I'd like a few credit card suggestions for the purpose of generating travel rewards/points. After doing some research, I think I'd like to eventually end up with a 2-3 card rotation. But looking for suggestions for a good card to get started with. Ideally we travel 2-3 times a year with one of the trips being international every other year. Trips typically include hotel, flights, and rental car. We're somewhat flexible on travel so long as we have a month or two notice.
The only travel card I've even had is the Atmos card because I used to live in the PNW. Since I moved to PHX I haven't used any of the perks and I can't remember the last time I flew on Alaska. I say that because my plan is to cancel that card after opening something new. I hardly use the card for purchases or the companion pass so it's waste of money on the AF.
CREDIT PROFILE
* Current credit cards you are the primary account holder of:
* BOA Atmos Rewards Ascent
* Citi Costco Anywhere Visa
* Apple Card
* FICO scores with source: 827
* Oldest credit card account age: 17 yrs
* Cards approved in the past 6 months: 0
* Cards approved in the past 12 months: 0
* Cards approved in the past 24 months: 0
* Annual income $: $200k
CATEGORIES
* Ok with category-specific cards?: Yes
* Ok with rotating category cards?: No
* Estimate average monthly spend in the categories below.
* Dining $: 600
* Groceries $: 800 Groceries
400 Costco
* Gas $: 270
* Travel $: 667
* Using abroad?:
* Other categories or stores:
* Other spend: Streaming subs (Netflix, Hulu, disney, espn, prime, apple, audible, YouTube TV); Music (Apple, Sirius XM)
* Pay rent by card? No
MEMBERSHIPS & SUBSCRIPTIONS
* Amazon Prime member: Yes
* Costco or Sam's Club member: Costco
* Disney bundle subscriber: Yes
* Big bank customer: Chase
* Open to business cards: Maybe
PURPOSE
* Purpose of next card: Travel Rewards
* Travel rewards preferences: No
* Cards being considered: Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum, Bilt, Venture X Rewards
Looking to get a decent travel card rotation
byu/apollo1370 inCreditCards
Posted by apollo1370
2 Comments
How’s the local airline market? Consider getting an airline card for the carrier whose routes most speak to you from your new home.
How’s your hotel loyalty? Consider getting a hotel card for the chain you use most often. If you’re agnostic, consider collecting ~$100 annual fee hotel cards. This tier of card generally provides a free anniversary night certificate. A free night usually costs more than $100.
Since you rent cars, consider the Venture X. I think rental cars are the best use case for the $300 travel portal credit. Even after the lounge nerf, the primary CDW, low net cost (since you travel already), and Global Entry credit can still put you ahead. It’s a 2% everything card at its base point redemption (via Travel Eraser) and has access to Capital One transfer partners.
If you don’t like the idea of fronting $400, the $100 Sapphire Preferred is a popular choice. Also primary CDW, a $50 hotel portal credit that’s not too difficult to use, 3% dining, and access to Chase transfer partners.
Consider Wells Autograph with no AF or FTF. You can get cashback or use points with their travel partners.