primary car rental insurance coverage.
- $95 annual fee.
Card 2: Discover it Chrome
- 2% cashback at gas stations and restaurants, 1% on everything else.
- Rotating cashback categories.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- No annual fee.
Card 3: Capital One Quicksilver
- 1.5% cashback on all purchases.
- Travel accident insurance and 24-hour travel assistance services.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- No annual fee.
Card 4: Bank of America Cash Rewards
- Choose your own 3% cashback category, including gas stations, 2% at grocery stores and wholesale clubs, and 1% on everything else.
- $200 online cash rewards bonus after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
- 3% foreign transaction fee.
- No annual fee.
Best Credit Cards For Road Trips Example:
Let's say you're about to embark on a two-week road trip across the United States with your Chase Sapphire Preferred card. You plan to spend roughly $1,000 on gas, $1,000 on dining, and $2,000 on other expenses such as hotels and sightseeing. With this card, you would earn 2x points on gas and dining, totaling 4,000 points, and another 2,000 points on other expenses. You could then redeem these 6,000 points, worth $75 when redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Additionally, you'll enjoy primary car rental insurance coverage, saving you from purchasing expensive insurance from the rental agency.
Choosing the best credit card for your road trip can make all the difference in turning your travel dreams into reality while offering some fantastic savings and perks. Remember to consider the rewards program, travel benefits, fees, and interest rates to ensure you pick the right card for you. So, why wait? Apply for the credit card that meets your road trip needs and start planning your epic adventure today! Don't forget to share this article with fellow road trip enthusiasts and explore other guides on Flik Eco for more personal finance and investing tips.
