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Enjoy ⅓ off adult rail fares and a treat or two with deals on meals, days out and much more with the Disabled Persons Railcard.

• The Railcard is just £20, a cost that can be made back in just one or two trips
• An adult companion travelling with you also gets 1/3 off their rail fare
• Over a year, you could save an average of £105**. 
• You can use the Railcard at any time of the day.
• You could save even more with a 3-year Railcard for £54!

Not only do you save on your train fare, but you can also use your Railcard to get discounts on restaurants, hotels and a chance to win fantastic competition prizes. Take a look at the Are You Eligible? page to see if this is the right Railcard for you.

We have teamed up with some great brands to create offers for you and your travel companion. Check out our Offers & Competitions page to find out more.

MORE savings with a 3-year Disabled Persons Railcard.

If you’re planning on travelling by train over the next three years, a 3-Year Railcard can save you even more money. At just £54 it will save you £6 on the price of three 1-Year Railcards.

Save your digital Railcard on up to 2 devices.

Sometimes life has its moments, and you run out of battery or end up losing your phone. If you’re travelling with an adult companion or have another device like a tablet, you can always download the Railcard App and sign in with your account, sorted!   For more info on how to use your Disabled Persons Railcard head over to Using your Railcard .

** Average saving is based on the average savings made by Disabled Persons Railcard holders between April 2022 and March 2023, excluding price of Railcard.

^ Average saving per journey is based on the average savings made by Disabled Persons Railcard holders between April 2022 and March 2023.

You can also update your details here.

Don't forget you must be able to show your digital Railcard when buying tickets and travelling.

Passenger Assist

We will always do our best to help customers that need assistance when travelling by train.

If you need help for an upcoming journey, you can book assistance through the train company you are travelling with.  

Find out more >>

Know someone who could also benefit from 1/3 off rail fares? Tell them about the Disabled Persons Railcard.

• Renew my Railcard
• Manage my Railcard

We’ve made an essential security update to the Railcard app. Please make sure you have got version 2.0.0 or above of the app before Thursday 6 June to continue using your digital Railcard. Find out more .

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Get 1/3 off train travel for adults and 60% off for kids

If you are travelling, travel with confidence.

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How much can I save?

People with a Family & Friends  save on average £113 per year** , or  £5.2 per journey^ . If you’re travelling here’s an example of some of the savings you can make on train tickets:

Railcard price

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£50 to spend at Virgin Wines plus FREE delivery & FREE Stemless Wine Glasses!

As a Railcard holder treat yourself to a 3‐month tastecard membership for free today!

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Save 5% on a cottages.com booking with your Family & Friends Railcard

How does using a Railcard work?

Get your Railcard

Buy your discounted train tickets

Have your Railcard with you when you travel

Eligibility and terms of use

• Buy a Railcard and keep it with you when you travel (on your phone or wallet)
• Save on most tickets including Advance tickets
• Valid at Off-Peak for journeys in London & SE
• Railcard holder must travel with a child for discount to apply

Read full eligibility and usage terms

Need help getting or using your Railcard?

Need help? Can't figure out what card to buy? Or just have a question?

Can I use my Railcard for tickets for travel on the London Underground?

With your Railcard you can get 1/3 off Anytime Day Travelcard when bought as part of your journey to London from outside London Zones 1-9 (subject to a minimum fare which is currently £19.60).

What happens if my child turns 16 while my Family & Friends Railcard is still valid?

Children who turn 16 while your Family & Friends Railcard is valid are still entitled to get a discounted child fare for a time. If you have a 1-year Family & Friends Railcard, your child who has turned 16 can travel as long as the 1-year Family & Friends Railcard is valid.

If you have a 3-year Family & Friends Railcard, your 16-year old can only travel as a child on the Railcard card until the day before they turn 17.

Can I use my Family & Friends Railcard at any time of day?

No. Railcard discounts are available throughout Britain but they are not available on tickets for morning peak period services, for journeys wholly within London & South East Network Railcard area on Mondays to Fridays. (The exceptions to this discounted fare rule are when you travel at weekends and on Public Holidays).   The times of morning off-peak services do vary by route and are normally related to the availability of Off Peak  Day tickets. It's best to check with ticket office staff before buying your tickets.

Am I eligible to use a Family & Friends Railcard?

Any adult can buy a Family & Friends Railcard. To use it, at least one of the group travelling must be named on the Railcard and there must also be at least one child travelling on a child rate ticket. The named Railcard holder must travel for the entire journey with any passengers who have been bought discounted tickets.

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You, or the person you care for, may be able to buy a Disabled Persons Railcard. The Disabled Persons Railcard is for people with a disability that makes travelling by train difficult.

There also other railcards that might help you save money.

Accessible trains and stations

Find out about accessible trains and stations and  check if the station you want to use is accessibl e.

Get help from train staff

If you, or the person you care for, needs help from train staff, for example getting on and off trains, train companies will do their best to help customers who need assistance. Some train companies may ask for up to 24 hours’ notice.

Find out more about getting help when you travel on trains

Disabled Person's Railcard

Who can apply?

The Disabled Persons Railcard is for people with a disability that makes travelling by train difficult. 

What discounts do you get?

You will get 1/3rd off rail tickets. If the person you care for has a Disabled Persons Railcard you will be able to get 1/3rd off your ticket too (this is for anyone travelling with them – you don’t need to prove you are a carer). You can get a discount at any time of day.

Find out more about the Disabled Persons Railcard

Other railcards

If you, or the person you care for, can't get a Disabled Person's Railcard you might be able to apply for one of the other railcards such as a Senior Railcard, or Two Together Railcard. 

Find out about all the railcards available

If you live in Northern Ireland

There are SmartPasses in Northern Ireland that offer discounts if you are 60+.

Find out more about  Rail travel concessions in Northern Ireland on nidirect.

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• Government efficiency, transparency and accountability
• Government spending

Support to help with the cost of transport

• Department for Transport
• HM Treasury

Published 5 December 2013

© Crown copyright 2013

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/support-to-help-with-the-cost-of-transport/support-to-help-with-the-cost-of-transport

1. Concessionary bus travel

In 2012-13, 9.7 million older people and disabled people made £1,016 million bus journeys using a statutory English National Concessionary Travel Scheme pass – the scheme provides travel for free on local bus services anywhere in England, between 0930 and 2300 during weekdays and anytime at weekends and bank holidays.

The scheme is administered at a local level by Travel Concession Authorities (TCA). Many TCAs provide enhancements to the statutory scheme, which for example allow for free or discounted travel before 0930 or on other modes of transport.

More details on enhancements provided in each TCA

See more details on how to apply for an older person bus pass

See more details on how to apply for a disabled persons bus pass

2. Rail Cards

A range of railcards are available that offer discounts on rail travel. These include:

16-25 Railcard

This provides up to 1/3 off rail fares to those aged 16-25 or full time students. It is reported to provide an average saving of £145 per year.

Family and Friends Railcard

This provides up to 1/3 off rail fares to those travelling with children aged 5-15. It is reported to provide an average saving of £117 per year.

Senior Railcard

This provides up to 1/3 off rail fares to those aged over 60. It is reported to provide an average saving of £83 per year.

Network Railcard

Provides up to 1/3 off rail fares for the cardholder and up to 3 others in London and the South East.

Disabled person’s Railcard

Provides up to 1/3 off rail fares for the card holder and a companion. It is reported to provide an average saving of £94 per year.

See more details on eligibility to the disabled persons railcard

See more details on how to apply for these railcards

HM Forces Railcard

This provides up to 1/3 off adult rail fares and 60% off kids’ fares for members of the Regular forces, their spouses and dependent children aged 16 or 17.

See more details on how to apply for an HM Forces railcard

Regional Railcards

A number of other railcards are offered for use in specific geographical locations or on certain lines of a route.

See more details on these regional railcards and how to apply for them

3. Support for young people

Local authorities offer a range of travel support for young people. These include:

Home to School Transport

Local authorities currently spend around £1 billion every year providing free transport to and from school. At a minimum this covers pupils travelling more than 2 miles (for those under 8 years of age), pupils travelling more than 3 miles (for those aged 8 or over) and those unable to walk to school due to their Special Educational Needs.

Extended Rights to Free Home to School Transport

There is an additional entitlement to free travel for children from low income families (that is those entitled to free school meals or whose parents receive the maximum working tax credit). Local authorities were allocated around £38 million in 2013-14 to provide this transport.

See more information on the range of support offered by your local authority

Care to Learn

Care to Learn provides support with the cost of childcare and associated travel costs to ensure these do not prevent young parents (under the age of 20) from participating in education. Care to Learn supports around 6,500 young parents every year.

See more details on eligibility and how to apply for this support

16-19 bursary

The bursary provides support for those aged 16-19 participating in education or training who face additional barriers to staying in education. The most vulnerable young people may be entitled to a bursary of at least £1,200 per year while discretionary bursaries are provided at the discretion of education providers.

See more details on eligibility and how to apply for the 16-19 bursary

Discretionary learner support

Those aged 19 or over and facing financial hardship could be eligible for support through the discretionary learner fund. This includes support for the cost of travel (e.g. through the provision of travel passes or reimbursing the cost of fuel).

See more details on eligibility and how to apply for discretionary learner support

4. Support for the unemployed

Jobcentre plus travel discount card.

This is provided to those unemployed claiming Jobseekers Allowance or Universal Credit for 3-9 months (18-24 year olds) or 3-12 months (over 25s). Other benefit recipients may receive a Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card from 3 months of their claim and if they are actively engaged with a Jobcentre Plus adviser. Cardholders are entitled to a 50% discount on selected rail tickets.

Flexible support fund

May be used at the discretion of Jobcentre Plus staff to help with the cost of travelling to an interview, training or for the first months of travelling to work.

Further information on the support available for the unemployed can be found in your local Jobcentre Plus office. See more details on how to contact your local Jobcentre Plus office

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We’ve made an essential security update to the Railcard app. Please make sure you have got version 2.0.0 or above of the app before Thursday 6 June to continue using your digital Railcard.  Find out more .

The official retailer of Railcards by National Rail

1/3 off rail travel for Veterans. Roger that!

Buy now renew my railcard.

How does using a Railcard work?

Get your Railcard

Buy your discounted train tickets

Have your Railcard with you when you travel

Eligibility and terms of use

• Buy a Railcard and keep it with you when you travel (on your phone or wallet)
• Save on most tickets including Advance tickets
• For Veterans who served at least one day in His Majesty’s UK Armed Forces or UK Merchant Mariners who have seen duty on legally defined military operations

Read full eligibility and usage terms

Need help getting or using your Railcard?

Need help? Can't figure out what card to buy? Or just have a question?

Can I use my Veterans Railcard at any time of day?

Yes, you can. However, a £12 minimum fare applies to all journeys made between 04:30am and 09:59am Monday to Friday, excluding Advance fares, on Public Holidays or throughout July and August.

If you travel regularly before 10:00am, then a weekly or monthly season ticket may be more appropriate, though you won’t be able to get a Railcard discount.

Can I use my Railcard for tickets for travel on the London Underground?

With your Railcard you can get 1/3 off Anytime Day Travelcard when bought as part of your journey to London from outside London Zones 1-9 (subject to a minimum fare which is currently £19.60).   With an Oyster card, you can get your Railcard discount loaded onto your Oyster card to save 1/3 on single off-peak pay as you go fares on London Underground and Docklands Light Railway services in London. You will need to have registered your Oyster in your name to do this. Simply take your Oyster card and valid Railcard to a London Underground station and ask a member of staff to set the discount for you. You can also get the discount set at Oyster Ticket Shops and Visitor Centres.

How quickly will I get my new Veterans Railcard?

Please note that it can take up to 5 working days to process your application.

If you have ordered a digital Veterans Railcard, once your application has been approved, it will be available to download on your device using a download code which will be sent to your registered email address. Once downloaded you can use your digital Veterans Railcard straight away.  If you have bought the Veterans Railcard on behalf of someone, the download code email will be sent to the person you have bought the Railcard for (cardholder email address).  Please click here for the step by step guide on how to add a digital Railcard to your device.

If you have ordered a plastic Veterans Railcard, please allow up to 5 working days for delivery. If you paid for ‘Special Delivery’ and placed your order before 17:00pm, your Veterans Railcard is guaranteed to be delivered before 13:00pm the next working day (Monday to Thursday). If your Veterans Railcard was order on Friday or Saturday before 11:00am, it will be delivered the following Monday.

Can I use my Railcard to buy tickets for other people?

Yes. You as the cardholder can buy tickets for your named companion and up to four children as long as they are travelling with you.

Discounted price tickets purchased by a Veterans Railcard holder should be issued for travel for the same origin and destination and should normally be of the same ticket type (example all Off-Peak Returns). 

Can I buy a Veterans Railcard for another person?

Yes, you can buy a Veterans Railcard for another person as long as they are eligible. You will need to provide the evidence to prove their eligibility . You will also need to provide thei passport-style photo and one of a named companion (if required).

To order the Railcard, click ‘Buy Now’ on the website homepage to get started, then select ‘Buy 1 Year £30’ or ‘Buy 3 Year £70’ to continue. When you get to ‘Enter your details’ page, under ‘This Railcard is for’ section, select ‘Someone else’ and follow the instructions on the street to complete your purchase.

Please note that if you have chosen to buy a digital Veterans Railcard on behalf of someone, the download code email will be sent to the person you have bought the Railcard for (cardholder email address). 

• Renew my Railcard
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1/3 off rail fares

For you and a friend., disabled persons railcard, what is the disabled persons railcard.

Get 1/3 off with a Disabled Persons Railcard for travel on the National Rail network in Great Britain. If there is another adult travelling with you, they can also get 1/3 off their rail fare. You can use your rail card to get discounts any time of day.

Where can I buy the Disabled Persons Railcard?

You can buy the Disabled Persons Railcard here online.

How much can I save with the Disabled Persons Railcard?

The Disabled Persons Railcard costs just £20 so after just a few trips, the card will have paid for itself. Alternatively, you can get a 3-year Railcard for just £54, saving you £6 on the price of three 1-year Railcards.

Where and When Can I Use the Disabled Persons Railcard?

The Disabled Persons Railcard gives up to 1/3 off rail travel in Great Britain and there are no time restrictions on when you can travel .  Please visit https://www.disabledpersons-railcard.co.uk/using-your-railcard/the-benefits/ to find out more.

Savings Calculator

The best ways to save with railcards

The cost of train tickets keeps going up, but there are ways to save. We’ve rounded up all the railcards you can use to cut costs.

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The cost of train tickets has spiralled in recent years. However, it’s possible to save a third on ticket prices with railcards.

The problem is, the railcard system is very complex. National Rail says it sells nine main railcards. That seems mad by itself: how many ways do we need to get a discount? Yet once you include all those that only give discounts in some regions, the total rises to around 30.

Here we look at the best railcards and how you can save money .

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How to use railcards to save money on train tickets

Lack of space means we’ll just look at the nine major ones, plus the Gold Card that comes with some season tickets. Unless otherwise stated, all cost £30 per year (some also have three-year deals for £70) and give one-third off fares. Several also give useful discounts on London Underground fares.

First, there are three aimed at young people: the 16-17 Saver, the 16-25 Railcard and the 26-30 Railcard. These are valid nationwide and are mostly sensible in their terms. The 16-17 is the most generous, with 50% off. The 16-25 and 26-30 give one-third off, but are subject to a minimum £12 fare in morning peak hours, so don’t use them when booking short trips. Mature students (15-plus hours per week) can get a 16-25 card, regardless of their actual age.

Next, there are three nationwide cards for specific groups of users. These are the Senior Railcard (for over 60s), the Disabled Persons Railcard (which costs a reduced £20, or £54 for three years) and the Veterans Railcard (anybody who’s served in the UK armed forces).

The Senior card only gives a discount for one person, but the Disabled card covers two people and the Veterans card covers the holder, a named companion and up to four children. The Disabled card is valid at any time. The Veterans one has a £12 minimum fee during peak times. The Senior one cannot be used in peak times within the Network Railcard area.

The benefits of the Network Railcard

Take the so-called Network Railcard, which you’d assume from the name gets you a discount across the whole network. Of course not: it only covers London and the South-East. From Monday to Friday, it can only be used off-peak and there’s a £13 minimum fare (weekends are unrestricted). You can use the card to buy tickets for up to three companions travelling with you.

The Two Together Railcard is issued to two named people who must travel together, which seems less than ideal for balancing demand when trains are often full. It works nationwide, but from Monday to Friday it’s only valid off-peak.

Finally, there’s the Family & Friends Railcard, with a third off for two named adults and 60% off for up to four children aged 5-15. Again, it is not valid in Monday-Friday peak time in the Network Railcard area. Only one adult has to travel, but there must be at least one child with them. Children under five normally travel free on trains – but if the only child in your group is under five, you’ll need to buy a child ticket to use this railcard. Hats off to the bureaucrat who came up with that gloriously petty restriction.

Cris Sholto Heaton is an investment analyst and writer who has been contributing to MoneyWeek since 2006 and was managing editor of the magazine between 2016 and 2018. He is especially interested in international investing, believing many investors still focus too much on their home markets and that it pays to take advantage of all the opportunities the world offers. He often writes about Asian equities, international income and global asset allocation.

Cris began his career in financial services consultancy at PwC and Lane Clark & Peacock, before an abrupt change of direction into oil, gas and energy at Petroleum Economist and Platts and subsequently into investment research and writing. In addition to his articles for MoneyWeek, he also works with a number of asset managers, consultancies and financial information providers.

He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and the Investment Management Certificate, as well as degrees in finance and mathematics. He has also studied acting, film-making and photography, and strongly suspects that an awareness of what makes a compelling story is just as important for understanding markets as any amount of qualifications.

Advice The Treasury was working on plans to let investors put fractional shares in an ISA. We explain what has happened to the proposals.

By Marc Shoffman Published 7 June 24

Private school fees have soared – and Labour has promised to introduce VAT. Here are three steps you can take to plan financially.

By Katie Williams Published 7 June 24

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Save 1/3 or more on your train travel with a Railcard or discount card

Railcards mean saving on every train journey, giving you a discount of 34% off the full adult fare, and some offer up to 60% off child fares too. Discounts also apply on some London Travelcards , PlusBus , ferry services and Ranger and Rover tickets. 

There are a range of Railcards available for train travel that will save you money on each journey. It doesn’t matter if you’re going for a night out or heading somewhere nice for the weekend, or perhaps to follow your sports team throughout the season, no one likes to pay more than they have to and a railcard can make this a reality!

Find out more on Railcards and which one is best for you:

Save 50% on your rail fares for just £30 a year

Save if you're between 16 and 25, or in full-time education

The UK's first digital-only Railcard 

Some disabled travellers can save money, even without a Railcard

Save money for up to 4 adults and 4 kids with the Family and Friends Railcard

Reduced-price tickets for serving members of the armed forces and their families

Make the most of being over 60 with the Senior Railcard

Save money when your travel regularly with a friend

Jobcentre Plus Discount Card

Reduced price day and season tickets if you're looking for work

Save money travelling in the South East with a Network Railcard

Discover the new Railcard to honour armed forces veterans

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Revolutionising Rail Travel with Digital Railcards

24 Nov 2023 · 8 min read

In the fast-paced world of digital advancements, Trainsplit is excited to introduce a revolutionary solution to enhance your train travel experience – Digital Railcards . Say goodbye to the hassle of physical cards and embrace the convenience of having your railcard at your fingertips.

Trainsplit: Your All-in-One Rail Travel Companion

Set out on a journey of savings and convenience with Trainsplit, your one-stop shop for affordable and hassle-free rail travel. Trainsplit revolutionises the way you travel by offering a unique combination of split ticketing and digital railcards, empowering you to make the most of your rail adventures.

What is Trainsplit?

Trainsplit is a split ticketing website and app that helps users find the cheapest fares by splitting their train journeys across multiple tickets. It's a great resource for travellers looking to save money on their rail journeys. 

Split Ticketing: Uncover Hidden Savings

Trainsplit's clever split ticketing algorithm meticulously analyses various ticket combinations to uncover hidden savings, often leading to significant discounts compared to direct ticket fares. This innovative approach allows you to split your journey into multiple tickets, taking advantage of different fare types and timings to maximise your savings.

Railcard Roundup: Choosing the Right Railcard for Your Travel Needs

Are you a regular rail traveller? If so, a railcard could save you a lot of money on your fares. However, with a variety of railcards available, choosing the right one can be tricky.

16-25 Railcard

The 16-25 Railcard is the most popular railcard, and for good reason. It offers a 1/3 discount on Off-Peak rail travel for all ages 16 to 25. This means that you can save up to 1/3 off the price of your rail fares, making rail travel a more affordable option.

26-30 Railcard

The 26-30 Railcard is similar to the 16-25 Railcard, but it is available for people aged 26 to 30. It also offers a 1/3 discount on Off-Peak rail travel.

Senior Railcard

The Senior Railcard is available for people aged 60 and over. It offers a 1/3 discount on Off-Peak rail travel, as well as a 50% discount during weekdays before 9: 30am and after 5pm.

Family & Friends Railcard

The Family & Friends Railcard is available for groups of up to four adults and up to four children (aged 5 to 15). It offers a 1/3 discount for up to four adults and up to 60% off for up to four children (aged 5 to 15).

Two Together Railcard

The Two Together Railcard is available for two adults who travel together frequently. It offers a 1/3 discount on Off-Peak rail travel.

Network Railcard

The Network Railcard is available for people who live in or work in certain areas of the UK. It offers a 1/3 discount on Off-Peak rail travel.

Digital Railcards: Seamless Convenience at Your Fingertips

With Trainsplit, you can:

• Purchase a variety of railcards, including 16-25 Railcards, Senior Railcards, Young Persons Railcards, and Family & Friends Railcards
• Manage your railcard via the app
• Set up automatic renewals so you never miss a renewal date

Trainsplit's introduction of digital railcards will bring even more convenience and value to users. With digital railcards, users can purchase, manage, and renew their railcards directly through the Trainsplit app or website , eliminating the need for physical cards.  

A Comprehensive Rail Travel Solution

Trainsplit caters to all your rail travel needs, providing everything from split ticketing and digital railcards to journey alerts, travel tips, and customer support. With Trainsplit, you can navigate the world of rail travel with confidence and ease.

Here are some of the benefits of digital railcards on Trainsplit:

• Convenient purchase and management: Users can easily purchase, manage, and renew their railcards directly through the Trainsplit platform or app.
• Easy Access Anytime, Anywhere: Discover the freedom of accessing your railcard digitally. No more fumbling through wallets or purses – your digital railcard is just a tap away on your smartphone.
• Environmentally friendly: Join us in contributing to a greener planet by opting for a digital railcard. Reduce your carbon footprint and support sustainable travel practices with this environmentally friendly alternative.
• Instant activation: Digital railcards can be activated instantly upon purchase, allowing users to start saving immediately.
• Enhanced Security and Peace of Mind: Bid farewell to the worry of losing or forgetting your physical railcard. The digital version is securely stored on your device, offering peace of mind and eliminating the risk of misplacement. Trainsplit's secure platform ensures that user information and railcard details are protected.
• Real-time updates: Stay informed with real-time updates and notifications related to your railcard. Receive alerts about upcoming renewals, promotions, and any changes in your railcard status directly on your device.
• Offline availability: Digital railcards can be accessed even when offline, ensuring seamless travel experiences.

Why use Trainsplit?

There are many benefits to using Trainsplit, including:

• Convenience: Purchase and manage your railcards online from the comfort of your own home
• Savings: Save up to 1/3 on your rail fares with a railcard
• Flexibility: Choose from a variety of railcards to suit your needs
• Peace of mind: Set up automatic renewals so you never miss a renewal date

How to use Trainsplit 

To use Trainsplit, simply follow these steps:

• Create an account on the Trainsplit website
• Choose the railcard that suits you
• Purchase your railcard online
• Start saving money on your train journeys!

Here are some additional tips for using Trainsplit:

• Purchase your railcard in advance to get the best possible discount
• Use your railcard for all of your rail journeys, not just long-distance journeys
• Make sure your railcard is eligible for sharing. Not all railcards are eligible for sharing. For example, the 16-25 Railcard and the Senior Railcard are not shareable.
• Share your railcard with people you trust. Only share your railcard with people you know and trust. This will help prevent your railcard from being misused.
• Be aware of the terms and conditions of your railcard. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your railcard before you share it with anyone. This will help you avoid any problems later on.

If you're thinking about sharing your railcard, here are two great options to consider:

Two Together Railcard: This railcard is ideal for two adults who travel together frequently. It offers a 1/3 discount on Off-Peak rail travel.

Family & Friends Railcard: This railcard is a great option for families and groups of friends. It offers a 1/3 discount for up to four adults and 60% off for up to four children (aged 5 to 15).  

By sharing your railcard, you can help your friends and family save money on their train journeys. It's a great way to make rail travel even more affordable for everyone.

• Sign up for the Trainsplit newsletter to stay up-to-date on the latest rail deals and discounts

Trainsplit is the future of rail travel. With its convenient, affordable, and flexible digital railcards, Trainsplit is making it easier than ever to save money on your train journeys. 

Here are some additional tips for saving money on rail travel:

• Book your tickets in advance. The earlier you book, the more likely you are to get a good deal.
• Be flexible with your travel dates and times. If you're flexible with your travel dates and times, you may be able to find cheaper fares.
• Consider traveling Off-Peak. Off-Peak fares are typically cheaper than Anytime fares.

Join the Rail Savings Revolution

Join thousands of savvy travellers who have discovered the power of Trainsplit. Download the Trainsplit app and purchase your railcard today to start saving on your rail journeys.

Q: What sort of device do I need, to use a digital Railcard?

A: We support both iOS and Android. You'll need to be able to run iOS 15+ or Android 8+, but you can use any phone or a tablet.

Q: What do I need to buy a railcard?

A: For the age-based railcards you'll need a (UK) driving licence or (any machine-readable, international) passport to be able to prove your age. You'll also need to be able to upload a passport-style photograph of yourself to be displayed on your digital Railcard.

Q: What payment methods do you accept?

A: You can pay with a MasterCard, Visa or American Express debit/credit card. We'll never charge any card fees.

Q: Are there any railcards you can't sell?

A: We can only sell national railcards that can be fulfilled digitally. We're sorry, but we're also not permitted to sell the Veterans Railcard or the Disabled Persons Railcard.

Q: I'm attempting to obtain a download code for the Railcard app, but I can't seem to find it!

A: Two important points here. First, our website doesn't indicate compatibility with RDG's Railcard app, and we're unable to facilitate such integration. These systems operate independently, and RDG's app doesn't support an import mechanism. In simpler terms, you can't add your Railcard to the Railcard app; it's accessible only through the Trainsplit app . To access your Railcard from Trainsplit, sign in with the account used for the purchase (using the same email), and activate it directly from the app.

Q: I can't locate the Railcard in my app. Is it an outdated version?

A: Ensure you've installed the Trainsplit app and logged in with the account used for the Railcard purchase. If the Railcard isn't visible, try force closing and reopening the app. The drawer item's visibility is tied to your login status.

Q: I purchased a Railcard for someone else. How can I transfer it to their account?

A: Yes! Send us an email with the recipient's email address, and we'll handle the transfer to their account. They'll need to install the  app , create an account, and then we can move the Railcard accordingly.

Q: How can I add my railcard to a completely different app?

A: Similar to the question above, it's not possible to add and access your Railcard through a different app other than Trainsplit.

Q: I've purchased my railcard elsewhere. Can I add it to the Trainsplit app?

A: No, if you've bought your Railcard from another source, it can't be added to the Trainsplit app. Likewise, if you've got your Railcard via Trainsplit, it can't be added to another app.

Take your journeys with you    

So what are you waiting for? Get started by buying your railcard on Trainsplit today!

Help and FAQs:

• Help and FAQs

Ticket Information:

• Ticket types explained
• Split tickets explained
• Advance tickets
• Cheap Train Tickets
• Cheapest vs flexible tickets

Booking and Travel Guides:

• Demystifying the booking process
• Travel Assistance
• Download the apps

Terms and Conditions:

• Trainsplit terms & conditions
• National Rail Conditions of Travel

Information and Services:

• Live Running Information
• Buy digital railcards
• Introducing Digital Railcards
• Delay Repay
• Rail Strikes
• Refund form

Journey Planner

Listen Live

Free nationwide rail travel for veterans and serving personnel attending services of remembrance

Military personnel and veterans attending services of remembrance will be able to travel to and from the events by train for free next month. 

The offer will benefit people travelling to and from services anywhere in Britain on Remembrance Sunday on 12 November.

And veterans and serving personnel attending the Remembrance Sunday ceremony at the Cenotaph can travel to any London terminal for free on Saturday 11 November or on the day itself – and be able to return home for free afterwards.

• 'Royal British Legion helped to get me back on my feet'
• From silk to plastic to paper: The evolution of the poppy
• The Royal British Legion at 100: A brief history of the poppy

Rail Delivery Group (RDG), which represents train companies, said the offer is open to serving military personnel in uniform or who show a current Ministry of Defence-issued identity card.

Veterans can show a Veterans Railcard, a Veterans Oyster card or other proof of service such as a Ministry of Defence-issued Veterans ID card .

RDG chief executive Jacqueline Starr said: "Many of our great railway stations have memorials to the thousands of rail workers who gave their lives in the two world wars of the last century.

"During this period of reflection and remembrance, the rail industry is proud to help the service personnel of today – and those that have fought in more recent conflicts – travel to ceremonies up and down Britain as the nation gathers to remember those who have died serving our country."

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: "Remembrance Sunday is an important day of reflection across the country, honouring all of those who served our country with bravery and endeavour.

"It's right that our veterans and serving military personnel will have free rail travel to and from remembrance services across Great Britain.

"We remember the past sacrifices, but also think of – and thank – those who continue to defend our freedoms and protect our way of life."

Working in partnership with the Royal British Legion (RBL), the rail industry has also offered free travel to volunteers registered to raise money at official Poppy Day events in London on 2 November and Manchester on 9 November if they produce their RBL-issued ID. 

Andy Taylor-Whyte, Poppy Appeal director for the RBL, said: "We are delighted that train companies recognise the significance of Remembrance, and the RBL is extremely grateful for the offer of free transport for veterans and service personnel.

"It will allow the men and women of our Armed Forces community to mark this occasion without worrying about additional cost.

"It is also a huge benefit that our wonderful volunteers can travel for free, allowing them to collect for the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal at both London Poppy Day (2 Nov) and Manchester Poppy Day (9 Nov).

"Our City Poppy Days offer the public a unique opportunity to interact with service personnel and veterans and help us to raise vital funds to support members of the Armed Forces community. It will also allow the public to get hold of our newly designed plastic-free poppies across London and Manchester," he added.

Veterans or serving personnel taking part in other Remembrance-related events earlier in November may also be able to travel for free and should contact the train company they plan to use. 

Network Rail is due to undertake planned engineering works on some lines on 11 and 12 November and those intending to travel are asked to check in advance whether their planned journey will be affected. 

Poppy sellers fundraising at the official London appeal on 2 November will be able to travel to the capital for free on 1 or 2 November and from London on 2 or 3 November.

Those raising funds at the official Manchester event on 9 November can travel to the city for free on the day or on 8 November. They can also enjoy free travel out of Manchester on 9 or 10 November.

Related topics

• Remembrance
• Tri-Service

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The Best No-Fee Travel Credit Cards

Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. This page does not include all card companies or all available card offers.

One of the easiest ways to save money traveling is by using credit cards (responsibly) to collect points and miles . This essentially transforms your everyday spending into free flights, free hotel stays, and other awesome travel perks.

Not only does this stretch your travel budget but it levels up your travel experience, providing free upgrades, lounge access, and much, much more.

Whether you want to be on the road for longer, take more trips, or simply save money on your next vacation, points and miles can get you there.

However, most of the best travel credit cards have annual fees (sometimes huge ones).

While annual fees are usually worth it for frequent travelers (you can get much more value out of a card than its annual fee), if you’re new to all of this or don’t travel that much, you may want to get a no-fee card first.

And there are a lot of no-fee cards out there. Which one do you pick?

Here is my list of the best no-fee travel credit cards so you can start earning points toward free travel today:

Table of Contents

1. The Bilt Rewards Mastercard

2. capital one ventureone rewards credit card, 3. chase freedom unlimited®, cards with low fees.

You can transfer points 1:1 to travel partners, including American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United, Emirates, Hawaiian, Virgin Atlantic, Air Canada, Air France/KLM, Hyatt, and IHG. The fact that you can transfer Bilt points to American Airlines and Alaska Airlines really sets this card apart as no other card’s points transfer to these airlines. Amassing Bilt points is the only way to get these points without having an American or Alaska card.

Bilt also integrates with point.me , a handy search and booking engine for award flights.

This card offers:

• 1x points on rental payments
• 2x points on travel
• 3x points on dining
• American Airlines and Alaska Airlines as transfer partners (it’s the only card that does)
• Rent Day benefits: monthly giveaways and challenges as well as 6x points on dining, 4x points on travel, and 2x on spending on the 1st of the month
• Access to the Bilt Milestone Rewards program (where you get more perks and earning power the more points you accumulate)
• Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Trip Delay Reimbursement
• No foreign transaction fees

The Bilt card is absolutely a no-brainer for renters who love to travel. To learn more, read my full Bilt Review . It is the card I use the most right now (especially on rent days).

—> LEARN MORE

• Earn 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
• 1.25x points on all purchases
• 5x points on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Travel accident and car rental insurance

LEARN MORE —> LEARN MORE

• bonus_miles_full
• 1.5% cash back on all purchases
• 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel
• 3% cash back on restaurants and drugstores

If the cards above are a little too basic for your needs and you want something more intermediate, here’s a quick list of travel credit cards with affordable fees:

card_name ($95 annual fee) – 3x points on dining, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services, 2x points on travel (5x when booked through Chase Travel (SM) , travel protections, and a $50 annual hotel credit when you book and prepay through Chase Travel (SM) .

card_name ($95 annual fee) – 2x points on all purchases, 5x points on hotels/rental cars booked on Capital One travel, $100 Global Entry/TSA pre-check credit, 2 airport lounge visits per year.

card_name ($95 annual fee) – If you’re a business owner, this card offers 3x points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent each year on shipping, internet, phone, travel, and online advertising. It also offers free cards for employees.  

While fee-based cards have better earning structures and travel benefits , if you’re new to the points and miles game, the idea of forking out for an annual fee might put you off from travel cards entirely. But if you love to travel (or want to travel more), not collecting points and miles is the biggest mistake you could make .

No-fee cards are a great place to start so that you can begin to work towards free flights and hotel stays today, without having to think about whether you’re getting enough value out of the card to justify the annual fee.

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Advertiser Disclosure: “Nomadic Matt has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Some or all of the card offers on this page are from advertisers and compensation may impact how and where card products appear on the site. Nomadic Matt and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.”

Editorial Disclosure: “Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities. This page does not include all card companies or all available card offers.”

Hi, I’m Nomadic Matt, the New York Times best-selling author of How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and Ten Years a Nomad, as well as the founder of this website! And I’m here to help you save money on your next trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Personal Finance

Best travel credit cards for june 2024.

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

The best travel credit cards unlock a world of free and discounted travel. If you travel a lot, one of these cards could be worth obtaining. Depending on your travel preferences and goals, you may want a card with no annual fee, ultra-luxury premium rewards, or many points per purchase. Here’s a closer look at the best travel rewards cards to help you see the world at a fraction of the cost.

Best Travel Credit Cards: Summary

Best for beginners: card_name, best for premium travel: card_name, best for no annual fee: card_name, best for intro bonus offer: card_name, best for airport lounge access: card_name, best for business: card_name, best for insurance coverage: card_name, best airline credit card: card_name.

• Best hotel credit card: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® credit card

Our recommendations for the best travel credit card

The best travel credit card varies depending on your travel preferences. If you’re loyal to a specific airline or hotel, you may consider that brand’s card. A general miles or points rewards card could be the best choice for travelers looking to get the maximum value across a wider range of redemption options.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Why we like it:, product details:.

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel(SM).
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel(SM), 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel(SM). For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

The card_name is our pick for the best credit card for general travel rewards for beginners. It does a great job of balancing a robust rewards program with a reasonable annual fee. If you’re new to travel rewards cards or want a top card you can use everywhere without spending more than $100 per year, this card should be on your shortlist.

New users who spend at least $4,000 on the card in the first three months get 60,000 bonus points worth $750 when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards . For purchases, you’ll earn five points per dollar spent on travel at Chase Ultimate Rewards; three points for dining and eligible delivery services, online grocery purchases, excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs, and select streaming services; two points for other travel; and one point everywhere else. Points are transferable to airline and hotel partners, including United , Southwest , and Marriott.

The card also provides other perks, including travel and purchase protections. You’ll also get $50 back as a statement credit each year for hotels booked through Chase. While there’s a annual_fees annual fee, it’s easy to see how you’ll get that back and much more every year when using the card regularly.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

One of the newer premium travel cards, card_name , comes with a wide set of travel benefits, including access to Capital One lounges and more than 1,300 additional lounges through Priority Pass and Plaza Premium Group. While the card requires a steep annual_fees annual fee, getting that value back and more is easy. Users get a $300 annual statement credit for travel booked through Capital One Travel, a $100 credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry , and a $100 statement credit with other premium services when booking certain hotels through Capital One.

The card_name starts new users with 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months, and you’ll earn 10,000 bonus miles annually on your account anniversary. For purchases, you’ll get 10x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5x miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel, and 2x everywhere else. Capital One miles are redeemable through Capital One and a list of transfer partners .

Other benefits include premium experiences and museum access through complementary memberships to PRIOR, The Cultivist, and $300 toward a Gravity Hauss membership. If you book a flight when Capital One Travel recommends and the price drops within 10 days, you can get up to $50 credit back.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If you don’t want to shell out $100 yearly just to have a travel rewards card, the card_name could be a winner. With this card, users earn five miles per dollar spent on rental cars and hotels booked through Capital One Travel and an unlimited 1.25 miles per dollar on other purchases.

New users can earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $500 in purchases in the first three months. There are no foreign transaction fees, either, and the list of travel insurance and purchase coverage is impressive, considering there’s annual_fees annual fee.

Another advantage is that VentureOne starts new users with a intro_apr_rate,intro_apr_duration and balance_transfer_intro_apr,balance_transfer_intro_duration . If you want to consolidate and pay off other cards or make a big purchase interest-free, card_name may be the best choice for you.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

card_name is an excellent card for easy-to-understand travel rewards. You earn 5x miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and a flat 2x miles per dollar on other purchases. These miles can be redeemed through the Capital One Travel site, used to cover the cost of a recent eligible travel purchase, or transferred to a list of partner travel brands. Redeeming them for cash, events, and gift cards is also possible.

Other benefits include a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, two free Capital One lounge visits per year, and the most important travel and purchase protections anyone would want from a travel card.

There’s a annual_fees annual fee, but it’s easy to get that back and more redeeming Capital One miles for travel.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The card_name is an ultra-luxury credit card unlocking a huge heap of benefits, including express lanes and access to lounges at airports, gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels, and about $1,500 worth of various travel, membership, and purchase credits. On top of that, new users can earn 80,000 membership rewards points after spending $6,000 in the first three months.

The card carries a steep annual_fees annual fee ( Rates & Fees ), but it’s easy to see how you get more than that back in a year if you use its benefits fully. Additional users can get free Amex Gold cards or up to three additional Platinum cards at $175 per year. Additional users beyond that cost $175 each.

Benefits include a hotel credit worth up to $200 for prepaid bookings with American Express Travel for Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection, a $189 statement credit annually to cover a Clear membership, a credit of up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, up to $20 per month for select entertainment purchases, up to $300 per year in statement credits for Equinox memberships, $12.95 per month in statement credits for a Walmart+ membership, and $50 in statement credits twice per year when shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue. It also includes $15 monthly in Uber Cash ($20 in December) and Uber VIP status. Users also get Gold-level status with the Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors programs .

The rewards are not all that impressive, however. You earn five points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, hotels booked on Amex Travel, and one point for everything else. Points are redeemable through Amex and transferable to a list of airline and hotel partners. The card is worthwhile for frequent travelers when you add up the massive travel benefits.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The is the best business card for travel due to its rewards flexibility, foreign transaction fees, and protective consumer benefits.

You may like the card_name if you run a business, even a side hustle. The card comes with a huge 100,000-point bonus after spending $15,000 in the first three months. That’s worth $1,250 in travel when redeemed through Chase or potentially more when transferring to travel partners.

The card features 3x points per dollar on shipping purchases, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines, internet, cable and phone services purchases, and travel.

The card also comes with a good list of travel and purchase protections, including cell phone insurance when you use the card to pay your monthly bill. And like most premium travel cards, there are no foreign transaction fees. While it has a huge starting bonus and great benefits, it also requires a annual_fees annual fee.

Chase Sapphire Reserve® Card

This card's generous benefits and flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points make it an excellent deal for those who can use them. Users get a Priority Pass Select airport lounge membership (retail value $469), a $300 annual travel credit that applies to travel purchases each year, 50% more value when redeeming their rewards for travel through Chase, a fee credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership , and a generous suite of travel insurance benefits.

• Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel(SM).
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel(SM) immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel(SM). For example, 75,000 points are worth $1125 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass(TM) Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck(R)

card_name is a premium travel card loaded with valuable benefits. While it requires a large annual_fees annual fee, you get the first $300 back on travel purchases with the card, up to $100 in statement credits every four years for TSA’s trusted traveler programs, and a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership with access to more than 1,300 lounges.

New users can earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in the first three months. For purchases, you’ll earn 10x points per dollar spent with Chase Dining or when booking hotels or rental cars through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 5x for flights booked through Chase, 3x for travel and dining purchases, including restaurant delivery, and 1x everywhere else.

The package of travel and purchase insurance is also quite valuable. The card includes trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver coverage, lost luggage reimbursement, trip delay reimbursement, and emergency evacuation insurance. For purchases, it includes purchase protection for new purchases for up to 120 days, return protection, and up to an additional year of warranty coverage.

United℠ Explorer Card

If you’re looking for an airline-specific credit card, the card_name Chase is a standout option. The card comes with a list of benefits rewarding United travelers, with bonus miles, free checked bags, and other benefits. New users can earn 60,000 miles after spending $3,000 with the card in the first three months.

You’ll earn 2x miles per dollar for purchases with United. The same 2x rate extends to dining, restaurant delivery, and hotels booked directly through the hotel company. It features 1x mile per dollar on all other purchases.

When flying with United, the cardholder and a companion get their first checked bag free, worth up to $140 per roundtrip. The card also includes an opportunity to earn Premier qualifying points, which get you closer to elite United status. Users also get a one-year complimentary DashPass subscription, offering discounts with DoorDash. It includes excellent travel insurance benefits, purchase protection, extended warranty protection, and complimentary Visa Signature Concierge service access.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card: Best hotel credit card

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card from Chase is a top hotel card. While it has a $95 annual fee, an annual free night award worth up to 35,000 points is easily worth more. When you stack points from the card and Marriott Bonvoy membership, you can earn up to 17x points per dollar on purchases made with Marriott, which has more than 7,000 properties worldwide.

New users can earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first three months after opening a new account. Users get automatic Silver Elite status and credit toward the Gold Elite tier. The card also features a one-year complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership.

Travel insurance benefits are fair and include lost luggage reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, and trip delay reimbursement. It also includes purchase protection and Visa Signature Concierge service.

Best travel credit card comparison chart

Our methodology.

To choose the best travel credit cards, our team reviewed dozens of cards from multiple issuers. We looked at the best rewards for regular purchases, the best signup bonuses, and the best travel-related benefits. We also considered annual fees and other common costs that you’re likely to incur. We didn’t, however, consider interest rates, as travel rewards cards are best for users who pay off the card in full monthly to avoid interest charges.

How to maximize your rewards with your travel credit card

If you want to maximize your rewards with travel credit cards, follow these quick tips:

• Use your credit card for every purchase: You don’t earn miles or points when you don’t use the card. Use your rewards card for every eligible purchase to earn as much as possible. But be careful not to overspend and get into trouble with high card balances.
• Consider multiple rewards cards: Mixing and matching multiple cards can get you the best rewards. For example, picking one card for restaurants, one for groceries , and one for gas could help you earn more.
• Research each redemption: Don’t redeem your points without considering the value. When transferring to airline partners, getting values well over one cent per point is possible.

How to choose a travel credit card

Everyone has different travel goals, credit histories, incomes, and spending habits. Here are some additional considerations to guide your choice:

• Spending habits: If you always cook at home and never go to restaurants, a restaurant rewards card wouldn’t be practical. Consider your budget and spending habits to find the best card .
• Annual fee tolerance: Some people are okay with annual fees, while others will only tolerate them up to a certain point. With some popular cards requiring over $600 per year, you have to ask yourself what you would be willing to pay and which benefits you’ll use regularly.
• Desired benefits: If you want airport lounges, status with a certain hotel or airline, or fast lines at the airport, find a card with those benefits.
• Brand loyalty: Finally, if you love one airline or hotel—or simply find one most convenient for your travel priorities—its branded card could be a good choice or addition to one of the cards above.

How to compare credit cards

Every issuer offers different benefits and rewards. When comparing travel cards, look at the rewards program to determine if it favors your spending habits. Then look at any costs or fees you expect to pay, such as annual or foreign transaction fees. Next, look at statement credits and other benefits. The card that yields you the biggest net benefits (rewards and benefits minus expected annual fees and other costs) should be your top pick.

Also, consider the card’s credit score and other credit requirements before applying. That information should be available on the issuer’s website or by contacting its customer service desk.

Types of travel credit cards

Our favorite travel credit cards are general miles and points rewards cards. General rewards cards feature points or miles redeemable at a big list of airlines, hotels, and potentially additional travel companies.

Depending on your location and travel preferences, you may also find brand-specific cards helpful. For example, the United MileagePlus Explorer card comes with benefits and rewards miles only for use with United Airlines. Most airlines and hotels offer at least one credit card for loyal customers.

Alternatives to travel credit cards

If you don’t want a travel credit card, cash back credit cards are an excellent choice. Many of them have no annual fee. And, if you’re not into travel, the rewards come in the form of cash or points redeemable for cash.

Most cards with cash back rewards allow you to redeem for statement credits, which lower your credit card balance; direct deposit to a linked bank account; and sometimes for travel, gift cards, Amazon.com purchases, and other redemptions. Merchandise is usually a low-value redemption for your points.

You can also find cards with no rewards, often featuring lower fees and interest rates. A secured credit card may be the right choice for someone with bad credit or no credit.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between points and miles on a travel credit card.

Points and miles on a travel credit card are rewards earned through spending on the card. While they share similarities, there are some major differences between them.

General rewards points tend to offer more flexibility for redemption, as they can be used for various rewards, including flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and even cash back. However, miles are usually restricted to flight redemptions with a specific airline or its partners. Some travel credit cards may allow you to convert miles into points or vice versa, but this typically comes with a conversion rate and may not always offer the best value.

Ultimately, the difference between points and miles on a travel credit card comes down to how they are earned, their redemption options, and their value. Understanding the specific rewards program and choosing a card that aligns with your travel habits and preferences is essential to maximizing your rewards.

How do I know if a travel credit card is right for me?

Determining if a travel credit card is right depends on your spending habits, travel frequency, and personal preferences. First, consider your travel patterns and the type of travel rewards you desire—such as airline miles, hotel points, or more flexible rewards redeemable for various travel expenses. Frequent travelers who can take advantage of perks like lounge access, priority boarding, or free checked bags may find travel credit cards more valuable.

Additionally, assess your spending habits and ability to earn rewards. Travel credit cards often have higher annual fees and interest rates, so ensure that you can offset these costs through rewards, perks, and benefits. The right travel credit card for you should align with your lifestyle, provide valuable rewards, and offer perks that enhance your travel experiences.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.