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After being cooped up at home for most of 2020 and large parts of 2021 due to the pandemic, people's itch to travel has perhaps never been greater. Air travel is expected to skyrocket this holiday season — reaching 77% from pre-pandemic days, according to industry analysts. If you're planning a vacation and looking for ways to optimize rewards and perks while traveling, here are some of the highest-rated airline credit cards for 2022.
Widely rated as one of the most popular credit cards by frequent travelers, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card offers some of the highest returns on travel and dining expenses. Cardholders earn 60,000 bonus points if they spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months after opening an account, and can redeem extra points when they book through Chase's Ultimate Rewards program. Though the card has an annual fee of $95, its handsome rewards may just make it a worthy investment.
If your main priority isn't finding perks that enable exclusive lounge access or status rewards through Delta airlines, this card could be a good option. Cardholders can earn SkyMiles (double miles on Delta purchases, at restaurants worldwide, and at restaurants and supermarkets within the U.S.). There are money-saving perks on checked-bag fees as well as in-flight purchases — a good option for those who travel frequently and spend a ton on baggage fees.
With no annual fee, this card is popular among jet-setters because it awards 1.5 miles for every $1 spent. New account members are given a bonus offer, and accrued points can be redeemed as statement credits for many types of travel and dining expenses — you can earn miles buying a cup of coffee at the airport.
If you're looking for a card that offers simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card could be a solid choice. Cardholders earn double miles on every purchase, regardless of shopping category — making it ideal for busy travelers or business owners who want to maximize miles through everyday purchases.
With the Citi Premier Card, you'll earn not just triple points on air travel and hotel expenses, but also on restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations. Earned points are flexible and can be used toward a variety of frequent-flyer programs recognized by most major airlines. Cardholders are also gifted with an annual $100 hotel savings benefit on bookings $500 or above, handy for those who travel often for business.
