When planning your next trip, it’s essential to know which credit cards offer airline fee credits to help you offset those extra travel expenses. Many top travel cards come with perks that can make your journey smoother by covering costs such as checked baggage, seat selection, and in-flight Wi-Fi. These credits vary from card to card, so understanding how they work and which card aligns with your travel habits is crucial.
Top Credit Cards Offering Airline Fee Credits
| Credit Card | Airline Credit | Annual Fee | How It Works | Bonus | Other Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Platinum Card® from American Express | Up to $200 annually | $695 | Select a preferred airline in advance; covers checked baggage fees, seat selection, and in-flight purchases. Does not cover airfare, upgrades, or award tickets. | Earn 80,000 points after spending $8,000 in six months. | Access to airport lounges, Uber credits, and more. |
| Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card | Up to $200 annually | $550 | Credits provided quarterly for airline incidental charges. | Earn 150,000 points after spending $6,000 in six months. | Top-tier Hilton Honors Diamond status, resort credits. |
| Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card | Up to $100 annually | $95 | Covers seat selection and baggage fees, but only on U.S. airlines. | Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in 90 days. | TSA PreCheck/Global Entry reimbursement, travel insurance. |
General Travel Credit Cards with Broader Credits
If you’re looking for more flexibility, general travel credit cards offer credits that can apply to a wide range of travel-related expenses, not just airline fees. These cards are ideal for travelers who want to maximize their rewards without being tied to one airline.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve
- Travel Credit: Up to $300 annually
- Annual Fee: $550
- How It Works: Credits can be applied to airfare, hotels, public transit, and more.
- Bonus: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in three months.
- Other Perks: Priority Pass lounge access and 3x points on travel and dining.
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
- Travel Credit: Up to $300 annually
- Annual Fee: $395
- How It Works: Credits apply to bookings made through Capital One Travel, including flights, hotels, and rental cars.
- Bonus: Earn 75,000 points after spending $4,000 in three months.
- Other Perks: 10,000 bonus miles on your anniversary and airport lounge access.
Tips for Maximizing Airline Fee Credits
- Choose the Right Airline: For cards that require selecting a preferred airline, pick one you frequently use to ensure you maximize the credits.
- Track Eligible Expenses: Familiarize yourself with the types of charges that qualify for credits, such as baggage fees and in-flight purchases.
- Plan Ahead: Some credits are issued quarterly, so plan your travel expenses accordingly to take full advantage of the benefits.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right credit card with airline fee credits can make your travel experiences smoother and more enjoyable. By selecting a card that reimburses you for common travel expenses like checked baggage and seat selection, you can significantly offset costs, relieving some financial pressure during your journeys.
Many premium credit cards offer annual fee credits ranging from $100 to $300, which can enhance their value if you frequently fly.
To maximize your benefits, it’s crucial to choose a card aligned with your preferred airline, as some cards limit fee credits to specific carriers. Understanding the terms and eligible expenses is essential too, as not all travel-related fees qualify for reimbursement.
With consumer demand growing for more flexible and transparent options, many issuers are responding by offering fewer restrictions and simpler redemption processes. This shift makes it easier for you to enjoy your travel rewards without hassle.
Ultimately, investing time in researching and comparing credit cards with airline fee credits can lead you to the best fit for your travel habits, making your adventures not just enjoyable but also more affordable.
