THE TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS WE ACTUALLY USE
Last updated: August 2026 | Benefits and fees reviewed
We’ve spent years traveling internationally for our retreats, and we’ve learned that the right travel credit card can make a big difference. These are the cards we personally use, recommend, or believe are worth considering.
Beyond dedicated travel insurance, premium travel credit cards can provide an additional layer of travel benefits and protection. Depending on the card, these may include trip delay and cancellation coverage, baggage protection, rental car coverage, airport lounge access, hotel benefits, and travel rewards.
Always review the card issuer’s current Guide to Benefits to understand exactly what is covered and what requirements apply.
Disclaimer: Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you apply through them, at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products and services that we personally use, and believe provide value to our traveling veterinarian community. The information provided here is for educational purposes only, not professional financial advice. All credit card decisions should be made based on your own research.
🥇 Best Overall
Chase Sapphire Reserve
Best for: Frequent travelers who want flexible points + premium travel benefits
Annual fee: $795
Why we like it:
- – Strong travel rewards
- – Airport lounge access
- – Travel protections
- – Flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points
- – Useful travel credits
Our take: We think the Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of the best all-around travel cards for frequent travelers. It combines strong travel rewards, extensive airport lounge access, valuable travel protections, and a flexible points program. The $795 annual fee is significant, but frequent travelers who take advantage of the card’s travel credits and benefits can get substantial value from it. We particularly like it for international travel because of its broad travel benefits and lack of foreign transaction fees
🥈 Best for Business Travelers
Amex Business Platinum
Best for: Business Travelers
$895 annual fee
Why we like it
- – Extensive lounge network
- – Business travel benefits
- – Hotel/travel credits
- – Membership Rewards
- – Business-focused perks
Our take: The Amex Business Platinum is a premium card designed for people who travel frequently and can take advantage of its many benefits. We especially like it for business owners and professionals who spend a lot of time traveling for work. The extensive airport lounge access is a major advantage, and the card offers a wide range of travel and business credits. With an $895 annual fee, however, it’s not a card we’d recommend to everyone. It’s best suited for frequent travelers who can realistically use enough of the benefits to justify the cost.
🥉 Best Premium Value
Capital one Venture X
Best Premium Card for Value
$395 annual fee
Why we like it
- – $300 annual travel credit
- – 10,000 anniversary miles
- – Lounge access
- – 2X miles on everyday – spending
- – Lower annual fee
Capital One currently confirms those core benefits.
Our take: The Venture X is very interesting for travelers who want premium benefits without paying an $800–$900 annual fee. With a $395 annual fee, a $300 annual Capital One Travel credit, 10,000 anniversary miles, and access to Capital One and Priority Pass lounges, it’s a very compelling value for frequent travelers. We also like the simple 2X miles on everyday purchases, which makes the card easy to use even when you’re not traveling. For someone who wants premium travel benefits while keeping the annual fee relatively low, this is an excellent option.
We personally have and use Chase Sapphire and Amex.
Note: Don’t forget to review your personal credit card benefits as well, as many premium cards include built-in travel protections such as trip cancellation or baggage insurance for example that can complement your standalone policy. Credit card benefits, fees, rewards, and offers can change. Please verify current terms directly with the card issuer before applying.
If you want to know more about the specific travel insurance policies we look for, you can read our Full Travel Insurance Guide here.