Rewards cards offer cash back in the form of a statement credit, direct deposit, or check. Some reward cards offer points instead of actual cash. The best rewards credit cards for a card member will depend on their spending habits. Card members can redeem these points across online shopping portals or in the form of air miles. These cash backs or reward points can vary from card to card but it could be 1% to 10% of the purchases made on the credit card.

Some people shop a lot online, whereas some people spend more on travel. Banks introduce new cards in the market depending on the shopping habit of members. These cards aim to maximize rewards for a particular customer profile. For more details about hotel-related rewards see our post on the best hotel co-branded credit cards.

Important things to consider when applying for best rewards credit cards

Here are some things to consider when choosing a rewards credit card:

1. Earning potential

Look for a credit card that offers a high earning potential.  For example, if you travel, a credit card that offers bonus rewards on travel purchases may be a good choice.

2. Redemption options

Consider the types of rewards that you value most. Choose a credit card that offers those rewards. Some credit cards offer cash back, while others offer points or miles. Card members can redeem these points or miles for travel, merchandise, or gift cards. Some credit cards offer statement credit which can be set off against purchases.

3. Annual fees

Some reward credit cards come with annual fees, which can eat into the value of your rewards. Consider whether the benefits of the credit card justify the annual fee, or if you would be better off with a card that doesn’t have an annual fee.

4. Bonus offers

Many credit cards offer sign-up bonuses or other promotional offers. Be sure to compare the value of these offers when choosing a credit card.

5. Flexibility

Look for a credit card that offers flexibility in how you can redeem your rewards. Some credit cards allow you to transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs. Some cards offer straight-up cashback in form of direct deposit. 

List of best rewards credit cards

So without further adieu let’s dive deep into the review of the best rewards credit card available in the market today.

#1 Card Name: Chase Freedom Flex Credit Card

Fees: $0 in joining and annual fees

Rewards: 5% cash back on purchases from grocery stores, gas stations, and select online merchants. 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards

APR: 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfer and purchases, 18.74% – 27.49% variable APR is applicable after that

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Chase Freedom Flex Card offers a $200 bonus on a spend of $500 in the first three months of the card approval. This card offers great rewards on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and online merchants. It also offers 5% cash back on travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards. This card also offers a 3% cash back on dining at restaurants and drugstore purchases. For the other purchases, there is a cashback of 1%. Cash back never expires on this card. This card also offers Zero Liability protection and purchase protection. Other additional offers and benefits are available from Mastercard. 

#2 Card Name: Quicksilver from Capital One

Fees: $0 in joining and annual fees, a 3% fee on the balance transfer, and $0 foreign transaction fees

Rewards: 1.5% unlimited cash back on every purchase. A sign-on cash bonus of $200 once a card member spends $500 within 3 months of opening the new credit card account

APR : 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfer and purchases, 17.99% – 27.99% variable APR is applicable after that

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this Card: Quicksilver card from Capital One offers a $200 bonus on a spend of $500 in the first three months of the card approval. This card offers an unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase. What we love about this card is its simplicity. This credit card offers cash back on all purchases without any riders. This card also offers a complimentary 6 months of UberOne membership. This card also offers unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Customers of this card also get access to exclusive members-only entertainment events and reservations at award-winning restaurants. 

#3 Card Name: Virginia Credit Union (VACU) Cash Rewards Mastercard Credit Card

Fee: $0 in annual renewal fees, foreign transaction fees, cash advances, or balance transfer fees

Rewards: 3% cash back on gas, 2% back on groceries and restaurants, and 1% on other purchases

APR: 1.99% for 18 months for all new VACU Mastercard after that a regular APR after the Introductory period of 14.74% – 25.74% 

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: VACU Mastercard is an excellent choice for a balance transfer card. It offers an introductory rate of 1.99% for 18 months for all new credit card accounts. The credit card applies no joining, cash advance, balance transfer, or annual fees. This is one of the cheapest cards with great cashback.

#4 Card Name: SavorOne Rewards from Capital One

Fee: $0 annual or foreign transaction fee, 3% fee on the amount transferred in the first 15 months of card issuance

Rewards: Unlimited 3% cash back on entertainment, dining, streaming services & grocery stores purchases

APR: 0% intro APR for purchases and balance transfer for the first 15 months and Regular APR after the Introductory period to 17.99% – 27.99% variable 

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Savor One credit card from Capital one offers excellent rewards. This credit card offers a $200 cash bonus to customers if they spend $500 in the first 3 months. This card also offers 5% unlimited cash back on travel bookings. Card members can use Capital One Travel to book hotels and taxis to avail of this offer. This card also offers 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. Capital One Entertainment is an exclusive service for Capital One customers. Customers have the option to redeem their cash back on Amazon.com or millions of online stores when checking out through PayPal payment. Finally, this credit card also offers an Uber One membership with 10% rewards on reservations using the card on Uber or Uber Eats.

#5 Card Name: Discover It Cash Back Credit Card

Fee: Annual fee of $0 and a 3% introductory balance transfer fee which increases to 5% of the balance transfer fee

Rewards: 5% cash back on purchases like amazon.com grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations up to a maximum of $1500

APR: 0% introductory APR for the first 15 months of the credit card opening and 15.74% to 26.74% Standard Variable Purchase APR after the Intro

Our Rating: 4 /5 

Pros and Cons of this card: Discover It Cash Back Credit card offers a great reward choice. Firstly, this credit card offers a 5% cash back each quarter on a selection of services. One quarter could be on Amazon.com or another could be on Pharmacies. Card members can visit the Discover website to know the applicable offers. The most compelling offer on this card is a 100% cashback match for the first year. Ultimately, this unlimited cashback matching makes this card one of the best available rewards cards. 

#6 Card Name: American Express Gold Card

Fee: Annual fee of $250 and a 3% introductory balance transfer fee which increases to 5% of the balance transfer fee

Rewards: 60,000 membership rewards points on spend of $4,000 on purchases in the first 6 months of issuing a new card 

APR: 20.24% – 27.24% variable APR

Our Rating: 4 / 5 

Pros and Cons of this card: American Express offers some of the best rewards to cardholders. This card offers a monthly $10 dining credit in selected dining outlets. On adding Gold Card to the Uber account a user gets $10 Uber Cash each month. This card also offers 4x rewards points at worldwide restaurants, delivery and takeout orders in the US, and on groceries. Card members also get 3x rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex travels. American Express also offers other features and rewards for travel, car, and insurance as part of their package. See the details on the Amex Website for complete details. 

Finally, the main drawback of this card is the high annual fee of $250. This card also has a high APR compared to other credit cards.

#7 Card Name: Wells Fargo Autograph Card

Fee: $0 of the Annual fee of $250 and a 3% introductory balance transfer fee which increases to 5% of the balance transfer fee

Rewards: 30,000 bonus points (which are worth $300) for a new card. These points accrue on spending $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months of the new card issuance. Card members earn unlimited 3x points on spend on the following categories. The categories are restaurants, travel, gas, transit, streaming services,  and phone plans. 

APR: 0% intro APR for 12 months and 19.24% – 29.24% variable APR after that

Our Rating: 3 / 5 

Pros and Cons of this card: Wells Fargo Autograph Card offers good rewards in form of bonus points on sign-on. This card also offers 3x points on purchases of groceries and other common purchases. This card help customers redeem their rewards points on travel, gift cards, or a statement credit. 

#8 Card Name: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Fee: Annual fee of $95 and a 3% introductory balance transfer fee which increases to 5% of the balance transfer fee

Rewards: 60,000 bonus points after the card member spends $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of the new card opening. These bonus points are worth $750 when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

APR: 20.24% – 27.24% variable APR

Our Rating: 4 / 5 

Pros and Cons of this card: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers rewards to the card member. The card offers $50 statement credits every anniversary year for hotel stays purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards. This card also offers 5x total points on all travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Card members can also earn 2x points on airfare, hotel booking, and taxis. Card members can earn 3x points on eligible online grocery purchases and on dining and takeout from restaurants. 

The best part about this credit card is the bonus anniversary points. Each anniversary year the card member is eligible for 10% of bonus points of the total spent in the last year. If a customer made a purchase of $10,000 in a year, they are eligible for 1,000 bonus points. This card offers discounts or membership benefits from several other companies like Doordash, Instacart, Lyft, etc.

#9 Card Name: Bank of America Unlimited Cash Rewards

Fee: $0 Annual fee of $95 and a 3% or $10 balance transfer or cash advance fees

Rewards: $200 online bonus after making at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months of new credit card opening. Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.

APR: 0% APR offers for 18 months and then a variable APR of 17.74% – 27.74% 

Our Rating: 4 / 5 

Pros and Cons of this card: Unlimited cash reward credit cards from Bank of America offer unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. This is again a very simple card with no specific limits or specific service on which the rewards are applicable. The cash backs do not expire and there is no limit. If a customer is a Preferred Program member of Bank of America, then they will qualify for a higher tier of rewards.

#10 Card Name: Citi Double Cash Credit Card

Fee: $0 Annual fee 

Rewards: 2% of cash back on purchases (1% on the purchases and 1% on the payment of dues).

APR: 20.24% – 27.24% variable APR

Our Rating: 3 / 5 

Pros and Cons of this card: Citi Double credit card offers cashback in 2 tranches. This credit card offers 1% cash back on purchase of the goods or services. Another 1% of cashback is offered on the payment of the minimum dues on time. The cashback is in the form of points. These points can be redeemed for statement credit, direct deposit, or check. Customers also have the option to redeem points on travel, amazon, or other shopping websites

Credit cards are in rage nowadays with on average every individual in the USA carrying 6-8 credit cards. As per Experion, in 2021 on average a US-based customer holds a debt of just over $5200 on their credit card. This has decreased by 1.8% compared to 2020. There are more than 170 million credit cards issued to customers in the USA alone. As the usage of credit cards is increasing, card members should focus on improving the safety and security of using them.

The usage of Credit cards or plastic money has exploded in the last 20 years. With online payments becoming increasingly popular, credit cards have emerged as a choice of payment method. Some of the popular credit cards in the market include Chase, Discover, American Express, and Visa. 

As the usage of credit cards is increasing, so are the associated thefts and frauds on credit cards. If your credit card information is stolen it may end up on the dark net. It can be used by criminals to make fraudulent purchases or sell to other criminals.

It is important to keep your credit card safe while making online purchases. Here are some tips on how to keep your credit card safe while doing online payments:

1. Use a secure payment method

When making online purchases, make sure to use a secure payment method. Use a credit card with a secure chip or a 2Factor card. Virtual payment services like PayPal, or opting for virtual credit cards can also help improve security. To know more about Virtual Credit Cards visit our post. 

2. Keep your credit card information secure

Keep your credit cards information, such as the card number, expiration date, and security code, in a safe place. Avoid sharing this information with anyone unless you are making a purchase. Avoid giving it to even a trusted family member or friend.

3. Use a unique password to improve safety and security

Use a unique password for each online account that you have, including your online shopping accounts. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts. This can make it easier for hackers to gain access to your accounts. These basic security features can help a customer protect their personal and financial information from fraudsters.

4. Use Strong passwords for your online accounts and security pins

The most common password used by people is either their date of birth or their anniversary. Always use strong passwords for all your online accounts. With hackers looking to exploit such passwords,  do not fall into the fallacy of easier passwords. Better to use difficult passwords.

Always make a habit of changing your passwords every 3 to 4 months. Use a combination of words and numbers to make up your passwords.

5. Shop at reputable websites 

Be careful about where you shop online. Only shop at reputable websites that have secure checkout processes and strong privacy policies. Avoid clicking on links from unknown sources or entering your credit card information on unsecured websites. 

Be extra vigilant that the payment you are making is for the intended service and that the website or the app is not putting any additional hold or a monthly charge on your card. Opt for virtual credit cards or virtual wallets like Venmo or Paypal to make payments on any website you do not use regularly. 

Look for the PCI seal below on the websites you are using. PCI standards are guidelines that online websites and eCommerce platforms should abide by to confirm that they either do not store credit card information or they store it in an encrypted form to prevent misuse in case of exposure.

6. Monitor your credit card statements regularly

Review your credit card statements regularly to make sure all the transactions are correct and that there are no unauthorized charges. If you notice any discrepancies, contact your credit card issuer immediately. If a customer is a vigilantes, they can flag off an unscrupulous transaction appearing on their credit cards. 

Nowadays, all credit card companies have mobile apps with notifications for any charge or transaction made on the card. Customers should keep these notifications always on and should necessarily monitor these transactions. 

7. Keep your computer and mobile and software up to date

Keep your computer and software up to date with the latest security patches and updates. This can help protect a customer’s computer from malware and other security threats that could be used to steal their credit card information. 

Always be vigilant of your mobile phone also, and keep it clean, secure, and free of malware. As more and more people access financial information over mobile phones, it is prudent to keep your mobile phone updated as well with the latest security updates and patches. People are very wary of using their laptops or computers against suspected links or messages, but this should also be extended to mobiles. Phishing attacks are much easier to target on mobile phones.

8. Avoid using your credit cards for International transactions

Banks and credit card issuers charge markup fees as high as 3-5% on international transactions. Bad actors may also lurk for potential victims and if the security of the website you are using is not top-notch, the customers end up losing their financial data. Also, any transaction in a foreign jurisdiction may not be covered by the Protection program offered by the card issuer bank. It is always better to use virtual wallets or virtual credit cards for such international transactions.

9. Avoid handing over your credit cards at restaurants or shops

If you hand over your credit card to the waiter or server, it is out of your sight and control. This can leave it vulnerable to fraud or theft. The waiter or server may copy down your credit card information or skim the card using a skimming device. Handing over your credit card can also make it easier for the restaurant to add unauthorized charges to your bill, such as tips or additional fees. This can be difficult to dispute later on, as you have already handed over your credit card and may not have a clear record of what was charged. 

It is generally safer and more convenient to avoid handing over your credit card in restaurants. Instead, you can pay with cash or a mobile payment app, which will give you more control over your payment and protect your credit card from fraud or unauthorized charges.

The safety and security of your cards are in your hands

These simple yet effective tips can help a customer use their credit cards easily, safely, and securely. Make security your major thought. Always think of Security First when accessing or using your credit cards on Public Websites. 

Secured credit cards are the best options to build credit scores over time for customers with bad credit scores. But these credit cards are also useful for people with no credit history. Due to an inherent risk associated with lending to people with fair or bad credit, these credit cards require a cash deposit as collateral. Consequently, the credit limit on a secured credit card is typically equal to the amount of the deposit.

Secured credit cards are designed for people who have bad credit or no credit history, and they can be a helpful tool for rebuilding credit. Once a user gets the secured credit card and starts paying the monthly payments. The credit card company informs the three US credit bureaus Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Undeniably, this will help to build the credit score of a customer with the credit bureaus. Consequently, this is a marathon and not a sprint, credit score may take anywhere from 18 to 36 months to go prime.

Advantages of Secured credit cards

Here are a few ways in which a secured credit card can help customers build back their credit:

1. Establishing a credit history: Firstly, If a customer has no credit history in the USA. This could be for a new adult or someone migrating to the USA. A secured credit card can help them establish a credit history. Further, these credit cards demonstrate to the credit bureaus that the customer is able to use credit responsibly. 

2. Improving credit scores: Secondly, by using a secured credit card responsibly, a card member can improve her credit score over time. This includes making on-time payments and keeping your credit utilization ratio low. The credit utilization ratio refers to the amount of credit you’re using compared to your credit limit.  It’s always a good idea not to overspend. Keep the ratio around 30%. For instance, if you have a credit card with a monthly limit of $5,000, it is a good idea to keep your total spend to less than $1,500.

3. Increase of Credit Lines: Some of the secured credit cards offer an increase in the credit limit on the card if a user makes a timely payment. For example, a card may offer an increase in credit limit by 30% or 50% if the first 10 monthly payments are on time.

4. Graduating to an unsecured credit card: Finally, after using a secured credit card responsibly for a period of time, you may be able to qualify for an unsecured credit card. It shows that the credit bureaus and credit card companies consider you creditworthy. This means that you will no longer be required to make a cash deposit as collateral, and you will have access to credit without having to put up any money upfront.

#1 CapitalOne Platinum Secure Mastercard

Joining Fees: $0 

Minimum Security: $49, $99, or $200

APR: 28.49% variable APR

Annual Fee: $0

Our Rating: 4/5

In a nutshell: Capital One Platinum Secured Credit Card offers credit lines equal to the security deposit made by the customer. Capital One reports to all three major credit bureaus. Consequently, using this card and paying on time can help a customer to build their credit score and history over time. Card members can use the secured card responsibly and over time can be eligible for unsecured cards from Credit One. There are no international transaction fees, no hidden charges, no authorization charges, and no card replacement fees. Capital One reviews the credit line of a customer in as little as six months.

#2 DiscoverIt Secured Credit Card

Joining Fees: $0 

Minimum Security: $200

APR: 26.74% variable APR

Annual Fee: $0

Our Rating: 5/5

In a nutshell: DiscoverIt Secured credit card requires a minimum $200 refundable deposit and offers the credit lines equivalent to the deposit. This card provides 2% cashback on fuel and restaurant and 1% cashback on other purchases. Discover also offers unlimited cashback matches for the first year.

Meanwhile, if a customer has a good payment history of six months, they will release the deposit. Additionally, this credit card also reports to the three major bureaus and helps build a credit score. This card offers one of the fastest six months upgrades to an unsecured credit card. Finally, the customer has to ensure a timely payment across their credit cards and on-time payment history. 

#3 Bank Americard Secured Credit Card

Joining Fees: $0 

Minimum Security: Minimum of $200 and a maximum of $5,000

APR: 25.74% variable APR

Annual Fee: $0

Our Rating: 3/5

In a nutshell: Bank of America’s Americad secured credit card offers a good choice to customers. With a minimum deposit of $200 to a maximum of $5,000, this card offers the users option to get deposits back if they are current on their payments. Americad Secured card products do not offer new account bonus offers, like a statement credit. This card also does not offer any introductory APRs.

#4 CapitalOne Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Joining Fees: $0 

Minimum Security: Minimum $200 security deposit

APR: 28.49% variable APR

Annual Fee: $0

Our Rating: 4/5

In a nutshell: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card is a good choice of credit card for people with fair credit. This card offers a 1.5% cash reward back for every transaction. As compared, to other secured credit cards, this is a credit card with a $0 annual fee and the possibility of a reward.

#5 Citi Secured MasterCard

Joining Fees: This credit card has a $0 joining and also a $0 annual fee

Minimum Security: Minimum $200 deposit to get this Citi Secured Mastercard

APR: 26.24% variable APR

Our Rating: 3/5

In a nutshell: Citi offers a secured MasterCard with a $200-$2,500 deposit. Against this deposit, they provide a matching credit limit. Citi Bank reports monthly to all three credit bureaus. This MasterCard offers account protection features like fraud alerts.

They also offer a free monthly FICO score visible online in the Citi account. Also, this card applies a hefty fee of 3% on foreign transactions. The biggest drawback of this card though is that it does not offer any rewards or cashback.

#6 U.S. Bank Cash+ Secured Visa Card

Joining Fees: This credit card has a $0 joining and also a $0 annual fee. But this credit card charges a 3% balance transfer and a 3% foreign transaction fee.

Minimum Security: US Bank Cash+ Secured Visa Card requires a deposit of $300 to $5,000

APR: 29.49% variable APR

Our Rating: 5/5

Rewards: Cardmembers earn 5% cash back on combined purchases in a quarter on 2 selected categories. This cashback is limited to the first $2,000 purchases. They can also earn a 5% cashback on pre-paid travel booked directly through the Rewards Travel Center.

Card members earn 2% cash back rewards on an eligible everyday category (Groceries, restaurants, EV charging, and gas stations). Finally, they can earn 1% cash back on the rest of their purchases.

In a nutshell: The best advantage of the US Bank Cash+ credit card is the rewards one can get on a secured credit card. Usually, secured credit cards do not provide any rewards as they help build credit scores. On the other hand, this credit card helps users not only build credit over time but also win cash rewards in their favorite categories. Cardmembers can pay bills on time and build their credit score. They can graduate with US Bank Cash+ Visa Signature card. On their graduation, they get the security deposit back.

This credit card also offers other rewards from the US Bank like Zero fraud liability. These credit cards are contactless and can be used for all contactless payments. Another, advantage of this credit card is Mobile Wallet. Members can add their credit cards to mobile wallets like Apple Pay for payments.

Disadvantages of secured credit cards

As per the above section, we know the advantages of Secured credit cards. But these cards also have some drawbacks that should be considered when applying for these secured credit cards.

1. High fees

Secured credit cards levy higher fees as compared to traditional credit cards. These fees may include an annual fee, a security deposit fee, and a processing fee. This can make it more expensive to open and maintain a secured credit card account.

A secured credit card account has a specific use case for building a credit history for users with bad credit scores. But a user should always weigh advantages in comparison to high fees. Once, a user has achieved the goal they should switch to a regular credit card.

2. Limited credit line

The credit available on a secured credit card is limited to the amount of the security deposit. This means that if a user deposits $500 with the bank, their credit limit will also be $500.

This can be problematic if the cardmembers need to make a large purchase. Further, the users can’t build up their credit by using a larger credit line. A secured credit card can also be a good card for beginners.

3. No rewards on secured credit cards

Traditional credit cards offer rewards programs, such as cashback in form of a percentage or points. Users collect these reward programs for using the card. On the other hand, secured credit cards often do not offer these types of rewards.

4. Not a long-term solution

While secured credit cards can be a good option for building or rebuilding credit, they are not a long-term solution. Eventually, a customer will need to transition to a normal credit card in order to continue building their credit and access more credit lines.

5. Interest rates

Secured credit cards may have higher interest rates than traditional credit cards. As these cards are for people with fair or bad credit, the banks or credit card companies may put higher interest on the amount. Some secured credit cards may not offer any grace or delay period. It is important to carefully read the terms and conditions of a secured credit card before applying. Always understand the interest rates and fees associated with the card before applying.

Finally, it is important to carefully consider the above drawbacks before deciding to open a secured credit card account.

In conclusion, a secured credit card is in fact great financial instrument to build a credit history or recover from a bad credit score.  But as soon as you have rebuilt your history, its better to switch to a normal rewards credit card.

Co-branded hotel credit cards are jointly issued by credit card issuers with a hotel or hotel chain. These co-branded hotel credit cards earn extra rewards in participating hotel chains. These cards are like any other credit card and can be used for everyday spending and purchases.

Co-branded hotel credit cards offer exclusive perks and benefits. For example, bonus points for the hotel stay, room upgrades, and free nights at hotels within the respective hotel chain. These credit cards may also offer travel rewards. These may include benefits such as travel insurance, car rental discounts, and exclusive access to hotel events and promotions.

We help you to compare different hotel co-branded credit cards to choose the best one. Ultimately, choosing the one that best fits your needs and travel habits is a good way to earn rewards.

Advantages of co-branded hotel credit cards

Hotel co-branded credit cards come with lots of freebies and rewards for card members. These credit cards offer great rewards to card members. For example, these rewards include bonus points, free nights, cash back, amenities at the hotel, discounted offers at restaurants, etc.

Free Nights

Firstly, these credit cards are issued with a particular chain of hotels. Popular hotel chains include Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Wyndham, and others. These hotel chains offer free reward nights either on the issuance of a new card or completing some milestones. These cards earn bonus points which are redeemable against free nights. These offers are not available in other such rewards credit cards.

Upgrades and special offers with hotel credit cards

Apart from free nights, hotel credit cards also offer other rewards. These may include room upgrades to better categories. Free breakfast buffets as part of the hotel packages. Discounted access to recreational facilities in properties like spas, gymnasiums, restaurants, etc.

Here is a curated list of some of the best credit cards available in the USA. These are co-issued by hotels and credit card issuers. 

#1 Wyndham Rewards Earner Plus Card

Fees: This credit card charges a $75 annual fee.

APR: This credit card offers 0% introductory APR for 15 months on balance transfers. The transfers should be made within 45 days of account opening. After, the Introductory APR, 19.49 – 28.74% of a variable APR is applicable.

Rewards: Card members earn 45,000 bonus points (enough for up to 6 free nights), after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn Wyndham Platinum status with privileges. For instance, late checkouts, early check-in, and car upgrades. They can earn 6 points per $1 spent on eligible purchases made at Hotels by Wyndham and also on gas purchases. Card members earn 4 points per $1 spent on eligible dining and grocery store purchases. Finally, they earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Afterward, card members receive 7,500 bonus points on each of the anniversary years. These points can be redeemed for up to one free night at participating properties.

#2 Hotels.com Rewards Visa Credit Card

Fees: This card has $0 Annual fees and no foreign transaction fees.

APR: 19.24 – 27.24% variable APR 

Rewards: Card members earn 2 rewards nights (worth $250) on spending $1,000 in the first 3 months of the new card opening.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, the rewards are in the form of stamps. Card members earn 1 stamp on spending $500. They also earn 1 stamp on booking one night on Hotels.com. They can redeem 10 stamps for a free night. Subsequently, they earn 1 night of rewards on spending $5,000 on this card. Card members can choose from 500,000 properties worldwide available on hotels.com.

Hotels.com card offers silver membership benefits at selected properties that offer free amenities. For example, free wi-fi, complimentary breakfast, and late checkouts. Finally, this card also covers trip cancellation reimbursement for a non-refundable trip 

#3 Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card

Fees: This card has an annual fee of $650.

APR: 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR.

Rewards: Card members earn 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy Bonus Points after using the new card. Card members have to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, this Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express credit card is an expensive card with $650 annual fees. But, this card offers some of the best amenities and rewards. This is a perfect co-branded hotel card with a ton of rewards.

This card offers a complimentary Elite Platinum Marriott Bonvoy status. Next, the card members also get complimentary access to American Express Experiences. This provides card members access to exclusive events in sports, music, and theatres.

Furthermore, the members earn 6x points for all the spending in participating Marriott Bonvoy hotel. Card members also earn 3x points on restaurants and airline tickets. They earn 2x points on every other purchase using this credit card. They also receive $25 in statement credits for purchases against restaurant spending.

Card members earn 1 Free night on their card anniversary in Marriott Bonvoy properties. They also get $100 in property credit on making bookings in Marriott hotels for 2 or more nights. They can earn $100 in statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. This credit card also provides access to Priority Pass membership with access to 1200 lounges at airports worldwide.

Evidently, this card offers one of the best deals in comparison to the annual membership fees that it levies.

#4 Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Fees: This credit card charges $450 in annual fees.

APR: 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR.

Rewards: Card members also earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points. They have to spend $4,000 in purchases on this credit card within the first 3 months of the credit card membership.

Our Rating: 5 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Firstly, this credit card offers complimentary Diamond status in Hilton Honors membership program. Next, the card members earn one free night on the anniversary of the card. They can also earn an additional free night on spending $60,000 in a year.

Card members also get $250 in statement credits against purchases made in the Hilton Resorts and hotels. They also get $250 statement credits against incidental charges on one selected airline in a calendar year. This is a good reward to earn back any charges like excess baggage, gate charges, or others charged on this card.

Card members earn 14x points on eligible purchases in the Hilton hotels and resorts portfolio. They also earn 7x points on eligible travels booked through AmexTravel and on dining in US restaurants. For the rest of the eligible purchases, they earn 3x points.

Finally, this card also offers Priority Pass Select membership for Primary cardholders and one accompanying guest. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card offers some of the best rewards in its category.

#5 IHG Rewards Premier Credit Card

Fees: This credit card has a $99 annual fee.

APR: 20.24 – 27.24% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn 140,000 Bonus Points on spending $3,000 in the first 3 months from account opening.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: This card elevates the current status of the cardholder to IHG Platinum Elite status. Card members earn 10x points while booking stays in IHG properties worldwide. They also earn 5x points on travel, hotels, gas stations, and restaurants. For, the rest of the purchases card members earn 3X points for every dollar spent.

Further, on redeeming 3 consecutive nights at a property the card members receive the 4th night free at the same property. They can also redeem statement credit of up to $100 spent on Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus. Card members also get $50 in United Travel cash each calendar year.

Card members also receive one anniversary night free every year. Further, there is trip cancellation insurance offered on this card.

#6 Best Western Rewards Mastercard from First National Bank of Omaha

Fees: This card charges an $89 annual fee.

APR: 20.99 – 27.99% variable APR.

Rewards: Card members can earn up to 140,000 bonus points (worth 8 free nights). They get 100,000 points on spending $3,000 in the first 3 months. They get 40,000 points on spending $5,000 in the first anniversary year.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members earn 20 points on spending $1 in Best Western Hotels. Though they earn 10 points as a Best Western member and 10 points on using this credit card. So, a valid membership of Best Western hotels is essential to get maximum rewards.

Card members also earn 2 points on $1 spent on other purchases. Further, they are entitled to a 10% discount from Best Western Hotels. Card members get an elevated Platinum status in the Best Western Rewards program. They also get early check-in and late check-outs.

#7 World of Hyatt 

Fees: Card members get this card for a $95 annual fee.

APR: 20.24 – 27.24% variable APR.

Rewards: 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members also earn 2 bonus points on every $1 spent in the first 6 months up to a total spend of $15,000. They earn 4 Bonus Points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels. They also earn 5 Points from Hyatt per eligible $1 spent for being a World of Hyatt member.

Card members earn 2 bonus points on $1 at restaurants, fitness clubs, gym memberships, taxis, local riding, and airline tickets. They also get one free night every year on the card anniversary. Additional free night every year on spending $15,000 in a calendar year.

#8 Disney Premier Visa Card

Fees: $49 annual fee

APR: 17.74%‐26.74% variable APR

Rewards: Card members earn a $300 statement credit after they spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Our Rating: 3 / 5

Pros and Cons of this card: Card members can earn 5% in Disney Rewards Dollars on card purchases made directly at DisneyPlus.com, Hulu.com, or ESPNPlus.com. This card offers a 0% promotional APR for 6 months on select Disney vacation packages.

Card members get 2% rewards on gas stations, grocery, restaurants, and most other Disney locations. They can redeem Rewards Dollars toward Disney vacations. 10% discounts on select merchandise and at restaurants at Disneyland and Disney world resorts.

Disadvantages of hotel credit cards

Though the hotel’s co-branded credit cards have some of the best rewards available. These rewards are limited to hotel properties of these hotel chains. Usually, large hotel chains from five-star or four-star offer these credit cards. Budget, business, or boutique hotels rarely have such offerings of credit cards.

Some of the top rewards on offer with these cards, make sense for frequent travelers only. Hotel co-branded credit cards usually carry an annual fee. In conclusion, if you prefer a particular hotel chain for your travel, it makes sense to apply for a co-branded credit card offered by the hotel.