For avid travelers, frequent flyer miles are more than just a perk; they’re a necessity. With the right credit card, you can earn miles for every dollar you spend, leading to discounted or even free flights. But with so many options on the market, which card offers the best benefits? Let’s dive into the top frequent flyer miles credit cards of 2023.
The Best Airline Credit Cards
1. BEST OVERALL: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
- Rating: 5.0 (Forbes Advisor)
- Reward Rate: Earn 2 miles per dollar on all eligible purchases and 5 miles per dollar on flights and 10 miles per dollar on select purchases.
- Welcome Bonus: 75,000 miles
- Annual Fee: $395
- Regular APR: 22.24% – 29.24% (Variable)
- Credit Score Requirement: Excellent (750 – 850)
3. BEST FOR UNITED FLYERS: United Club℠ Infinite Card
- Rating: 5.0 (Forbes Advisor)
- Reward Rate: Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases; Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel.
- Welcome Bonus: Earn 80,000 bonus miles
- Annual Fee: $525
- Regular APR: 21.74% – 28.74% Variable
- Credit Score Requirement: Excellent (750 – 850)
3. BEST NO ANNUAL FEE CARD FOR FLIGHTS: Chase Freedom Flex℠
- Rating: 5.0 (Forbes Advisor)
- Reward Rate: Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled, and 5% on travel purchased through Chase.
- Welcome Bonus: $200 bonus + 5% on Gas and Grocery (excluding Target and Walmart)
- Annual Fee: $0
- Regular APR: 20.49% – 29.24% Variable
- Credit Score Requirement: Excellent, Good (700 – 749)
4. BEST MID-TIER AIRLINE CARD: Aeroplan® Credit Card
- Rating: 4.5 (Forbes Advisor)
- Reward Rate: Earn 3x points for each dollar spent on grocery stores, and dining at restaurants including takeout and eligible delivery services.
- Welcome Bonus: Earn up to 100,000 points
- Annual Fee: $95
- Regular APR: 21.74% – 28.74% Variable
- Credit Score Requirement: Good, Excellent (700 – 749)
5. BEST MID-PRICED TRAVEL REWARDS CARD: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Rating: 4.1 (Forbes Advisor)
- Reward Rate: Earn 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining and 2x on all other travel purchases.
- Welcome Bonus: 60,000 bonus points
- Annual Fee: $95
- Regular APR: 21.49%-28.49% Variable
- Credit Score Requirement: Excellent, Good (700 – 749)
Overall the Best Frequent Flyer Miles Credit Card
After a thorough examination of the features, benefits, and costs associated with each card, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card emerges as the best overall option for frequent flyers. With its competitive reward rate, substantial welcome bonus, and reasonable annual fee, it offers the best value for travelers. Its versatility in earning miles on all eligible purchases and the added benefits for flights make it a top choice for those looking to maximize their travel rewards.
However, the best card for you will always depend on your individual spending habits, travel preferences, and financial situation. It’s essential to assess your needs and compare them with the features of each card before making a decision.
