What is the best travel card for people who don’t travel regularly?

Card Recommendation Request Forum
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Hi guys,

I’m looking for a card to complement my Fidelity 2% Visa, but I don’t travel often. I want to redeem rewards for travel, and I noticed the Marriott Bonvoy card has a generous sign-up bonus that grants 5 free nights. I could easily meet the bonus requirements with my regular spending and some upcoming house projects. However, I would likely cancel the card afterward to avoid the annual fee, as the ongoing benefits don’t appeal to me. Is it worth the potential impact on my credit score? Probably, since I don’t have any major credit needs in the near future.

Current cards:

  • Fidelity Rewards Card: $30,000 limit (since 2019)
  • Discover IT Card: $5,000 limit (since 2017)
  • FICO Experian Score: ~780
  • Oldest account age: 5 years, 11 months
  • Income: around $80k

Average monthly spend by category:

  • Amazon: $100
  • Gas: $30
  • Groceries: $500
  • Dining: $200
  • Hardware store: $100
  • Entertainment: $100
  • Big house projects: $1,000+ every few months

Open to Business Cards: No

Purpose of the next card: To surpass my 2% card in accumulating travel benefits. I’ve heard the Amex Gold offers 10x on dining and groceries, which is intriguing. I drive a hybrid, so I don’t need a gas card.

Cards of interest: Primarily travel cards, but I’m unsure which one would be worth the annual fee.

1 Like
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Most travel cards offer rewards that can be redeemed as cash back. Consider them as cash back cards where 3x points equal 3% cash back. The best card depends on your spending habits. For personalized recommendations, share your spending details on r/CreditCards.

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For infrequent travelers, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is a great option. It offers flexible rewards that can be redeemed for travel or cash back, has a reasonable annual fee, and provides strong earning potential on dining and other purchases.

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The WF Autograph is the finest 0 AF travel card since it offers three times the value in dining, petrol, and travel, in addition to transfer partners. It works great with the SavorOne for three times as much entertainment and groceries. Neither card receives an FTF.