When it comes to traveling with your family, there are a lot of expenses to consider—flights, accommodations, meals, and of course, the countless little things that add up along the way. That’s why finding the right travel credit card for families can be a game-changer. A great travel credit card doesn’t just help you save money; it can help you maximize rewards, get access to exclusive benefits, and make traveling more affordable overall.
But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you and your family? Let’s dive into what you should look for when choosing a travel credit card and which features matter the most for family trips.
1. Points and Rewards for Family Travel
One of the biggest benefits of using a travel credit card is the rewards you can earn. Points and miles can add up quickly, especially when you’re booking family vacations or spending on day-to-day expenses like groceries or gas. However, not all points are created equal.
Earn Miles on Every Purchase:
Look for a card that offers generous point or mile bonuses on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and gas. For example, cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® offer 2X points on travel and dining, which can quickly rack up rewards for your next vacation. This can be especially useful for families who spend a lot on food and gas while traveling.
Family-Friendly Bonus Categories:
Some cards offer higher points or miles in specific categories that families tend to spend the most in. Cards like the American Express® Gold Card offer 4X points at restaurants, which could be a huge perk for families eating out during their trips. You may also want to check if your card offers bonus categories for things like grocery stores or online shopping, as these are common expenses for families at home as well.
2. Bonus Welcome Offers
Many travel credit cards come with welcome bonuses that can be incredibly lucrative, especially when you’re planning a family trip. These bonuses typically require you to spend a certain amount within the first few months of opening the card, but the rewards can be worth it.
For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers 50,000 points as a sign-up bonus after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, which is enough for a free flight or a few nights in a hotel. Depending on how much your family spends, meeting that spending requirement can be easier than you think.
3. Family-Friendly Travel Perks and Benefits
When traveling with a family, it’s important to consider not only the points you earn but also the travel benefits that come with your card. Some travel credit cards offer benefits that can save your family money or provide more convenience during your trip.
Travel Insurance and Protection:
Having travel insurance is always a good idea, especially when you’re traveling with children. Many travel credit cards offer trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, which can help reimburse you if something unexpected happens—like a flight delay or a canceled hotel reservation. Some cards, like the Citi Premier® Card, also offer coverage for lost luggage, so if your bags get delayed or lost, you’re covered.
Airport Lounge Access:
Long airport layovers with kids can be challenging, but having access to an airport lounge can make the experience much more enjoyable. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offer Priority Pass lounge access, where your family can relax in comfortable seating, grab a snack, and enjoy free Wi-Fi. This can make the wait more tolerable and give your kids a chance to burn off some energy.
Global Entry or TSA PreCheck:
Security lines can be a nightmare with kids, but some travel credit cards offer credits toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck applications, which can expedite the process. Cards like the Platinum Card® from American Express offer up to a $100 credit for Global Entry, making it easier and faster for your family to get through security.
4. Flexible Redemption Options
When it comes to redeeming your points or miles, flexibility is key. You want a credit card that allows you to use your rewards in a way that best fits your family’s travel needs. Ideally, you should be able to redeem points for flights, hotels, car rentals, or even experiences like theme park tickets or excursions.
Transferable Points:
Some cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® or American Express® Gold Card, allow you to transfer your points to a variety of airline and hotel partners. This flexibility can be especially helpful if your family is planning to travel internationally or wants to book with a specific airline. It also gives you the opportunity to take advantage of promotions or better availability with your transfer partners.
Travel Portals and Booking Discounts:
Another option is to use your points through your card’s travel portal. For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards lets you use your points to book flights, hotels, and car rentals at a fixed rate. This can be particularly convenient if you’re looking for a one-stop-shop for booking all your family’s travel plans.
5. Foreign Transaction Fees
If you plan on traveling internationally with your family, be sure to check whether your travel credit card charges foreign transaction fees. These fees can quickly add up, especially when you’re making purchases abroad. Fortunately, many of the best travel credit cards, like the Capital One® Venture Rewards Credit Card, have no foreign transaction fees, so you can use your card without worrying about extra costs.
6. Annual Fees and Ongoing Costs
While travel credit cards offer great benefits, it’s important to keep in mind the annual fees associated with these cards. Some cards charge high annual fees, like the Platinum Card® from American Express, which has a $695 annual fee, but it also offers a ton of valuable perks. If you’re willing to pay a high annual fee, make sure the benefits you receive outweigh the costs.
For families who want a great card without the high annual fee, consider options like the Chase Sapphire Preferred®, which has a $95 annual fee and offers plenty of rewards for everyday spending and travel. It’s a more affordable option while still providing great benefits for family travelers.
7. Balance Between Rewards and Fees
Ultimately, the best travel credit card for your family will depend on the balance between rewards and fees. You want a card that offers valuable points or miles, generous travel perks, and low ongoing costs. But you also want to make sure the card fits your family’s travel style.
For instance, if you plan on traveling frequently, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® may be worth the higher annual fee, thanks to its extensive travel benefits, such as airport lounge access and travel insurance. On the other hand, if you’re just getting started with travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® offers a great entry point without the hefty fees.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right travel credit card for your family is a decision that can have a significant impact on your vacation experiences. By taking the time to understand what each card offers in terms of rewards, benefits, and costs, you can find a card that aligns with your family’s travel goals. Whether it’s earning rewards on everyday purchases, enjoying exclusive perks like airport lounge access, or saving on travel-related expenses, the right card can make your family vacations more affordable and enjoyable.
So, consider your family’s travel needs, compare different cards, and find the one that will help you make the most of your time away without breaking the bank. Happy travels!