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New online form for travelers arriving in Cuba

Users must complete it 48 hours before the flight and it will generate a qr code to present at the departure and entry airports..

Tourists in Cuba. Photo: Ernesto Mastracusa/EFE

Since the end of January, all travelers entering Cuba must complete an online form with personal and health data, as announced by the Ministries of Transportation and Public Health.

The director of Air Transport and International Relations of the Institute of Civil Aeronautics of Cuba, Rita García, pointed out at the press conference that digital registration can be made 48 hours before the flight and from the D’Viajeros platform in which up to now 1.7 million travelers have registered.

“The implementation of the form being filled out in advance by the traveler on the online platform minimizes physical contact, reducing their stay in the epidemiological surveillance line and avoiding crowds,” said Carmelo Trujillo, head of the Department of Sanitary Control of the Ministry of Public Health.

Through the form, travelers will declare that they have not had a possible close contact with COVID-19 and a QR code will be generated that must be presented during check-in at the airport of origin and upon landing in Cuban territory.

Increase in arrivals

Cuba expects the arrival of 3.5 million tourists in 2023, still below pre-COVID-19 levels, when the island registered between 4 and 5 million visitors, benefiting from the “thaw” between Cuba and the United States which started at the end of 2014.

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Could someone finally tell me exactly how many checked bags i am allowed to bring into Cuba?

None of this infomation is available in english this is typical Cuba

We have been to Cuba several times in the past but now if i need a code we not go anymore.

Where can I find the application for the QR code in english

why is this form new? they have already used dviajeros, did they add more questions to the form?

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Cuba Arrival and Departure Procedures in 2022

February, 2022

Contributor: Sarah Arizaga

Part one of this article covered all the prep work I did for my trip to Cuba in late January 2022. This is what I experienced traveling to and from Jose Marti Airport in Havana.

Check-in Process

The hardest part of this journey was getting everything packed and ready to go. Check in was a breeze, although American Airlines doesn’t allow online check in for Cuba so I made sure I arrived two hours in advance.

A note about luggage. I’m not used to packing to full capacity so I was confused by the Cuba luggage restrictions. This trip I was taking advantage of Cuba customs fee waiver for medical, food, and hygiene products by bringing donations and requests. Basically, being a mule (coffee and vitamins were the most popular requests). I brought maximum luggage which is: 1 carry on, 1 personal item, 2 check in items which are allowed to be up to 70lbs each, although they charge insane excess bag fees for anything over 50lbs. Total cost of luggage $95.

At check-in in SMF I was asked to show my:

Vaccination Certificate - no longer required as of April 6, 2022 PCR Results - no longer required as of April 6, 2022 Passport Cuba QR Code

I had a very short layover but it doesn’t take much time. There is a Cuba Travel Services stand in the boarding area where they checked my visa and stamped by boarding pass “Cuba Ready”. If you need to buy a visa, that’s where you’ll do it, it takes less than 5 minutes. Boarding my flight to Havana they checked my passport and stamped boarding pass (this also serves as proof of medical insurance). Normally at some point during the check-in process I am asked to verbally state my category of general license, oddly, this time no one asked. American Airlines used its big dog for this flight, the 9-seats across plane and it was full.

Arriving at Jose Marti Airport

The good thing about flying Jet Blue or American is that the flight arrives at the modern terminal – Terminal 3 . This is convenient for picking up my Tourist SIM because the Etecsa office is right outside. In that same complex is the Ecotur office you’d visit in case you didn’t find your Cuban Adventures airport greeter. If I’d have flown Southwest, I’d arrive in Terminal 2, a taxi ride from Terminal 3 so I’d have either asked the driver to make an extra stop to pick up my SIM or go to an Etecsa office in town.

I treated myself to the Airport VIP service so I didn’t have to deal with the baggage claim, I paid $25 in cash. There was a line of VIP escorts offering the service right when I walked off the jet bridge. My VIP escort Manuela* guided me to immigration where my QR code and passport were checked and my visa stamped. I was asked about the countries I recently visited, and then photographed sans all hat, glasses and anything else on my head. Sometimes I am also asked why I’m visiting; this is not the time to say Support for the Cuban People (that’s a US thing). I’d tell them tourism, sightseeing, going to the beach, etc.

Next stop, security x-ray (shoes stay on, no belts, scarves, or jackets). Much to my surprise they now have a body scanner! Yikes.

Then Manuela led me to the VIP lounge where I was offered drinks (even beer and rum!) and snacks. Time to sit back and relax and watch bad TV while Manuela looked for my luggage. It took about an hour, but I was comfortable and I’ve waited nearly 3 hours before so I was happy.

Everyone is supposed to get a half hour free wifi in the Jose Marti Airport (both terminals) but it wasn’t working at the time. There is a smoking room in the lounge for those that need it (leave your marijuana at home).

Once Manuela found my luggage, she loaded it on to a cart and guided through customs where I showed my QR code again to exit the airport. Normally when I’m bringing a lot of stuff my luggage gets flagged for inspection, and I have to explain that everything is a gift. I think Manuela worked a bit of magic. I tipped her a $5.

Getting to Havana

Outside the airport there were plenty of cabs , both yellow taxis and classic cars, all of which should charge the same price. If you don’t have airport pickup, there are lots of people asking if you need a ride. Some are the drivers, and some are just spokespeople for the drivers and will lead you to the driver when you accept the offer. The first time I came this made me a bit nervous, but now I know it’s just how it works. I paid $25 for the 30-minute drive to Centro Habana, same price to all tourist neighborhoods.  

I arrived in the middle of the coldest period in Havana history where Cubans don’t leave the house unless absolutely necessary, which means the streets were even more deserted than usual. In all fairness, it was pretty darn cold. Who knew it could get down to 40-something degrees in Cuba? Havana was changed but still wonderful, read about my experience.

Leaving Cuba

To get back to the US, residents must have either the Antigen test or a doctor’s note that confirms recovery from Covid within the past 90 days.

Because my video antigen test experiment had failed, I would have taken the rapid test at the Siboney Clinic kiosk in the airport (available at both terminals) and I would have been able to report back exactly how long I waited, how much, and payment method. But because I was hobbling on sprained ankle by then, I didn’t want to be on my feet any longer than necessary so I went the doctors note route. I can only say that the testing line wasn’t too long, the process seemed to go smoothly, and I have heard it costs $30 and by some miracle, they accept US credit cards. I’d give myself an extra hour to do the antigen test at the airport (so, arrive at least 3 hours before flight). If you’re on one of our tours, the guide will help arrange the test.

Instead, I handed over my doctors note, and a just-in-case printout of the CDC rules. The airline agent seemed taken by surprise and went over the paperwork very carefully (I had to explain that an E-Signature is a signature), but it worked! 

Then it was just a matter of going back through immigration (they take your visa so make sure you don’t lose it), security (this time no shoes, my water always makes it through) and on to my flight back to Miami.

Back in the U.S.

This was my 17th trip to Cuba, and I’d say about 6 times I’ve been asked more than the perfunctory “Why were you in Cuba?” question, to which the answer is always “Support for the Cuban People” . This lady wanted to know how I supported the Cuban people, where I stayed, what I did all day, and of course, whether I brought back alcohol or tobacco. I answered her questions easily: bringing donations and supporting private businesses, stayed in a casa particular, interacted with locals, no alcohol or tobacco. Satisfied, she waived me through.

The Trump Era prohibition on bringing back alcohol and tobacco is a real bummer because I had to turn down a gift from a friend who had very kindly bought cigars for me to take back for my father-in-law and husband. But, as with all processes run by humans, the enforcement of this rule is arbitrary, because I saw a woman with duty-free bag of rum who had clearly made it through immigration. The whole process to re-enter US will vary, but for most people, coming back from Cuba is not much different than coming back from Mexico or the UK.

Home sweet home and eager to go back to Cuba! If you have any questions drop them in the comments section!

Be the first to comment!

An in-depth explanation of what Trump has changed to the Cuba travel rules and regulations in June 2019 and why. 

Going Vegan or Vegetarian in Cuba? Here is a restaurant guide for finding the best plant-based food in Cuba. 

Sarah gives her tips on where to eat in Havana when you just can't deal with Cuban traditional food anymore. 

Travel Checklist for Cuba: 9 Things You Absolutely Can’t Forget

Planning a trip to Cuba? Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history of this Caribbean gem. But before you pack your bags and set off on your adventure, it’s essential to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable journey.

To help you out, here’s a comprehensive travel checklist outlining nine things you absolutely can’t forget when visiting Cuba.

Table of Contents

Travel checklist for cuba.

Preparing for a trip to Cuba requires careful planning and attention to detail to make the most of your time on this enchanting island. Our travel checklist for Cuba is designed to ensure you have all the essentials covered, from necessary documents to practical considerations for a smooth and unforgettable journey.

Get ready to dive into Cuba’s rich culture, pristine beaches, and vibrant streets armed with the knowledge and preparation provided in this guide.

1. Valid passport and visa

Your passport is your ticket to Cuba, so ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Additionally, most visitors to Cuba require a tourist visa, also known as a tourist card, to enter the country legally. You can obtain this visa through your airline, tour operator, or Cuban embassy/consulate. Double-check the entry requirements for your nationality and secure your visa before traveling to avoid any last-minute hiccups. 

When confirming you have packed your passport it is a perfect time to fill out the Advance Travellers Form which must be completed within 72 hours of your departure. Once you have located the form at https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio simply check your language and fill out all of the sections marked in red at least. Ensure that you pay special attention to date formats, for Casa/B&B accommodation select – House or room for rent and be sure to screenshot the QR code at the end.

2. Travel insurance

Travel insurance is a legal requirement when entering Cuba, and while many airlines that offer direct flights from the USA to Cuba will include this with the ticket price, flying from other locations or using smaller airlines means it may not be. Ensure that your coverage is suitable for your length of stay and covers both health and accidental incidents. Some medical and health insurance cover worldwide so check your policy before you leave and add any additional needed coverage.

Additionally, check if your insurance includes coverage for adventure activities like scuba diving or hiking, as these are popular pursuits in Cuba.

Due to the exchange rate being less favorable, especially for CAD, it is recommended that you bring some cash with you while you travel, and research where you can exchange more near your hotel or where you plan to stay. 

It is recommended to not exchange funds at the airport, and is often more beneficial to pay for goods and services in Cuba with foreign currency rather than to exchange it. The preferred and recommended currency is USD, Euro, or Sterling, which can be used or it can be exchanged upon arrival.

4. Prescription medications and basic medical supplies

Cuba boasts a commendable healthcare system, but access to certain medications may be limited. To avoid any disruptions to your health routine, pack an ample supply of prescription medications, along with a copy of your prescription in case you need a refill. Additionally, include basic medical supplies such as over-the-counter pain relievers, antihistamines, adhesive bandages, and antiseptic wipes in your travel kit. 

These essentials can come in handy for minor injuries, allergies, or illnesses during your trip.

5. Travel adapters and voltage converters

Cuba typically uses electrical outlets compatible with North American devices (Type A and Type B), but voltage fluctuations may occur. Bring a universal travel adapter and voltage converter to ensure your electronics can be charged safely. Most hotels provide hairdryers and other amenities, but if you’re staying in casa particulares (private homestays) or budget accommodations, it’s wise to have your own adapter handy. 

Keep your devices charged to capture every moment of your Cuban adventure, from classic cars cruising along the Malecón to salsa dancing under the stars.

6. Spanish phrasebook or language app

While English is spoken in tourist areas, Spanish is the primary language in Cuba. Learning a few basic phrases can enhance your travel experience and foster meaningful connections with locals. Pack a Spanish phrasebook or download a language app (ex.: Google translate) to help you navigate everyday situations, such as ordering food, asking for directions, or negotiating prices. 

Cubans appreciate when visitors make an effort to speak their language, and a little bit of Spanish can go a long way in bridging cultural barriers and creating memorable experiences.

7. Sun protection essentials

With its tropical climate and abundant sunshine, Cuba beckons visitors to bask in its natural beauty. However, prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to sunburn, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses. Pack essential sun protection items, including broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher), sunglasses with UV protection, a wide-brimmed hat or cap, and lightweight, breathable clothing that covers your skin. 

Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially if you’re swimming or engaging in outdoor activities, and seek shade during the hottest part of the day to stay safe and comfortable under the Cuban sun.

8. Respectful attire and cultural sensitivity

Cuba’s rich cultural heritage and diverse population make it a fascinating destination for travelers. When packing your clothing, consider local customs and dress codes, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with Cuban families. Opt for modest attire that covers your shoulders and knees out of respect for Cuban traditions. 

Additionally, be mindful of cultural sensitivities regarding photography, particularly in rural areas and among indigenous communities. Always ask for permission before taking someone’s photo, and respect their privacy if they decline.

It is recommended for all foreign travelers to use a VPN on their phones and other devices. This allows you to set your location to anywhere and provides access to your familiar app stores and other services. It also protects your private information while you travel.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa to travel to Cuba?

Yes, most visitors to Cuba require a tourist visa, also known as a tourist card, to enter the country legally. You can usually obtain this visa through your airline, tour operator, or Cuban embassy/consulate. It’s essential to check the entry requirements for your nationality and secure your visa before traveling to Cuba.

Can I use credit cards in Cuba?

While major hotels and some upscale restaurants in Cuba accept credit cards, smaller establishments and local vendors usually prefer cash. Due to restrictions on U.S. bank cards, it’s essential to bring enough cash to cover your expenses throughout your stay. 

What should I pack for my trip to Cuba?

When packing for your trip to Cuba, include essential items such as valid passport and visa, travel insurance, cash, prescription medications, basic medical supplies, travel adapters, Spanish phrasebook or language app, sun protection essentials, and respectful attire. Additionally, consider packing lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for Cuba’s tropical climate, comfortable walking shoes, and any specific items you may need for planned activities or excursions.A VPN is also recommended to be installed on your phone to allow access to the app stores and services you are used to.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Cuba?

It’s generally recommended to drink bottled or filtered water in Cuba to avoid the risk of waterborne illnesses. While some hotels and tourist-oriented establishments may offer filtered water, it’s best to err on the side of caution and stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. You can easily find bottled water at convenience stores, markets, and hotels throughout Cuba.

Do I need to speak Spanish to travel in Cuba?

While knowing Spanish can enhance your travel experience and facilitate interactions with locals, it’s not a requirement for visiting Cuba. Many Cubans working in the tourism industry speak some English, especially in popular tourist areas. However, learning a few basic phrases in Spanish can be beneficial for navigating everyday situations, such as ordering food, asking for directions, or negotiating prices. Consider bringing a Spanish phrasebook or downloading a language app to help you communicate effectively during your trip.

In conclusion, preparing for a trip to Cuba requires careful planning and attention to detail. 

By following this travel checklist and ensuring you have all the essential items, you’ll be well-equipped to embark on a memorable journey through this captivating island nation. 

Whether you’re strolling through the cobblestone streets of Trinidad, savoring a mojito in Old Havana, or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Cayo Coco, your Cuban adventure awaits.

BUILD YOUR OWN TAILOR-MADE CUBA TOUR ITINERARY WITH US!

20 things to know before visiting Cuba

Jan 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Be ready for your visit to Cuba with these top tips on what to expect © Westend61 / Getty Images

To a first-time traveler, Cuba can seem like a confusing jigsaw puzzle, particularly if you’re breaking free of the resorts and traveling around on your own.

The Spanish spoken here is fast and hard to decipher, many streets have two different names and the country’s fickle and highly complicated monetary situation could fill its own guidebook. Yet the country’s pleasures are well worth the research you should do before you set off.

To help you be prepared, here is everything you need to know before planning a trip to Cuba.

1. Double-check your insurance

You are required to have medical insurance to visit Cuba and will need to bring digital or printed proof of your policy. Random checks are made at the airport. If you arrive without insurance, you’ll be asked to buy a Cuban policy at the airport for US$30.

2. Fill out your passenger information in advance

Cuba uses an online form called  D’Viajeros  to gather traveler information, including immigration and health data, in advance of travel. Fill out the form digitally up to 72 hours before your arrival in Cuba.

3. Every visitor needs a tourist card

To enter Cuba, all visitors need to present a completed tourist card . It’s usually available through your airline (ask when booking) and included in the price of your ticket.

If not, you can purchase one through a Cuban travel agency. Costs range from US$50 to US$85. Citizens of 20 African and Asian countries require a formal visa to enter Cuba. Check the situation for your country before booking.

4. Cash and currency: it’s complicated!

Money in Cuba is confusing, even to Cubans . Since the country abolished convertibles (CUC) in January 2021 and took the US dollar out of circulation in June 2021, there has been massive inflation and the emergence of a rampant black market. The knock-on effect is a bewildering dual economy.

The official currency of Cuba is the Cuban peso (CUP), but foreign currencies are also widely accepted, especially by private businesses who need hard cash to buy non-rationed goods in MLC (freely convertible currency) shops.

State-run enterprises and banks use official exchange rates. However, the prices of the superior services offered by private businesses generally reflect black market exchange rates.

Hence a main dish in a private restaurant in Havana will cost around CUP$500 (US$21). That’s an expensive meal if you’re paying in pesos bought from a Cuban bank.

However, most private restaurants will also accept payment in euros using a more favorable exchange rate. Some will even have a separate menu with prices printed in euros.    

When buying something from a private business – be it a restaurant, casa particular (private accommodation) or taxi service – it’s usually best to pay in a foreign currency. Always ask upfront what currencies they accept and what exchange rate they use for their published peso prices.

Euros is the most interchangeable currency and the one preferred by Cubans. You can also use and exchange Canadian dollars and pound sterling.

US dollars still circulate on the black market, but we don’t recommend bringing them. The best bet, when you arrive, is to keep most of your money in a foreign currency and only change small amounts into pesos for incidentals like museum entry, concert tickets and tips.

5. MLC is a currency with no cash form

The Moneda Libremente Convertible (MLC) is a currency approved by the Cuban government in 2020 that can be used in certain shops to buy higher-end goods.

The currency doesn’t exist as cash and its value is pegged with the US dollar. It’s used mainly by Cubans with special magnetic cards. 

Tourists needn’t worry too much about MLC$, although prices will sometimes be displayed in the currency in state-run enterprises such as cigar shops or airport souvenir stores where you can pay with a non-US credit card.

6. Only some credit cards will work

Credit cards are increasingly popular in Cuba and in many state-run businesses are the preferred (and sometimes only) method of payment.

Despite promises made in the Obama era, credit cards linked to US banks are not accepted. Private businesses almost never have credit card machines, meaning your only option is cash.

7. Pack your favorite casual clothes – and men need a shirt

Dress in Cuba is casual, so you can leave your high heels and tux behind. The only real dress code is in cinemas, theaters and nightclubs, where male patrons are required to wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves or half-sleeves.  

8. Cuban Spanish is fast and often informal

If you speak Spanish, you’ll find that Cubans mostly use the informal tú form of address, rather than usted . In the plural, ustedes is used over vosotros .

If you don’t know someone, it’s best to address them as señor or señora , though you’ll hear Cubans use all kinds of substitutes such as socio , hermano , papa , chica/o  and asere .

9. Cuban cities are where the streets have two names

In most Cuban cities , the streets have two names: a contemporary one that is noted on maps and marked on street signs, and a pre-revolutionary one that is still used widely by the locals.

This can become confusing, especially when locals, unaware of the new street names, start giving out directions or addresses using the colloquial nomenclature. Always double-check addresses and, if possible, get two potential names for the street you’re looking for.

10. Understand the local art of queueing

Cubans have to endure a lot of long waits in boring queues, so they’ve invented a way of doing it that doesn’t involve standing in line. In a Cuban queue, you simply roll up at the bakery/clinic/visa office and yell out to the assembled masses, "Quien es último?" (Who’s last?).

Hopefully, someone in a 400m vicinity will answer your polite entreaty with the word, "yo" (me). That person is your yardstick. As long as they’re still around, feel free to go for a walk, sit in the lotus position or buy ice cream. When they get called up, be on your toes, you’re next!

11. Ask questions more than once  

Thanks to heavy bureaucracy, answers to simple requests aren’t always straightforward – or even correct. Probe politely and ask at least five different people before you make important decisions.

12. Bring something to keep you warm on a cold bus journey

Cuba has a countrywide state-run bus service called  Víazul that connects all of the main cities and some of the smaller towns. Prices are charged in MLC$ (the same rate as the US$) and tickets must be paid for with a credit card either in person or online.

A second service called Conectando, run by Cubanacán, also puts on buses in peak season along some of the more popular routes. Bring a sweater/jacket for long bus rides – the air-conditioning is akin to a chilly day in Vancouver.

13. Cuba is considered a safe place to travel

Cuba is one of the safest countries in the Americas in terms of violent crime. Pick-pocketing is more common but not rampant, and is mostly avoidable if you follow a few basic precautions: Wear a money belt, use safe boxes in hotel rooms and don’t flash your cash in public.

14. Solo female travelers report receiving unwanted attention

Solo female travelers report experiencing a good deal of unwanted attention, but it didn't necessarily spoil their enjoyment of traveling in Cuba.

There is a fine line between being open and friendly and harassment, and some men can cross that line by being overly familiar or asking too many personal questions. Learn some key phrases in Spanish that make it clear when you're not interested.

15. Beware of forgeries

Never change money with unlicensed traders on the streets. You run the risk of receiving estafas (forged notes).

16. Bring your own medicines

On one level, Cuba has a good health system (it invented and quickly distributed three COVID-19 vaccines); on the other, it is perennially short of pharmaceuticals.

Bring all the prescription medications you think you’ll need, as well others you might like ibuprofen or paracetamol. If you’d like to donate some medicines to the people of Cuba, it is currently possible to bring in 10kg of medical supplies tax-free (pack them in a separate bag). 

17. Avoid dodgy cigars

Cuba has its share of jineteros (touts) spinning elaborate stories about super-cheap, high-quality cigars procured by their brother/mother/cousin from the factory. Don’t believe them. Instead, buy your cigars in state-run shops such as the Casa del Habano chain. Cigars sold on the street are invariably factory cast-offs and not genuine.

18. Driving is not as easy as you think

With light traffic on the road, driving might seem like an easy proposition , but with elevated rental prices and cars often in short supply, it’s not always so.

Add in sporadic signposting, potholed roads and a wide array of hazards – goats, horses, bicycles, kids and slow-moving, fume-belching trucks – and you might want to consider getting the bus or, at least, employing the services of a chauffeur .

19. Bring toilet paper and sanitary products

The pandemic made the provision of antiseptic hand lotion more common, but the same can’t be said of toilet paper. Carry your own roll and/or gravitate to four- or five-star hotels when you’re caught short in the city.

Re-usable pads and silicon cups, or disposable pads and tampons are must-pack items if you're expecting your period while you're in Cuba. These are in high demand here.

20. Don’t drink the water

The water won’t kill you, but it might give you a little queasiness or an upset stomach. Fortunately, bottled water is abundant and cheap. An even better idea is to bring your own filter bottle or water purification tablets.

This article was first published Feb 5, 2022 and updated Jan 5, 2024.

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Things to Do Before you Go to Cuba Travel Checklist

Cuba is very different from any country that you’ll visit.  The biggest difference that most travelers will find is that there’s limited access to the internet.  That means you need to prepare a few things before arriving in Cuba and we’ve put them into our travel guides for Cuba travel.   Here’s our guide to what you need to do before you go to Cuba – your ultimate Cuba Travel planning checklist.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS. MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

So check out the things to know before you go to Cuba – and don’t forget to download your Travel Cuba checklist too.

TOP CUBA TRAVEL TIP

Get a VPN for Cuba

Taking and using a VPN in Cuba is essential if you plan to use the internet – AT ALL – you’ll need it to view your regular news sites, protect data when connected, AND to book Viazul Tickets.

Get yourself a Cuban Tourist Card before you go to Cuba

You’ll need a Cuban Tourist Card BEFORE you go to Cuba.  They’re easy to get.  Here’s everything you need to know about getting a Cuban Tourist Card. Just apply online from home and have them sent to you.  We recommend using EasyTouristCard. Check out EasyTouristCard services for Cuban Tourist Cards here .

If you’re doing this in Mexico then you can just buy it at the airport.  We flew from Mexico with Interjet – and here’s a short article on how to buy your Cuban Tourist Card in Cancun  without being scammed.  Your tourist card is valid for 30 days.  I’m assured that you can renew it. 

You also need to complete a D’Viajeros form too

The DViajeros form is a pre-departure form required by the Cuban Government, it is IN ADDITION to the Cuban Tourist Card and you can ONLY complete it in the three days prior to your departure. You can see what you need to complete here = https://dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio

My guide to completing the D’Viajeros form is here.

If you’re a US Citizen traveling to Cuba there are special rules

Traveling to Cuba for tourism purposes for US citizens is STILL prohibited by the US authorities.   US citizens can travel for other purposes and details can be found here .

Get Yourself a VPN– before you go to Cuba

If you want to use Skype when you’re in Cuba you’ll need a VPN.   If you want to use the internet AT ALL in Cuba then we recommend that you download and get used to using a VPN BEFORE YOU GET TO CUBA. 

You’ll be able to use Facebook and WhatsApp once you’re on the internet in Cuba (did you check out our great guide on getting onto the internet in Cuba  yet?).

You should also use a VPN if you’re going to be using anything that you put a password into – like your internet banking, any booking sites, or your social media access.    Our number one choice as the best VPN for Cuba is ExpressVPN.

Get the best VPN that we’ve found that works in Cuba.  This link gives you THREE MONTHS for free as a reader of Cuba’s Best. You can read more about VPNs in Cuba here.

Read our guide to using VPN’s in Cuba here.

You can read  the report  about what types of sites are blocked in Cuba – all the more reason to read up on what real Cubans think before you get there. If you’re likely to want internet access on the move, then you’ll want to read our guide to sim cards in Cuba here .

Arrange Travel and Medical Insurance for Cuba

It’s a mandatory requirement in Cuba for visitors to have medical insurance.  Cuba might have one of the best healthcare systems for her citizens (there’s 1 doctor for every 120 people), more doctors than the whole of the African continent, and some of the most innovative ways to treat illness – BUT there is a legal requirement on your entering the country to have medical insurance.  If you don’t have it and you’re asked to produce evidence, and can’t, then you’ll be forced to buy some from the relevant government authority.

It is unlikely that ANY travel insurance provided by your banking provider will cover you in Cuba. Get a quote for insurance for Cuba here.   Want to read more about the requirements of travel and medical insurance for Cuba?  >  Here’s an in-depth article on it.

Travel Vaccinations for Cuba

It’s recommended to speak with your doctor or medical professional before your trip to Cuba.  They’ll be able to advise what vaccinations are recommended before you fly to Cuba.   You may need several vaccinations.

• The NHS in the UK advice for travel to Cuba is here . 
• Advice for US citizens for travel to Cuba is here .
• Advice for Canadian citizens for travel to Cuba is here .

Generally, jabs for Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid Fever, Hepatitis B, Rabies and Cholera are recommended.

Prescription Medication in Cuba

If you take prescription medication then be aware that the type of meds that you take may not be available in Cuba, so you should pack both a supply for your time there AND a copy of your prescription.

Water in Cuba

You should NOT drink tap water in Cuba unless you’re treating it by using a filter water bottle.    Bottled water may be available, but do yourself and the environment a favor and ditch the single-use plastic and use a reusable filter bottle instead.

TOP PRODUCT PICK

Best Filter Water Bottle For Cuba

The Lifestraw Go Water Filter Bottle has a 22-ounce capacity, it has a two-stage carbon filter that lasts for 100 liters of water and a membrane microfilter that lasts up to 4,000 liters of water.  The bottle itself is reusable, extremely durable, and BPA-free.  

This is the best filter water bottle for Cuba

Organise your Payment Cards and Cash for Cuba

The Cuban Peso is a closed currency, so you can’t get hold of it outside of Cuba. There are ATMs throughout Cuba, but cards from US banks will not work either in ATMs in Cuba or in payment devices. Check with your bank or provider if your card will work in Cuba. Wise, formerly Transferwise, does NOT work in Cuba, neither does Revolut.

Book your airport transfer

You can prebook private or shared transfers and make your arrival even smoother. Get taken directly to your hotel or casa particular. Check costs for Havana airport shared transfers here Alternatively, opt for a private airport transfer from Havana.

Book your Cuban Accommodation Before You Go to Cuba

The less time you have, the more organised you have to be.  If you’re going to Cuba for two weeks, do yourself a favour and pre-book your Cuban accommodation now. If you know where you’re going and how long you’ll spend in each place, go ahead and book it now.  

I don’t doubt that you will be able to find somewhere to stay when you arrive in Cuba – but why not reserve the time you have in Cuba for enjoying the country and not trying to find somewhere to stay?

You can prebook both Casa Particulars AND Hotels for your stay in Cuba.    If you only have a short time in Cuba, then think LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION – our guide to where to stay in Havana is here.

Read our  Ultimate Guide to Casa Particulars in Cuba  – it’s everything you need to know!

It’s best to  prebook both Casa Particulars or Hotels  for your stay in Cuba. Check out some great rated Casa Particulars to stay in Cuba with Homestay. I recommend Homestay as they do not charge the casa particular owner a fee, which means that more of your money goes directly to the Cuban people.

Note that you CANNOT use Booking.com for Cuba. If you only have a short time in Cuba, then think LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION. Our guide on where to stay in Havana is here.

In Havana, we recommend the following places:

Casa Particulars in Havana

The Casa Buenos Aires is in a superb location in the center of Old Havana, just one block from the Museum of the Revolution, making it easy to walk all the sights of Old Havana.  There are three private, ensuite rooms here, all with a private bathroom and a private balcony.  Breakfast and laundry are available here.  There is internet access here, a glorious garden, and a terrace with a bar where you can enjoy a fabulous Cuban cocktail.  See photos of the Casa Buenos Aires here.

The gorgeous Casa Giraldilla is a restored colonial house dating from the 1920s and has high ceilings and a glorious balcony for people-watching.   Carmen and Carlos speak English, Spanish, and a little French.   All rooms are ensuite and have either a window or a balcony onto the street.  There are two doubles and a twin room here.  Breakfast and internet access are available here.  There is a glorious terrace on the roof available to all guests.  Book a room here.

The Casa de La Plaza de Cristo is in a building that dates from 1903, an 8-meter-long balcony gives all guests a magnificent view of the Plaza de Cristo.  It is a fabulous location to stay in Old Havana.  Rooms here are bright and airy, simply decorated, and have air conditioning.  Rooms are ensuite and breakfast is available for an additional cost.  You can see the location of this great old Havana casa particular here.

Hotels to Stay at in Havana

Hotel Nacional:  Iconic, THE place for a sundowner Mojito, in lazy, laid back Vedado > Check out prices and availability now .

Melia Hotels Havana  Classic Style and lovely rooms and a fabulous location.

If nothing else you should pre-book your first night’s accommodation, which will most likely be in Havana.

Book your Cuban transport before you go to Cuba – to save huge headaches

Transport for tourists is in limited supply.  And whether you’re renting a car in Cuba, or hiring a car and driver, or even just taking the Viazul Bus you NEED to pre-book transport as much as you can.   Cuba has a superb mentality of “something just always works out”, but this is your vacation and you shouldn’t have to be working it out on the fly!

If nothing else you should book your transport from the airport to your hotel or casa particular. Our partners Civitatis provide a prebook and prepay service that takes all the hassle out of it. Check prices and book now!

There’s more here on what to expect when arriving in Cuba.

Transport in Cuba comes in many forms.  (read about Cuban transport in detail here ) For tourists the main forms of transport are

• Cuban Car Rental
• Cuban Car and Driver Hire
• Cuban Classic Car and Driver Hire
• Colectivos (shared taxi services)
• Viazul Buses

The Tourist agency buses run by Viazul are the primary budget way to get around the country for a reasonable (it’s not cheap) price in more comfort than a hot sweaty cramped collectivo.   We put together the  Ultimate Guide to the Viazul Bus Network – and it includes ALL the timetables and routes and prices!.

Book Your Cuba Tours before you go to Cuba

There are places that you’ll want to go.   Cuba has a host of iconic things that you’ll want to knock off your Cuban bucket list.  Perhaps a day trip to Vinales, or a city tour of Havana, or a convertible car tour along the Malecon.  Maybe you want to go diving in the Bay of Pigs? 

Most businesses that operate these tours prefer cash when you book in Cuba.  And if you’re reading this article further down you’ll find details on cash in Cuba.  Pre-booking your tours and trips before you go to Cuba lets you pay for them on a credit card and not have to worry about carrying a lot of cash around with you.  Here’s our full article on Cuban currency.   We include details like the best currency to use in Cuba and the best way to pay for things too.

Here are just some of the recommendations for tours and trips in Cuba  that you can prebook.

Check out our list of iconic things to do in Cuba – from walking the Malecon in Havana at Sunset to visiting the Casa de la Trova in Santiago de Cuba –  read it here.

Understand Electricity in Cuba

The power supply in Cuba is primarily 110 volts.  (The UK and Australia are 230 volts, the USA and Canada are 120 volts – you can check other countries  here ).  If the voltage in Cuba is lower than your country voltage it just means your devices will charge more slowly.

If you are staying in a hotel in Cuba, then it will likely have dual voltage with all sockets in rooms being 220 volts.  If you’re staying in a Casa Particular, then your electricity supply is likely to be 110 volts.  Our guide to the power adapters needed in Cuba is here.

Best Cuba Travel Adapter

This fabulous adapter will cover you  no matter where you’re from. And it’ll cover you wherever you’re going to.

This is the best adapter for travel to Cuba

Most Casa Particular rooms are not set up for a large number of sockets, so you’d be wise to carry a 4 gang extension to charge all your devices, plus of course an adapter.  These are some great options to take with you when you travel to Cuba.

Download maps.me to navigate Cuba

That’s right.  Download the maps.me app to your phone or tablet.  And then download the local maps for ALL OF CUBA.  Because they’re invaluable.  Sure this app will chew up your battery, but at least you’ll know where you are and where you’re going.  Because your data plan most likely won’t work in Cuba.

You can find  maps.me here  and all the associated downloads. 

Practice your Spanish before you go to Cuba.

More so than any other country in the region you’re going to need at least some basic Spanish to truly experience Cuba.  

We found Spanish our primary language of communication.   We did, however, meet folks who were traveling around with ZERO Spanish and they were managing.  But you won’t end up having a mojito with the locals on their terrace in Baracoa if you can’t rustle up a few words.   And it’s harder to negotiate with a jinitero if you don’t know at least some numbers in Spanish.

Read up on the history of Cuba

Be sure to also read up about Cuban history.  All of the Cuban museums that you visit will primarily be in Spanish and there’s a party line.  You will find it useful to at least get a potted history of the country, her leaders and her potential from someone OUTSIDE the country.  No matter how well you tip your guides if you take guides you’ll get the standard party line.  Cuba is still a communist country.  It’s potentially dangerous for folks to tell you how they really feel.

We put together the ultimate list of books about Cuba – from Cuban history, to biographical books on Cuba, novels set in Cuba and some amazing Cuban cookbooks too. Read our guide to books about Cuba here.

You can also learn a little about the history of Cuba through her cocktails – check out these 4 Cuban cocktails  that tell some of Cuba’s history.

Get yourself an SD card to back up your photos

We back all of our photos up online.  BUT that relies on us having internet access and while there’s a lot more internet access in Cuba in 2021 , it’s still not ubiquitous and it’s not fast.   And you’re going to take LOTS of photos because Cuba is both amazing and irritating.  You’re going to want to capture every part of this schizophrenic country.  So get yourself some SD cards to back up your photos. This is a great SD card to take to Cuba.

Buy Essentials before you go to Cuba

Anything that is imported in Cuba is expensive.  Seriously so.  And that’s if it’s available and you can find it.  So don’t assume you’ll be able to walk into a Walmart (there aren’t any) or a supermarket (they’re few and far between) and buy whatever it was that you forgot.   So if you want to, say, for instance, snorkel, then take your gear with you. If you’re staying in one of the resorts – like Varadero – then you’ll be able to rent snorkeling gear, but it’s going to cost you.  And it won’t be cheap and it’s unlikely to be new.

Want the internet on the go while you’re in Cuba? Here’s how to get a Cuban eSim that means you’ll be online from the moment you get off the plane.

We’ve put together a Cuba packing list guide here , but here are some of the highlights that you’ll want to take with you to Cuba.

I recommend that you take a filter water bottle with you.  You’ll not only save the environment but a lot of money too – filter water bottles mean that you’ll be able to drink tap water wherever you are in the world. Our guide to drinking water in Cuba is here , along with our recommended filter water bottles for Cuba.

If you’re diving in Cuba, and you have your own gear, you’re probably going to want to take it with you.  The gear we used when  diving in the Bay of Pigs  was old, (including steel tanks! And holey wetsuits!), but they were serviceable.

There are LOTS of opportunities to go snorkeling in Cuba.  So, if that’s your thing take your snorkel with you. 

And because many of the beaches will be remote, lock your stuff away and tie it to a tree – you’ll want the fantastic portable safe for that (we left laptops, phones, money, and all sorts locked in ours while we snorkeled). Read our guide to the best portable travel safes for Cuba here.

You’re also going to want to make sure you have a hat, an umbrella (for rain or the sun), sun cream, and toiletries.  I’m not saying you can’t buy these, but they’re going to be expensive and probably not what you’re used to!

Other items that you NEED to bring with you

• Tampons / Sanitary Towels
• The relevant electrical adapter from your home country
• Any medication that you need
• Mosquito/sandfly repellent

Best Bug Spray For Cuba

Effective bug spray deters mosquitoes, gnats, and ticks. This pump spray is good for protecting you against bugs and contains 40% DEET.

Plan your Cuban Money before you go to Cuba

Cuban is primarily a cash society.  Unless you’re staying in a high-end resort and are playing with a credit card all the time.  Cuba now has a single currency, the Cuban Peso (or CUP) and here are the basics of Cuban Currency. 

You can only obtain Cuban currency in Cuba.  US Credit Cards and ATM cards will NOT work in Cuba.  Depending on the flavour of relations between the US and Cuba at the time you travel US dollars may or may not be accepted. Right now they’re accepted, but this changes frequently.

Canadian, Australian, European and British ATM cards work but DO inform your bank before you travel.  AND take a backup card.  Cell phone coverage is decidedly flaky and you might not have internet access to communicate with your bank, so if your ATM card gets stopped you’ll need another option.

We recommend taking Canadian Dollars, Euros or British Pounds.  If you’re travelling to Cuba from Mexico, then Mexican Pesos can also be easily exchanged in Cuba.

It’s not advisable to take US dollars with you.  Cuban banks are stopping accepting cash bank deposits in US dollars, so Cuban citizens won’t be able to bank any US dollars that you give them.

We wrote LOTS more about Cuban currency, its history and its ups and downs here . 

Be Aware Where you Spend Your Money in Cuba

In November 2017 the US State Department issued rules on where US Citizens can NOT spend money.  These are organizations with connections to the Cuban military.   Here’s the list. 

ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR EXPLORING CUBA INDEPENDENTLY

These are the resources and booking sites that we use when traveling to Cuba.

Get a Cuba Travel and Medical Insurance Quote from Visitors Coverage here – Alternatively, Civitatis Insurance is a great option for the required insurance for Cuba. You will need a Cuba Tourist Card to enter Cuba – some airlines include these, if yours doesn’t, buy one from EasyTouristCard – now valid for 90 days. Book your Viazul Bus tickets here Pre-book and prepay shared & private shuttles here Book the best FREE Walking Tours in Cuba Reserve attractions, day trips, and activities in Cuba here Get online in Cuba EASILY with a Cuba eSIM – read about Cuba ESIMS here , or buy a Cuba eSIM here .

Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Cuba > discount coupon here Book Accommodation in Cuba’s Casa Particular here

Final Words on the Ultimate Cuban Travel Checklist

Well, that’s it for now – our Ultimate Travel Checklist of what you need to do before you go to Cuba.  Cuba is an incredible place to visit and to tour around.  There are some amazing places to see in Cuba and some fabulous things to do in Cuba – but like anything, you’ll get more out of your stay if you plan ahead and schedule what you’re going to be doing.

Cuba’s Best is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates .

Sarah Carter

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Cuba Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 5, 2024, cuba - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to crime information.

Exercise increased caution in Cuba due to  crime .

Country Summary:  Petty crime is a threat for tourists in Cuba. Also, violent crime, including armed robbery and homicide, sometimes occurs in Cuba.

Travel outside of the Havana area for U.S. Embassy employees requires a special notification process which may affect the Embassy’s ability to provide emergency assistance to U.S. citizens in Cuba.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Cuba.

If you decide to travel to Cuba:

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive watches or jewelry.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

U.S. citizens should always exercise caution when traveling abroad:

• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Cuba.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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How to fill out the Cuba D’Viajeros Travel Form

Getting ready to travel to Cuba? Make sure you follow our steps to complete the D’Viajeros travel form before you travel. The form must be completed and shown at the airport before and after travelling to the island and requires passengers to input data such as their passport information, travel plans, and customs declarations.

Filling D’Viajeros form is mandatory for each passenger, and although it can be a bit confusing, we’re hoping our easy guide will help you fill it in without issues!

Step 1: Go to this site https://dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu/inicio

You can only fill in this form 48hrs prior to departure so don’t even try beforehand!

The first screen you’ll see looks like this:

Step 2: Select your language

If you don’t speak Spanish then click Top Right Hand ‘Lenguaje’ tab for the dropdown language menu and choose Ingles/ English which will instantly translate the page for you!

Step 3: Click on ‘Form Request’ to start the process

A form will appear on the page.

Step 4: Fill in your personal data

Please note mandatory fields in RED. When you’ve done this, click the button that says ‘NEXT’.

Step 5: Migratory information

Fill in ‘Flight information’ and ‘Arrival Airport’. If you’re arriving in Havana, it’s Aeropuerto Internacional Jose Marti (HAV)

Step 6: Sanitary Information

Fill in information ‘Sanitary Information’ including ‘Vaccination information’. If you haven’t been vaccinated you should have a negative PCR test (although currently not mandatory for entry to Cuba. Please refer to UK GOV’s Cuba entry requirements here )

Step 7: Select your vaccination type from the drop-down menu

Step 8: Choose where you’re going

Make it easy for yourself and just select La Habana 🙂 When it comes to Municipalities , choose Habana Vieja or Plaza de la Revolucion for accommodation in the Vedado area.

Step 9: Choose where you’re staying

• If you’re staying in a Casa Particular choose House or room for rent and add the name and address we have given you for your first night’s stay.
• If you’re staying in a Hotel choose Hotel , then select a hotel from the drop-down menu

Step 10: Customs Information

There is no requirement to declare what you are bringing unless you are bringing more than $5,000 in cash or miscellaneous non-personal items worth more than $1,000.

Please make sure you tick the boxes asking whether you have any unaccompanied baggage AND if you have anything to declare to Customs.

Step 11: Sworn declaration

Nothing confusing here….

Step 12: The PDF

Make sure you view PDF and print it or save it.

With other QR codes, you get sent a copy via email, but NOT so with Cuba! This is why it’s critical that you’ve saved a copy. I print a version AND put a copy in my phone wallet just in case….

…and that’s it! You’re one step closer to your dream Cuban adventure!

Need help planning your Cuba holiday?

With over 20 years of experience organising sustainable tours in Cuba, at Cubania we have your back. From Cuba cycling tours to family or LGBTQI-friendly Cuba tours, we’ve got something for everyone!

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Cuba Travel Guide for U.S. Citizens: What to Know Before You Go (Updated 2023)

Feb 3, 2023 | Caribbean , Destinations | 0 comments

Planning this trip to Cuba was the most challenging thing I’ve done to date in the name of travel. Out of all 26 countries, thousands of miles, from 5 years of traveling the world.

Once we landed in Havana, I knew that this place was unlike any I’d visited before.

Had I allowed the logistical challenge of traveling to Cuba as a US citizen deter me from visiting this country, it would have been my greatest mistake.

This Cuba travel guide for US citizens is up to date as of early 2023, based on my experience traveling to Cuba in December 2022.

In this post, I will cover Cuba travel FAQ and share how to visit Cuba legally as a US citizen or from a US airport.

Before you read, please note that there are sanctions from the U.S. government that restrict travel to Cuba.

It is the responsibility of each visitor to follow all laws and regulations, at home and abroad.

This website has a limitation of liability policy that applies to all posts, which you can read here .

This post contains affiliate links. See more in the disclaimer .

Can Americans Travel to Cuba?

Yes. And you can even do so independently.

The key is to visit legally, within the confines of OFAC (Office of Foreign Asset Control) regulations due to the embargo and sanctions.

IMPORTANT: These regulations also apply to non-US citizens that are departing from a US airport.

How to Travel to Cuba Legally

There are 12 categories of legal travel to Cuba under OFAC:

• Family visits
• Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
• Journalistic activity
• Professional research and professional meetings
• Educational activities
• Religious activities
• Athletic competitions by amateur or semi-professional athletes or athletic teams
• Support for the Cuban People
• Humanitarian projects
• Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
• Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or information materials
• Certain authorized export transactions

Source: U.S. Department of the Treasury

The most common is Support for the Cuban People, which requires the following:

§ 515.574 Support for the Cuban People. (a) General license. The travel-related transactions set forth in § 515.560(c) and other transactions that are intended to provide support for the Cuban people are authorized, provided that: (1) The activities are of: (i) Recognized human rights organizations; (ii) Independent organizations designed to promote a rapid, peaceful transition to democracy; or (iii) Individuals and non-governmental organizations that promote independent activity intended to strengthen civil society in Cuba; and (2) Each traveler engages in a full-time schedule of activities that: (i) Enhance contact with the Cuban people, support civil society in Cuba, or promote the Cuban people’s independence from Cuban authorities; and (ii) Result in meaningful interaction with individuals in Cuba. (3) The traveler’s schedule of activities does not include free time or recreation in excess of that consistent with a full-time schedule. Source: Code of Federal Regulations

It will not be a vacation where you go to the beach and prop your feet up, buy things wherever you want, and stay wherever you want.

You must have a full-time schedule of activities that result in meaningful engagement with Cubans.

For us, that looked like many, many art tours and private gallery visits where we connected with local artists and had countless meaningful, deep conversations.

No topic was off-limits.

Everyone opened up (including us) and shared our passions, life experiences, opinions, and learned about one another. And yes, we talked about politics.

We were on the go, all day, every day.

And we didn’t really spend time with other foreigners. We crossed paths with foreigners a couple times, but everyone else we spoke to and spent time with was Cuban.

Casas particulares and paladares

Aside from your full-time schedule, you should also stay in casas particulares and eat at paladares.

A casa particular is a room in someone’s house. It’s been a normal way to travel in Cuba for years. There’s an infrastructure around it. You can find them on Airbnb.

We highly recommend this casa particular in Havana and this casa particular in Viñales.

Paladares are privately-owned small restaurants. Download A La Mesa for a list of restaurants all over the country. Each listing shows if it’s privately-owned.

The app also works offline, which will make your life much easier in Cuba.

Pro tip: If you’re also a vegetarian, make sure you try Camino al Sol ! It’s an all-vegetarian paladar in Havana.

What you are banned from doing in Cuba

You cannot spend money in OR interact with any of the places on this list from the US Treasury Department.

Many are hotels, so pay attention!

I copied and pasted these into a list to have on my phone, then accessed it offline while in Cuba to ensure there wouldn’t be any issues.

Is Cuba safe to visit?

Absolutely.

As a young woman who visited 25 countries before going to Cuba, I’ve been in a few…sticky situations. Cuba was amazing.

I never worried about being robbed and just felt at ease the entire time I was there. I tend to be a more anxious person, so that’s new for me.

This is my personal experience and I was not in Cuba as a solo female traveler, so yours could be different.

Is Cuba open for travel right now?

As of late 2022, visitors no longer need to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination or testing before entering Cuba. We brought our vaccine cards just in case, but no one asked to see them.

Please refer to this government site for updated information before your visit.

On our way back to the United States, we did have to share contact tracing information with our airlines using a form before we could check in. It was quick and easy.

Although many online sources claim masks are mandatory in certain settings, we did not see any places where masks were required in December 2022.

Accessing Money in Cuba: 2023 Updates

Everything you need to spend in Cuba must be in cash.

Because of the sanctions, your credit and debit cards will not work in Cuba.

If you try to use them, your bank will probably lock your account and it will take a lot of effort to get it unlocked.

In prior years, you would need to convert money to Cuban pesos before using it. Euros were the best to have because CADECA (the government exchange houses) charged a higher fee on USD exchanges.

As of late 2022, everywhere we went accepted U.S. dollars as payment. This was highly unexpected and deviated from every piece of advice I read online before leaving for Cuba.

However, it is still good to have some pesos for a fairer exchange rate. Some menu exchange rates were awful.

When we were in Cuba, we typically got 150 CUP for 1 USD. The CADECA rate was 110.40 CUP for 1 USD.

We exchanged money at our first casa particular and spent USD on activities, private taxis, and one of our casas. We usually spent pesos on art, food, and coffee.

Make sure you get cash in plenty of small bills. Twenties, tens, fives, and ones were useful. Anything larger than that will be annoying to deal with.

If your bank will only give you large bills, go to Publix and ask the customer service to break them when they’re not busy. Works like a charm!

Is it safe to exchange money on the street in Cuba?

You will be offered money exchange on the street wherever you go in Cuba. Just say “No, gracias,” and move on.

As a general rule of thumb, it is not safe or advised to exchange money on the street. This goes for wherever you are in the world.

The main reason it’s unwise to do this is forged currency. If it came from some random person, it may be counterfeit.

A local friend taught us how to know your Cuban pesos are real. Hold the bill up to the sun, and check the watermark.

The watermark will have a number on it, and that number must match the value of the bill.

If it’s a 100-peso bill, the number in the watermark should say 100.

Again, I do not recommend exchanging money in the street. We didn’t on this trip because we were able to get pesos from the front desk of our casa particular.

If you’re ever concerned about any bills you were given as change, use the tip from our friend for some peace of mind.

I also want to make it clear that we were never given counterfeit bills as change while in Cuba, but these things can happen anywhere.

You’re more vulnerable as a foreigner, because you don’t know exactly how the money is supposed to look.

Getting WiFi in Cuba

If a travel guide says there are only one-hour WiFi cards, it is outdated.

Now, you can access WiFi on a one-hour or a five-hour card.

WiFi is now cheaper in Cuba—it was $5 USD per hour; now, it’s $1 USD per hour.

We only needed one 5-hour card per person for the whole week.

Instead of waiting in the ETECSA line, we bought them from our first casa particular .

Overall, our Cuba WiFi experience was much easier than what we expected.

Don’t expect to be online all the time, but WiFi access is not as difficult as prior years.

Pro tip: The two main apps I highly recommend to download BEFORE you leave for Cuba are A La Mesa and Maps.me . Both work well offline and will save you such a headache.

On Maps.me specifically, also download the maps of each city/town you will visit in Cuba. In our case, I downloaded the maps for Havana and Viñales. When you have Internet access, put your casa particular addresses in a Note on your phone, so you copy and paste them into Maps.me whenever you need to. Same goes for any attractions you know you want to see.

If you want (and if your phone is unlocked), you could get a Cuba sim card, which comes with data. I don’t see the point for a one-week trip, but to each their own.

You can reserve those online in advance from Suena and pick them up at the José Martí airport (in Havana). If you go this route, you want the Tourist SIM Card from the top menu.

Can you drink the water in Cuba?

In short, no.

There was bottled water for sale everywhere on our trip in December 2022, but I read online before leaving that you can’t bank on that.

Instead, I bought this LifeStraw to have filtered water and it was the best travel purchase I’ve made. Ever.

Our Viñales casa particular hostess took one look at that bottle and pointed me to her giant drinking water spigot for us to have freely.

She was already familiar with the water situation for foreigners and told me it was smart to bring a reusable filtered bottle.

Highly recommend one of these !

Can you check in online for flights to Cuba?

There are too many documents the airlines must verify before they can issue a boarding pass.

You will also need a paper boarding pass for your Cuban health insurance, often included in your departure airfare.

Do you need to speak Spanish to visit Cuba?

Out of all Spanish-speaking countries I’ve visited, Cuba is the main one you need at least some language skills to visit.

There are people who speak English, especially young people, but it is not the norm.

If you don’t speak Spanish and you’re not traveling with a friend who does, download Google Translate for offline use before you arrive.

It won’t be ideal, but it will work when you need language help.

The best advice I can give is to travel with someone who speaks Spanish fluently. My best friend said many times while we were in Cuba that she would be toast without my language skills.

Can I bring Cuban cigars and rum back into the USA as souvenirs?

The answer used to be yes, as long as you purchased them from a private shop instead of a stated-owned one.

That answer is no longer the case, as of late 2022.

Now, you cannot bring any rum or cigars into the USA from Cuba, no matter how small the amount is or where they were purchased within Cuba.

When you arrive back into the USA, Customs and Border Patrol will ask if you have any rum or cigars. If you do, assume they will be confiscated.

What to Pack for Your Cuba Trip

I pack carry-on only and found Cuba to be one of the easier countries to pack for. The climate in December was perfect, with 80s in the day and 60s-70s at night.

Here is a short packing list of the things you need before going to Cuba:

• Mosquito repellent, because the insects in Cuba will eat you alive (I use these .)
• Comfortable shoes for lots of walking
• Cardigan or light sweatshirt
• Flowy/comfortable clothes (You can see one of the outfits I packed below.)
• One active wear outfit for hiking/horseback or bike riding (if you’re going to Viñales)

I hope this Cuba travel FAQ was helpful for you. I know how stressful it can be to figure out what to do when planning. If you have any questions, comment below and I’ll do what I can to help!

Read more Cuba travel guides:

• Cuba Pre-Departure Checklist
• What to See and Do in Cuba (Havana and Viñales)
• At Dusk in Havana, I Fell in Love
• Havana, the Art Sanctuary
• When It Destroys, It Starts with Us
• The Elephant in the Room: Socialism in Cuba

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Hi, I'm Sarah

Welcome to my oasis! I am a writer and budding entrepreneur with a love for caffeine, capital gains, and seeing the world. If I'm not writing, you can find me reading a good book, trying out a new vegan recipe, or adding to my coffee mug collection. My goal in life? To see every country in the world. Come along for the ride!

Yes, Americans Can Still Travel to Cuba. Here’s How

Is it legal for u.s. citizens to travel to cuba what types of travel can they take and what are cuba tourist cards here’s what you need to know about visiting cuba..

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Havana, Cuba’s capital city, is known for its vintage cars and historic architecture.

Courtesy of Spencer Everett/Unsplash

Cuba is a beautiful Caribbean island with a complex history and rich culture. But for decades, it’s been just beyond the reach of many Americans. In addition to several difficult years involving devastating hurricanes, pandemic-era travel restrictions, ever-changing U.S. State Department travel advisories, and frequently updated trade and tourism regulations , it’s not surprising that many Americans may be confused about whether and how U.S. travelers can legally visit Cuba .

As of early 2024, the short answer is: Yes, you can travel to Cuba as a U.S. citizen. There are, however, some hoops you’ll need to jump through, because (technically speaking) travel to Cuba for pure vacationing isn’t allowed. For U.S. citizens interested in planning a trip to Cuba, here’s what you need to know before you go.

Can you travel to Cuba?

The relationship between the United States and Cuba has been tumultuous, to say the least. Following the Cuban Revolution during the 1950s and the subsequent rise of Fidel Castro’s regime, diplomatic ties between the two nations deteriorated rapidly. In 1960, the United States imposed a trade embargo on Cuba, effectively severing most economic and political connections.

In the time since, travel between the two countries has been heavily restricted by the U.S. government, which has implemented various policies to discourage or prohibit its citizens from visiting Cuba. Making matters more complex, those policies often changed with each presidential administration. The island nation was more accessible during the Carter, Clinton, and Obama years and more closed off during the G.W. Bush and Trump years.

In 2014, it became significantly easier for Americans to visit Cuba after President Obama announced a series of measures aimed at normalizing diplomatic ties and loosening travel restrictions to allow Americans to visit for certain purposes (more on that later). Additionally, in 2016, commercial flights between the United States and Cuba resumed for the first time in more than half a century.

However, the Trump administration made it significantly harder to visit Cuba. During his time in office, President Trump enacted more than 200 measures against Cuba , which included limiting what Cuban airports flights from the U.S. could fly into, banning cruises from stopping in Cuba, and eliminating the most common visa category under which U.S. citizens planned legal visits to Cuba (known as “people-to-people” travel).

Then in May 2022, President Biden’s administration announced it would undo many of the Cuba-related restrictions enacted under Trump and would work on expanding authorized travel. Under the new order, regular passenger and charter airplanes are again allowed to fly to any Cuban airport (and airlines announced new flight paths ). And officials said that the “people-to-people” category of travel, under which many tours and organized travel companies bring U.S. travelers to Cuba, will ultimately return, though there is no timeline on when that will happen.

Cuba’s music scene is also a big draw.

Photo by Shutterstock

How to travel to Cuba as an American citizen

U.S. law states that those who want to go to Cuba need to qualify for a “general license” based on one of 12 approved categories.

The 12 categories currently authorized by U.S. government, for travel to Cuba are:

• Family visits
• Official business of the U.S. government, foreign governments, and certain intergovernmental organizations
• Journalistic activity
• Professional research and professional meetings
• Educational activities
• Religious activities
• Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic and other competitions, and exhibitions
• Support for the Cuban people
• Humanitarian projects
• Activities of private foundations or research or educational institutes
• Exportation, importation, or transmission of information or informational materials
• Certain authorized export transactions

Licenses are self-qualifying, meaning that when you purchase your airline ticket, you’ll be asked to state your category in a signed affidavit before checkout.

When former President Obama first eased travel restrictions to Cuba , the move allowed leisure travelers to pursue self-led trips under the “people-to-people” educational activities category. Today, the “support for the Cuban people” category is the most popular because it’s the broadest.

What the “support for the Cuban people” license entails

To adhere to the requirements for independent travel under “support for the Cuban people,” travelers must first declare the category (when prompted) while booking flights and lodging. As part of the license, travelers are also expected to prepare an itinerary outlining how their trip will fulfill the category’s terms and contribute to Cuba’s local economy. (This itinerary could be—but isn’t always—requested on arrival to the country.)

An appropriate “support for the Cuban people” itinerary could including staying in casa particulares (locally run guesthouses), visiting Cuban-owned businesses, going on tours (like classic car rides or architecture walking tours) run by Cubans, visiting independent museums and galleries, partaking in cultural dance and music classes, and eating at locally owned restaurants and markets. (For specific recommendations and local resources, check out AFAR’s Cuba Travel Guide .)

Travelers can visit independently under that category, though it’s important you keep a record of your itinerary and your receipts: The U.S. government can ask for them up to five years after the trip.

Can you still travel to Cuba with organized tour operators?

Even though the Trump administration’s tightened restrictions on travel to Cuba prohibited organized “people-to-people” tours entirely, many tour companies have switched their approach to adhere to the “support for the Cuban people” license, according to Tom Popper, president of U.S.-based tour operator InsightCuba . Other tour providers that offer “people-to-people” trips, such as GeoEx Adventure Travel , Flash Pack , Intrepid Travel, and G Adventures, have similarly transitioned their program itineraries in order to offer legal trips to Cuba that comply with the regulations.

Challenges and considerations for travel to Cuba

Despite the easing of restrictions, traveling to Cuba as an American still presents some challenges. For example, there are limited banking services available to U.S. visitors, and American credit and debit cards are not typically accepted (as noted on the website for the U.S. embassy in Cuba ), so it’s important to bring plenty of cash. Similarly, internet access in Cuba is limited —expect connections to be patchy .

How to get a Cuba Tourist Card

The terms Cuba Tourist Cards and Cuban visas are sometimes used interchangeably.

Courtesy of Easy Tourist Card

Regardless of the license under which you travel to Cuba, you’ll still need to organize a few important documents before you go.

The Cuban government requires that all travelers entering the country provide a valid passport and proof of travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation by air. In addition, all U.S. travelers—adults, children, and infants—must purchase a Cuba Tourist Card , which grants visitors a maximum stay of 30 days on the island. Tourist Cards are valid for 180 days after purchase, which means you will need to travel within six months of obtaining the document. Note that the terms Cuba Tourist Card and Cuban visa are sometimes used interchangeably; they’re the same thing.

There are several ways to buy a Cuba Tourist Card: Many U.S. airlines with direct service to Havana—among them United Airlines , JetBlue , American Airlines , Delta , and Southwest —offer Tourist Cards either online or at the gate; prices and purchase locations vary among carriers, so it’s important to check in advance.

Websites like Easy Tourist Card allow travelers to apply for and purchase Tourist Cards online with two-day international shipping. Those who plan to fly to Havana directly from the United States will need to purchase a pink Tourist Card at a rate of $100, while those departing from non-U.S. airports can purchase a green Tourist Card for $37, even with a U.S. passport.

“U.S. travelers should note that travel to Cuba has been regulated since 1963 and has changed under each presidential administration since that time,” states Popper of InsightCuba. “Cuba travel has always been a hot political topic, and you never know when the rules are going to change. I always tell people to go now—while you can.”

This article was originally published in 2018. It was most recently updated on March 21, 2024, to include current information.

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The culture of Cuba is one of its biggest assets. Diverse and mixed, it takes part in the identity of the Cuban and in the construction of the nationality.

The Cuban archipelago is located in the most occidental part of the insular Caribbean. Groups the island of Cuba, the island of La Juventud and more of four thousand islets and keys. The territory emerged is one of 111 thousand km². The geography of Cuba, with 6 thousand km of shores, houses numerous inlets, bays and beaches.

The nature of Cuba is rich and curious in all its extension. The Flora distinguishes by the endemic and diversity of its plant communities. Of all this groups, the orchids, cacti and palms are the highlighted ones. The fauna of Cuba has the peculiarity of having in the smallest its most exclusive features, and in the 368 different bird species, the reptiles and amphibians, the exclusivity has high percentage.

The official language in Cuba is Spanish, and because of the high level of education of the population, its use is correct and with a wide vocabulary of “cubanismos”. A good part of the population also speaks English, and the tourist sector speaks frequently speaks German, French, Italian and Russian.

The weather in Cuba is tropical, seasonally wet, with maritime influence and semi continental features; however, coexist other weathers located in the mountains systems and on the coasts. The weather in Cuba is divided in two periods:

Cuba is an archipelago made up of the largest island of the Antilles called Cuba, Isla de la Juventud (formerly called Isle of Pines), and another 4,195 cays, islets and adjacent islands. It is located in the Caribbean Sea (or Caribbean Sea), near the coast of the United States and Mexico. Its limits are to the north with the Strait of Florida, to the east with the Paso de los Vientos, to the south with the Caribbean Sea and the west with the Gulf of Mexico. It has an area of ​​109 884.01 square kilometers.

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Online travel declaration now required to enter Cuba

HAVANA, Feb. 11th If you travelled to Cuba for Christmas last year, you would have been asked for normal things like proof of full vaccination and a negative PCR test. 

Now, Cuba also requires an online, digital, travel declaration form to be completed prior to boarding your flight to Cuba.

Personal data

On the digital form, you will be asked to provide personal data, including your full name, gender, date of birth, passport number and country of residence.

Flight details

The form will also ask you for information on the departure country, name of airline, seat number, flight number, date of arrival and reason for your trip.

Other information

Lastly, to complete the travel declaration, you must confirm what countries you visited in the last two weeks, what COVID-19 symptoms you’ve had in the last two weeks and the physical address where you will remain in Cuba during your vacation.

Once the form is completed online, the traveller should print the same.

Based on reports from travellers, the printed form displays your name, passport number, gender, citizenship and a QR code.

Travellers are likely to be asked for the printed form at check-in time and must present the same to Cuban authorities upon arrival to Cuba.

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HAVANA LIVE is a Website with daily coverage that provides cutting-edge information about Cuba and especially about its capital. Through our platform it is possible to have an approach to the most popular arteries, places and protagonists of the Greater Antilles, especially we focus on making visible their cultural heritage, gastronomy, history, events, etc. All with accurate and updated information, a modern and creative design and high-quality photos resulting from the work of a small team of professionals.

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Travelfornoobs

Printable Packing List For Cuba

Cuba packing list – all the things you should not forget, what to take in your bag for cuba.

You’ve booked your plane ticket and the time of departure is fast approaching? After the joys of such a decision, comes the question of knowing what to put in your suitcase to go to Cuba. No need to panic, we have prepared a very complete list of the essential things to bring to make sure you don’t miss anything once you are there.

In order to leave no room for unforeseen events, it’s of course preferable to go through this list a few days before leaving rather than the day before departure, as you might miss some items.

Take the time to read and download it in order to identify the things that you absolutely must pack and that you might miss and that could make you lose time and money if you forget them.

You will also need to think about packing according to the type of accommodation you will be staying in, the different modes of transportation you will use during your trip, the climate and the season, as well as the activities you plan to do.

In order to help you prepare your suitcase, this checklist of the essential things to bring in Cuba gathers several categories: clothes, accessories, various objects… It will allow you to have a concrete vision of a typical suitcase for Cuba.

An advice, think of keeping some space in your luggage if you wish to bring back souvenirs or to make some clothing shopping on the spot.

Thanks to this travel list, preparing your bag for Cuba will be a real child’s play and you will just have to enjoy your adventure!

Note : This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.

• Important hings to do before you go
• Essential documents
• Transport essentials
• Backpack & luggage
• Clothing and shoes
• Hygiene & Toiletries
• Photo, Video & High Tech
• Useful accessories
• Medication and first aid kit
• Activities and Useful Links (+ Printable checklist PDF)

1/ Important things to do before you go

 Prepare your travel itinerary  Apply for a visa (if necessary)  Make your vaccinations (if necessary)  Check-up at the doctor / dentist  Take out a travel insurance  Photocopy or scan important documents (passport)  Write down e-mail and useful phone numbers in your address book  Warn your bank about your trip abroad (if necessary)  Book accomodation for your first night ( Do it now before everything is fully booked! Check the best hotels on Booking )  Download offline applications and maps for Maps.me  Download movies offline   Prepare your favorite music playlist  Turn off or turn down the heat of your house  Empty garbage cans  Water the plants   Give a copy of your house/car keys to a family member or friend  Close doors and windows

2/ Essential documents

Even before you buy your plane ticket, remember to check the validity of your passport : it must be valid for at least six months after your return date (for some countries) and have a blank page. Another tip: send your important documents to a secondary email in case you lose them.

   Passport   ID card    Plane or train ticket (have a paper copy just in case)   Reservation documents (e-ticket, train ticket, hotel reservation)   Visa (if necessary)   International driver’s license, if you wish to rent a car   Health insurance card   Travel insurance   Credit card   Cash   Useful numbers in case of emergency   Itinerary and address of your accommodation (hotel / AirBnB / camping)   Vaccination certificate   Diving license, sailing license, etc.   Some business cards with your contact information, email, blog, website

3/ Transport essentials

The little things to have with you at all times during the flight or the trip by train or bus:

 Phone and charger  Book / Magazine / Kindle / Travel Guide  MP3 player   Chewing gum   Pen + notepad  Travel pillow ( my favorite )  Sleep mask ( my favorite )   Earplugs   Snacks / sandwich   Small water bottle  Nasal ointment for dry nose  Sunglasses   Glasses case   Watch   Hand sanitizer   Disposable face mask   Tissues   Motion sickness medication

4/ Backpack & luggage

 Waterproof dry bag ( my favorite )  Handbag   Travel laundry bag ( my favorite )  Carry-on suitcase ( my favorite )  Travel bag ( my favorite )   Luggage tag ( my favorite )   Travel Packing Organizers ( my favorite )   Rain cover for backpack ( my favorite )   Zippered carry-on bag   Shoe bag ( my favorite )   Fanny pack   Lightweight foldable backpack ( my favorite )

5/ Clothing and shoes

  Socks  Underwear (panties, thongs, bras, briefs, boxers…)  Tank tops  Skirt ♀  Dress ♀  Pajamas  T-shirts  Long sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Short sleeve shirt ( for her , for him )  Polo shirt ( for her , for him )   Sweatshirt / pullover ( for her , for him )   Jeans   Lightweight pants ( for her , for him )   Money belt ( my favorite )   Shorts   Jogging suit   Jacket / coat   K-way ( for her , for him )   Windbreaker ( for her , for him )  Hat / cap / beanie   Scarf / bandana   Swimsuit   Buff scarf ( my favorite )

For shoes, you will have to choose according to the activities you plan to do:

 Comfortable walking shoes   Shoes for going out (restaurants, bars, clubs…)  Flip-flops (for the beach, showers…) ( for her , for him )  Hiking shoes ( for her , for him )  Sandals ( for her , for him )   Water shoes for walking in water (beaches, waterfalls, rivers…) ( for her , for him )  Light trekking shoes ( for her , for him )  Crocs

6/ Hygiene & Toiletries

 Microfiber towel ( my favorite )   Toilet bag   Portable Travel Bottles ( my favorite )  Toothbrush & toothpaste  Dental floss  Soap   Shampoo   Facial cleanser   Nail clippers   Cotton buds (biodegradable)   Tweezers   Make-up   Deodorant   Comb / Hairbrush   Razor & shaving foam ♂   Biodegradable wipes ( my favorite )   Toilet paper roll   Perfume   Makeup ♀   Contact Lenses   Contact lens product   Pocket mirror

7/ Photo, Video & High Tech

For photographers and videographers:

 Camera  Lens  Memory card  Polarizing filters   ND filter   Extra battery   Charger + cable + plug adapter   Cleaning kit   External hard drive   USB key   Stabilizer   Drone ( my favorite )    Waterproof phone case   Flash   Solar charger ( my favorite )    Gopro ( my favorite )   Waterproof case   Selfie Pole  External battery / Powerbank ( my favorite ) 

Don’t forget:

 Portable speaker  Ipad / Tablet  Laptop PC  External battery  Headphones or noise cancelling headphones ( my favorite )

Useful apps to download before you go to Cuba:

 AirBnB  Booking  Couchsurfing  Flush – Public Toilet Finder (Useful for finding toilets!)  Google Maps  Google Translator  Google Trips  Lonely Planet Guide  LoungeBuddy  Maps.me  Meetup  Tripadvisor  Uber  Whatsapp  XE Currency

8/ Useful accessories

The accessories you will take in your bag for Cuba will depend on your travel style:

  TSA lock ( my favorite )  Headlamp ( my favorite )  Sleeping bag ( my favorite )  Sheets ( my favorite )  Swiss Army knife (not in the hand luggage!) ( my favorite )  Travel clothesline ( my favorite )  Powdered or liquid detergent  Clothes pegs  Spork ( my favorite )  Ziploc bags  Lighter  Folding umbrella ( my favorite )  Toilet paper  Mosquito repellent ( my favorite )   Mosquito net ( my favorite )   Sunscreen cream  Aloe vera gel   Waterproof pouch for smartphone    For hikers : GPS, map, compass, water bottle   Walking stick ( my favorite )   Anti-sweat talcum powder ( my favorite )   Beach towel ( my favorite )   Sawyer water filter ( must-have !)  Pills to purify non-drinking water   Mask, snorkel, fins   Diving accessories (gloves, dive computer, lamp, knife…)

9/ Medication and first aid kit

I suggest that you consult your doctor and dentist before leaving. Beware of unauthorized medication and remember to keep your vaccinations up to date!

If you have a treatment don’t forget to take your personal medication and your prescription if necessary (or medical certificate).

You can buy a first aid kit already prepared ( my favorite ).

  Cotton buds   Tweezers   Round-tipped scissors   Pairs of single-use latex gloves  Bandages   Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain   Sterile compresses   Disinfectant spray for wounds   Physiological saline solution in pods (wound cleaning)   Condoms and other contraceptives

For longer trips and higher risk locations, we can also add:

  Sterile adhesive skin sutures (steristrips)   Rehydration solutions (in case of dehydration)   Water purification tablets   Water decontamination tablets (Aquatabs or Micropur)   Medication for altitude   Medication for sore throat    Anti-malarial medication   Survival blanket   Tick tweezers   Ointment against itching (antihistamine)   Probiotics for the stomach   Corticosteroid pills and cream   Analgesics (painkillers)   Survival blanket   Cold medicine (decongestant)   Biafine (in case of burns or sunburns)   Broad-spectrum antibiotics without a prescription   Anti-diarrhea tablets (immodium, smecta)

10/ Activities and Useful Links + Printable checklist

You can download the complete travel list in PDF format and print it by clicking here.

Book your hotel in Cuba now on Booking.com

AirBnb : Get a discount for your first booking!

Book now your activities in Cuba on Getyourguide:

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Cuba Packing List: 10 Things You’re Forgetting to Bring to Cuba

Are you wondering what to bring to Cuba? This Cuba packing list is the ultimate guide for everything you will need for a once in a lifetime, bucket list trip to Cuba!

Visiting Cuba is an adventurous vacation that feels like you’re going back in time. Lively Old Havana is filled with old fashioned cars, pastel colored buildings, and brimming with Cuban culture.

This is all the travel information I wish I had beforehand. Use it to make your travel easier. All your questions about Cuba travel documents, currency, what to wear, cell phone service and must-haves for your trip are answered below.

You should also read What I Loved and Hated About Visiting Cuba for more Cuba travel tips .

This site uses affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. You can read our full disclosure policy here .

Table of Contents

Weather and Best Time to Go to Cuba

The weather in Cuba is pretty hot all year round with average yearly temperature of approximately 79 degrees Fahrenheit and lots of sunshine. That said, there are differences based on the wet and dry season in Cuba.

Cuba’s Dry Season

December to May is the best time to visit Cuba. During the dry season the temperatures are very comfortable. It’s important to note that you can still expect light rain 4-5 days a month.

Cuba’s Wet Season

June to November is not a good time to plan your travel to Cuba. Hurricanes and tropical storms are quite common. It also coincides with the hot season where days can average 90 degrees with humidity.

10 Things to Put on Your Cuba Packing List

I felt like I made so many mistakes on my Cuba packing list which is why I wrote this post. I didn’t want anyone to be as unprepared as I was.

You won’t find malls or stores flush with inventory in Cuba.

Remember that Cuba isn’t one of those places where you can go out and buy what you forget to pack.

1. Bring a Few Portable Chargers to Cuba – No Matter What

Cuba has infrastructure challenges and the power goes out periodically.

On my trip to Cuba, we lost power for almost a full day and my cell phone and computer went dead. I’ll never travel without my trusty, lightweight portable charger again. I also won’t let my electronics sit uncharged.

Keep everything charged and make sure you have a backup portable charger . It will give you at least 2 full charges for your cell phone and it comes with two chargers that are the size of a phone.

Cuba mostly has 110 volt outlets so Americans and Canadians won’t need a power adapter. Europeans should bring a travel adapter for Cuba.

2. Rain Jacket for Both Cuba’s Rainy Season and Dry Season

I went to Cuba in January during the dry season and there was unseasonable torrential rain – with a tornado!

You should plan for rain. There are 4-5 rainy days per month during the dry season with light precipitation.

Don’t forget rain gear on your Cuba packing list.

Dry Season Rain Jacket : If you are going to Cuba during the dry season, bring a lightweight rain jacket that barely takes any room in your suitcase and has a hood that you can stow away when it’s not raining.

Rain Poncho : Or bring a rain poncho that is less than 9 ounces and fits into a small case that you throw right into your bag for the day.

Rainy Season Raincoat : This raincoat is longer so it will give you more coverage. It comes 15 colors that look great in photos.

3. Don’t Forget a Travel Umbrella for Rain or Shine on Your Packing List for Cuba

Rainy Season

It goes without saying that you need an umbrella for the rainy season. This travel umbrella is windproof, lightweight, easily fits into your bag and it comes in multiple colors. I like bringing a color that will add interest to photos.

A UV Travel Sun Umbrella will keep you up to 10 degrees cooler. It will also keep you dry if it suddenly rains. The best part is that it’s windproof too. You can encounter all 3 of these situations during the dry season in Cuba.

4. Colorful Sundresses Should Be on Your Packing List for Cuba

You’re probably wondering what to wear in Cuba. Known for bright colorful buildings, old fashioned cars and lively energy you want your outfits to fit the part.

There’s a retro sophistication to Cuba that begs for floral prints and bright colored dresses.

This short wrap dress is perfect for warm days and comes in multiple prints and colors. Mix it up with a halter maxi dress or a sexy wrap dress for evenings.

Dresses take no room to pack and at these great prices, you can pack a bunch of different looks.

Fabrics such as cotton, linen and rayon make for breathable comfortable clothing in the heated weather. Also, lightweight dresses just feel good when it’s hot out. Cute skirts are great for Cuba too!

5. A Packable Sun Hat is an Essential for Cuba

Make sure to bring a packable sun hat that can double for sightseeing and pool time. The sun is HOT in Cuba and sunscreen alone won’t cut it.

This cute summer packable hat retains it’s shape, looks great and is a steal! I am a complete convert to foldable hats and will never return to hats that are not easily packable for travel. Does anyone else always forget their hat on the plane?!

6. A Filtered Water Bottle is a Cuba Packing List Must-Have

Cuban water is not safe to drink. There’s a small take out restaurant on the outside of the airport where you can buy bottled water immediately. Make sure you have your Cuban currency with you.

Regardless, having a filtered water bottle on your Cuba packing list will give you peace of mind that you’ll always have safe water to drink. Plus, you’ll be making the better choice for the planet.

These bottles are so good, you could drink from a dirty puddle in the street if you had no other options.

The Lifestraw Go water bottle has a 2 stage filtering process, which removes 99.99% of all the bacteria and harmful materials that you could be drinking.

It is not only important to stay hydrated, but you want to make sure that you do not get sick so that you can enjoy every second of your trip.

Related Post: What You Need To Know Before You Visit Cuba

7. First Aid Kit and Medicine That Should Be On Your Packing List for Cuba

I bring medication for everything I don’t want to get when I travel. If I have the medication, I don’t get sick. If I forget the medication, somehow bad things happen.

I traveled to Cuba without any protection for food borne illness, and guess what? Yep, it happens a lot in Cuba and you definitely want to have medicine on hand.

• Anti-Diarrheal : If you get a stomach bug, this will get you back to normal much faster.
• Electrolyte packets : These GMO free packets can help you rebound quickly if you get sick or hungover.
• Insect Repellant people swear by this insect repellant to keep mosquitos and biting bugs at bay.
• Sunscreen : I love this reef friendly 40 SPF sunscreen that is a great makeup primer.
• Emergen-C : We are exposed to so many bugs when traveling, you should take a little extra precaution to boost your immunity.
• Sanitizing wipes : These days, we’ve all become professional germ warriors. Don’t forget to pack sanitizing wipes for the plane, hotel room and throughout your trip when you can’t wash your hands.
• Lightweight Travel First Aid Kit : This is a good thing to bring if you will be doing any hiking or sports in Cuba.

8. A Zippered RFID Blocking Wallet

A wallet with pockets for 2 different currencies is one of the first things to pack for Cuba. You will most likely carry your home currency, Cuban Pesos and credit cards.

With coins in the mix, a zipper will protect you from losing any money. There’s more information on currency in Cuba below.

RFID blocking wallets protect your credit and debit cards as you go through airports getting to Cuba. There’s a high probability you will be using debit or credit cards in Cuba so you need to know that everything is safe.

9. Sounds Weird But Snacks Should be on Your Cuba Packing List

Whenever I go to a country with a chance of getting food borne illness, I like having snacks for a safe meal just in case.

Thank goodness a friend told me to bring snacks to Cuba. There was a crazy storm right within hours of arriving.

Between torrential rain and a long power outage, those snacks became my first few Cuba meals.

Since there aren’t convenience stores like other locations, pack nutrition bars, granola bars, trail mix bags or whatever is your favorite to ensure you have something to eat.

It is never a bad idea to have snacks on you especially if you are on the go!

10. You Will Use a Mix of Cuban Currency, a Credit Card and Foreign Currency in Cuba

Currency in Cuba is somewhat confusing. And the rules change from time to time. The currency in Cuba is called CUP (Cuban pesos).

You will need to pay for some things with CUP, other things with a credit card (like renting a car) and you can even use euros and dollars for tipping.

To avoid having incorrect information here, I encourage you to check out the money situation before your trip from a regularly updated source and follow their guidelines.

What to Bring to Cuba for the Locals

Cuba is one of those places where your tourism really helps the country and there are a few ways you can make a difference.

The first is just by visiting Cuba and spending money there. Try to use local guides. Stay in Casa Particulares. Make choices that make people’s lives better.

The second is bringing items to donate – specifically clothes and hygiene products. Since packing is generally light for a tropical destination, bring gently used clothes and shoes you don’t want anymore.

It’s hard for cuban people to buy clothing. Many people can’t afford it. We think nothing of popping into the mall and buying whatever we want. They don’t have the same luxury.

You can also bring hygiene products such as toothpaste, deodorant, soap, and even makeup. No matter where you are staying, someone will know how to put your donations to good use.

Although it is not expected to bring gifts, it is always extremely well received by the people.

Luggage Limits and What You’re Allowed to Bring to Cuba

Cuba does have some strict baggage weight limit requirements. All luggage combined including hand luggage must weigh less than 50 kg or approximately 110 pounds per person.

Most airlines tend to have a 50 lb weight limit per bag, but if you happen to be checking two bags and have a carry on, be sure that they are under that combined 110 lb weight limit.

This hard-shell spinner luggage set has been all over the world with us. It holds up really well and is lightweight so you can use most of your weight allowance on the things you pack, not your bag.

We use these compression packing cubes inside to fit more in our bags and keep everything organized.

I would also suggest bringing a larger tote bag or laptop backpack that attaches to your carry-on or leaving some room in your suitcase to bring back whatever items you may buy while away.

Cuba Packing List Women

• Flowy colorful dresses
• Short sleeve tops
• Beach cover up
• Packable Hat
• Insect Repellant

Cuba Packing List Men

• Button-down short sleeve shirts
• Polo shirts
• Cuban guayaberas
• Swim trunks
• Hat or Baseball Cap

Documents You Need to Bring to Cuba

There are many important documents you can’t forget for when traveling out of the country. Cuba specifically has special document requirements so be sure that you don’t forget these three items.

• Passport : You must bring your passport with at least 6 months of validity to enter Cuba.
• Cuban Tourist Visa or Tourist Card: A Tourist Card, coming from the USA it’s also known as a pink card, is required of every visitor. You can apply for it ahead of time or you can get it at the airport. Your airline will provide you with information about the documentation you need and what type of assistance they offer. My flight from New York, stopped in Fort Lauderdale and there was a Cuban Travel Service kiosk at the Southwest check in that handled the tourist cards.
• Travel Insurance: Visitors to Cuba are required to have a travel insurance policy. Traveler insurance was included with my Southwest Airlines ticket. Check your airline first to see if they have included travel insurance. You will need to hold onto your boarding pass for access to the insurance.
• Proof of Return Ticket – You need to have your return ticket with you.

Phone Service & Wifi in Cuba

Phone : The phone service in Cuba is limited. Don’t expect to go to Cuba and use your phone, text, and data plan the way you do regularly. In fact, it would be best if you considered your time in Cuba as a digital break.

I have Verizon phone service and I was told incorrect information about using my phone/data in Cuba. It’s really expensive and the coverage is spotty. I met a couple who had Sprint and they seemed to have a much easier time.

Wifi : I read about free wifi in parks in Cuba but couldn’t figure it out. My casa particular had wifi but only during certain hours. The hours were constantly changing so sometimes I got lucky for an hour or I had no service for hours on end.

It was frustrating mostly because I didn’t know it was going to be such a problem. If you consider Cuba a digital break, you’ll be pleasantly surprised if you get a signal. I would imagine that staying in a high end hotel (not allowed for Americans) the wifi situation might be better.

This Cuba Packing list will get you prepared for the trip. Make sure to read What I Loved & Hated About Visiting Cuba for more information about this interesting and beautiful country including where to stay.

Information about traveling to Cuba is constantly changing. We attempt to keep this information current but check the current information provided by your airline. They will have the latest updates regarding tourist cards, travel insurance and luggage limits.

Other Tropical Vacation Posts You Might Like:

• BAHAMAS: Swimming with Pigs in Exuma Bahamas
• MEXICO: Complete Tulum Travel Guide with the Top Things to Do
• BELIZE: 5 Epic Things to do in Belize
• THAILAND: 2 Days in Phuket Thailand

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14 comments.

FYI, the currency information is out of date. There’s only one currency now.

Good tips 🙂

Thanks for the info. It’s updated now.

Hilda Smith

Jenifer love your post. Always good to know what to bring to a specific country.

ROBIN LAMONTE

I love all your recommendations for visiting Cuba! I love how colorful the country is and you always inspire me to add your destinations to my bucket list! Fabulous as always Jenifer!

Hugs, Robin

Thanks so much Robin!

Elizabeth Ashley Ramsey

Have really been considering a filtered water bottle as we have started traveling to some more exotic locales! Great suggestion and I’ll definitely be checking that model out.

I need to plan a trip to Cuba!

Shelley Webb

Cuba is one of the few destinations on my bucket list (I’m not much of a traveler) so this has been very informational! I’m bookmarking it. Thank you!

So glad it’s helpful!

Ayngelina Brogan

Hey just wanted to jump in to help you on the wifi info. There has never been free wifi in parks so I think that’s where the confusion may have been. But the hotspots outside hotels are in the parks. You still need to get a wifi card, which is $1/hour. Or now you can also buy SIM cards.

I’ve been based in Havana for two years and people think it’s crazy for a travel blogger to do so but it is possible. I don’t want to hijack your post but I do keep this Internet in Cuba post updated monthly so your readers may find it useful.

https://www.baconismagic.ca/cuba/wifi-internet-in-cuba/

In two years SO much has changed. Most recently the government created a SIM card just for tourists that you can buy abroad and pick up at the airport.

Thank so much for sharing this great info!

That’s good to know about the snacks and travel documents!

Jennifer Effortlessly Sophisticated

A few preparations can make all the difference for Cuba.

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What to Bring to Cuba: The Ultimate Cuba Packing List (2024 Update)

Cuba’s socio-economic landscape is complex. The ongoing economic situation means that many everyday items are not easily accessible. Things like toiletries, medicines, and electronics will be harder to find or more expensive than anticipated.

The Cuban Government also requires you to bring some documentation you may need to obtain before flying to the country. On top of that, you will have to deal with the country’s scarce infrastructure, which limits basic services (Internet, ATMs, etc.).

This article will teach you how to pack strategically for Cuba. We compiled the most complete list of things to bring to Cuba, including gifts for locals if you want to support them during your trip. We suggest only essential items; things you should take to the island based on our expertise and other travelers’ experiences.

Entry Requirements

The Cuba Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Visa)

An interesting fact about Cuba is that most visitors must obtain a Cuba Tourist Card or Cuba Visa .

You can get the Cuba Tourist from:

• Your airline.
• The Cuban Embassy or Consulate in your country.
• Online on Easy Tourist Card (recommended). They deliver the Cuba visa almost anywhere.

While traveling around the country, please keep it on you so it’s not lost or stolen.

Travel health insurance

Travel health insurance is one of the most important things to bring to Cuba. Not only does the Cuban law require it, but you will be protected.

We analyzed dozens of insurance providers for Cuba and recommend Insubuy , which offers plans starting at 8 USD per week per person.

Sanitary Statement and Customs Declaration

Everyone traveling to Cuba must also fill out the Sanitary Statement for Travelers  ( Declaración de Sanidad del Viajero ), a sort of health declaration form. You must also provide the Customs Declaration form.

To save some time and annoyance, complete the required documentation in advance on D’Viajeros , the government’s official site.

While the island’s landscape differs depending on where you’re staying, the climate is similar throughout. It’s usually quite hot.

In general, pack mostly lightweight clothing suitable for sweating in the sun.

Although Cuba is a safe country to visit , don’t wear too many eye-catching accessories. Consider leaving expensive jewelry at home.

You may wonder what to wear in Cuba for evening events or iconic venues like the Cabaret Tropicana. Well, just bring smart casual clothes, if not overly formal. There is no need to dress up.

However, consider that you can’t wear beach clothes or shorts at most evening venues.

Sunhats offer protection from the sun, which can be brutal in Cuba. They’re also rather fashionable on the island for both men and women.

Like sunhats, sunglasses will help protect you from too much sunlight. In Cuba, you will really need them.

However, the same line of thinking applies to sunglasses as jewelry. Consider leaving your more expensive pairs at home so they aren’t lost or stolen during your trip. You wouldn’t want them sinking to the bottom of the ocean or anything.

While traveling in Cuba, you’re likely to do a lot of trekking down rather dusty roads. It’s in your best interest to bring along some close-toed walking shoes for those occasions.

Something simple, such as a pair of New Balance tennis shoes for men or women , will work. They will also be suitable if you visit the more mountainous parts of Cuba for outdoor adventure.

Walking sandals

You’ll want to wear a comfortable and stylish pair of walking sandals while perusing shops and other touristy locations in Cuban cities. That’s if you even want to get out of those colorful classic cars in Cuba (tip: you should take a drive!).

KEEN men’s or Teva women’s are relatively inexpensive options that should remain comfortable after a day spent shopping.

• Flip-flops or water shoes

When exploring the beautiful Cuban beaches, a simple, cheap pair of flip-flops is essential for both men and women .

Remember that some swimming areas may be a bit rocky, so you may be better off wearing water shoes .

Do I need to remind you that Cuba has some of the best beaches in the Caribbean?

Officially, beaches are a no-no for you if you come from the US , although no one will watch you while on the island. For the lucky rest, don’t forget to pack your swimsuits!

Light jacket or sweater

Bring a light jacket or overshirt to wear at restaurants, buses, and hotels where the air conditioning may be very cold.

• Raincoat or umbrella

If you travel during the rainy season, bring a light raincoat or a compact umbrella to protect you from the occasional rain downpours.

• Blister bandages

Increased walking in Cuban cities can lead to blisters, especially if you’re not used to the climate or terrain.

Blister bandages will help you prevent foot discomfort. It’s a small addition to your travel kit that can significantly impact your overall experience.

Health and Hygiene

A filtered water bottle

Wait, what? Most people wouldn’t put a water bottle on their list of things to bring to Cuba.

We believe it’s a bad idea to travel without one. Water pollution in Cuba is still terrible . The supply of purified water is also meager.

If you don’t expect to have bottled water all the time, bringing your own filtered water bottle helps to eliminate some of the risks.

Mosquito repellent

Mosquito-borne diseases , such as dengue and Zika, are not uncommon in Cuba.

You must take whatever precautions necessary to repel mosquitoes. A simple bug spray is an essential thing to bring to Cuba. Make sure you use it every day and safely .

As with all tropical, sun-soaked countries, bringing and wearing appropriate sunscreen is important.

You don’t want to spend your vacation sunburnt and miserable.

• Hand sanitizer

Access to soap and water is limited in Cuba, and hygiene standards differ from what you’re accustomed to.

Hand sanitizer is nowhere to be found. As an alternative, locals use hypochlorite when available.

You should bring a pack of hand sanitizer to maintain good hygiene and prevent illnesses from surfaces, food, and interaction with others.

• Toilet tissues

Finding toilet paper in Cuba is complicated, except perhaps in high-end tourist facilities.

If you can, bring a travel-size pack of toilet tissues . You will thank us later.

Bringing a toiletries kit to Cuba is essential for several reasons, primarily due to availability and quality. Basic toiletries like shampoo, toothpaste, or deodorant are difficult to find in local stores.

Over-the-counter medicines

In some places, food and water in Cuba can carry diseases like hepatitis A, typhoid, and travelers’ diarrhea.

Although Cuba is praised for having a free healthcare system, the truth is that shortages of basic over-the-counter medicines are not uncommon . Therefore, you should always practice safe food and water precautions while traveling in Cuba.

If you get sick, you will want to have some over-the-counter medicines readily available.

Here are some medications you might consider bringing to Cuba:

• Pain and fever relief: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate pain or reduce fever, whether from headaches, muscle aches, or mild illnesses.
• Antihistamines : especially useful for allergic reactions, insect bites, or mild allergic symptoms.
• Antidiarrheal medication: Imodium or similar drugs can help manage mild cases of traveler’s diarrhea until you can access further medical assistance if needed.
• Motion sickness medication: if you’re prone to motion sickness, bringing medication like Dramamine can be beneficial, especially if you plan to take long drives or boat trips.
• Antacids : for digestive discomfort or heartburn due to changes in diet or unfamiliar foods.
• Basic first-aid items : bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, adhesive tape, and antibiotic ointment can help with minor cuts, scrapes, or blisters.

Electronics

Considering the country’s unique Internet landscape and restrictions, you should install a VPN on your phone, computer, or tablet.

With a VPN, you can bypass restrictions on certain content and everyday apps.

For example, many US-based websites, especially banking, streaming, and even travel sites, will not work in Cuba.

We recommend NordVPN to mask your IP address and avoid the geo-restrictions. It will also offer enhanced security and privacy while connected to the public Wi-Fi networks in Cuba.

• Portable charger

Bringing a portable charger means you are prepared for an emergency. Even if you cannot return to where you’re staying, you can keep your devices charged.

• Pin adapter

Cuba uses the same plug types as North America (Type A), which is great for people traveling to Cuba from Canada or the US.

Some outlets also accept European rounded 2-3 prong plugs, depending on where you stay. Please reach out to your hotel or casa particular and ask about it.

To be safe, bring a pin adapter to plug in your electronics.

Touring Around

Cash, always cash

Cuba is primarily a cash country. ATMs are old and scattered. Many facilities won’t accept credit or debit cards, especially if issued by American banks.

Therefore, expect to pay most of your trip to Cuba costs in Cuban Pesos. Upon landing on the island, exchange your home currency for CUPs (Cuban Pesos) !

The official place to exchange your money for CUP is called CADECA (Casas de Cambio). You can find them at airports, resorts and hotels, cruise ports, and other tourism facilities across the country.

However, you will be better off selling your home currency in the informal market. Just make sure you trust someone on the island to help you exchange your currency. It could be your host, a hotel staff, or a friend; don’t do it with random people on the street, please.

• Travel guide book

There’s certainly no shortage of things to do in Cuba. A travel guide pointing you in the right direction can be helpful, especially if you are backpacking Cuba alone.

Real Havana by Mario Rizzi promises to guide you away from the tourist traps and enjoy Cuba as Cubans do. You can also read our ultimate guide to the best Havana attractions .

• Spanish-English phrasebook

Unless you are fluent in Spanish, a Spanish-English dictionary or phrasebook is a no-brainer.

Carrying one of these around will be incredibly helpful in communicating with Cubans, whether you have a simple question or need help in an emergency.

What to Bring to Cuba for Locals

Certain items that may be readily available and inexpensive in your home country may be hard to come by in Cuba. Many Cubans spend hours in long lines at stores to buy essential products you may take for granted, such as toothpaste, toilet paper, and painkillers.

Inflation, low wages, and shortages of almost everything have made it difficult for Cubans to access food, medicine, and other basic goods. Therefore, bringing a thoughtful gift will show your appreciation and meet your host’s vital needs.

That said, please don’t give gifts to everyone on the streets. It’s inappropriate and unsafe. Bring gifts to friends, some hotel staff ( don’t forget to tip them! ), your casa particular or Airbnb host , and other locals you have emotionally connected with.

Also, be mindful of any items the Cuban authorities may consider offensive or subversive. You don’t want to get your hosts into trouble!

Here are some ideas for gifts you can bring to Cuba:

• Clothing, shoes, flip-flops, and accessories.
• Hygiene products : toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, soap, deodorant, toilet paper, and other female hygiene products.
• Medicines : aspirin, ibuprofen, anti-diarrhea pills, band-aids, and vitamins.
• Sheets, pillowcases , and towels.
• Sweets : chocolate, candies, chewing gum.
• School supplies and toys for kids: pencils, pens, coloring books, notepads, crayons, action figures, puzzles, balls, etc.
• Electronics accessories : flash drive sticks, SD cards, old tablets or cell phones, used cameras, batteries, power banks, charging cables, and USB chargers.
• Non-perishable food : canned goods, peanut butter, dry soups, jelly, coffee, cereals, granola bars, powdered milk, etc.

Essential personal items you leave behind after your trip may also be appreciated.

Cuban Import Regulations

Please read the Cuban import regulations and the FAQ page on the official Cuban Customs website . They explain what you can legally bring to Cuba.

For example, you can’t enter any of the following items into the island:

• Certain products and by-products of plant and animal origin.
• Walkie-talkies.
• Stand-lone GPS devices.

The Complete Packing List to Cuba

Here is the full list of things to pack for Cuba. Review it, cross off the items you already have, and pack it up!

• Cuban Tourist Card (Cuba Visa)
• Travel h ealth insurance
• Traveler Sanitary Statement
• Sunhats (Our picks: Brooklyn Men’s Straw Sun Ha t and C.C Women’s Sun Ha t)
• Sneakers (Our picks: New Balance Men’s 990v4 and New Balance Women’s FuelCore Nergize V1 Cross Trainer )
• Walking sandals (Our picks: KEEN Men’s Newport and Teva Women’s Tirra Athletic Sanda l)
• Light jacket or overshirt
• Water filter bottle
• Mosquito repellant
• Over-the-counter medicines ( Acetaminophen , ibuprofen , antihistamines , Imodium , Dramamine , antacids , and basic first-aid items )
• Power adapter
• Gift for locals (items that are hard to get in Cuba)

Cuba is a wonderful destination. You’ll want to ensure you have everything you need to enjoy all the island offers. Hopefully, our guide on what to bring to Cuba will help you achieve just that. 

Feel free to share your thoughts below, and share this packing list for Cuba if you enjoyed it!

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About the Author

Tour republic.

Tour Republic is a marketplace where you can discover, book, and review the very best experiences Cuba has to offer. We are a team of tourism professionals and journalists who have partnered with Cuban entrepreneurs to provide travel experiences that can transform your trip into a life-changing adventure. We also share our profound love for Cuba through in-depth travel guides, myth-busting articles, and captivating narratives. Whether you want to explore Cuba's wonders or understand its intricacies, our blog posts are your gateway to the heart of this extraordinary country.

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60 comments.

Thanks for the great list. Heading to Veradaro later this month- are food shortages affecting tourist resorts? Should we bring non perishables / snacks?!?

I was wondering if nail polish and mascara would be good items to bring along with tooth paste and tooth brush.

Hello we are visiting friends near Havana I Would like to bring them a small portable sewing machine and a few spools of thread is this allowed?

I only exchange $100 to CUP, most of the stuff you can pay in USD in Cuba. Ex. Restaurants they’ll indicate two amounts, CUP and USD. USD amount is the blackmarket conversion. Same with local Gift shops they appreciate it more if you pay them USD and they convert with the current blackmarket rates which is higher than the official conversion.

You say that bring them a gift they normally don’t have in Cuba., but I don’t know what Cuba is short of other then food, and clothes

All types of toiletries and medicine such as pain/ fever relief, kids medicine can be added to the list

You mention bringing canned good and other food items to Cuba. There is no issue at Cuban Customs bringing these items in? Thank you…

I would like to know what currency people use to tip. I get it that Canadian currency is accepted, but because we don’t have a 1$ bill only a coin, I have read it’s not accepted. Should I than take a bunch of US $1 bills for tipping ?

Hi Lea, Yes, you can tip in USDs. Please, read our guide to tipping in Cuba .

I’ve just returned from Veradero and saw tips in toonies & loonies. The staff said they accept those as well as Euros then they exchange it with travellers or the Cambio currency in the resort. Hope that helps. Plenty of Canadians visitors.

Great tips, DoubleOO. Thanks for sharing!

Cash is great, but Cubans will appreciate receiving everyday items that are difficult or expensive to obtain, such as toothpaste, tampons, soap, and even clothing.

I am a dual citizen PL/USA but after reading through your website, I understand that I am bound by my American citizenship no matter what when travelling to Cuba. I am a Spanish teacher and I would like to learn more a culture so the category “supporting people” would work for us for the couple days we are in Havana, then we are planning to go to Varadero and sail for a week. We will hire Cubans to help as sail/cook and would that qualify? I see that Varadero Marina is on the prohibited list of buisnesses by Dept. ot State of USA. Thank you for clarify it for me, sending best wishes!

Hi Mirka, Having a full-time itinerary (6-8 hours) supporting private businesses should qualify for the Support for the Cuban People category. However, please notice that we are not able to provide any legal advice. Hope you understand.

Hello, I am fully vaccinated. I understand I need a negative per test to come into Cuba. What about coming home to Canada? Is there a place to get the test in Cuba and what is the cost? Thank You

hello, i have the 2 COVID vaccines and the booster and 10 days ago i got covid, hence i have a recovery certificate. Do i still need to have a negative PCR? the reason is that sometimes the PCR can be positive even after 1 month,,,and we are travelling in 1 week..Thank you!

Hi Ioanna, According to the latest Covid-19 regulations in Cuba , you still need to present a negative PCR test.

The Cuban travel website mentions that we do not need a negative PCR test to get there. Is this true? I’ve also called Sunwing multiple times and they’ve said every single time that I don’t need one but why does this article say that we need one?

Hi V, As of January 5, 2022, all travelers present a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours from the arrival date, regardless of vaccination status. Please, check out our updated guide to the current Cuba travel restrictions .

If you have a Visa bank Card that can be used as a ATM card through my bank Wells Fargo. Is that going to be a problem? For a 5 day stay would 2000 be sufficient in us currency? Thank you

Unfortunately, in Cuba, you won’t be able to use credit cards that were issued by American banks. To learn more about using money in Cuba, check out our guide to the Cuban currency and budget tips for Cuba .

Is there a beer shortage right now in Cuba (Guardalavaca area) ?

Hi Jimmy, We are not aware of any shortage in Guardalavaca these days.

Havana shopping. Besides your typical souvenir shops, there are flea markets and antique shops. However, I have heard there are restrictions on what you can take out of Cuba. Any idea where I can find something comprehensive? I would hate to buy some old books or antique/vintage ceramics or crystal and find I have to leave it at the airport.

Thanks in advance

Hi Brett, You shouldn’t have any issue taking out books and souvenirs as long as they are not valuable objets d’art. Here are two clarifying articles about it from the Cuban Customs: Allowed and not allowed articles . Article subjected to export requirements .

Be sure to take cash , Canadian or U.S. . We just returned from Caso Santa Maria and most time the internet was down. at the Bank to get Cuban currency

Hello! Thank you for these comprehensive guides. I’m confused about the microfiber towels you suggest. Are there not towels provided at hotels and resorts? Or are these for another purpose I’m just not thinking of? Thanks!

Hi EB, Hotels and resorts do provide you with towels. We recommend microfiber towels against the sweat from the extreme heat in Cuba. Perhaps we should have clarified that better. Thanks so much for your question!

Is wifi available in Veraderos? Is it expensive? Travelling there from TO next week. I am with Rogers, can I use my phone there? Thanks!!!!

WiFi should be available in Varadero. Prices may vary depending on the service you will be using (NAUTA card, the hotel’s WiFi network, etc.). Please, check out our ultimate guide to getting Internet in Cuba for more details.

Hope it helps!

How many suitcases can you bring to Cuba?

First visit to Varedaro,Is wi-fi available in hotels

My family and I will be bringing items for donations, like soap, reading glasses, socks, candy, tooth paste and tooth brushes, will that be an issue? Will anyone be offended ?

Hi Dee, Gifts and donations in Cuba are not expected but appreciated. No one should be offended. Instead, it will be helpful for the locals.

How much to purchase a straw hat while in cuba?

Hi Letoynia, The price could be anywhere from 5 CUC from street vendors to 15 CUC at retailers.

We are leaving for Cuba, for a two week stay, how much luggage are we allowed to bring? It is my husband and myself …also the weight of the luggage? I want to bring two suitcases, but my husband disagrees … please bring some light to our disagrement. Leaving from Montreal! THANK-YOU, Lucie

Hi Lucie, Each person can bring 25kg (55 lb) of personal belongings exempt from payment of customs duties. An additional 5kg (11 lb) as gifts may be exempt from customs duties too. Also, you can bring up to 10kg (22 lb) of medicines in a separate bag inside your luggage without paying customs duties for it. You will have to pay customs duties if your luggage weight exceeds those amounts. Here is more info on what you can import to Cuba within your luggage. Whatever you do, just make sure that your luggage doesn’t exceed the maximum amount of 125 kg (275 lb) per person allowed to bring to Cuba. Otherwise, the Cuban customs will seize some of your items 🙂 Hope it helps!

I need help with the luggage. With Southwest we can take (2) suitcases, of 50 lbs each. Are you saying that once in Cuba they may confiscate anything over the weight limit?

Hi Vivian, Anything over 125 kg (275 lb) per person. You should be fine 🙂

Good god I travell alone and could use another suitcase so I cant imagine not taking one a piece.

I’m a bit confused about the weight limits as well. 275 is great but it seems that anything over 110 may be subject to a $10 US per kilo charge. So if I have 120 lbs of clothes, electronics and gifts would I be charged $50 + ?

Every kilo over 30 kg (66 lbs) costs 10 CUC. Keep in mind that these limits are per person. Therefore, if two people travel with 120 lbs (60 lbs each), there won’t be any additional cost. If, on the other hand, one person travels with 120 lbs, then there will be an additional 10 CUC/kg over 30 kg, which would be approximately $240 CUC [(54 kg – 30 kg)*10].

I want to bring a western saddle and head stall as a gift, is this allowed? The saddle is worth about $200.00 thx

Hi Linda, We haven’t found any documentation regarding the import of those specific items, but I don’t think you will have any issue. Check out the official regulations on the allowed and not allowed articles and the items that need authorization . Hope it helps!

my health insurance is included in my plane ticket. so why do i need another insurance?

Of course, if your health insurance is included in your plane ticket, you won’t probably need another insurance.

Should you take all the cash you want to spend whilst in Cuba or can you get some money from ATM’s I’m travelling from the UK?

Hi Amy, If you have a credit card that was NOT issued by a US bank, you can use it in Cuba. ATMs are mostly available in popular tourist cities like Havana, Varadero, Santiago de Cuba. You should also be able to use the credit card at resorts, airports, or cruise terminals. However, keep in mind that Cuba is mostly a cash country. Read our guide to Cuban currency for more info on this matter: https://www.tourepublic.com/blog/cuban-currency/

Why is it a no no to swim if you are from the u.s.?

Hi William,

Unfortunately, if you are a US citizen, you are not supposed to go to Cuba as a “tourist”… which means that, as a US citizen, you shouldn’t (legally) go there to swim at the beach 🙁

Did you apply for a visitor visa? I assume you’re traveling from the states.

Hi Ali, If you are traveling from the states, you will need to apply for a visa (technically called “tourist card” in the case of Cuba). However, in some cases, you can also buy it from the airline. Hope it helps!

Just to let you know along with adapter plug you may need a voltage converter depending on where you stay their voltage is 220V and American and Canadian voltage is 110V

That’s a great tip, Debra! Definitely adding it to the article. Thank you!

Thought the TIPS section said their power is 110 same as US and Canada … (?) …

Hi Wayne, Yes, the power supply in Cuba is 110 volts. However, many modern hotels in Cuba have dual voltage with 220 volts sockets. Also, if you are staying in a casa particular, be aware that the air conditioning socket is for 220 volts 🙂

The swimwear section says beaches are a no-no if you are coming from the US….? Did i miss something there? Americans cannot go to the beach.?

yes! im confused by this too. what is the point of even going there then!

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Cultural News and Events

Cuba Tourist Board of Canada

• REQUIREMENTS FOR CANADIANS PASSENGERS TRAVELING TO CUBA (updated as of Nov 2, 2023)
• Travelling from Canada to Cuba, you just need a valid Canadian passport, if your passport is from another country, you need your Canadian resident card or a work or study permit that includes a multiple-entry permit attached to your passport. For Cuba, you need the tourist card (the tourist card is included in your plane ticket and is issued by the airline on board)
• All passengers arriving to Cuba from a direct flight from Canada, do not need to present a vaccination passport.
• Medical insurance is required for Cuba, medical insurance must cover any type of medical emergency including COVID-19, so in case of a medical emergency the tourist is responsible for paying the costs, for this reason, Cuba suggests having medical insurance for all types of medical emergencies including covid. If you are unable to obtain insurance in Canada, you can purchase medical insurance in Cuba at the airport or visit www.cubatravel.cu. For more information on what the insurance includes, contact the representative at the Insurance desk at the airport in Cuba.
• Since January 1, 2022, travelers must complete the customs and health declaration form, this is done online and the website to visit is: https://www.dviajeros.mitrans.gob.cu . All travelers must complete this information online 48 hours before traveling to Cuba. Once the form is completed, you will receive a QR code by email. You must show an electronic or printed version of the QR code to the authorities upon arrival. If you have any problems and you can't fill out the form online because you don't have internet access, the printed form will be available on arrival at the airport in Cuba to fill it out.
• CURRENCY: The local currency is the Cuban Peso (CUP). The convertible peso has been discontinued and is no longer accepted in Cuba. US and CAD dollars are  accepted anywhere in Cuba.  At tourist areas which includes hotels, restaurants and shopping malls, payment is only accepted with debit/visa cards or visa / mastercard credit cards from Canadian banks . Customers who do not have a credit card can buy a prepaid card in Cuba at the airport or at any money exchange kiosks at hotels . Payments outside the tourist areas are all in Cuban pesos (CUP); We recommend exchanging Canadian dollars for pesos as needed and only if you plan to travel OUTSIDE of tourist areas, since you will not be able to change the remaining pesos into Canadian dollars at the end of the holiday.

For additional information, please contact Cuba Tourist Board at:

E-mail: [email protected] TL : 416 362 0700

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Packing list

Updated: Dec 19, 2022

Home » Trip Preparation

Packing for Cuba: essential items for a successful trip

Proper packing is essential for a successful trip to Cuba, as the socialist country is not a shopping paradise. The supply of goods in stores is limited, and what you do find is often expensive. To avoid any surprises, it's important to bring everything you need with you when traveling to Cuba. This article covers the main items you should pack for your trip.

Cuba has a tradition of shortages , as the socialist economy is not based on the market. The supply of goods varies by region, but is generally poor . The state controls the import and distribution of goods within Cuba, rather than the market.

While the situation is typically better in smaller tourist towns, Havana often has the worst shortages. Finding even the most basic goods can be a challenge in the Cuban capital. Supermarkets and shops are often empty , and even buying something as simple as bottled water can be difficult. Some items may be completely unavailable.

Given the extremely limited supply of goods, it's a good idea to pack all the clothes, cosmetics, and hygiene items you'll need . Sun protection is particularly important. If you're traveling with children, it's essential to have enough supplies of everything they need.

Many items are not only hard to find in Cuba, but also very expensive if you do manage to locate them. For example, a small tube of sunscreen can easily cost 20 USD. Since the supply of food is also limited, travelers with special dietary needs should bring some long-life snacks with them.

Cayo Santa Maria

Las terrazas & soroa, varadero: the tropical getaway for sun, sand, and relaxation, the must-have items for your packing list for a trip to cuba.

When packing for a trip to Cuba, it's important to choose clothes that are light, breathable, and made from light-colored fabrics . Dark colors tend to show sweat stains more easily, and light colors provide better protection from the sun and mosquitoes. Sun and mosquito protection should also include long-sleeved shirts and pants, as well as sunscreen for those with fair skin.

Children, in particular, should be well-protected with suitable headgear that can be worn in the water . In the summer, it's also a good idea to bring an umbrella for sun protection , as many Cubans use. A foldable umbrella that can be easily packed and unpacked as needed is a good option, as it will also come in handy if it rains.

For beach vacations, hats and light-colored tops that provide sun protection (ideally waterproof) are a good choice. If you're traveling with children, you may also want to bring a beach shelter.

Sun protection even in the sea

Cuban women often wear short, light clothing to cope with the high temperatures, so don't worry about dressing appropriately – it's hard to be more free-spirited than the confident women of Cuba.

Your shoes should be functional and comfortable, and it's a good idea to bring at least one pair of open shoes (sandals) and one pair of sturdy, breathable shoes . Keep in mind that open shoes can increase the risk of sunburn , so be sure to protect your feet with sunscreen.

Sun Protection

Apart from the tourist infrastructure, there is often a lack of toilet paper in public bathrooms and frequently there is a lack of running water. Therefore, you should always have enough paper and a small tube of disinfectant with you. For longer individual trips, it doesn't hurt to pack some handwashing detergent so that you can wash clothes quickly if necessary.

Note: It is essential to take all medicines in sufficient quantities.

For a flexible round trip without a rental car or taxi rides, it's best to avoid heavy wheeled suitcases . The roads and sidewalks in Cuba are often in poor condition, and if a wheel breaks, it can be difficult to find a replacement.

A suitable backpack that allows you to bring only what you need, but as little as possible, is a better option. If you do prefer to use a rolling suitcase, choose a model with two sturdy, large wheels.

Packing- & Checklist: Overview

The following list provides an overview of the most important things that, according to the experience, travelers might need during vacations in Cuba. Depending on your individual travel planing it is possible to systemize the items in the five categories:  Documents,   Clothes, Beach items, Hygiene products and others.

Packing- & Checklist: Details

If you want to go to Cuba, you need a passport valid for at least six months. The Cuban passport is obligatory for Cuban citizens - even if you have dual citizenship. You can find the details about entry in the Visa and entry article. 

• Tourist card

A visa in the form of a tourist card is required to enter Cuba. You must show it when you check in at the airport. Learn all important information about the tourist card and entry into Cuba in the corresponding article. 

• Health insurance

You also need a valid international health insurance. Its coverage must be verifiable on request - in Spanish. Find all the details in the article health insurance for Cuba. 

• Money & Credit Cards

Having sufficient funds is fundamental for a trip. The most reasonable recommendation for money supply for traveling in Cuba is a combination of cash and credit cards. The tourism package travelers can only take cash with them. Check all the information about money and currency in the corresponding article. 

• Driving license

If you want to drive a vehicle then you need an original driver's license. We give you all the details about rental cars in this article . 

Miscellaneous

It is advisable to make photocopies of all documents and take them with you. You should also have a good travel guide and a map. 

• Light underwear & lingerie

Due to the year-round warm and humid climate, it's recommended to have light and breathable underwear. According to the experience, natural fibers such as linen or silk are well suited for the often very high temperatures. 

• Long shirts & pants

Men should wear long trousers in restaurants and when going out at night. Long shirts and trousers are also important to protect against mosquitoes and the sun. Therefore, body-covering clothing is also recommended for women. 

Especially in the hot summer months, a headgear protects against the extreme sun. At best, light and breathable hats. 

A warmer item of clothing should also be part of your luggage. Some cool days or balmy nights may require a sweater or jacket. Also near the sea, blow a little fresh wind. In addition, air conditioning systems like to run at full speed in many facilities. When traveling by bus or air-conditioned train, for example, you should definitely wear something  warm, otherwise there is a risk of colds. 

• Comfortable & light shoes

If you don't just want to lie on the beach, you should pack light and comfortable shoes. Better to pack at least two pairs in your luggage. Not that something breaks or that you have to walk with wet shoes. A qualitative replacement is hardly available in Cuba. 

It is essential to wear sunglasses, especially on the beach and when driving. 

Beach items

Nudism does not correspond to Cuban taste. So if you want to swim, you should wear a suit for it or a bikini.  It is also advisable to wear a long top that protects you from the sun in the water. Cubans like to wear light-colored surf shirts when swimming.

• Equipment for snorkeling

Cuba has a fascinating underwater world on many beaches. You can rent the equipment but, if you don't mind the weight, it is better to bring your own

• Bathing shoes

Many beaches, especially in eastern Cuba, are often quite rocky. Therefore, you better pack bathing shoes. 

• Bath towels

If you want to take a bath on the way between two accommodations on a round trip, you should have your own towel with you. 

Hygiene Products

Sufficient sun protection is essential in Cuba. Sunscreen is usually hard to get and also extremely expensive. Basically, the highest sun protection factor is recommended. 

• Disinfection

Anyone who really travels to Cuba will find that many toilets are in very bad conditions. Often there is also no water to wash your hands. Overall, the hygienic conditions are not comparable with developed countries. In addition, skin diseases have it easier to spread in the warm and humid climate. So always carry a disinfectant when traveling. 

• Mosquito repellent

If you are less worried about mosquito repellent than about the bites, take precautions with an effective mosquito repellent.

You should take all other cosmetic and hygiene articles with you. The most common are shaving kits, tissues, shampoo, women's products, condoms and Band-Aids. 

It is essential to take all medication with you. For the customs, the medicines should remain in the original packaging. If you get food poisoned, charcoal tablets can help, so it's better to have them with you in an emergency. You can also get them in international pharmacies in most vacation areas. 

• Travel adapter

In Cuba is common the flat, two-pin plugs, so if your devices have an Europlug, you must require an adapter to use them in Cuba. A simple one is sufficient in most cases. Details on current, voltage and sockets can be found on the page on the subject. 

• Offline Map

A map makes navigation easier for round trips. The better way is to load an offline map to your smartphone. You can get a free and very detailed map with the maps.me app. 

A flashlight can be helpful for power outages, poorly lit paths or breakdowns with the rental car. If you have a smartphone with an LED lamp, you may need to take a battery pack with you. 

An umbrella not only protects against rain, but also against the often very strong sun at lunchtime. In the best case, you should take a foldable bright umbrella with you. They can be stowed away in the backpack on excursions. 

For day trips, a medium-sized backpack is recommended to transport the necessary things. The backpack should be breathable, waterproof and big enough to fit at least provisions, a 1.5 liter water bottle, umbrella, swimming suit and sunscreen. 

It is advisable to pack a pocket or a folding knife that will be very helpful if you want to try one of the tropical fruits on the road. If the knife has a corkscrew, you can also open a bottle of wine. But remember that knives can only be transported in checked baggage.

If you forget something

If despite careful planning, you have forgotten something or are unlucky to lose something important, usually it is quite complicated to get a replacement. As described, many goods are often out of stock, but simple hygiene items can mostly be found in normal supermarkets and kiosks. Other cosmetics and hygiene products can only be purchased in special foreign exchange shops. These stores are often located near larger hotels in major cities and important vacation spots. The most important drugs are available from so-called international pharmacies at foreign exchange prices. Condoms can only be bought in pharmacies. There is an Adidas and a Puma store in Havana and Varadero. In some smaller shops you can get simple clothes, shoes and flip-flops.

Gifts & Souvenirs

If you still have space in your suitcase and want to make the people of Cuba happy, you can fill up free storage space with gifts. On the island, many people lack the most trivial daily goods. Almost every vacationer can help without spending any money. How this works and what kind of things are best to take with you can be found in the article about gifts & donations .

Entry & Tourist Card

Electricity (Plug Adapter)

Money & Currency in Cuba

Stay Healthy

Gifts & Donations

Health Insurance

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• At the airport

Checked bag policy

Checked bag allowances.

Changes to bag allowances and fees have been updated as of February 20, 2024.

Travel within / between the U.S., Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands – 1st checked bag fee is $40 ($35 if you pay online) and the 2nd checked bag fee is $45.

Travel to / from Canada, Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and Guyana – 1st checked bag fee is $35 and the 2nd checked bag fee is $45.

All bag fees are non-refundable and apply per person, at each check-in location, each way, even if you purchase or get an upgrade that includes free checked bags. If you believe you've been incorrectly charged for bag fees, contact an American representative for help or file a refund claim within 45 days.

• Bag limitations
• Bag and optional fees

How many bags can you take?

Check up to 10 bags on american airlines operated flights if your trip is:.

• Transatlantic
• Transpacific

Check up to 5 bags on American-operated flights if you’re traveling to / through / from:

• Mexico / Caribbean / Central America*
• South America*
• Bag regions

*There are seasonal and year-round bag restrictions

We calculate the size limits of your bag by adding the total outside dimensions of each bag, length + width + height.

For all regions, except to / from Australia or New Zealand, your checked bag allowance is:

• Dimension: 62 in / 158 cm
• Weight: 50 lbs / 23 kgs
• For First / Business, weight is 70 lbs / 32 kgs for complimentary bags and 50 lbs / 23 kgs for excess charged bags

For all confirmed customers on flights to / from Australia or New Zealand:

• Weight: 70 lbs / 32kgs for complimentary bags and 50 lbs / 23 kgs for excess charged bags
• Oversize and overweight bags

What it will cost

In some cases, you won't have to pay the fees for up to 3 bags when traveling on itineraries marketed and operated by American Airlines. If you qualify for complimentary bags based on your AAdvantage ® status or one world ® status, the benefits are based on your highest status level at time of ticketing or check-in.

If your status level is:

• Higher at ticketing than at check-in, show your ticket receipt to the airport agent
• Lower at ticketing than at check-in, current benefits will automatically apply

Free checked bags may not apply to codeshare flights operated by our partners. Visit the website of the airline operating your flight for details.

Other airlines

1st checked bag is complimentary for:

• Eligible AAdvantage ® Aviator ® and Citi ® / AAdvantage ® cardmembers (on domestic American Airlines operated itineraries)
• AAdvantage Gold ® status
• GOL Diamond Smiles members
• oneworld ® Ruby

or when traveling to these destinations:

• El Salvador*
• New Zealand^
• South Korea^
• Transatlantic*

*Excluding Basic Economy

^Excluding Basic Economy for tickets issued on / after June 7, 2023

1st and 2nd checked bags are complimentary for:

• AAdvantage Platinum ® status
• one world ® Sapphire members
• Confirmed Domestic First customers
• Confirmed Business customers
• Confirmed Premium Economy customers

1st, 2nd and 3rd checked bags are complimentary for:

• Confirmed Flagship ® First and Flagship ® Business Plus customers*
• AAdvantage Executive Platinum ® status
• AAdvantage Platinum Pro ® status
• one world ® Emerald
• Active U.S. military and / or dependents with ID traveling on orders (1st - 5th bags free of charge)**
• Active U.S. military with ID on personal travel**

*Applicable only to Flagship ® First International, Flagship ® First Transcontinental and Flagship ® Business Plus. AAdvantage Executive Platinum ® status, AAdvantage Platinum Pro ® status and oneworld ® Emerald members traveling in Flagship ® First may check a 4th bag at no charge

**Free checked bags apply when traveling on American marketed and operated itineraries. Free checked bags don't apply to codeshare flights operated by our partners.

Save time, pay online

Don’t wait in line at the airport – get the best price available and check up to 3 bags when you check-in on aa.com or in the app.

Pay for your checked bags online within 24 hours of departure and receive the best price available for travel on domestic flights within and between the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska, and select markets in the Caribbean and Central America.

For tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024, save $5 on the 1st checked bag fee for travel within and between the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands.

For more information about paying for your bags online, visit our customer service FAQs.

Customer service FAQs

All published bag fees apply at each check-in location and are base rates according to travel dates and destination; applicable taxes are not shown.

All bag fees are non-refundable and apply per person, each way, even if you buy or get an upgrade that includes free checked bags. If you believe you were incorrectly charged for bag fees, contact an American representative for help or file a refund claim within 45 days.

^Main Plus includes 1 extra free checked bag in addition to the Main Cabin allowance (max of 2)

^^A $30 1st checked bag fee and a $40 2nd checked bag fee applies for tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024. A $40 1st checked bag fee ($35 if paid online) and a $45 2nd checked bag fee applies within / between the U.S. (including HI / AK), Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024. Otherwise, a $35 1st checked bag fee and a $45 2nd checked bag fee applies for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024.

*Free bag excludes Basic Economy: For Basic Economy travel to / from Haiti, a $30 1st bag fee applies for tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024 and a $35 1st bag fee applies for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024. For Basic Economy travel to/from Panama / Colombia / Ecuador / Peru a $45 1st bag fee applies. For Basic Economy travel to / from South America (excluding Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname) a $45 1st bag fee applies for tickets issued on / before September 19, 2023 and a $60 1st bag fee applies for tickets issued on / after September 20, 2023. For Transatlantic Basic Economy travel, a $75 1st bag fee applies. For Transpacific Basic Economy travel for tickets issued on / after June 7, 2023 a $75 1st bag fee applies and for tickets issued on / before June 6, 2023 there is no 1st bag fee.

**For travel to / from Panama and South America (except Guyana and Suriname), a $65 2nd bag fee applies for tickets issued on / before September 19, 2023 and a $100 2nd bag fee applies for tickets issued on / after September 20, 2023.

Flights departing Canada

Find out how much you'll pay for checked bags and other fees on roundtrip and one-way flights departing Canada, displayed in CAD.

Bag and optional fees - Canada

If your region isn’t listed, we can still help:

• Reservations and ticket changes

Through checked bags

We only through check bags if all your tickets are in the same reservation and you’re connecting to another American Airlines or one world ® flight.

Each passenger traveling to Cuba may only check up to 2 bags* with a maximum weight of 70 lbs / 32 kgs per bag, plus 1 carry-on bag and 1 personal item.

• Carry-on bags

*Seasonal exceptions apply to Havana, Cuba effective for travel on / after March 14, 2023

*For travel to Cuba, a $30 1st bag fee applies to Basic Economy and Main Cabin for tickets issued on / before September 19, 2023. For tickets issued on / after September 20, 2023 a $30 1st bag fee applies to Basic Economy and there is no 1st bag fee for Main Cabin. For tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024 a $35 1st bag fee applies to Basic Economy and there is no 1st bag fee for Main Cabin.

**For travel to Cuba, a $200 2nd bag fee applies seasonally for travel from November 16 – January 9. A $150 2nd bag fee applies otherwise. Excludes Main Plus for tickets issued on / after September 20, 2023.

^Main Plus includes 1 extra free checked bag in addition to the Main Cabin allowance (max of 2).

What else can you travel with?

• Mobility and medical devices
• Traveling with pets
• Special items and sports equipment

Restricted items

There are some items that are only allowed in checked bags or your carry-on. Check to see how to pack and travel with restricted items.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

You may also like...

• Paying for bags online

What You Need To Be Aware Of As A Tourist Visiting Cuba

B eaches with white sand as fine as sugar, vintage American cars cruising down streets lined by colorful aging buildings, and the chance to puff on a fine cigar while watching people dance the salsa in the warm night air: It's not hard to understand the picture-postcard allure of Cuba. It's a country in the throes of rapid change as it emerges back onto the world stage after decades of stagnation following the 1959 revolution. So now is a wonderful time to pack your dancing shoes and visit the Caribbean's largest island.

However, Cuba isn't an uncomplicated tropical paradise and there are several things you need to be aware of before you visit as a tourist. Like, as an American, is it even legal for you to visit Cuba as a tourist? What's with the money situation? And can you access the internet or are you going back to the Stone Age (also known as the early 1990s)?

Can Americans Visit Cuba?

Cuba is just 103 miles from the tip of Florida making it the ideal winter getaway for sun-seeking Americans. However, the U.S. imposed restrictions on travel to Cuba in 1963 and while the level of restrictions has varied over the years, as of July 2023, Americans can't visit Cuba purely for tourism purposes.

That said, there are 12 categories of authorized travel to Cuba, and the one that most Americans visiting the island use is the "support for the Cuban people" category. You'll need a passport with six months validity at the time of entry and two blank pages. You also need a Cuban Tourist Card, which you can usually get from your airline for as little as $50.

Speaking of airlines, you can fly direct to Cuba from several U.S. cities, including Miami, Tampa, New York City , and Houston. Most direct flights from the U.S. land in the Cuban capital of Havana, though there are several nonstop flights from Miami to other destinations in the country, including Santiago de Cuba and the popular beach resort of Varadero.

Cuban Currency

There's good news and, let's say, tricky news when it comes to paying for things in Cuba. The good news is that there is now one currency used by residents and visitors alike in the country: the Cuban peso (CUP). The Cuban convertible peso (CUC), which used to be the currency used by tourists, was eliminated in 2021.

The only official place you can exchange currency in Cuba is at Cadeca exchange houses. You cannot get CUP outside of Cuba, nor should you take the currency home with you. Spend or exchange anything you have left over before you go to the airport (after security, you should pay in foreign currency).

What about credit cards? U.S. credit and debit cards won't work in Cuba. Credit cards from major financial institutions like Visa and Mastercard from other countries should be accepted by certain businesses and ATMs. However, cash is king in the country and it's always a good idea to keep some with you for tips to service workers.

The Internet In Cuba

Cuba is the perfect place to go on a digital detox. We're going to be honest: Getting online isn't as easy as in the U.S. and internet speeds can be sluggish. However, if you need to connect to the internet, you can. The most common way to access the internet in Cuba is via hotspots in places like public parks and on the Malécon in Havana. (They are also perfect for people-watching, so embrace the experience!) Many hotels and some other businesses also have Wi-Fi.

To access the internet in most places you're going to need a NAUTA card, which you can purchase from ETECSA offices around Cuba. Be prepared to stand in line to buy the card and take your passport along with you. Our advice? Be patient and make the most of your offline moments to fully immerse yourself in the Cuban experience. And plan to latergram your posts on Insta.

Sleeping And Eating

When it comes to accommodation in Cuba, you'll find a range of options. From all-inclusive beach resorts to cozy casas particulares, you'll find somewhere to suit your preferences and budget. Our pick for independent travelers is a casa particular, a privately owned guesthouse which offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Cuban hospitality firsthand. Many places offer breakfast and an evening meal, so you can taste home-cooked Cuban food. It's also an excellent way to support the Cuban people (this is likely the stated purpose of your visit, after all) as the money you pay goes directly to the guesthouse owners. In contrast, the Cuban government holds at least a 51% share in all hotels in Cuba. Hotel star ratings are often on the generous side, so be discerning.

As far as food goes in Cuba, your best bet is to go to a paladar, a privately run restaurant that serves excellent versions of classic Cuban dishes like roast pork, shredded beef, and suckling pig (the cuisine is pretty meat-forward). A note on cultural sensitivity: Many products that are widely available in the U.S. might not be in Cuba and even basic products often disappear from Cuban shops at short notice. Savor what's put on your plate and enjoy the often simple but tasty food.

How To Support And Respect The Cuban People

Staying in casas particulares and eating at paladares are just two ways that you can support the Cuban people on your trip. Consider taking a salsa class run by a local, buying locally made handicrafts, and whiling away the steamy nights sipping rum and listening to musicians put on a fabulous show. By patronizing local businesses, not only are you financially supporting the Cuban people, but you're also going to have an authentic Cuban experience.

We touched on the unavailability of some food items earlier, but shortages extend to many consumer products in Cuba. Bring everything you think you'll need for your trip, including medications. You may also want to bring a roll of toilet paper (glamorous, we know), as public bathrooms often don't have it. Power cuts are common; while they might be frustrating, remember that you're only there for a short time and, for Cubans, power cuts are infuriating, so keep your complaints to yourself. This goes for everything, really; if you're not prepared for some minor inconveniences, don't visit Cuba. If you want to take a memorable trip to a country steeped in history with a vibrant culture, stunning urban architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes, it'll all be worth it.

Read this next: The World's Best Places To Put On Your Travel Bucket List

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Travel credit cards help you earn valuable points and miles on your purchases. For maximum value, some cards earn rewards not only on travel, but also everyday purchases like dining, groceries and gas. You can redeem these rewards for free or discounted flights, hotel stays or to cover other travel-related expenses.

The best travel cards also come with additional features. Even no-annual-fee travel cards are likely to offer perks like sign-up bonuses, intro APR offers and travel insurance. But for top-of-the-line benefits like airport lounge access, elite status and travel credits, expect to pay an annual fee.

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Bankrate's Best Travel Credit Cards of June 2024

• Best starter travel card:  Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• Best for flat-rate rewards:  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
• Best for luxury travel:  The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Best for no annual fee:  Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card  ( See Rates & Fees )
• Best for foodies:  American Express® Gold Card
• Best for everyday spending: Citi Strata Premier℠ Card
• Best for intro APR:  Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
• Best for point values:  Chase Sapphire Reserve®
• Best for practical perks:  Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• Best for pairing:  Chase Freedom Unlimited®
• Best for hotel bookings: Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card
• Best no-annual-fee hotel card:  Hilton Honors American Express Card
• Best for luxury hotel perks: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
• Best for transfer partners:  Bilt Mastercard®
• Best for gas:  Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
• Best for companion tickets:  Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
• Best starter airline card:  Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
• Best for savers: Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
• Best for first-year value:  Discover it® Miles
• Best for fair credit:  Credit One Bank Wander® Card
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Best starter travel card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

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Intro offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

60,000 bonus points

We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program , showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.

Rewards rate

5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. 2x on all other travel purchases. 1x on all other purchases.

Regular APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

• 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
• 3x 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
• 2x 2x on all other travel purchases.
• 1x 1x on all other purchases.

What we love: This popular card comes loaded with features that can make it easy even for occasional travelers to offset the modest $95 annual fee without eating into hard-earned rewards. Plus, its rewards program is one of the best, giving you some of the most valuable travel redemptions — through both Chase and transfer partners — and Chase card pairing opportunities if you want to build your card portfolio eventually. Learn more: Why expert Margaret Weck loves using the Chase Sapphire Preferred Alternatives:   If you’re looking for an even simpler travel card, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a terrific option. Its flat rewards rate makes it easy to know exactly how much you’ll earn with every purchase and though it can’t match the Sapphire Preferred’s redemption flexibility, it offers more redemption options than the typical travel rewards card. 

• You earn Ultimate Rewards points with this card — some of the most valuable and flexible rewards around, especially if you pair it with Chase’s cash back cards in the future.
• The card touts significant long-term benefits like anniversary bonus points and travel credits, as well as travel protections like trip cancellation insurance and a car rental collision damage waiver.
• Doesn’t offer airline- or hotel-specific perks like free checked bags, elite status or free night stays.
• The sign-up bonus is decent, but the card has previously offered higher, chart-topping bonus points.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 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℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 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

Best for flat-rate rewards

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

New Venture cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once they spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

Earn 75,000 miles

5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

2 Miles - 5 Miles

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

• 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2 Miles 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day

What we love: It’s a great option for travelers looking for a straightforward rewards program and flexible redemption options. You'll earn unlimited miles on all eligible spending and can redeem not only for travel bookings, but also as a statement credit to cover travel purchases made in the past 90 days. Learn more: Why expert Jacqueline DeMarco loves the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card Alternatives: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers a higher rewards rate in some everyday spending categories and potentially more valuable points. Chase points are worth 1.25 cents each if you redeem for travel through Chase, while Capital One miles are only worth 1 cent each when you redeem for travel. Plus, Chase rewards are more helpful for occasional travelers since you can redeem as cash back at 1-cent-per-point value.

• Carries solid perks given its low annual fee, including expedited airport purchase security and hotel experience credits, lost luggage reimbursement and more.
• Zero foreign transaction fees make this an excellent choice for international travelers.
• You can’t offset the annual fee with annual travel credits or bonuses alone as you can with some rival cards.
• The card’s sign-up bonus carries a high spending requirement, so it may be tough to earn if you don’t have large purchases on the horizon.
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Best for luxury travel

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 80,000 points

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.

See Pay Over Time APR

• 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
• 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.

What we love: Luxury travelers and big spenders will appreciate the bevy of travel benefits, including annual statement credits worth around $1,700, elite hotel loyalty status and access to perhaps the most comprehensive airport lounge access available with a credit card. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Platinum Card® from American Express Alternatives: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers a taste of luxury at a lower cost than many premium travel cards. You can unlock a generous rewards rate on both travel and general purchases, complimentary access to popular airport lounge memberships and valuable annual travel credits and anniversary miles.

• Comes with a generous welcome offer and a longer time period to earn it compared to most rewards cards.
• A robust line-up of airline and hotel partners and related perks make this card truly valuable for travelers.
• The $695 annual fee may not be worth it if you don’t spend much on travel frequently or can’t take full advantage of the card’s luxury — and often niche — perks.
• Redeeming and maximizing the card’s credit and benefits requires some legwork and can be a bit confusing.
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Best for no annual fee

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel

20,000 miles

5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

1.25 Miles - 5 Miles

• 1.25 Miles 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day

What we love: This card offers some of the same advantages as the Capital One Venture, without the burden of an annual fee. It gives you the chance to earn flat-rate miles on your everyday spending and the option to transfer miles to over 15 loyalty program partners to even cover travel purchases outside Capital One — a unique level of redemption flexibility for a starter travel card. Learn more: Reasons to get the VentureOne Rewards Card Alternatives: A general-purpose flat-rate credit card that offers 2X points or 2 percent cash back on all purchases may bring more value if you don’t travel often and aren’t ready to upgrade to a travel rewards credit card with an annual fee. However, the Discover it® Miles earns a flat-rate 1.5X miles that can also be redeemed for cash back at 1-cent per mile, which is unusual for travel rewards.

• The welcome offer is generous for a no-annual-fee travel credit card.
• Booking hotel stays and rental cars through Capital One Travel nets you an impressive 5X miles.
• Unlike several no-annual-fee travel cards, redeeming for non-travel purchases waters down your rewards’ value.
• Capital One has no major U.S. carrier in its line-up of travel partners.
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Best for foodies

American Express® Gold Card

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points

Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X). Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

• 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
• 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• 3X Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

What we love: Few credit cards are more rewarding for traveling foodies than the American Express Gold Card. Both the food-related annual credits and the rewards rates at restaurants, U.S. supermarkets and on flights booked directly with airlines or via the Amex travel portal are some of the best on the market. In fact, the up to $240 in credits each year alone nearly make up for the annual fee. Learn more: Why the Amex Gold is worth the annual fee Alternatives: If the Amex Gold Card’s annual fee sounds high, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card . It carries key travel perks, high travel and dining rewards rates, and a much lower annual fee.

• This card features one of the best rewards return rates available on dining, groceries and food deliveries.
• There is no preset spending limit, so you can enjoy extended purchasing power, and you also have the option to pay off purchases with Pay Over Time if necessary.
• Although the card touts a solid collection of travel perks, it doesn’t include popular premium card perks like airport lounge access or trip cancellation/interruption insurance.
• Only eligible airfare earns more than 1X points, while rival cards often earn similar (or higher) reward rates on hotel stays and other travel purchases as well.
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.

Best for everyday spending

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

• Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com

70,000 bonus points

Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com. Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations. Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

• 10X Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• 3X Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• 1X Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases

What we love: This card’s high rewards rate in everyday bonus categories makes it an especially good choice for occasional travelers and people looking for a standalone rewards card. Its practical bonus categories mean you can earn rewards quickly, even if you don’t actually spend a ton on travel. Alternatives:   As long as you don’t mind buying groceries online, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card could be an even more lucrative everyday rewards card. That’s thanks mostly to its high point redemption value (1.25 cents per point when you use points to book travel with Chase, versus just 1 cent per point when you book with Citi using the Strata Premier).

• It’s one of the only travel cards that offers a high rewards rate on groceries, dining and gas, so it should work well whether it’s your standalone card or just one part of your card stack.
• Its annual hotel benefit carries enough value to potentially offset the annual fee on its own.
• The annual hotel benefit, though generous, isn’t very flexible: You’ll only get the $100 discount if you book a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) through CitiTravel.com.
• Based on Bankrate’s latest point and mile valuations, Citi ThankYou rewards carry a lower average redemption value than Chase, Amex and Capital One rewards.
• Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Best for intro APR

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

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

25,000 points

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

19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

• 1.5X Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.

What we love: This entry-level travel card keeps things simple for occasional travelers. It offers simple flat-rate rewards and lets you redeem for a broad mix of travel options not typically available on many travel cards, such as cash back toward purchases with travel agencies,  zoos, art galleries and more. It’s even more valuable if you’re a Bank of America customer and can qualify for a rewards boost through the Bank of America Preferred Rewards® program. Learn more: Is the Bank of America Travel Rewards card worth it? Alternatives: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is another great starter travel card, but, unlike many cards in this category, it lets you transfer your miles to airline and hotel partners, potentially for a higher redemption value.

• Its easy-to-earn sign-up bonus and intro APR offers give this card good short-term value.
• No annual fees or foreign transaction fees sweeten this offer.
• It only offers 1.5X points on purchases, and you can’t transfer points can’t to airline partners for more rewards value, so it may not be as lucrative as competing cards.
• The top tiers of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards® program may be out of reach for many cardholders.
• Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
• Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
• 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
• Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Best for point values

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠. Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining. Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

22.49% - 29.49% Variable

• 10x Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠.
• 5x Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠.
• 3x Earn 3x points on other travel and dining.
• 1x Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

What we love: Rewards-savvy travelers will be hard-pressed to find a card with better rewards potential than the Sapphire Reserve. Points are worth 50 percent more through Chase Travel, and potentially more with the right transfer partner. It’s a stellar partner for Chase’s cash back cards and stacks on even more value with enough perks to recoup the annual fee without relying on hard-earned rewards. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Alternatives: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers some of the same key perks as the Sapphire Reserve at a much lower cost. Along with a generous rewards rate on both Capital One Travel and general purchases, the card boasts valuable, practical benefits like competitive airport lounge access , up to $300 in annual Capital One Travel credits and 10,000 bonus miles every year on your account anniversary.

• You can kickstart your rewards bank with one of the most valuable sign-up bonuses on the market.
• Its top-tier benefits include up to $300 in annual travel statement credits, Priority Pass airport lounge access, exhaustive travel protections and stand-out partner perks.
• The card’s cost could be a deterrent for some new cardholders, especially if they plan on encountering adding multiple authorized users.
• You won’t get as many luxury hotel and airport lounge perks with this card as you would with some of its rivals.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $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℠ 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℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 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™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Best for practical perks

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel

75,000 miles

10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel. 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

2 Miles - 10 Miles

• 10 Miles 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel

What we love: This is the perfect middleground for travelers who want the practical benefits from luxury travel cards without dealing with bloated features and an annual fee upwards of $500. It offers complimentary lounge access, high-earning bonus rewards categories, anniversary credits and bonus miles, which can easily make the card worth it for frequent travelers. Learn more: Capital One Venture X Benefits Guide Alternatives: If a higher annual fee is no issue, consider The Platinum Card® from American Express. It’s a top choice for frequent travelers thanks to its impressive welcome offer and luxury perks like annual travel credits, lounge access and hotel elite status. However, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® may be better if your luxury travel experience calls for racking up more rewards.

• Offers anniversary bonus miles and a chance to earn credits worth hundreds of dollars starting at your first account anniversary.
• Comes with complimentary lounge access at over 1,300 lounges for you and two guests per visit.
• To earn the anniversary credit, travel must be booked through the Capital One Travel portal. That’s not as flexible as some other cards, which offer credits that cover any travel purchases, regardless of how you book.
• Lacks some perks found on other premium travel cards like airline or hotel elite status, which can get you benefits like free checked bags or room upgrades.
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Best for pairing

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That's 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.

Up to $300 cash back

Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service. 1.5% on all other purchases.

20.49% - 29.24% Variable

• 5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more
• 3% 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service
• 1.5% 1.5% on all other purchases

What we love: Not only does it earn 1.5 percent cash back on general spending, but it also has a bonus cash back rate for drugstores and dining at restaurants. And if you pair it with one or two premium Chase travel cards, you could pool your rewards for better travel redemption value.  Learn more: Why I love the Chase Freedom Unlimited Alternatives: If you want to take advantage of even more rewarding cash back categories and remain in the Chase family, consider the Chase Freedom Flex℠ .

• You can pool rewards with other Chase cards to maximize your earnings.
• The additional rewards rate offer can add even more cash back to your pocket for the first year.
• The welcome offer isn’t as competitive as other cards’ offers.
• Maximizing rewards with this and other Chase cards can get complicated for people who like simple rewards programs.
• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.

Best for hotel bookings

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels. Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines. Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants. Earn 1X points on other purchases.

21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

• 5X Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels
• 4X Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines
• 3X Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants
• 1X Earn 1X points on other purchases

What we love: It offers a great rewards rate on hotel bookings and gives you a chance to earn a $50 annual statement credit with a $50 minimum airline purchase. Add in a solid rate on airline purchases, other travel and restaurants and this card carries great value as a standalone mid-tier card for occasional travelers. Alternatives: If you want to earn travel rewards but don’t actually spend much on hotels and airfare, the lower-tier Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is also worth a look. Though it earns also rewards on travel, it boasts a great mix of other practical everyday categories (including gas stations).

• You can transfer points to Wells Fargo’s new list of airline and hotel partners, including popular programs like British Airways Executive Club, Choice Privileges and more, which could boost the redemption value of your rewards.
• The $50 annual statement credit offsets more than half the card’s $95 annual fee and should be a cinch to earn if you fly at least once per year.
• Wells Fargo only offers one other card that earns travel rewards (the Autograph), and there is some category overlap between the two, so they may not be as lucrative as some competing card stacks.
• The card doesn’t carry some popular travel perks available on other mid-tier travel cards, such as credits for expedited airport security screening or rideshares.
• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Best no-annual-fee hotel card

Hilton Honors American Express Card

• Earn 70,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points plus a Free Night Reward after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 7/31/2024.

Earn 70,000 points

Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio. Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.

20.99%-29.99% Variable

• 7X Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• 5X Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• 3X Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.

What we love: This card earns rewards in a terrific mix of everyday bonus categories, so it should be easy to rack up Hilton points even if you don’t spend a ton on hotel bookings. Since it charges no annual fee and provides a few Hilton Honors benefits like Silver status, it’s also a great fit if you’re new to hotel cards and want a single no-annual-fee option instead of juggling multiple rewards cards. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Hilton Honors American Express Card Alternatives: The American Express® Green Card could be more flexible since it lets you earn and redeem rewards on a much wider variety of travel purchases, including airfare and bookings with several hotel brands, not just Hilton. You can transfer points to the Hilton Honors program as well, but the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card may be better if you prefer upgraded Hilton-specific rewards, loyalty status and other perks.

• Comes with automatic Silver Elite status, which includes a free fifth award night when you book at least four consecutive nights with points.
• Earns rewards in three of the average person’s biggest spending categories, making it a terrific standalone option for earning Hilton points.
• A higher-tier Hilton card would earn more on Hilton bookings and could be more lucrative for frequent guests, even with an annual fee.
• You can only redeem points with Hilton and its partners, which limits the rewards value you earn on the everyday categories compared to a general-purpose cards’ rewards.
• Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors™ Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
• No Annual Fee.

Best for luxury hotel perks

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

• Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points

• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• 6X Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
• 3X 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines
• 2X 2X points on all other eligible purchases

What we love: Frequent Marriott guests looking for luxury card-level perks and elite status should be able to justify this premium card. Along with a terrific rewards rate on Marriott bookings and an annual free night award, you could enjoy generous annual credits for restaurant purchases and Marriott property stays, airport lounge access, elite night credits and more. Learn more: Best Marriott credit cards Alternatives: If you’re looking for top-tier travel perks but want the flexibility to earn and redeem rewards for stays at any hotel chain, consider an elite travel card from Chase or Amex, which can come with generous travel benefits, airport lounge access and the ability to transfer points to Marriott. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is another lucrative alternative.

• Outperforms other Marriott cards with its boosted rewards on travel-related categories and 21X points at Marriott Bonvoy hotels, thanks to the automatic Platinum Elite status.
• It’s one of the only hotel cards that includes complimentary Priority Pass lounge access, top travel protections and credits for expedited airport security screening.
• Unlocking some of the card’s best perks — like Five Suite Night Awards — requires a $60,000 annual spend, which may be tough to reach even for frequent Marriott guests.
• Unless luxury perks are at the top of your wishlist, the annual fee may not be worth it and a lower-tier hotel card may offer more value overall.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
• Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.

Best for transfer partners

Bilt Mastercard®

Intro offer is not available for this Wells Fargo credit card.

3x points on dining. 2x points on travel. 1x points on other purchases. Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year. When you make at least 5 posted transactions in a statement period using your Bilt Mastercard, you'll earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases.

1X Points - 3X Points

• 3X Points 3x points on dining
• 2X Points 2x points on travel
• 1X Points 1x points on other purchases
• 1X Points Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year. When you make at least 5 posted transactions in a statement period using your Bilt Mastercard, you'll earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases.

What we love: Not only is this card is a terrific choice for renters since it earns rewards and waives transaction fees when using it to pay rent, it’s also great for rewards strategists considering the extremely robust travel rewards program. You can earn rewards on travel and dining and your points carry a high value whether you redeem through the Bilt travel portal or one of the many airline and hotel transfer partners. Alternatives: If you like the Bilt card’s travel rewards program but don’t see yourself renting long term, consider the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. It earns generously on both travel and dining and also boasts high-value points and transfer partners. If the way you pay rent doesn’t incur credit card payment fees, a flat-rate card may also be worth weighing. 

• It’s the only card that helps you avoid the fees typically associated with paying rent with a credit card.
• Offers a solid collection of travel perks for a no-annual-fee card, including trip cancellation and interruption protection, trip delay reimbursement and other high-level travel protections.
• You can only use rewards to cover rent, toward a future home down payment or for travel and shopping. Cash back isn’t an option.
• There is no sign-up bonus. Most competing travel cards — even those with no annual fee — offer at least a $200 bonus.
• $0 Annual Fee.
• Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year.
• 2x points on travel.
• 3x points on dining.
• 1x points on other purchases.
• Earn points when you make 5 transactions that post each statement period.
• When renting at a Bilt Alliance property, you can choose to have your rent payments automatically reported by Bilt to the three major credit bureaus each month; Experian™, TransUnion™, and Equifax™.

Best for gas

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

20,000 bonus points

Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Earn 1X points on other purchases.

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

• 3X Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans.

What we love: The Wells Fargo Autograph card is a great option for occasional travelers and households on the go looking to earn rewards while avoiding an annual fee and reduced redemption value for cash rewards. It’s one of a few entry-level travel cards to offer high, year-round bonus rewards for gas, dining, transit and other key travel needs. Learn more: Is the Wells Fargo Autograph worth it? Alternatives: If you’re looking for ways to maximize the value of your rewards, you should consider a travel card that lets you transfer your points to airlines or hotels, like the Bilt Mastercard® or Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.

• While some issuers only reward travel purchases made directly with airlines or through issuer portals, this card lets you shop around for the best deal on third-party travel sites and still earn extra rewards.
• Carries decent perks such as rental car collision damage waiver coverage, roadside assistance and Visa Signature® Concierge benefits, like access to Visa’s Luxury Hotel Collection (terms apply).
• Unlike with traditional travel cards, you cannot transfer your points to airlines or hotels
• The travel perks and intro APR are weak compared to competing travel-oriented cards’ offers.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

Best for companion tickets

Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card

• Earn 85,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 85,000 miles

Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels. Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets. Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.

• 3X Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
• 2X Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets.
• 1X Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.

What we love: The annual companion certificate on Main Cabin domestic flights (taxes and fees apply) comes with this card after the first year is valuable enough to justify the annual fee even if you’re just looking for great Delta perks to make travel smoother with a partner. Plus, the companion certificate is easier to obtain than other airline cards’ since it carries no spending requirement that must be met beyond the card’s annual fee. Alternatives: The American Express® Green Card could be a great alternative since it charges a lower $150 annual fee, lets you earn and redeem rewards on travel with any eligible airline (not just Delta) and offers credits for Loungebuddy lounge access and Clear Plus. You can even transfer points to Delta at a 1:1 ratio.

• Boasts several valuable travel perks, including priority boarding, a free first checked bag and specialized annual credits for select rideshare services and reservations with Delta Stays and Resy.
• Gets you closer to Medallion Status and discounts on in-flight purchases, complimentary upgrades, and more.
• Its rewards rate on non-travel purchases is lacking — a general-purpose travel card could potentially offer better rewards value and flexibility for rewards travel outside Delta.
• No longer offers complimentary Delta Sky Club lounge access as of this year, although airport lounge access is a staple perk for premium travel cards.
• Receive a Companion Certificate on Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
• Earn $1 Medallion® Qualification Dollar for each $20 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels.
• Earn 2X Miles at restaurants worldwide including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and at U.S. supermarkets and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
• Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
• Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
• Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members and Reserve Card Members.
• $350 Annual Fee.

Best starter airline card

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card

• Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 85,000 points

Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming. Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

• 2X Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
• 2X Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• 2X Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• 2X Earn 2X points on Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partners.
• 1X Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

What we love: This card’s anniversary bonus offers enough value to nearly offset the annual fee on its own, so it should be a terrific low-stakes option whether you’re new to airline cards or a regular Southwest flyer looking for a low-maintenance card. Plus, its sign-up bonus value is on par with the value you’ll get with much pricier airline and travel cards. Learn more: Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus benefits guide Alternatives: The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card could offer better value overall, despite its $149 annual fee. It carries an annual $75 Southwest travel credit and 7,500 bonus points each year on your account anniversary — more than enough value to justify the higher fee.

• You’ll automatically earn 3,000 Rapid Rewards points each year after your account anniversary, which could offset much of the card’s already-low annual fee.
• Delivers the same hefty sign-up bonus as higher-tier Southwest cards.
• Unlike several travel cards, it doesn’t carry rewards categories for popular everyday purchases like gas or dining.
• It may not be the best Southwest value for frequent flyers since it poses a 3 percent foreign transaction fee and doesn’t offer perks like upgraded boardings or elite status benefits.
• 3,000 anniversary points each year.
• Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases.
• Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare.
• Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services; select streaming.
• 2 EarlyBird Check-In® each year.
• Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Best for savers

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

• Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

60,000 points

Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases. Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

• 2X Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases.
• 1.5X Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

What we love: If you do your banking with Bank of America and qualify for Preferred Rewards status, this card could provide an exclusive 25 percent to 75 percent rewards rate boost. The  rewards rates — 2X points on dining and travel, with 1.5X points on all other purchases — could increase to an incredible 3.5X on travel and dining with an unrivaled flat 2.62X points rate. Learn more: Why expert Sara Coleman loves the Bank of America Premium Rewards Card Alternatives: The similarly-priced Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the best alternatives thanks to its stellar travel protections, yearly bonus rewards and stronger rewards program. However, flat-rate cards like the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card or the Discover it® Miles card could be lucrative if you don’t think the $95 annual fee is worth it.

• The $95 annual fee is relatively affordable for this card category thanks to the up to $100 in yearly airline incidental statement credits.
• You can smooth out your travel experience with great benefits like credits toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and comprehensive travel insurance.
• Attaining the highest rewards rate is not an easy feat, since you’ll need to hold significant funds in Bank of America accounts.
• This card does not offer a few popular premium travel perks like lounge access.
• Low $95 annual fee.
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87 - 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
• Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
• Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
• No foreign transaction fees.

Best for first-year value

Discover it® Miles

• Unlimited Bonus: Unlimited Mile-for-Mile match for all new cardmembers—only from Discover. Discover gives you an unlimited match of all the Miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year. You could turn 35,000 Miles to 70,000 Miles. There’s no signing up, no minimum spending or maximum rewards. Just a Miles-for-Miles match.

Discover Match®

Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase.

18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

• 1.5X Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase.

What we love: In addition to the exceptionally valuable Discover Match® , this card combines solid flat-rate rewards with consumer-friendly terms, like minimal fees and an equal value for both travel and cash back redemptions. Travelers who value simplicity will appreciate this card’s straightforward rewards and adaptability — even when you aren’t traveling. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Discover it® Miles Alternatives: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card carries a more straightforward and still easy-to-reach welcome bonus. The VentureOne card also gives you the option of transferring miles to more than a dozen airline and hotel partners, which could increase the redemption value of your rewards.

• All miles earned in your first year will be matched at the end of the year, which could make it one of the most valuable first-year offers for no annual fee.
• Miles don’t lose value when they’re redeemed for cash back, which gives it a leg up over many travel rewards programs for occasional travelers.
• You’ll miss out on pretty standard travel perks like travel insurance, and car rental damage protection.
• The rewards structure lacks flexibility; you won’t be able to transfer your miles or use them to book travel.
• Automatically earn unlimited 1.5x Miles on every dollar of every purchase
• No annual fee
• Turn Miles into cash. Or redeem as a statement credit for your travel purchases like airfare, hotels, rideshares, gas stations, restaurants and more.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% - 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR will apply.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Discover is accepted nationwide by 99% of the places that take credit cards.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Best for fair credit

Credit One Bank Wander® Card

Intro offer is not available for this Credit One Bank credit card.

Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site. Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas. Earn 1x points on all other purchases.

29.74% Variable

• 10X Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site
• 5X Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
• 1X Earn 1x points on all other purchases

What we love: The Credit One Bank Wander® Card is a solid option if you want to earn points on travel but have trouble qualifying for mainstream travel cards. Not only is this card accessible with only fair credit, but its rewards program boasts generously high rewards rates in key travel categories. Learn more: Best travel cards for people with bad or fair credit Alternatives: If you don’t mind putting down a refundable security deposit, consider a no-annual-fee secured card like the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card *. It’s a unique secured card that lets you build credit while earning rewards in a category of your choice (with travel just one of many popular options) as well as grocery stores and wholesale clubs.

• It’s one of the only travel rewards cards available with a fair credit score, making it a decent option if you want to earn travel rewards as you work on your score.
• Provides 5X points in travel, dining and gas, plus 10X points on eligible hotel and rental car bookings through Credit One Bank — rare and impressive rates with only fair credit.
• Its annual fee is high compared to other cards you can get with a fair credit score , so it may not be the best fit if you prioritize building credit over earning rewards.
• Other travel cards may offer better perks, fewer redemption restrictions and more value, so it may be worth working on your score with a lower-cost card before committing to the costly annual fee.
• Earn 10x points on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner site
• Earn 5x points on eligible travel, dining, and gas
• Earn 1x points on all other purchases
• Redeem your reward points for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, flights, hotels, and more
• With $0 Fraud Liability, you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
• Free Online Credit Score and Credit Report summary, terms apply
• If you are a Covered Borrower under the Military Lending Act, you may get a different offer
• See Rates & Fees

Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit  AmericanExpress.com/benefitsguide  for more details. Underwritten by Amex assurance company.

The information about the American Express® Green Card and Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuers.

Compare Bankrate's best travel credit cards of 2024

What are travel credit cards.

Travel credit cards allow cardholders to earn points or miles on a variety of purchases (typically travel-related), which are redeemable for travel bookings, statement credits, gift cards and more.

The best travel credit cards do more than help you foot the bill for your next flight — travel cards also offer perks to upgrade your entire travel experience. Trip insurance , annual travel credits, concierge services and lounge access are all common benefits. Airline and hotel co-branded credit cards sometimes offer specific discounts and perks for loyalty program members.

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

Although a well-chosen travel card can pay huge dividends, it might not be the right move for every traveler. Before you apply, take time to weigh the benefits versus the drawbacks of travel credit cards .

Tips on choosing the best travel credit card for you

The right travel credit card for you will carry features and benefits that give you the best value. To help you narrow down your choices, here are the steps to choosing the best travel card.

How to choose a travel credit card

1. know how you prefer to travel.

Knowing whether your travel expenses lean toward airfare, hotel stays or a mix of other travel will help you decide whether you should get an airline card, hotel card or general-purpose travel card. A co-branded airline or hotel credit card may be a good fit if you mostly travel with a certain brand and want exclusive privileges to enhance your experience. A general-purpose travel card is better if you prefer to keep your travel options open.

2. Prioritize redemption value

You may have to pick between simplicity and maximum value when comparing cards and rewards programs. Many travel cards offer a standard point or mile redemption value of 1 cent when you redeem toward travel through the issuer portal, but some cards can get you a higher redemption value when you transfer rewards to airline or hotel partners. However, it's common for many travel reward programs to reduce the redemption value toward non-travel options or limit these redemption options altogether. If you prefer simplicity over maximizing rewards, you may want to consider cards that allow you to redeem points or miles at an equal 1-cent value toward general travel purchase credits, cash back or other non-travel options.

3. Match your card to your spending habits

Take a look at your typical spending and find which travel categories and non-travel categories you spend the most in to help you choose a card that offers a high rewards rate for your regular spending. Just make sure you factor in rewards spending caps.

4. Note what's worth the extra money

High rewards rates and valuable travel perks are the biggest reasons to get a travel card, but many of the best cards carry a high annual fee. You could stick with a no-annual-fee travel card (or at least one with around a $99 fee) if you're mainly focused on earning rewards, but you may have to pay up to $500 or more for luxurious perks like airport lounge access, comprehensive travel insurance and hundreds of dollars in annual travel credits .

5. Look toward your next trip abroad

If you travel overseas, check to see if the card you're considering charges a foreign transaction fee. And since some credit cards aren't as widely accepted as others, you'll also want to make sure your credit card will work when traveling overseas . For example, merchants may not accept Discover and American Express cards as widely as Visa and Mastercard. If a trip is coming up in the next three to six months, keep an eye out for the big sign-up bonuses travel cards are known for. As a rule of thumb, the higher the annual fee, the higher the sign-up bonus should be.

Co-branded travel cards vs. general travel cards

Experts typically divide travel credit cards into two categories: co-branded travel cards and general travel cards. Co-branded cards are linked to a particular airline or hotel, while general travel cards offer more flexible reward opportunities. Here’s why and when you might want one or the other.

• Co-branded cards
• General travel cards

Co-branded travel cards tend to offer higher rewards rates on eligible travel purchases in exchange for limiting your reward redemption options to just one airline or hotel program . These cards may also feature more specific perks associated with the respective hotel or airline, such as free award nights, complimentary airline elite status or priority boarding — which general-purpose travel cards don’t often carry).

However, you won’t be able to use your rewards with a wide variety of different hotels and airlines like general-purpose cards allow. Plus, despite co-branded travel cards’ typically higher rewards rates, many brand-specific rewards tend to be worth less than the potential value of general-purpose cards’ points and miles.

When to get a co-branded travel card : When you often fly or stay with a specific airline or hotel and want to maximize your benefits with that brand.

General travel cards earn rewards on various travel categories and aren’t limited to a particular airline or hotel. Such cards may lack some of the dedicated perks you’ll find on a co-branded travel card, such as in-flight discounts, but make up for it with rewards flexibility and broader perks like general travel credits, expedited security screening and wider airport lounge access. 

The top travel cards even let you transfer your points or miles to airline and hotel loyalty programs, often at a 1:1 rate. Redeeming with some airlines and hotels can even make your rewards more valuable than they would be if you redeemed with the card issuer.

When to get a general travel card : When you have no preferred airline or hotel and want the additional flexibility a general travel card offers. 

Who should get a travel credit card?

A travel credit card is almost always worth it for frequent travelers or anyone who wants to earn rewards toward their next vacation.

If you can save up airline miles, rack up points for free nights at hotels or get discounted travel through your credit card issuer, you’re on your way to significant travel savings. However, the right travel card for you will depend on your travel habits.

Frequent travelers

Naturally, the ideal candidate for a travel card is someone who travels a lot or plans to book several flights and hotel stays per year. However, in some cases, you don’t have to be a frequent traveler to reap the benefits of a travel rewards card. A number of cards offer good rewards rates on general purchases.

Travel beginners

If you’re new to travel rewards, a good place to start is with a travel card that makes it easy to earn and redeem points, without requiring you to navigate a complex rewards program or worry about tiered rewards rates or varying point redemption values. 

Brand loyalists

If you tend to book travel with the same brands frequently or already belong to an airline or hotel loyalty program, a co-branded travel card can offer terrific value.  Airline- and hotel-specific rewards cards often earn a top rate on bookings with the brand as well as exclusive perks like lounge access and automatic elite status. 

Business travelers

Some of the most valuable travel credit cards are business cards . Whether you're a freelancer on the go or the CEO of a Fortune 500, the right travel credit card can help you earn high rewards rates on everyday business purchases. 

International travelers

If you frequently travel abroad, a card with no foreign transaction fees is a great way to help you avoid extra costs on overseas purchases. Plus, if you hate waiting in line at airport security or customs, a lot of travel cards offer statement credits to reimburse you for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees.

Luxury travelers

Luxury travel cards often charge a pretty penny but also offer a ton of value via perks like lounge access and annual travel credits. These perks not only make travel more comfortable, but also often carry enough value to offset the card’s cost on their own.

Still unsure if a travel credit card is right for you? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.

Here’s how a Bankrate editor chose his travel card

Here’s how a bankrate editor chose his travel card.

With all of this advice in mind, let’s see how a credit card expert made their pick. Here’s Bankrate editor Nouri Zarrugh on how he chose his travel card:

When it comes to earning rewards, I’ve always stuck with cash back cards, preferring the simplicity of knowing exactly how much my rewards are worth and the ease of redeeming for statement credits. Recently, though, I decided I wanted to travel a bit more frequently, and I figured a new travel rewards card could be a great tool to help me earn free trips. When choosing the right card for me, a few major points of consideration stood out: Cost: I didn’t feel like I traveled enough to justify a huge annual fee. Simplicity : I wanted to stick with a single, streamlined travel card and not worry about juggling multiple rewards programs or rewards rates. Perks : While I didn’t need anything too fancy, I thought it might be nice to have a perk like TSA Precheck included, since I hate waiting in long airport security lines. To my surprise, the card that stood out most was the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Though it carried an intimidating annual fee of $395 ( See Rates & Fees ), I found this cost was more than worth it once I dug into the details. In fact, its benefits were so valuable, I barely needed to worry about offsetting the cost.  Two of its annual perks — a $300 Capital One travel credit and 10,000 bonus miles every year on my account anniversary — are valuable enough to offset the fee on their own. This means as long as I take one flight a year, I can basically break even on the card. Any rewards or perks I get beyond that feel like pure upside. It’s a huge bonus, then, that the card also includes practical benefits like Priority Pass lounge access and a credit of up to $100 toward the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. While I’ve never frequented airport lounges, I see these privileges as essentially free considering the value of the annual travel credit and bonus miles. So, I figure, why not take advantage?  For me, the Venture X strikes the perfect balance: A flat rewards rate that makes it easy to earn miles on everything I buy; flexible redemption through Capital One or via transfer to airlines and hotels, and practical perks I know I’ll use when I travel. I never imagined I’d have a $395 travel card in my wallet, but for me, it’s at worst a coupon for a flight every year, which can nudge me to take that next trip. — Nouri Zarrugh, Editor, Bankrate

Travel benefits may differ from card to card, but some of the most popular travel cards available often feature a few key perks. 

Travel insurance

Travel cards may offer various travel insurances , such as trip delay protection, trip cancellation insurance, lost baggage insurance or car rental insurance. These benefits aren’t worth anything until you need them, but you’ll be glad you have them when your flight is canceled or your luggage gets lost.

Travel credits

Credits toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry are a popular and common benefit on many travel cards. You can typically use this credit once every four years, which roughly corresponds to how long a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership lasts. Some cards may also provide an annual credit toward Clear Plus — another expedited security membership. Higher-end travel cards often offer annual statement credits toward travel purchases, and many of these credits nearly offset these cards’ annual fees. 

In-flight perks

Co-branded airline cards typically offer some airport and in-flight benefits on top of their reward-earning capabilities. These can include discounts on in-flight purchases (usually 25 percent back on refreshments and WiFi), free checked bags, flight seating upgrades or priority boarding. 

Free hotel award nights

Co-branded hotel cards may include free hotel award nights annually as part of their benefits. Some cards also add an extra complimentary awards night to your stay if you’ve booked a certain number of consecutive nights. These nights are typically capped at a certain value (sometimes based on the card or your elite status), and may be valuable enough to make up for some cards’ annual fees.

Airport lounge access

One of the most popular (and valuable) travel benefits featured on high-end and luxury travel cards is complimentary access to airport lounges. The lounges you gain access to depend on the card, though co-branded cards will often grant access to the lounge corresponding to the card’s airline. The Amex Platinum card currently offers the best airport lounge access .

If you want to add a credit card to your portfolio for your travel needs, knowing what cards are popular and why people like them can help steer your decision. We regularly stay abreast of these conversations online and noticed two travel cards come up regularly: the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card from American Express .

These cards shine because they offer some of the best rates on travel purchases and the most comprehensive set of benefits and perks . Despite their annual fees, what you get in return can far outweigh your costs. And the conversation around these two cards isn’t new: Is the effort of maximizing their perks worth it?

What people say about travel credit cards perks

The Sapphire Reserve is often referred to as the gold standard in travel benefits and protections, and the value of its trip insurance is a big part of that. A member of the Rick Steves Forum remarks on the value of the insurance: “It has pretty extensive coverage wherever I travel … my entire trip is covered as long as I charged any portion of the trip to my card.” This feature is unique to the Sapphire Reserve and sets it apart from other premium cards, which require you to charge your entire trip purchase to the card to have active coverage.

But using trip insurance isn’t always a simple process. As a user in the r/CreditCards forum on Reddit cautions: “Credit card travel insurance in general is very specific on what it covers, and people tend to overestimate just how useful the coverage actually is,” they write. “These are named peril policies, so unless you see your exact situation as a covered hazard the policies won't pay out.”

The Platinum Card from American Express gets a lot of buzz for reasons similar to the Sapphire Reserve. The card gives so many benefits, credits and additional perks that it’s often called a coupon book for luxury travel. But for many people, the value comes down to whether they’re willing to do the work to maximize its features. Another r/CreditCards member says they use the card’s Hilton and Marriott status boosters, rental car company loyalty program automatic status features, Centurion lounge access, hotel and airline incidental credits, membership credits and more. Using all these features helps them offset the annual fee.

While some people love maximizing the card’s features to extract  as much value as possible, others, like this Redditor, think it’s too much work:

“The only benefit the Platinum card really adds is Centurion but only to the [cardholder] … I believe the Platinum is worth [it] at least the first year for the [sign-up] bonus but then it doesn't get much use after that. Trust me the credits are really annoying to use.” — r/CreditCards user

These two premium cards stand out from the rest because they offer the most comprehensive features available to suit your travel needs and protect you from any issues that arise. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is an exceptional option to protect you from travel issues, but make sure you know the fine print. While the Amex Platinum may not be as ideal for travel protections, the credits offered more than offset its annual fee if you can put in the effort to fully maximize them.

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cardholder, your travel card should always work in your favor by offering the features and benefits you’ll actually use and that make your travels more enjoyable. But whether you’re willing to put in the effort to maximize a card’s value is something you’ll need to decide for yourself.

*The quotes and citations included on this page have been verified by our editorial team and are accurate as of the posting date. Be sure to check the issuer's website/terms and conditions for all up to date content. Outlinked content may contain views and opinions that do not reflect the views and opinions of Bankrate.

Credit card points and miles are two of the key types of credit card rewards , along with cash back. You’ll earn points and miles by making purchases with your credit card, but you can typically redeem these rewards for travel, gift cards and more — not just statement credits.

Points and miles tend to be more flexible than cash back, but since their value depends on how you redeem them — and, in the case of travel redemptions, where you’re going, when you book, your fare class and more — it may take a bit more effort to make the most of them.

What are your points and miles worth?

Since many airlines and hotels use dynamic pricing models that continually optimize airfare and room prices, it can be hard to know exactly how much your rewards are worth without doing a little math.

Luckily, you don’t need to be a travel hacker to get a sense of this idea. Before you redeem, you can check your reward redemption value by dividing the cost of a plane or hotel booking in cash by its cost in points or miles. This calculation will result in the cash value of your points or miles.

You can also compare this value to Bankrate’s latest points and miles valuations to determine if you’re getting a good deal on your redemptions. Bankrate collected data on hundreds of bookings across dozens of airline, hotel and credit card rewards programs and estimated how much each program’s rewards are worth on average .

• Airline rewards values
• Hotel rewards values
• Credit card program rewards values

The table below shows Bankrate’s estimated reward redemption value for a variety of popular airline loyalty programs. You’ll notice how widely the value varies between airlines, with some offering close to 3 cents per point in average redemption value and others struggling to meet a 1-cent-per-point value.

Keep in mind, however, that these values are averages based on a variety of fare classes, destinations, booking periods and more. For example, while Bankrate estimates Delta SkyMiles carry an average redemption value of around 1.2 cents per mile, they could be worth more or less depending on the details of your booking. 

*Based on weighted average of median point/mile values across economy and first/business class fares.

Like airline miles, hotel points fluctuate in value. The table below shows Bankrate’s estimated point values for some of the most popular hotel brands. 

As you can see, hotel points tend to be worth less than airline and credit card rewards on average, often carrying less than 1 cent per point in redemption value. That said, hotel loyalty programs sometimes offer more favorable exchange rates when you transfer rewards from a credit card rewards program. For example, you may be able to turn 1,000 credit card points into 2,000 hotel points (a 2:1 transfer ratio). 

*Based on median point values across budget, mid-tier and luxury hotel bookings.

Unlike hotel and airline rewards programs, credit card reward programs typically earn points or miles that offer a consistent redemption value when you use them with the issuer. Though the redemption value of your rewards may vary based on how you redeem, each redemption method should offer a consistent baseline value. 

Some credit card rewards programs may also allow you to transfer your points or miles to airline and hotel loyalty programs, which could boost their value considerably. For each major credit card rewards program, we estimate a baseline redemption value (assuming you book for travel with the issuer) and a Bankrate’s Value, which averages the program’s best-value transfer partners.

*Based on an average of the issuer’s five highest-value transfer partners (if available).

When to use rewards vs. cash

To demonstrate when it’s best to use your reward miles versus paying in cash, we set up this example:

We estimate American Airlines AAdvantage miles are worth 1.0 cents. If you book a seat in the main cabin on a one-way flight from Boston to Miami, and it costs either $139 or 21,500 miles, your miles are only worth $0.006 ($139 / 21,500 miles = $0.006). Since your miles for this flight are worth less than 1.0 cents, you may want to save your miles and pay cash for this flight.

But if you book a first-class seat on the same flight for $433 or 31,500 miles, your miles are now worth $0.013 ($433 / 31,500 = $0.013). Since 1.3 cents is higher than our latest valuation, you’re coming out ahead if you use your miles to pay for this flight.

Bankrate experts share their advice on using travel credit cards

It’s important to know how to maximize your rewards and perks. Otherwise, a travel card could end up being a money pit. Here are a few pointers from our experts for making the most of your travel card: 

Combine cards to maximize rewards

Knowing how much you spend in different categories and which merchants are eligible for rewards will help you earn more and build an optimized stack of rewards cards. A flat-rate card is often a great starting point to earn the same rate on every purchase you make. As you build out a rewards strategy, you can incorporate a card with bonus categories to earn even more in your highest spending areas.

Expert Insight:

“For a long time, I’ve used a combination of Chase credit cards known as the Chase trifecta for all my family’s spending…. [I] don’t typically use my Sapphire Reserve for everyday spending and bills. Since it only offers 1X points on non-bonus category spending, I use my Freedom Unlimited to make sure I earn a minimum of 1.5 percent cash back on everything I buy.” “I use each card strategically to earn as much in rewards as possible, then I pool them in my Sapphire Reserve account to redeem them for airfare, excursions, hotels and more.” — Holly D. Johnson — Award-winning personal finance writer and Bankrate contributor: Why I love the Chase Sapphire Reserve

Maximize your rewards value with transfer partners and issuer travel

Save your rewards for the most valuable redemption options. Travel points and miles often lose value toward non-travel options like cash back, so you’ll want to redeem your rewards for travel through the issuer portal for at least 1 cent per point or mile. However, transferring your rewards to the right airline or hotel partner program is usually worth the extra effort since it could net you even more value.

Expert Insight

“When I redeem my points through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, the most I can get is 1.25 cents apiece, which is pretty good. However, if I transfer them to a partner airline’s loyalty program, I will often get much more. For example, I can transfer my points to United Airlines MileagePlus and use them to pay for flights. When I do, I generally get a value of 2 or more cents per point — in line with Bankrate estimates that Chase Ultimate Rewards points are worth around 2 cents apiece on average when used with the right transfer partner.” — Margaret Wack — Personal finance expert and Bankrate contributor: Why I love the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Make the most of your travel perks

Travel benefits are one of the main reasons to get a travel card, and are often key to making up a card’s annual fee. Be sure to read the fine print to make sure you can take full advantage of these offers . For example, one card’s travel credit may apply to any travel purchase, including airfare, while another card’s may only cover costs like baggage fees or in-flight purchases. 

“This is the year to take inventory of your credit cards and make sure they’re serving you well. If you’re paying an annual fee, look for a card with recurring benefits. Whether it’s annual award nights, waived luggage fees or elite status benefits, these perks can offset your annual fee and make your travels more pleasant … Despite putting minimal spending on my Hilton Honors Amex Aspire card, I keep renewing it every year. That’s because the card provides automatic Hilton Diamond elite status, which can easily offset the $550 annual fee. Recurring card benefits like [these] can save you a lot on travel and are worth considering when shopping for a new credit card.” — Ariana Arghandewal — Travel rewards expert and Bankrate contributor: Five benefits you need from a travel credit card

Plan for the sign-up bonus

The best travel cards come with generous welcome offers, but these bonuses may require a high spend in a short timeframe. That’s why it’s important to consider whether the spending requirement fits with your typical spending habits or whether you need to plan purchases to meet the requirement. Just be sure not to overextend yourself or take on debt you can’t pay back just to earn a bonus — interest and fees can easily eat through any value you’d get.

“Keep in mind that credit card sign-up offers change often. So if you’re interested in a particular card but not blown away by its current offer (there are some for 100,000 points or more that aren’t always worth the trouble), it could be worth your while to wait for a better one.” — Ariana Arghandewal — Travel rewards expert and Bankrate contributor: 6 ways to get bigger credit card bonuses

Look out for limited-time offers, partner perks and other benefits

Keeping an eye out for limited-time offers like extraordinarily high sign-up bonuses, perks with partner services (like rideshares or delivery services) and other reward-earning opportunities is a great way to squeeze the most value from your travel card. Issuers sometimes provide shopping and travel portals and card-linked reward programs for select purchases (like for pre-paid dining or participating merchant spending), which can help you bank extra rewards.

“Keep an eye on your email inbox and rewards portal for any limited-time promotions your issuer may be offering. Many American Express cards feature Amex Offers, which lets you access perks like statement credits for spending a certain amount on specific hotels and other retailers.  Other cards, like the Capital One Venture X, also have occasional promotional offers, such as a credit for 5 percent back on VRBO rentals.” — Lori Zaino — Travel expert and Bankrate contributor: How to maximize credit cards for cheaper accommodations this holiday season

Track your spending and rewards each account statement

Track your favorite stores’ and services’ merchant category codes (MCCs) to fine-tune your spending habits for maximum rewards. If you notice your expenses changing, this practice may also help you notice whether you need to change which rewards cards you carry.

“The first step to optimizing your spending is to take the time to collect the MCCs of stores you frequently shop at. During the process, you might find that some stores in the same chain may have different MCCs, depending on their primary inventory. Even different counters or sections in the same department store may carry different MCCs. You can use this to your advantage if you know one location near you will provide a better cash back rate than the other. These “loopholes” can provide great opportunities to reap cash back on purchases that typically wouldn’t earn rewards.” — Garrett Yarbrough — Writer and credit cards expert at Bankrate: Merchant category codes: How to earn more cash back

Our data: What credit score do you need for the best travel cards?

It’s no secret that your credit score heavily influences which cards you’re likely to get approval for. But how good does your credit need to be to get the best credit cards for travel? We analyzed our data of Bankrate readers who applied for credit cards on our pages in 2023 and compared the approval rates of readers’ different credit tiers.

We found that, on average, 61.9 percent of users with excellent credit were approved for travel cards on our site. Then, an average of 39.5 percent and 19.5 percent of users with good and fair credit, respectively, got approval for travel credit cards they applied to.

If you have fair or bad credit, you still have options for travel credit cards. For example, the Credit One Bank Wander Card caters to people with fair credit — 57 percent of people with fair credit who applied on our site in 2023 were approved for this card , according to our data.

Obviously, the better your credit, the more likely you are to get the card you apply for , but other factors can affect your application. Issuers may also consider your income, recent credit applications, homeownership status and monthly rental or mortgage payment. Keep these other factors in mind with your credit score when you apply for credit cards.

Have more questions for our credit cards editors? Feel free to send us an email , find us on Facebook , or Tweet us @Bankrate .

When evaluating the best travel cards, we consider a mix of factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether cards offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards in popular categories to scoring a large sign-up bonus or high-value perks. Whenever possible, we also feature cards that are available at various credit levels and price points. 

We analyzed over 150 of the most popular cards and scored each based on its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, welcome bonus value, APR, fees, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup of the best travel cards.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key factors in our rewards card scoring methodology — our primary scoring category for travel cards — and details we considered when putting together our list of the best travel cards.  

• Flexibility 15%
• Customer experience 5%

Great rewards value

The primary criteria for a rewards-earning card’s rating is its rewards value. This includes the card’s average rewards rate, estimated annual rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value and reward redemption value.

To estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings, we first calculate its average rewards rate based on how much it earns in different bonus categories and how closely its categories align with the average person’s spending habits. In other words, we assess whether the card earns rewards at a high rate in the most popular spending categories. 

We use consumer spending data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) to get a reliable third-party measure of people’s spending habits. The most recent BLS data estimates average total spending in 2022 was $72,967 per consumer. We then narrow our focus to which purchases are likely to be put on a credit card and earn rewards, subtracting expenditures like housing, vehicle purchases and education. This gives us a total “chargeable” annual spend of around $25,500.  

This includes the following spending by category:

• Groceries: $5,700
• Dining out: $3,600
• Entertainment: $2,400
• Gas: $3,100
• Apparel and services: $1,900

Using this data, we assign a weighting to each of a card’s bonus categories. For example, a card’s grocery rewards rate receives a 22 percent weighting based on how much of the average person’s budget is spent on groceries.

We also estimate the redemption value of points or miles from various issuer, airline and hotel rewards programs.

This weighting and rewards valuation allows us to estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings — how many points or miles you’d earn with a given card if your spending was about average and you used the card for all of your purchases — as well as what those points are worth. We also use point valuations to determine a card’s sign-up bonus value

With these calculations complete, we assign each card a score based on how its average rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value, rewards rate and redemption value stack up against other rewards cards.

The better these values, the higher its score will be, making it more worthy of inclusion in our list and increasing its potential ranking.

Reasonable rates and fees

We also score cards based on how much it costs to keep them in your wallet or carry a balance. 

To start, each card is scored based on whether it offers an intro APR and how its ongoing APR compares to the rates available on other rewards cards. However, the latter rating only has a slight influence on the card’s score and whether the card is included in our list, since rewards card users generally try to avoid carrying a balance.

More important to both a card’s score and its inclusion in our list is how its annual fee influences its overall value. We consider a card’s annual fee in two ways — how it ranks relative to the fees you’ll find on other cards in the category and how it impacts a card’s overall rewards value. 

Cards with an annual fee will always be at a slight disadvantage in our scoring system since annual fees inherently cut into your rewards value. However, if a card offers terrific value via its ongoing rewards and perks, it can earn a high score and a spot in our list even if it carries a high annual fee. After all, the highest rewards rates and most valuable perks are often found on cards with annual fees. 

With this in mind, we rate a card based primarily on how its ongoing rewards value and ongoing perk value (such as annual credits or bonuses) stack up against those of other cards in the category when you subtract annual fees.

That said, we strive to include as many no-annual-fee options in our list as possible since many people would rather not worry about offsetting fees, even if a card carries impressive rewards and perks.

Redemption flexibility

Rewards cards may make it easy to earn a lot of points, miles or cash back, but how easy is it to use those rewards? After all, if it takes a ton of effort to redeem rewards or you can only redeem rewards in a couple of ways, a card may be more trouble than it’s worth. 

As such, we rate each card’s flexibility based on the restrictions it imposes on earning and redeeming rewards. We factor this rating into a card’s overall score and consider it when deciding on a card’s inclusion in our list. 

Flexibility factors include whether a card only allows you to earn a high rewards rate on only a small amount of spending or requires you to meet a certain earning threshold before you can redeem rewards. We also examine whether your points are worth less when you opt for some redemption options over others and whether a card gives you the flexibility to transfer rewards to travel partners.

Valuable perks

We also score each card’s set of features – its perks and benefits — against five tiers of features to provide a rating. 

We break down these tiers as follows:

• Tier 1 includes fewer features than even standard credit cards (for example, an ultra-streamlined card that offers basic utility and next to nothing in the way of ancillary benefits). 
• Tier 2 includes the benefits you’d expect on standard Visa or Mastercard credit cards, such as free access to your credit score, car rental insurance and $0 liability for fraudulent charges. 
• Tier 3 includes “prime card” or better-than-average card features like cellphone insurance, lost luggage insurance, concierge services and purchase protection. 
• Tier 4 includes luxury features such as airport lounge access, elite status with an airline or hotel and credits for expedited security screening membership programs. 
• Tier 5 includes the sort of exemplary benefits you’ll find on top-tier luxury cards, such as high-value travel credits, cardholder memberships and other unique and valuable perks.

In evaluating the best cards, we tend to favor cards that offer at least Tier 3 benefits, unless they include other unique features that could make up for less-impressive perks.

And since this list focuses on travel cards, we tend to favor cards that carry travel-centric features like travel insurance, airport lounge access and credits for expedited security screening, instead of more general perks like food delivery credits or shopping discounts.

More information on travel credit cards

Frequently asked questions about travel credit cards, are travel credit cards worth it.

Travel cards can be well worth it since they often have exclusive travel perks like credits for airfare, hotel stays, expedited airport security services and more, as well as complimentary airport lounge access and airline or hotel privileges. However, many of the best travel credit cards come with annual fees. It’s important to at least offset the cost of these cards by taking advantage of the various travel perks and features included on the card. 

What credit score do you need for a travel credit card?

It’s possible to get a travel credit card with bad or fair credit, but most travel rewards cards are geared toward people with good or excellent credit (a FICO score of at least 670, or a VantageScore of at least 661).

Do travel miles or points expire?

Even though many major credit cards earn rewards that don’t expire, you may lose your points and miles if your account closes or isn’t in good standing. However, some co-branded cards’ rewards may expire if you don’t earn or redeem rewards within a certain timeframe (typically 12 to 36 months after the rewards are earned).

Check out our guide to credit card rewards expiration for a thorough breakdown of several popular issuers’ policies.

Are points or miles better on a credit card?

Whether points or miles offer better value will depend on the specific rewards program and how you redeem rewards. One airline loyalty program may earn miles that offer less than 1 cent each in average redemption value while another program’s points may offer close to 3 cents each on average. Similarly, a hotel card’s points may be worth less than half of a credit card issuer’s rewards points. Some programs offer points with only average baseline redemption value but high value when transferred to a partner airline or hotel. 

Ask the experts: Is it a good idea to have multiple travel credit cards?

Thomas Nitzsche

Stephanie Zito

Erica Sandberg

Financial Educator, Debt and Credit

Whether you should have multiple travel credit cards depends on several factors, including your brand affinity, frequency of travel and ability to pay off your cards in full each month. As a credit counselor, I see many people carrying credit card debt at high interest rates while continuing to make charges to the account for the sake of earning rewards. They lose far more than they earn each month. Having more than one travel credit card could make sense for you if you’re able to maximize your earnings by strategizing spending across each card. Just take into account annual fees and actual interest paid.

Contributor, Personal Finance

If you’re up for managing multiple cards and their benefits, then there are definitely big reward payouts to be had. But if the thought of multiple cards is overwhelming, it’s also a good strategy to have one or two more flexible cards and focus on maximizing your earnings and redemptions until it becomes second nature.

Contributor, Credit Cards

Definitely! I currently have two travel credit cards. In addition to the Chase card that I use for my United Airlines purchases, I have the Capital One Venture card for all other airlines. I earn a solid amount of miles on everything I buy with it, so it's an easy go-to for non-travel related expenses.

Article sources

We use primary sources to support our work. Bankrate’s authors, reporters and editors are subject-matter experts who thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate, timely and relevant.

Global entry: Trusted traveler enrollment program . U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Accessed on June 12, 2024.

Discover International acceptance . Discover. Accessed on June 5, 2024.

“ Consumer Expenditures 2022 ,” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Accessed on June 12, 2024.

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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.