Bank of america travel rewards trip insurance

This page is a marketplace where our partners can highlight their current card offers. The reviews and insights represented are editorial, but the order in which cards appear on the page may be influenced by compensation we may receive from our partners.

Travel insurance can save you a lot of money if something goes wrong on a trip. Luckily, some of the top travel rewards cards offer travel insurance when you pay for travel with your card. See the best credit cards for travel insurance from our partners below.

Rewards Rates

2 - 5X points

Rewards Rates

  • 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • 3x 3x on dining.
  • 2x 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.

Intro Offer

60,000 points

Recommended Credit

670-850

Excellent/Good

Why We Chose It

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners.

Pros

  • You’ll earn 2x Ultimate Rewards points on travel and 3x Ultimate Rewards points dining including eligible delivery services and takeout.
  • Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.

Cons

  • The card comes with a $95 annual fee.

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining and 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • With Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 25% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.

Pros

  • You’ll earn 2x Ultimate Rewards points on travel and 3x Ultimate Rewards points dining including eligible delivery services and takeout.
  • Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.

Cons

  • The card comes with a $95 annual fee.

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining and 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • With Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 25% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.

Pros

  • You’ll earn 2x Ultimate Rewards points on travel and 3x Ultimate Rewards points dining including eligible delivery services and takeout.
  • Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.

Cons

  • The card comes with a $95 annual fee.

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining and 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • With Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 25% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.

Rewards Rates

1 - 10X points

Rewards Rates

  • 10x Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • 5x Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • 3x Earn 3x points on other travel and dining.
  • 1x Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases

Intro Offer

80,000 points

Recommended Credit

740-850

Excellent

Why We Chose It

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, generous 3x on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card.

Pros

  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year
  • Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners: 10 airline and three hotel programs
  • Unlimited 3x on the broad category of travel and dining
  • 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Ultimate Reward

Cons

  • Steep initial $550 annual fee
  • May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently

  • Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 80,000 points are worth $1,200 toward travel
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more

Pros

  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year
  • Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners: 10 airline and three hotel programs
  • Unlimited 3x on the broad category of travel and dining
  • 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Ultimate Reward

Cons

  • Steep initial $550 annual fee
  • May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently

  • Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 80,000 points are worth $1,200 toward travel
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more

Pros

  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year
  • Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners: 10 airline and three hotel programs
  • Unlimited 3x on the broad category of travel and dining
  • 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Ultimate Reward

Cons

  • Steep initial $550 annual fee
  • May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently

  • Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 80,000 points are worth $1,200 toward travel
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more

Rewards Rates

1 - 5X points

Rewards Rates

  • 5X Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com
  • 1.5X Earn 1.5X points on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year
  • 1X 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.

Intro Offer

150,000 points

150,000 points

120,000 points

Recommended Credit

670-850

Good, Excellent

Why We Chose It

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more.

Pros

  • Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years
  • Up to $400 annual credit for eligible U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
  • Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels (enrollment required)
  • Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection
  • Extended warranty protection
  • International Airline Program and Cruise Privileges Program

Cons

  • Steep $695 annual fee
  • Difficulty meeting $15,000 welcome offer for smaller businesses
  • Limited high bonus categories outside of travel

  • The Points Guy Exclusive Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for checked baggage fees, lounge day passes, and more at one selected airline.
  • $189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership. CLEAR® is available at more than 50 U.S. airports and stadiums.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more lounge location options than any other credit card on the market as of 9/2021.
  • $695 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Pros

  • Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years
  • Up to $400 annual credit for eligible U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
  • Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels (enrollment required)
  • Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection
  • Extended warranty protection
  • International Airline Program and Cruise Privileges Program

Cons

  • Steep $695 annual fee
  • Difficulty meeting $15,000 welcome offer for smaller businesses
  • Limited high bonus categories outside of travel

  • The Points Guy Exclusive Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for checked baggage fees, lounge day passes, and more at one selected airline.
  • $189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership. CLEAR® is available at more than 50 U.S. airports and stadiums.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more lounge location options than any other credit card on the market as of 9/2021.
  • $695 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Pros

  • Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years
  • Up to $400 annual credit for eligible U.S. Dell purchases (enrollment required)
  • Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels (enrollment required)
  • Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection
  • Extended warranty protection
  • International Airline Program and Cruise Privileges Program

Cons

  • Steep $695 annual fee
  • Difficulty meeting $15,000 welcome offer for smaller businesses
  • Limited high bonus categories outside of travel

  • The Points Guy Exclusive Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for checked baggage fees, lounge day passes, and more at one selected airline.
  • $189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership. CLEAR® is available at more than 50 U.S. airports and stadiums.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more lounge location options than any other credit card on the market as of 9/2021.
  • $695 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Rewards Rates

1 - 3X points

Rewards Rates

  • 3X Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
  • 1X Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn

Intro Offer

100,000 points

Recommended Credit

670-850

Good, Excellent

Why We Chose It

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees.

Pros

  • One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $15,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening
  • Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption
  • Reasonable $95 annual fee
  • Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners: primary car insurance, and perks including cellphone and purchase protection, extended warranty, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and trip delay reimbursement;

Cons

  • High spending needed to get 100,000-point sign-up bonus
  • No travel perks
  • Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications

  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

Pros

  • One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $15,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening
  • Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption
  • Reasonable $95 annual fee
  • Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners: primary car insurance, and perks including cellphone and purchase protection, extended warranty, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and trip delay reimbursement;

Cons

  • High spending needed to get 100,000-point sign-up bonus
  • No travel perks
  • Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications

  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

Pros

  • One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $15,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening
  • Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption
  • Reasonable $95 annual fee
  • Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners: primary car insurance, and perks including cellphone and purchase protection, extended warranty, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and trip delay reimbursement;

Cons

  • High spending needed to get 100,000-point sign-up bonus
  • No travel perks
  • Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications

  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.

Rewards Rates

  • 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
  • 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.

Intro Offer

Earn 80,000 points

Recommended Credit

670-850

Excellent/Good

Why We Chose It

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee.

Pros

  • The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at 1,600.
  • This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and at least $500 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more (enrollment required)
  • The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway

Cons

  • The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost
  • Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories
  • The annual airline fee credit can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards

  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.
  • American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
  • Get up to $300 back per calendar year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.
  • Breeze through security with CLEAR® lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. Learn more.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Pros

  • The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at 1,600.
  • This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and at least $500 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more (enrollment required)
  • The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway

Cons

  • The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost
  • Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories
  • The annual airline fee credit can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards

  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.
  • American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
  • Get up to $300 back per calendar year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.
  • Breeze through security with CLEAR® lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. Learn more.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Pros

  • The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at 1,600.
  • This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and at least $500 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more (enrollment required)
  • The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway

Cons

  • The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost
  • Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories
  • The annual airline fee credit can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards

  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.
  • American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
  • Get up to $300 back per calendar year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card. Enrollment required. Learn more.
  • Breeze through security with CLEAR® lanes available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your membership when you use your Card. Learn more.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Rewards Rates

1 - 3X points

Rewards Rates

  • 3X Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
  • 1X Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.

Recommended Credit

670-850

Excellent/Good

Why We Chose It

The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is the premier choice for Delta loyalists who value an accelerated path to elite status, Delta SkyClubs lounge access, an annual companion certificate and strong earning rates on Delta purchases.

Pros

  • MQD waiver each year that you spend $25,000 on the card
  • $100 statement credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
  • Delta SkyClub access when flying Delta

Cons

  • High annual fee of $550
  • Lower fee Delta cobranded cards offer superior earning categories

  • Earn 50,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • Earn up to 60,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) With Status Boost® per year. You can earn 15,000 MQMs after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion® Status.
  • Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Complimentary access into the Delta Sky Club® for you when travelling on a Delta flight.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Authorized Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
  • Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $550 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Pros

  • MQD waiver each year that you spend $25,000 on the card
  • $100 statement credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
  • Delta SkyClub access when flying Delta

Cons

  • High annual fee of $550
  • Lower fee Delta cobranded cards offer superior earning categories

  • Earn 50,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • Earn up to 60,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) With Status Boost® per year. You can earn 15,000 MQMs after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion® Status.
  • Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Complimentary access into the Delta Sky Club® for you when travelling on a Delta flight.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Authorized Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
  • Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $550 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Pros

  • MQD waiver each year that you spend $25,000 on the card
  • $100 statement credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
  • Delta SkyClub access when flying Delta

Cons

  • High annual fee of $550
  • Lower fee Delta cobranded cards offer superior earning categories

  • Earn 50,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
  • Earn up to 60,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) With Status Boost® per year. You can earn 15,000 MQMs after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, up to four times per year getting you closer to Medallion® Status.
  • Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • Complimentary access into the Delta Sky Club® for you when travelling on a Delta flight.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Authorized Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
  • Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $550 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.
  • See Rates & Fees

Rewards Rates

1 - 4X points

Rewards Rates

  • 4X Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus®, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges.
  • 2X Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel
  • 2X Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services
  • 1X Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases

Intro Offer

Earn 100,000 bonus miles

Recommended Credit

740-850

Excellent

Why We Chose It

Only the United Club Infinite Card grants you complimentary United Club lounge membership, worth up to $650 per year. Although this card comes with a steep $525 annual fee, the lounge benefit alone can more than cover this annual cost. Not to mention the other ongoing perks of this card, from two free checked bags and up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck. For frequent United flyers, this card can provide tons of value each year.

Pros

  • Earn 4x on United purchases; 2x on travel and dining; 1x on everything else
  • United Club℠ membership for you and your eligible travel companions at all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance lounges worldwide
  • Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry/TSA Precheck application every four years
  • Free first and second checked bags for you and one travel companion on the same reservation
  • 25% inflight purchase statement credit

Cons

  • High $525 annual fee

  • Earn 100,000 bonus miles.
  • Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus®, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges.
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
  • Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip. Terms Apply
  • Get one-year complimentary DashPass, a membership for both DoorDash and Caviar that provides unlimited deliveries with $0 delivery fees and lower service fees on eligible orders. After that, you are automatically enrolled in DashPass at the current monthly rate. Activate by 12/31/24.

Pros

  • Earn 4x on United purchases; 2x on travel and dining; 1x on everything else
  • United Club℠ membership for you and your eligible travel companions at all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance lounges worldwide
  • Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry/TSA Precheck application every four years
  • Free first and second checked bags for you and one travel companion on the same reservation
  • 25% inflight purchase statement credit

Cons

  • High $525 annual fee

  • Earn 100,000 bonus miles.
  • Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus®, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges.
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
  • Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip. Terms Apply
  • Get one-year complimentary DashPass, a membership for both DoorDash and Caviar that provides unlimited deliveries with $0 delivery fees and lower service fees on eligible orders. After that, you are automatically enrolled in DashPass at the current monthly rate. Activate by 12/31/24.

Pros

  • Earn 4x on United purchases; 2x on travel and dining; 1x on everything else
  • United Club℠ membership for you and your eligible travel companions at all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance lounges worldwide
  • Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry/TSA Precheck application every four years
  • Free first and second checked bags for you and one travel companion on the same reservation
  • 25% inflight purchase statement credit

Cons

  • High $525 annual fee

  • Earn 100,000 bonus miles.
  • Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus®, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges.
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
  • Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip. Terms Apply
  • Get one-year complimentary DashPass, a membership for both DoorDash and Caviar that provides unlimited deliveries with $0 delivery fees and lower service fees on eligible orders. After that, you are automatically enrolled in DashPass at the current monthly rate. Activate by 12/31/24.

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Best credit cards with travel insurance

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Card Best for Welcome Offer/Sign Up Bonus Earning Rate Annual Fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Best sub-$100 annual fee card 60,000 points
  • 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • 3x on dining.
  • 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.
$95
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card Best business card 100,000 points
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
  • Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn
$95
The Platinum Card® from American Express Best for flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel Earn 80,000 points
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
$695
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express Best for business travel booked with Amex Travel 150,000 points
  • Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com
  • Earn 1.5X points on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year
  • 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
$695
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Best for Delta loyalists 50,000 miles
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
  • Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
$550
Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card Best for Bank of America Preferred Rewards members 50,000 points
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases
  • Unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
$95
United Club℠ Infinite Card Best for United loyalists Earn 100,000 bonus miles
  • Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus®, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges.
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel
  • Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services
  • Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
$525
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Best overall card 80,000 points
  • Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Earn 3x points on other travel and dining.
  • Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
$550

Types of travel insurance you can get from a credit card

Many of the best travel rewards cards offer travel insurance when you use your card to purchase travel. Although some cards will provide coverage even if you only pay taxes and fees on an award ticket, some cards require you to pay for your entire trip with the card. See the links below for more information on the types of travel insurance offered by select cards and the best cards for each kind of insurance:

  • Baggage delay protection
  • Lost/damaged baggage protection
  • Trip delay reimbursement
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection
  • Medical evacuation benefit and travel accident insurance
  • Emergency medical and dental benefit (offered by the Chase Sapphire Reserve)
  • Rental car coverage

As you’ll notice in this guide, the types and levels of protection vary significantly across credit cards. And most protections have exclusions or limitations. So be sure to read the guide to benefits on your card before assuming something or someone will be covered.

Related: TPG’s comprehensive guide to independent travel insurance — including coronavirus coverage

Now let’s take a closer look at each card to determine how you can use these perks when things go wrong on a trip.

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Bank of america travel rewards trip insurance
(Photo by Wyatt Smith/The Points Guy)

Sign-up bonus: Earn 80,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Based on TPG’s valuations, this bonus is worth $1,600.

Rewards: 10x on Lyft rides through March 2025; 3x on dining and travel; 1x on everything else

Travel insurance:

  • Baggage delay: Up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to five days if a passenger carrier delays your baggage more than six hours
  • Lost/damaged baggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger per trip, but only up to $500 per passenger for jewelry and watches and up to $500 per passenger for cameras and other electronic equipment
  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per ticket if you’re delayed more than six hours or require an overnight stay
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses
  • Medical evacuation benefit: Up to $100,000 for necessary emergency evacuation and transportation when on a trip of five to 60 days and traveling more than 100 miles from home (100-mile requirement waived for New York residents)
  • Travel accident insurance: Accidental death or dismemberment coverage of up to $100,000 (up to $1,000,000 for common carrier travel)
  • Emergency medical and dental benefit: Up to $2,500 for medical expenses (subject to a $50 deductible) when on a trip arranged by a travel agency and traveling more than 100 miles from home (100-mile requirement waived for New York residents)
  • Rental car coverage: Primary coverage for damages caused by theft or collision up to $75,000 on rentals of 31 days or less

Annual fee: $550 ($75 for each authorized user)

The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on all travel purchases. Due to its 6% return and excellent travel protections, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is my go-to card for travel expenses. Plus, the Chase Sapphire Reserve provides protections on award tickets even when I only charge the award’s taxes and fees to the card.

To learn more, check out the full Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card review and guide to benefits. If you decide to apply, here’s the official application link: Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Related: The power of the Chase Trifecta: Sapphire Reserve, Ink Preferred and Freedom Unlimited

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.  Based on TPG’s valuations, this bonus is worth $1,200.

Rewards: 5x total points on all travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out, 3x points on select streaming services, 3x points on online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs), 2x points on all other travel, 1x point on all other purchases

Travel insurance:

  • Baggage delay: Up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to five days if a common carrier delays your baggage more than six hours
  • Lost/damaged baggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger per trip, but only up to $500 per passenger for jewelry and watches and up to $500 per passenger for cameras and other electronic equipment
  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per ticket if you’re delayed more than 12 hours or require an overnight stay
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses
  • Travel accident insurance: Accidental death or dismemberment coverage of up to $100,000 (up to $500,000 for common carrier travel)
  • Rental car coverage: Primary coverage for damages caused by theft or collision up to the actual cash value of most rented cars on rentals of 31 days or less

Annual fee: $95

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is one of the best travel rewards credit cards for the average traveler. Although a 4% return on travel purchases (not booked through the Chase portal) isn’t fantastic, it’s still respectable considering the card’s modest $95 annual fee and travel protections. As with the Chase Sapphire Reserve, you’ll get coverage on award tickets even when you only use your Chase Sapphire Preferred to pay the taxes and fees.

To learn more, check out our Chase Sapphire Preferred review and the complete guide to benefits. And here’s the official application link: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

Related: Five reasons why the Chase Sapphire Preferred should be your first card

Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Sign-up bonus: Earn 100,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Based on TPG’s valuations, this bonus is worth $2,000.

Rewards: 3x on the first $150,000 spent each account year in combined purchases on travel, shipping purchases, internet, cable and phone services and advertising purchases with social media sites and search engines; 1x on everything else

Travel insurance:

  • Baggage delay: Up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to five days if a common carrier delays your baggage more than six hours
  • Lost/damaged baggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger per trip, but only up to $500 per passenger for jewelry and watches and up to $500 per passenger for cameras and other electronic equipment
  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per ticket if you’re delayed more than 12 hours or require an overnight stay
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $5,000 per person and $10,000 per trip for pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses
  • Travel accident insurance: Accidental death or dismemberment coverage of up to $100,000 (up to $500,000 for common carrier travel)
  • Rental car coverage: Primary coverage (except when renting for personal reasons in your country of residence, in which case coverage is secondary) for damages caused by theft or collision up to the actual cash value of most rented cars on rentals of 31 days or less

Annual fee: $95

The Ink Business Preferred is one of the best business travel rewards cards on the market. It earns a 6% return on the first $150,000 spent in select categories, which is excellent considering the card’s $95 annual fee and travel protections. As with other Chase cards, you’ll be protected on award tickets as long as you use your Ink Business Preferred to pay the taxes and fees.

To learn more, check out the full Ink Business Preferred Credit Card review. And here’s the official application link: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.

Related: Five reasons to get the Chase Ink Business Preferred credit card

United Club Infinite Card

Bank of america travel rewards trip insurance
(Photo by Eric Helgas/The Points Guy)

Sign-up bonus: Earn 100,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Based on TPG’s valuations, this bonus is worth $1,210.

Rewards: 4x on purchases with United; 2x at restaurants (including eligible delivery services), and on other travel; 1x on everything else

Travel insurance:

  • Baggage delay: Up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to three days if a common carrier delays your baggage more than six hours
  • Lost/damaged baggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger per trip, but only up to $500 per passenger for jewelry and watches and up to $500 per passenger for cameras and other electronic equipment
  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per ticket if you’re delayed more than 12 hours or require an overnight stay
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses
  • Rental car coverage: Primary coverage for damages caused by theft or collision up to the actual cash value of most rented cars on rentals of 31 days or less

Annual fee: $525

The United Club Infinite Card provides decent travel protections, a 5.2% return on purchases with United and a United Club membership. But, its 2.6% return on other travel purchases and 1.3% return on all other purchases means you’ll earn rewards slowly. As with other Chase-issued cards, you’ll be protected on award tickets even when you only use your United Club Infinite Card to pay the taxes and fees.

To learn more, check out the full United Club Infinite Card review. And here’s the official application link: United Club Infinite Card.

Related: Best ways to use the United Club Infinite Card

The Platinum Card from American Express

Bank of america travel rewards trip insurance
(Photo by Isabelle Raphael/The Points Guy)

Welcome offer: Earn 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on the card in the first six months of card membership. Based on TPG’s valuations, the 80,000-point bonus is worth $1,600. However, you may be able to snag a targeted 125,000-point offer through the CardMatch tool (offer subject to change at any time).

Rewards: 5x on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel (on up to $500,000 per calendar year); 5x on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel; 1x on other purchases

Travel insurance:

  • Lost/damaged baggage: Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per covered trip.  For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all covered persons per covered trip. Note that you must pay the entire fare with your card (including Pay with Points).
  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed and up to two claims per 12-month period per card if a common carrier delays you by more than six hours. Coverage only provided on round-trip travel purchased entirely with an eligible card (paying taxes and fees on award tickets or Pay with Points tickets is covered).
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12-month period for prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses. Coverage only provided on round-trip travel purchased entirely with an eligible card (paying taxes and fees on award tickets or Pay with Points tickets is covered).
  • Rental car coverage: Get secondary coverage of up to $75,000 for damages caused by theft or collision on rentals of 30 days or less when you pay for the entire rental with an eligible card (including Pay with Points). You can pay per rental to upgrade to primary coverage through the American Express Premium Car Rental Protection program. This does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicles types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
  • Emergency medical transportation: At no cost if the Premium Global Assist Hotline medical department determines it is medically necessary and advisable due to inadequate local facilities. You must be traveling more than 100 miles from home on a trip of 90 days or less. Third-party service costs may be your responsibility. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.
    • Eligibility and Benefit level varies by card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.
    • Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Annual fee: $695 ($175 for up to three additional Platinum cards, then $175 for each additional Platinum card after the first three; see rates and fees)

The Amex Platinum provides an impressive 5x on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year). It also offers 5x for prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. So, using TPG’s latest valuations, you’ll get a 10% return on these purchases. But even with a 10% return on select airfare purchases, I still don’t use the Amex Platinum to book flights. Instead, I use the Amex Platinum primarily as a membership card since the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s travel protections provide better coverage for my travel style.

To learn more, check out our Platinum Card from American Express card review and take a look at the terms and conditions of each benefit. Here’s the official application link: The Platinum Card from American Express. But, you may also want to check the CardMatch Tool to see if Amex has targeted you for a different offer. However, CardMatch offers are subject to change at any time.

Related: Comparing built-in travel insurance with the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum

The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your card within the first three months of card membership. Based on TPG’s valuations, the 150,000-point bonus is worth $3,000.

Rewards: 5x on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel; 1.5x on each eligible purchase  in select business categories ,as well as on each purchase of $5,000 or more (up to two million per calendar year); 1x on other eligible purchases

Travel insurance:

  • Lost/damaged baggage: Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per covered trip.  For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all covered persons per covered trip. Note that you must pay the entire fare with your card (including Pay with Points).
  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed and up to two claims per 12-month period per card if a common carrier delays you by more than six hours. Coverage only provided on round-trip travel purchased entirely with an eligible card (paying taxes and fees on award tickets or Pay with Points tickets is covered). Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12-month period for prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses. Coverage only provided on round-trip travel purchased entirely with an eligible card (paying taxes and fees on award tickets or Pay with Points tickets is covered). Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • Rental car coverage: Get secondary coverage of up to $75,000 for damages caused by theft or collision on rentals of 30 days or less when you pay for the entire rental with an eligible card (including Pay with Points). You can pay per rental to upgrade to primary coverage through the American Express Premium Car Rental Protection program. This does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicles types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
  • Emergency medical transportation: At no cost if the Premium Global Assist Hotline medical department determines it is medically necessary and advisable due to inadequate local facilities. You must be traveling more than 100 miles from home on a trip of 90 days or less. Third-party service costs may be your responsibility. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.
    • Eligibility and Benefit level varies by card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.
    • Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees)

The Amex Business Platinum provides an impressive 5x on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. Based on TPG’s latest valuations, this means you’ll get a 10% return on these purchases. But, if you don’t want to book through Amex Travel and would prefer to earn bonus points on a wide variety of business expenses, you may be better off with the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.

To learn more, check out our Business Platinum Card from American Express card review and take a look at the terms and conditions of each benefit. And here’s the official application link: The Business Platinum Card from American Express.

Related: Why you should consider having both the personal and business Amex Platinum cards

Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card

Bank of america travel rewards trip insurance
(Photo by Wyatt Smith/The Points Guy)

Welcome offer: Earn 50,000 bonus miles and 10,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first six months of account opening. Based on TPG’s valuations, this worth up to $705.

Rewards: 3x on purchases made directly with Delta; 1x on all other eligible purchases.

Travel insurance:

  • Lost/damaged baggage: Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for eligible persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a common carrier (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the entire fare for a common carrier vehicle ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible Account. Coverage can be provided for up to $1,250 for carry-on Baggage and up to $500 for checked Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus). For New York State residents, there is a $10,000 aggregate maximum limit for all covered persons per covered trip.
  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per covered trip and up to two claims per 12-month period per card if a common carrier delays you more than six hours. Coverage only provided on round-trip travel purchased entirely with an eligible card (paying taxes and fees on award tickets or Pay with Points tickets is covered). Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12-month period for prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses. Coverage only provided on round-trip travel purchased entirely with an eligible card (paying taxes and fees on award tickets or Pay with Points tickets is covered). Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • Rental car coverage: Get secondary coverage of up to $75,000 for damages caused by theft or collision on rentals of 30 days or less when you pay for the entire rental with an eligible card (including Pay with Points). You can pay per rental to upgrade to primary coverage through the American Express Premium Car Rental Protection program. This does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicles types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
  • Emergency medical transportation: At no cost if the Premium Global Assist Hotline medical department determines it is medically necessary and advisable due to inadequate local facilities. You must be traveling more than 100 miles from home on a trip of 90 days or less. Third-party service costs may be your responsibility. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.
    • Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.
    • Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Annual fee: $550 (see rates and fees)

The Delta Reserve Amex provides a 3.3% return on purchases made directly with Delta as well as travel protections that can protect you on eligible round-trips. I’d personally use the Chase Sapphire Reserve, Chase Sapphire Preferred or Ink Business Preferred Credit Card instead of the Delta Reserve when buying flights. But the Delta Reserve offers decent travel protections if you don’t have any of these Chase-issued cards or want to earn Delta miles.

To learn more, check out the full Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card review and take a look at the terms and conditions of each benefit. And here’s the official application link: Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card.

Related: Choosing the best credit cards for Delta flyers

Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card

Bank of america travel rewards trip insurance
(Photo by John Gribben for The Points Guy)

Sign-up bonus: Earn 50,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening. This bonus is worth $500.

Rewards: 2 points per $1 on travel and dining and 1.5 points per $1 on all other purchases.

Travel insurance:

  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per ticket for unexpected trip delays of more than 12 hours
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $2,500 per person, per trip for unused pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses
  • Baggage delay: Up to $100 reimbursed per day for up to five days for baggage delays of more than six hours
  • Lost luggage reimbursement: Provides coverage for luggage and its contents if they are lost or stolen due to theft or misdirection by your common carrier
  • Emergency evacuation and transportation coverage: Covers eligible medical services and transportation if you or a member of your immediate family are injured or become sick during a trip far from home that results in an emergency evacuation.
  • Rental car coverage: Get secondary coverage for damages caused by theft or collision.

Annual fee: $95

The Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card offers solid value in exchange for its $95 annual fee. For example, you’ll get an up to $100 Global Entry/TSA Precheck application fee credit every four years and an annual up to $100 airline incidental fee statement credit.

But, this card is ideal for Bank of America Preferred Rewards members. After all, these members can earn between 25%-75% more points on their purchases. That means the card’s 2x earnings on travel and dining could increase up to 3.5 points per dollar. Meanwhile, the 1.5x earnings on all other purchases could rise as high as 2.625 points per dollar.

To learn more, check out our Bank of America Premium Rewards Visa Credit Card review.

Related: Five reasons to get the Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card

U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card

Bank of america travel rewards trip insurance
(Photo by John Gribben for The Points Guy)

Sign-up bonus: Earn 50,000 points after you spend $4,500 in the first 90 days of account opening. These points are worth $750 when redeemed to offset eligible travel purchases. However, this card is only available to U.S. Bank customers who have an eligible U.S. Bank account relationship open and active at least five business days before applying.

Rewards: 5x on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center; 3x on eligible travel purchases and mobile wallet spending; 1x on other purchases

Travel insurance:

  • Trip delay reimbursement: Up to $500 per ticket purchased with your card if you’re delayed more than six hours or require an overnight stay
  • Trip cancellation and interruption protection: Up to $2,000 per person, but only to cover non-refundable common carrier tickets
  • Lost baggage reimbursement: Up to $3,000 per trip (up to $2,000 per bag for New York residents) if your checked or carry-on bag (or its contents) is lost due to theft or misdirection by a common carrier
  • Travel accident insurance: Up to $500,000 of accidental death and dismemberment coverage when you use your card to purchase a ticket for eligible forms of transportation
  • Rental car coverage: Primary coverage for physical damage and theft, reasonable and customary towing and valid loss-of-use charges

Annual fee: $400

The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card can be an excellent choice for daily spending and travel purchases, especially if the merchants you shop with accept mobile wallet payments. But the card doesn’t include baggage delay protection and the trip cancellation and interruption protection only covers common carrier tickets. However, the Altitude Reserve provides a solid alternative to those who can’t get accepted for a Chase card.

For more information, check out our U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card review.

The information for the U.S. Bank Altitude Visa Infinite card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: What credit score is needed for a U.S. Bank Card?

Main benefits of having a credit card with travel insurance

Bank of america travel rewards trip insurance
The Ritz-Carlton South Beach. (Photo by Nick Ellis/The Points Guy)

There are multiple benefits to having a credit card that provides travel insurance when you pay for eligible travel expenses with your card. The main advantage is simplicity: I don’t need to research independent travel insurance unless I’m going on a trip for which my credit card’s travel insurance doesn’t provide the level of coverage I want.

Having a credit card with travel insurance can also save you money. My sister-in-law paid more than $100 to buy theft and collision insurance from a car rental company. After that experience, she finally got the Chase Sapphire Preferred to obtain similar coverage as a card perk. Now, she can recoup her annual fee even if she just rents a car a couple of times each year.

Finally, having a credit card with travel insurance provides reassurance. I don’t need to worry if bad weather causes a flight cancellation and strands me overnight since I know my card will provide trip delay protection. And, I’m almost happy when the airline temporarily misplaces my checked bag for a few days, as my card’s baggage delay insurance means I can purchase some essential clothing items while I wait.

Related: Why you might want to get a premium credit card instead of purchasing travel insurance

How to submit a claim

If you’re in a situation where you believe you may be eligible for your credit card’s travel insurance, your first step should be to read your card’s guide to benefits or call the number on the back of your card. Even if you believe you’ll be covered after reading your card’s guide to benefits, it is usually a good idea to call the number on the back of your card. By calling, you can ensure you’re covered, learn about deadlines for making your claim and determine what documents you’ll need to collect.

The benefits administrator will usually walk you through the necessary steps for making your claim. Luckily, many card issuers now allow you to file claims online, so you may not need to send in physical documents. Be sure to pay attention to any deadline for starting your claim and uploading documents, as well as any specific requirements for requested documentation.

Related: Your guide to Chase’s trip insurance coverage

What card should I use for travel insurance?

The Amex Platinum’s 5x for airfare booked directly through airlines or Amex Travel is impressive. But the lack of baggage delay protection and the requirement of round-trip travel for some benefits usually discourages me from using Amex-issued cards for flights.

Instead, I use the Chase Sapphire Reserve when booking flights and other common carrier travel due to its solid mix of earnings and protections. But, if you can’t quite justify the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s $550 annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and Ink Business Preferred Credit Card both provide reasonable travel protections for a sub-$100 annual fee.

Related: Why the Sapphire Preferred should still be the first rewards card in your wallet

Bottom line

Credit card travel protections are easy to under-value. However, I’ve gotten thousands of value from credit card travel insurance over the years. As such, I’ll often forgo better earning rates to put airfare and award flight taxes and fees on a card I know provides solid protection. For me, this card is usually the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card. However, I purchase independent travel insurance for select trips when I want additional benefits, such as cancel or any reason coverage or non-medical evacuation coverage.

Additional reporting by Stella Shon.

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, please click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum, please click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Reserve Amex, please click here.

Featured photo of the Beachfront Villa, Residence Terrace at The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort. (Photo courtesy of Four Seasons)

YOU MIGHT LIKE

Does Boa travel rewards have travel insurance?

The additional card benefits The answer to both of these questions is no. Although plenty credit cards offer travel insurance and rental car benefits, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card does not.

What are the perks of the Bank of America Travel Rewards card?

Easy to earn, easy to redeem. Redeem points for more than just flights. Earn points that can be redeemed for airfare, hotels and car rentals on Allegiant.com. No blackout dates, no destination restrictions and no minimum points redemption.

Does Bank of America Travel Rewards cover TSA PreCheck?

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card. Get up to $200 in combined Airline Incidental and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits.

What counts as a travel purchase Bank of America?

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card counts as travel everything from airfare, hotel reservations and car rentals to toll fares, tickets to tourist attractions, and rideshare services. Travel-related goods and services must be categorized with an eligible merchant category code to count as a travel purchase.