Your Guide to the Best Airline Credit Cards in 2025

Let’s talk about airline credit cards—are they really worth it for you? If you’re someone who travels frequently, they can be a fantastic addition to your wallet, but they’re not the right fit for everyone.

Airline credit cards come with some pretty attractive perks. We’re talking about quicker access to elite status, free flights, and perks like lounge access or companion passes. Then there’s the lure of those big sign-up bonuses—who wouldn’t want a head start on miles or points?

These cards work best for those who stick to a favorite airline or fly regularly. If that’s not you, it’s easy to end up with a card that doesn’t really pay off. That’s why it’s so important to think about your travel habits and what you’d actually use. Are you flying out of an airport dominated by one airline? Do you spend enough to take advantage of the rewards? Questions like these can save you time and money.

Here’s another thing to keep in mind: general travel credit cards often offer more flexibility than airline-specific ones. So, if you’re more of an occasional traveler or like variety in how you redeem rewards, those might be a better fit. On the other hand, if you want to squeeze every benefit from your loyalty to a single airline, an airline credit card could make a lot of sense.

We’ve rounded up some of the best options out there to make your decision easier. If you’re ready to explore what these cards offer and whether one aligns with your needs, let’s get started.

Our Top Picks: Airline Credit Cards to Consider in 2025

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Best For: Comprehensive travel rewards
• Annual Fee: $395
• Variable APR: 19.99% to 29.24%
• Reward Rates: Earn between 2X and 10X miles on purchases, depending on how you use the card.
• Credit Score Needed: A recommended range of 720-850, so it’s best suited for those with strong credit.

When it comes to airline credit cards, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card deserves a spot at the top of the list. Offering 75,000 bonus miles right off the bat.

The Venture X stands out as a strong alternative to the Chase Sapphire Reserve, especially if you value simplicity when earning rewards. But where this card really wins us over is with its unique perk: you can add up to four authorized users for free. Each of them not only earns miles but also gets Priority Pass membership, which opens the doors to airport lounges for themselves and two guests.

Here’s how the rewards stack up:

• Earn 10 miles per dollar when booking hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel.
• Get 5 miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals through the same portal.
• Enjoy 2 miles per dollar on everything else you buy.

What We Like

There’s a lot to love about this card:

• The welcome bonus of 75,000 miles is a hefty reward, worth over $1,000 when transferred to travel partners or $750 if redeemed directly through Capital One Travel.
• You’ll receive 10,000 bonus miles every year on your account anniversary, which can be the extra push you need to reach your dream redemption.
• The $300 travel credit, applied to bookings made through Capital One Travel, plus the yearly bonus miles, more than offsets the $395 annual fee.
• Four free authorized users—this isn’t something you see every day.
• Access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One’s own lounges, ensures you can relax before your flight.
• Travel protections and insurance are included, giving you added confidence while exploring the world.

Things to Consider

While the Venture X is impressive, there are a few trade-offs to think about:

• The $300 travel credit only applies to bookings through Capital One’s portal, making it less versatile than some competitors.
• General travel spending earns at a lower rate compared to its performance on portal purchases.
• Transfer partners don’t include U.S.-based airlines or hotel chains, which could limit redemption options for some travelers.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• Best For: Premium perks and luxurious experiences
• Annual Fee: $550
• APR: Variable, ranging from 21.74% to 28.74%
• Rewards Rate: Earn 1X to 10X points, depending on how you spend
• Suggested Credit Range: Excellent (740–850)

Start strong with this card by earning 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. If you redeem through Chase’s Ultimate Rewards portal, those points are worth $900, making this one of the most valuable welcome offers available.

The Sapphire Reserve has built its reputation on flexibility and practicality. Whether you’re booking a trip, transferring points to one of Chase’s many partners, or just enjoying an elevated travel experience, this card has you covered. For travelers who value options, it’s a well-rounded choice.

The card’s rewards are tailored to frequent travelers and diners:

• 10X points on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel℠.
• 5X points on flights booked via Chase Travel℠.
• 3X points on dining and other travel-related purchases.
• 1X point per dollar on everything else you buy.

The rewards structure makes it easy to rack up points quickly when you’re traveling or enjoying a nice meal out.

Perks That Enhance Your Travel Experience

Beyond earning points, the Sapphire Reserve adds value to your journeys in other meaningful ways:

• $300 Annual Travel Credit: Automatically reimbursed for travel purchases each account anniversary, helping offset the card’s annual fee.
• Lounge Access: Priority Pass membership gives you entry to more than 1,300 airport lounges and restaurants worldwide.
• Flexible Point Transfers: Transfer points to a wide variety of airline and hotel loyalty programs to maximize their value.
• Exclusive Partnerships: Perks like savings with DoorDash and Lyft make the card even more versatile for everyday use.

A Few Things to Consider

While the Sapphire Reserve has plenty to offer, there are a few limitations you’ll want to weigh before applying:

• You won’t start earning points on travel purchases until the $300 travel credit is fully used.
• Unlike some luxury cards, this one doesn’t include elite hotel status as a perk.
• If you’ve opened five or more credit cards in the last two years, Chase’s 5/24 rule might prevent your application from being approved.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Best For: Newcomers exploring travel rewards
• Annual Fee: $0
• APR: Variable, ranging from 19.24% to 29.24%
• Rewards Rate: Earn between 1.25X and 5X miles per dollar spent
• Suggested Credit Range: Good to excellent (670–850)

To get you started, this card offers 20,000 bonus miles after spending just $500 within the first three months. That’s a 20% return on your initial purchases and a solid bonus for a card with no annual fee.

The VentureOne keeps things simple. With its flat-rate rewards system and a lack of annual fees, it’s an easy and risk-free way to dip your toes into the world of travel credit cards. Add in the ability to earn bonus miles on travel booked through Capital One, and you’ve got a card that’s both versatile and beginner-friendly.

This card keeps earning straightforward:

• 5X miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
• 1.25X miles per dollar on all other purchases, making it great for everyday spending.

Why We Like It

Let’s break down the highlights that make the VentureOne a solid choice:

• Flat-Rate Earning: With 1.25X miles on everything, you won’t need to track categories or spending limits. While the rate isn’t as high as some premium cards, it’s consistent and simple.
• No Annual Fee: There’s no cost to hold this card, so you can experiment with transferring points and learning the best ways to redeem them without worrying about recouping fees.
• Valuable Welcome Bonus: Those 20,000 miles can be worth $200 when redeemed through the Capital One portal—and potentially even more if transferred to a travel partner. Reaching the spending requirement is also achievable with just $500 in purchases.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: This feature makes the card a great companion for international trips, which is rare for a no-annual-fee option.

A Few Limitations to Consider

While the VentureOne is a great starter card, there are some trade-offs:

• Lower Earning Rates: Compared to premium travel cards, the rewards rate is modest, especially for big spenders.
• Limited Value for High Spenders: If you spend significantly, other cards may offer better earning potential.
• Cash Back vs. Miles: Depending on your habits, a cashback card might deliver more value overall.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

If you’re someone who loves premium perks and exclusive travel benefits, The Platinum Card® from American Express is built with you in mind.

• Best For: Premium perks and luxurious experiences
• Annual Fee: $695
• APR: Flexible “Pay Over Time” rates
• Rewards Rate: Earn up to 5X points
• Suggested Credit Range: Good to excellent (670–850)

Right off the bat, you’re greeted with a hefty welcome offer: 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points when you spend $8,000 in the first six months.

For years, the Platinum Card has been a favorite for its unbeatable perks, and while other cards have entered the luxury space, this one still holds its ground. From access to more airport lounges than you can count to elite hotel benefits, it’s packed with features for frequent travelers who value comfort.

You’ll earn points where it matters most:

• 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights you book directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (capped at $500,000 per year).
• 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked through the Amex Travel portal.

For everything else? The rewards rate isn’t as exciting, so you might want to pair it with another card for day-to-day spending.

Perks That Deliver More Than Just Points

Let’s talk about the benefits that could change how you travel:

• Hotel Credits: Get $200 back each year for prepaid stays at Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection (minimum two-night stay).
• Entertainment Credits: Enjoy $240 annually for digital subscriptions like Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.
• Lounge Access: You’ll have access to over 1,400 airport lounges across the globe—the most any card offers.
• Airline Fee Reimbursement: Pick a preferred airline and get up to $200 back for fees like checked bags.
• Uber Cash: Monthly credits add up to $200 per year for Uber rides or food delivery.
• CLEAR® Membership: Breeze through security with a membership reimbursed up to $199 annually.
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry Credit: Cover application fees for faster airport screening.
• Saks Credits: Get $100 in statement credits every year for Saks Fifth Avenue purchases, split into $50 twice a year.

What Could Be Better?

Despite its impressive offerings, this card isn’t perfect for everyone:

• The $695 annual fee is significant, and it only pays off if you maximize its benefits.
• Earning points on non-travel categories isn’t as competitive as other premium cards.
• Certain credits, like the airline fee and entertainment benefits, may feel restrictive depending on your spending habits.

Citi® | AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

• Best For: American Airlines enthusiasts who want great perks at a low cost
• Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $99
• APR: Variable, ranging from 20.74% to 29.74%
• Rewards Rate: Earn 1X to 2X AAdvantage® miles
• Recommended Credit: Good to excellent (690–850)

This card sets you up for success with 50,000 bonus AAdvantage® miles when you spend $2,500 in the first three months. That’s a value of up to $750 toward flights with American Airlines—a fantastic way to kick off your rewards journey.

The Citi® | AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® shines for those who already prefer American Airlines. Its perks make every flight easier, from free checked bags to preferred boarding, while the rewards structure aligns well with common spending categories. If you’re not looking for luxury, but want something reliable and practical, this card fits the bill.

Earning miles is simple and targeted toward everyday spending:

• 2X miles on eligible purchases with American Airlines, at gas stations, and at restaurants.
• 1 Loyalty Point for every mile you earn, helping you work toward elite status with the airline.

Perks That Add Up

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® isn’t just about earning miles—it also helps you save on travel with these handy benefits:

• Free Checked Bags: You and up to four companions on the same domestic booking get one free checked bag, a benefit that easily offsets the $99 annual fee after the first year.
• Preferred Boarding: Skip the stress and board earlier, giving you plenty of time to store your carry-on.
• In-Flight Discounts: Get 25% off food and beverages when paying with your card on American Airlines flights.
• Elite Status Boost: Every mile earned brings you closer to elite status, with Loyalty Points stacking alongside your rewards.

Consider These Limitations

While the card has plenty to offer, it’s important to keep these factors in mind:

• Limited Transfer Options: AAdvantage® miles can’t be transferred to hotels or non-partner airlines, which may restrict how you use them.
• No Premium Perks: If you’re looking for luxury benefits like lounge access, you’ll need to consider American Airlines’ higher-tier cards.

British Airways Visa Signature Card

• Best For: Earning Avios and flying with British Airways or its partners
• Annual Fee: $95
• APR: Variable, ranging from 20.74% to 27.74%
• Rewards Rate: Earn 2X to 3X Avios points
• Recommended Credit: Good to excellent (670–850)

Start strong with 75,000 Avios points after spending $5,000 in the first three months. This bonus can go a long way toward flights with British Airways or its partners like Qatar Airways and Finnair, giving you plenty of options for your next adventure.

British Airways Visa Signature Card focuses on delivering value for Avios enthusiasts. Whether you’re redeeming points for flights or taking advantage of the up to $600 credit to offset taxes and fees on UK travel, it’s a card that offers practical perks for global travelers.

Earning with this card is straightforward and tailored for travel spending:

• 3 Avios per dollar on purchases with British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL.
• 2 Avios per dollar on hotel bookings made directly with the hotel.
• 1 Avios per dollar on all other purchases.

Perks That Elevate Your Travel

Here’s what sets this card apart:

• $600 Credit for UK Travel Taxes and Fees: Offset the often hefty surcharges on flights to and from the United Kingdom, a significant benefit for transatlantic travelers.
• Flexible Avios Redemption: Use your points with British Airways or its partner airlines, giving you access to an extensive network of destinations worldwide.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Save on purchases abroad, whether you’re booking a hotel or dining out.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

While the British Airways Visa Signature Card offers plenty of value, there are a few drawbacks:

• High Taxes on Redemptions: Redeeming Avios for flights can sometimes involve steep taxes and fees, especially on British Airways routes.
• Limited Earning Categories: Elevated earning rates are focused on travel-related purchases, which might not align with all spending habits.
• Annual Fee: The $95 fee is modest, but you’ll need to ensure you’re taking advantage of the benefits to make it worthwhile.

Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Card

• Best For: Frequent Southwest fliers who want extra perks
• Annual Fee: $149
• APR: Variable, ranging from 20.74% to 27.74%
• Rewards Rate: Earn 1X to 3X points on purchases
• Recommended Credit: Good to excellent (670–850)

Earn 50,000 bonus points by spending just $1,000 within the first three months of opening your account. That’s an easily attainable goal for most budgets, and the points can help you get closer to Southwest’s coveted Companion Pass benefit.

The Southwest Priority Card strikes a balance between affordability and perks. While it doesn’t include luxury benefits like lounge access, it shines in practical ways, offering upgraded boarding, travel credits, and discounts that frequent fliers can use year-round.

This card rewards both travel and everyday spending:

• 3X points on Southwest purchases.
• 2X points on local transit, including rideshares, internet, cable, and phone services, as well as select streaming platforms.
• 2X points with Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partners.
• 1X point on everything else.

Perks That Enhance Your Southwest Experience

The Priority Card is packed with features designed for regular Southwest travelers:

• Upgraded Boardings: Enjoy four upgraded boardings annually when available, giving you a better seat selection and priority access.
• $75 Annual Travel Credit: Use this credit for any Southwest expense, from ticket costs to fees, making it a versatile benefit.
• 7,500 Annual Points Bonus: Earn bonus points each year, worth approximately $100 in Southwest travel, which can offset most of the card’s annual fee.
• In-Flight Savings: Receive a 25% discount on snacks and drinks purchased during your flight.
• Companion Pass Eligibility: Points earned with this card count toward Southwest’s Companion Pass, a benefit that lets you bring a companion for just taxes and fees on your trips.
• Elite Status Progress: Everyday spending can help you earn toward A-List and A-List Preferred status, not just your flights.

A Few Things to Consider

While this card has plenty of value, there are some limitations to keep in mind:

• Annual Fee: At $149, the fee can feel steep if you’re not using the perks regularly.
• No Lounge Access: Unlike some premium cards, this one doesn’t include access to airport lounges.
• Limited Point Flexibility: Southwest points can’t be transferred to other airlines or used with partner carriers, which might feel restrictive for some travelers.

Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card

• Best For: Regular Delta travelers looking for affordable perks
• Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $150
• APR: Variable, between 19.99% and 28.99%
• Rewards Rate: Earn between 1X and 2X miles
• Suggested Credit Range: Good to excellent (670–850)

This card starts strong with 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $2,000 within the first six months. That’s a realistic spending goal for most budgets and a nice way to jumpstart your SkyMiles balance.

The Delta SkyMiles® Gold card isn’t the flashiest option out there, but it delivers solid value for travelers who stick with Delta. With perks like a free first checked bag and 15% off award flights, the card easily pays for itself if you fly even occasionally. The earning structure is simple to follow, and the intro bonus makes it even more appealing.

How You’ll Earn Miles

• 2X miles on Delta purchases, dining at restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.), and spending at U.S. supermarkets.
• 1X mile on all other eligible purchases.

This straightforward rewards system is ideal for anyone looking to earn without juggling complicated categories.

Perks That Add Value to Your Travel

Here’s why the Delta SkyMiles® Gold card deserves your consideration:

• Free Checked Bags: Save on baggage fees for yourself and others on your booking—a benefit that can quickly justify the $150 annual fee after the first year.
• Award Travel Discount: Cardholders get 15% off when booking Delta award flights through delta.com or the Fly Delta app.
• Delta Flight Credit: Spend $10,000 annually, and you’ll earn a $200 Delta flight credit, making the card even more rewarding for regular travelers.
• First-Year Fee Waiver: Enjoy all the perks without an annual fee for the first year.
• Credit-Friendly Application: You can check if you’re approved without impacting your credit score.

What to Keep in Mind

This card offers plenty of perks, but it’s not without its drawbacks:

• Lower Miles Rate: Earning 2X miles on Delta purchases is lower compared to some premium Delta cards.
• Partner Redemption Costs: Using SkyMiles with Delta’s partners can sometimes feel overpriced, reducing their overall value.

JetBlue Plus Card

• Best For: Loyal JetBlue customers who want to maximize their rewards
• Annual Fee: $99
• APR: Variable, ranging from 20.74% to 29.99%
• Rewards Rate: Earn 1X to 6X points on purchases
• Recommended Credit: Excellent (740–850)

New cardholders can earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months. Valued at over $1,000 when redeemed for JetBlue flights, this bonus alone can more than justify the card’s $99 annual fee.

The JetBlue Plus Card is packed with benefits that make every trip more rewarding. From discounted in-flight purchases to an annual points bonus that nearly cancels out the fee, it’s a card designed to make your loyalty to JetBlue pay off.

Earning rewards is straightforward, with generous rates on JetBlue purchases and everyday spending:

• 6X points on eligible JetBlue purchases.
• 2X points at restaurants and eligible grocery stores.
• 1X point on all other purchases.

Perks That Make Every Flight Better

This card isn’t just about earning points—it’s packed with practical perks that enhance your travel experience:

• Free Checked Bags: You and up to three companions on the same reservation can check your first bag for free, saving you up to $140 per roundtrip.
• In-Flight Discounts: Enjoy 50% off select in-flight purchases, including snacks and alcoholic beverages.
• Annual Points Bonus: Each year, you’ll automatically receive 5,000 bonus points, effectively reducing the cost of the annual fee.
• Award Flight Discounts: After booking and completing a JetBlue award flight, you’ll get 10% of your points back, stretching your rewards even further.
• Vacation Package Savings: Book a JetBlue vacation package and enjoy a $100 discount.

Consider These Limitations

While the card offers great value for JetBlue fans, there are a few downsides:

• Limited Redemption Options: JetBlue points can only be redeemed with JetBlue and its sole partner, Hawaiian Airlines, making them less flexible than points from other airlines.
• JetBlue-Specific Benefits: If you’re not loyal to JetBlue, the card’s perks won’t hold as much value for you.

United℠ Explorer Credit Card

• Best For: United travelers who want useful perks without a high annual fee
• Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then $95
• APR: Variable, ranging from 21.24% to 28.24%
• Rewards Rate: Earn 1X to 2X miles on purchases
• Recommended Credit: Good to excellent (670–850)

Kick off your membership with 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months. That’s a generous offer, especially for a card with no fee in the first year.

United℠ Explorer Credit Card is built for United Airlines enthusiasts, offering practical benefits that improve your travel experience without breaking the bank. Whether it’s saving on checked bags or enjoying priority boarding, the Explorer card makes flying with United easier and more rewarding.

Here’s how your spending translates into rewards:

• 2X miles per dollar on dining, hotel stays, and United purchases.
• 1X mile per dollar on everything else.

It’s a simple earning structure that rewards frequent travelers and everyday spending alike.

Perks That Add Value to Your Flights

The United℠ Explorer Card comes with a range of benefits designed to make your trips more enjoyable:

• United Club Passes: Receive two one-time passes each year, giving you access to premium lounges—a perk worth $118 annually.
• Free Checked Bags: You and one companion get your first checked bag free on United flights, saving up to $140 on a roundtrip.
• Priority Boarding: Board earlier, giving you extra time to settle in and secure overhead storage.
• Expanded Award Availability: Book flights with miles more easily, thanks to enhanced access to United’s award space.
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit: Get up to $100 reimbursed for these time-saving programs.
• In-Flight Discounts: Enjoy 25% cash back on purchases like Wi-Fi and snacks, credited to your account.
• DoorDash DashPass Membership: A year of free DashPass adds savings on food delivery, making it a handy perk for everyday use.

A Few Things to Consider

While the card offers plenty of value, it’s not for everyone:

• Selective Perks: Features like DashPass and Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credits are great but may not be useful for everyone.
• Annual Fee Justification: After the first year, the $95 annual fee can feel steep unless you regularly take advantage of the card’s benefits.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card​

• Best For: Loyal Delta travelers who value luxury and premium perks
• Annual Fee: $650
• APR: Variable, ranging from 19.99% to 28.99%
• Rewards Rate: Earn 1X to 3X miles on purchases
• Recommended Credit: Good to excellent (670–850)

New cardholders earn 70,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 within the first six months. This bonus can take you closer to booking a memorable trip or upgrading your travel experience.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is perfect for those who frequently travel with Delta and want access to premium amenities. From complimentary lounge access to Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) boosts that help you achieve elite status faster, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve card goes beyond simple rewards to provide meaningful travel enhancements.

The earning structure is straightforward, focusing on Delta purchases:

• 3X miles per dollar on Delta purchases.
• 1X mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Perks That Make Every Flight More Comfortable

The Reserve card is loaded with features that elevate your Delta travel:

• Delta Sky Club Access: Enjoy 15 complimentary visits annually to Delta Sky Clubs starting February 2025. For unlimited visits, you’ll need to spend $75,000 or more on the card in a calendar year. Additional visits can be purchased for $50 each.
• Centurion® Lounge Access: Relax at Centurion Lounges when you book a Delta flight using your Reserve card.
• Annual Companion Certificate: Bring a companion on domestic or select international flights each year for just taxes and fees, starting at $80 for domestic trips. This perk alone can save you hundreds of dollars.
• Travel Credits: Receive up to $240 annually in statement credits for U.S. Resy restaurants and $120 for U.S. rideshare services with select providers.
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® Credit: Get reimbursed up to $100 for these time-saving programs.
• Free Checked Bags: You and companions on the same reservation can check your first bag for free on Delta flights, saving up to $60 per roundtrip per person.
• Elite Status Boosts: Earn Medallion Qualification Dollars (MQDs) and Loyalty Points faster to help you reach Delta Medallion Status.

A Few Considerations

This card’s premium perks come with a high price tag, so here are a few things to weigh:

• High Annual Fee: At $650, this card is only worth it if you regularly take advantage of its benefits or are a high spender.
• Limited Earning Potential: Outside of Delta purchases, the miles-earning rate isn’t competitive for a card in this price range.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card

• Best For: Frequent travelers on Alaska Airlines and its partners
• Annual Fee: $95
• APR: Variable, ranging from 20.74% to 28.74%
• Rewards Rate: Earn 1X to 3X miles on purchases
• Recommended Credit: Good to excellent (670–850)

Kick off your rewards journey with 70,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days. In addition, you’ll receive Alaska’s Companion Fare, which allows a companion to join you on a flight for just $99 plus taxes and fees starting at $23. Together, these benefits can easily save you over $1,200, making this one of the most valuable welcome offers available.

This card truly shines for those who frequently travel Alaska Airlines’ West Coast routes or take advantage of its extensive airline partner network. The bonus miles are versatile and valuable, and the Companion Fare can lead to significant savings on airfare.

The rewards structure is simple, focusing on travel and everyday spending:

• 3 miles per dollar on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases.
• 2 miles per dollar on gas, EV charging, cable, streaming services, and local transit, including rideshares.
• 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.

Perks That Enhance Your Travel

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® isn’t just about miles—it’s packed with valuable perks:

• Companion Fare: Every year, cardholders get a Companion Pass for $99 plus taxes and fees, allowing you to bring a companion on an Alaska Airlines flight at a significantly reduced cost.
• Free Checked Bags: You and up to six companions on the same reservation can check your first bag for free, saving up to $60 per person on roundtrip flights.
• In-Flight Discounts: Enjoy 20% back on in-flight purchases, including food and beverages.
• Global Reach: Alaska Airlines miles are highly versatile and can be redeemed with partner airlines like American Airlines, Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and British Airways, giving you access to destinations worldwide.

A Few Drawbacks to Consider

While the card offers plenty of value, there are some limitations:

• Limited Earning Categories: The rewards structure outside of Alaska Airlines purchases is less competitive, making it harder to accumulate points quickly after the welcome bonus.
• West Coast Focus: Travelers on the East Coast or in regions without Alaska Airlines service may find it challenging to maximize the card’s perks.
• Annual Fee: The $95 fee is reasonable for the value provided, but it still requires regular use of the card’s benefits to make it worthwhile.

How to Choose the Best Airline Credit Card for You

Picking the right airline credit card is all about understanding your travel patterns, spending habits, and personal preferences. What works for one traveler might not suit another, so it’s important to evaluate your options carefully. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the best choice:

1. Decide on the Right Rewards Program

Start by figuring out which type of rewards system fits your lifestyle:

• Co-Branded Airline Cards: These cards are tied to a specific airline, such as Delta or United. They’re perfect if you often fly with the same carrier, especially one that operates a hub at your local airport. For instance, Delta is a popular choice for frequent flyers in Atlanta because of its major hub there.
• General Travel Rewards Cards: If you prefer flexibility, general travel cards let you redeem points or miles for flights, hotels, rental cars, and sometimes even cashback or merchandise. They aren’t limited to a single airline, giving you more freedom to plan your trips.

2. Estimate How Quickly You’ll Earn Rewards

Look at how each card lets you earn points or miles:

• Co-branded airline cards typically reward you with higher earnings for purchases made directly with the airline, encouraging brand loyalty.
• General travel rewards cards often offer broader earning categories, giving you more opportunities to earn rewards on everyday purchases.

3. Evaluate Sign-Up Bonuses and Welcome Offers

Sign-up bonuses can provide a great head start, but make sure the card offers long-term value too.

• Check the spending requirement needed to unlock the bonus, and ensure it’s realistic for your budget.
• Don’t let an attractive bonus blind you—focus on how the card fits your overall needs.

4. Assess Redemption Value

Redemption rates can vary widely between cards:

• Many general travel cards value points at 1 cent each, while co-branded airline cards can offer anywhere from 1 cent to 5 cents per point, depending on the route, flight class, and availability.
• Some airlines provide award charts to help you calculate value, but others don’t, which can make estimating rewards trickier.

5. Factor in Annual Fees

Annual fees can impact the overall value of a card:

• Compare the fee to the benefits and rewards you expect to earn.
• A higher fee isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker if the perks—like free checked bags or lounge access—offset the cost.

6. Review Travel Perks and Benefits

Best airline credit cards often include extra perks that make traveling easier and more enjoyable:

• General Travel Cards: Perks like trip insurance, rental car coverage, lost baggage protection, and no foreign transaction fees are common.
• Co-Branded Airline Cards: These typically offer airline-specific benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, companion tickets, and lounge access, which can add significant value for frequent travelers.

How Can You Get the Most from Your Airline Credit Card?

First, take a good look at your card’s annual fee and the benefits it offers. The question you need to ask yourself is simple: do the perks you’re getting—like free checked bags, priority boarding, or a companion pass—make up for the cost of the card? If the benefits don’t align with how often or where you travel, the card may not be pulling its weight in your wallet.

Next, consider combining your airline card with a general travel rewards card. It’s a smart way to double your earning potential. Your general travel card can cover broader spending categories, while the airline-specific card focuses on flights and airline-related purchases. Together, these two cards can work in tandem to reward you both for everyday spending and for your loyalty to a specific carrier.

If climbing the loyalty tier ladder is part of your goal, you’ll want to concentrate your travel on a single airline. Loyalty pays when it comes to perks like free upgrades and preferred seating. Keep close tabs on your progress—track your flights, points, and qualifying purchases—and make sure to plan your trips strategically to hit your milestones before the calendar resets.

Finally, don’t forget to maximize bonus earning opportunities. Many airline cards reward more than just ticket purchases. Extras like in-flight meals, vacation packages, and baggage fees often qualify for bonus points. Watch out for limited-time promotions from your card issuer to give your rewards balance an extra boost. Just be mindful to avoid overspending in pursuit of rewards—sticking to your budget is just as important as maximizing your earnings.

Are Airline Credit Cards Worth It?

Absolutely, they are! But here’s the key: you need to make sure the card matches your travel habits. If you’re loyal to a specific airline, a co-branded airline card can quickly pay for itself with perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and annual bonuses. On the other hand, if you tend to mix and match airlines, you might get more value from a general travel credit card that offers flexible points.

If you’re someone who doesn’t stick to a single airline or prefers flexibility, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
is likely your best bet. With its straightforward rewards system and versatile travel benefits, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who want value without being tied to one loyalty program.