Traveling is one of life’s greatest adventures, but it can come with a hefty price tag. Between booking flights, finding accommodations, and spending on meals or activities, the costs can add up fast. But here’s the good news: you can actually earn cash back and travel rewards while spending, making your getaways more affordable and even more enjoyable. Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip or jet-setting across the globe, being smart with how you pay for your travel expenses can save you big bucks and offer exciting perks along the way. Below, we’ll explore how to earn cash back while saving money and highlight the best travel reward credit cards to maximize your benefits.

Use Cash-Back Credit Cards

Using a credit card that offers cash-back rewards is an easy way to earn while you spend. Every dollar you put on the card for flights, hotels, dining, or even souvenirs can bring a little bit back to your pocket. Plus, most travel reward credit cards come with extra perks like airport lounge access or free checked bags.

Best Travel Reward Credit Cards

If you’re serious about earning cash back or travel points, choosing the right credit card can make all the difference. Here are some of the top travel reward credit cards and why they stand out:

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

  • Why it’s great: The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of the most popular travel reward options because it’s packed with value. You’ll earn a big welcome bonus and earn 2x points on travel and dining. Plus, its points transfer flexibly to major airline and hotel partners, making it easy to get the most out of your rewards.
  • Annual fee: $95
  • Best for: Casual travelers who want solid value and low fees.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  • Why it’s great: Designed for frequent travelers, the Chase Sapphire Reserve gives premium perks like airport lounge access, 3x points on travel and dining, and an annual $300 travel credit to help offset the cost of the card.
  • Annual fee: $550
  • Best for: Frequent travelers who want luxury and high value.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  • Why it’s great: Known for its simplicity, this card earns 2x miles on every single purchase, no matter where or what you’re spending on. The miles are easy to redeem for any travel expense, from plane tickets to hotel stays.
  • Annual fee: $95
  • Best for: Travelers who value simplicity and flexibility in earning and redeeming points.

American Express® Gold Card

  • Why it’s great: This card is ideal for foodies who also love travel. It earns 4x points at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, so dining out or grocery shopping for a trip rewards you generously. Plus, you’ll earn solid points on flights booked directly or through Amex Travel.
  • Annual fee: $250
  • Best for: Food lovers and travelers who want big point earnings on dining.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

  • Why it’s great: The Platinum Card is the ultimate luxury travel card. It offers airport lounge access, 5x points on flights, and an annual $200 airline fee credit. With perks like complimentary elite hotel status and statement credits for travel services, it’s perfect for those who enjoy the finer things in travel.
  • Annual fee: $695
  • Best for: Luxury travelers who value elite benefits and premium perks.

🔹 Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

  • Why it’s great: This card earns 3x points on air travel, hotels, and dining, and it has a wide range of point transfer partners, making it versatile for travel lovers.
  • Annual fee: $95
  • Best for: Earning rewards in multiple travel categories with a budget-friendly fee.

By choosing one of these cards based on your spending habits, you can collect points and cash back on everything from dinners out to big vacation splurges, all while earning some serious benefits for future travel.

Book Through Cash-Back Websites

Cash-back websites are another fantastic way to save and earn rewards as you book your trip. These platforms partner with airlines, hotels, and travel agencies to offer a small percentage of your spending back to you.

How It Works

Sign up for sites like Rakuten, TopCashback, or BeFrugal. Instead of going directly to a booking site, click through the cash-back site first. For example, if you book a flight on Expedia after clicking through Rakuten, you’ll earn a percentage of your spending as cash back.

Combine Cash-Back Offers

The best part is that you can combine cash-back website perks with your reward credit card. For example, booking through a cash-back site with the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns you both cash back from the site and points on your credit card.

Leverage Travel Rewards Programs

Signing up for travel rewards programs can stretch your travel budget even further. These programs, offered by airlines, hotels, and even car rental companies, allow you to earn points or miles for spending with their brand.

Double Up on Rewards

If you book flights or hotel stays using a travel rewards credit card on a loyalty program website, you’ll essentially double up on rewards. You’ll earn points from both the loyalty program and your credit card.

Redeem for Free Travel

Eventually, these points or miles can be redeemed for free flights, hotel nights, or even room upgrades. If you’re a frequent traveler, focusing your bookings on a specific airline or hotel chain can lead to significant savings over time.

Save on Accommodations

Don’t overlook the impact of lodging on your travel bill. By being smart about how and where you stay, you can keep your costs low while still experiencing comfort and convenience.

Budget Options and Tools

  • Explore platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo for affordable stays.
  • Use hotel booking sites with built-in rewards, like Hotels.com or Booking.com.
  • Travel during shoulder seasons or midweek to secure lower rates.

Stack these tips alongside the perks from a travel reward card, like earning points on your accommodations expenses, for maximum value.

Meal and Activity Savings

Lastly, save on dining and experiences by being strategic during your trips. Using a card like the American Express® Gold Card will earn extra points on meals, whether you’re dining out or grabbing local groceries. Combine this with discount platforms like Groupon for activities, and your trip becomes a whole lot more affordable.