{"id":115476,"date":"2024-08-18T23:59:16","date_gmt":"2024-08-18T23:59:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/?p=115476"},"modified":"2026-04-08T14:01:08","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T14:01:08","slug":"travel-rewards-strategy-for-families","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/credit-cards\/travel-rewards-strategy-for-families\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Create a Travel Rewards Credit Card Strategy for Families"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"remark\"><em>$600 hotel credit offered with American Express Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> applies to prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> or The Hotel Collection bookings made via American Express Travel<sup>\u00ae<\/sup>. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>The world of points and miles can seem daunting even if you\u2019re just one or two travelers traveling together. Imagine the hurdles families face when trying to figure out how to plan for family travel involving four or more people!<\/p>\n<p>Thankfully, with proper planning and by taking advantage of things like <a href=\"\/travel\/which-programs-allow-free-points-sharing\/\">pooling points,<\/a> families can enjoy the benefits of travel with points and miles, too. Here\u2019s how to create a travel rewards credit card strategy for families.<\/p>\n<div id=\"toc_container\" class=\"toc_light_blue no_bullets\"><p class=\"toc_title\">Page Contents<\/p><ul class=\"toc_list\"><li><a href=\"#Overview_of_Travel_Rewards_Credit_Card_Strategy_for_Families\">Overview of Travel Rewards Credit Card Strategy for Families<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Family_Airline_Credit_Card_Strategy\">Family Airline Credit Card Strategy<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Choosing_the_right_airline_alliance\">Choosing the right airline alliance<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Best_airline_credit_card_perk_for_families\">Best airline credit card perk for families<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Family_Hotel_Credit_Card_Strategy\">Family Hotel Credit Card Strategy<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Choosing_a_hotel_loyalty_program\">Choosing a hotel loyalty program<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Best_hotel_credit_card_perks\">Best hotel credit card perks<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#Family_Transferrable_Points_Strategy\">Family Transferrable Points Strategy<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#Non-premium_travel_credit_cards\">Non-premium travel credit cards<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Premium_travel_credit_cards\">Premium travel credit cards<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#A_Note_on_Annual_Fees\">A Note on Annual Fees<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#Final_Thoughts\">Final Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n<h2><span id=\"Overview_of_Travel_Rewards_Credit_Card_Strategy_for_Families\">Overview of Travel Rewards Credit Card Strategy for Families<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Due to simple mathematics, families need a lot more points than solo travelers to make the same trip happen. While it's great that you can redeem <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/american-aadvantage\/best-ways-to-use-american-miles\/\" rel=\"noopener\">75,000 American Airlines AAdvantage<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> miles to fly in Qatar Airways Qsuite from the U.S. to South Africa<\/a>, a family of four would need 300,000 miles for that same trip. And that's just one way.<\/p>\n<p>When it comes to hotel rooms, depending on the size of your family, you may need to book two rooms. And if you've got finer tastes, paying twice as much per night for two rooms can add up quickly at a Waldorf Astoria or Ritz-Carlton.<\/p>\n<p>Earning and redeeming credit card travel rewards is the not-so-well-kept secret to <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/best-everyday-credit-card\/\" rel=\"noopener\">turning your everyday spending into points<\/a> that you can redeem for travel. Even if you don't earn enough to pay for an entire trip with points and miles, they're sure to alleviate some of the financial stressors of family vacations.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_58692\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-58692 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Feature-Toni-2-1024x819.jpg\" alt=\"silhouette of a family moving through an airport to go to their flight\" width=\"600\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Feature-Toni-2-1024x819.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Feature-Toni-2-300x240.jpg 300w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Feature-Toni-2-325x260.jpg 325w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/Feature-Toni-2.jpg 1500w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Credit: Toni Perkins-Southam\/AwardWallet<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<p>The secret to a travel rewards credit card strategy for families is to work in <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/travel\/points-miles-player-2\/\" rel=\"noopener\">two-player mode<\/a> \u2014 when each adult in the family earns rewards in their own name and accounts \u2014 and take advantage of things like <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/guide-to-companion-fares-companion-passes\/\" rel=\"noopener\">companion passes<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/news\/credit-card-transfer-bonuses\/\" rel=\"noopener\">transfer bonuses<\/a>, and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/sign-up-bonus\/\" rel=\"noopener\">credit card sign-up offers<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/blog\/start-here\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Start Here for Collecting Points and Miles for Free Travel<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Family_Airline_Credit_Card_Strategy\">Family Airline Credit Card Strategy<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Airfare is often the largest expense for a family vacation, so let's start there.<\/p>\n<p>It's important to choose an airline, loyalty program, and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/airline-alliances-and-partnerships\/\" rel=\"noopener\">airline alliance<\/a> that's most convenient for you and where you live. For example, the largest airport near my home is San Francisco International Airport (SFO), which is a hub of <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/united-mileageplus\/\" rel=\"noopener\">United Airlines<\/a>. Other popular hub cities for major airlines include Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) for <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/delta-skymiles\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Delta Air Lines<\/a> and Miami International Airport (MIA) for <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/american-aadvantage\/best-ways-to-use-american-miles\/\" rel=\"noopener\">American Airlines<\/a>. <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/southwest-rapid-rewards\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Southwest Airlines<\/a> doesn't have traditional hubs, but some airports see more flights than others.<\/p>\n<p>Some airports are great for multiple airlines. SFO isn't an American Airlines hub, but it has a strong presence there, making it another great option for potential flight redemptions. Plus, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/american-aadvantage\/american-airlines-partners\/\" rel=\"noopener\">American Airlines partners<\/a> &#8212; including Alaska Airlines, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, and Qantas &#8212; all operate out of SFO.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Choosing_the_right_airline_alliance\">Choosing the right airline alliance<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>An airline alliance comprises dozens of partner airlines with reciprocal benefits for earning and redeeming miles within each other's programs. When earning miles to redeem for future travel, it's just as important to choose the right alliance as the right airline.<\/p>\n<p>For example, as an alliance partner of Singapore Airlines, you can redeem United MileagePlus miles for Singapore Airlines flights found on United's website. You can also earn MileagePlus miles when flying Singapore Airlines-operated flights.<\/p>\n<p>Before deciding which alliance to be loyal to and who to earn miles with, ask yourself a few questions: Do these airlines fly to destinations that I want to travel to soon? What particular airline within that alliance will be best and easiest for earning and redeeming miles on partner airlines? If they do, you can also redeem miles with these airlines.<\/p>\n<p>Choose the one airline that you'll fly with most of the time \u2014 or at least that you plan on redeeming miles with \u2014 and start to earn miles within that program. Only one person needs to carry an <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/find-a-card\/airlines\/\" rel=\"noopener\">airline credit card<\/a> to earn the benefits listed in the table below. However, if miles are all you're after, it makes sense to earn sign-up bonuses when you can.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_46379\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"601\/480\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-46379 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/AdobeStock_290480732_Editorial_Use_Only-scaled-e1589264315578-1024x818.jpeg\" alt=\"American Airlines planes lined up at jet bridges at an airport\" width=\"601\" height=\"480\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/AdobeStock_290480732_Editorial_Use_Only-scaled-e1589264315578-1024x818.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/AdobeStock_290480732_Editorial_Use_Only-scaled-e1589264315578-300x240.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/AdobeStock_290480732_Editorial_Use_Only-scaled-e1589264315578-1536x1228.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/AdobeStock_290480732_Editorial_Use_Only-scaled-e1589264315578-2048x1637.jpeg 2048w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/AdobeStock_290480732_Editorial_Use_Only-scaled-e1589264315578-325x260.jpeg 325w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/05\/AdobeStock_290480732_Editorial_Use_Only-scaled-e1589264315578-768x614.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 601px) 100vw, 601px\" \/><center><em>Credit: Markus Mainka\/Shutterstock<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3><span id=\"Best_airline_credit_card_perk_for_families\">Best airline credit card perk for families<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Airline credit cards offer generous sign-up bonuses as well as other valuable perks to frequent and infrequent travelers alike.<\/p>\n<p>The best airline credit card perk for families, however, is easily a companion pass. The <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/southwest-rapid-rewards\/how-to-earn-southwest-companion-pass\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Southwest Companion Pass<\/a>, for example, is probably the most well-known, but Aer Lingus, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Lufthansa <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/guide-to-companion-fares-companion-passes\/\" rel=\"noopener\">all have companion fares, passes or discounts that you can earn<\/a> in various ways. And the savings add up.<\/p>\n<p>Companion certificates offered by Delta and American are both tied to credit cards. Depending on which co-branded <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/delta-skymiles\/delta-credit-card\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Delta card<\/a> you hold, you'll get a companion certificate each year that you renew your card membership and pay the card's annual fee. With American, you can earn up to two companion certificates when you spend between $20,000 and $30,000 on select credit cards.<\/p>\n<p>Alaska Airlines also offers a companion fare to its cardholders. Those with either of Alaska's credit cards need to spend $6,000 on purchases by their account's anniversary to earn the companion fare after the first year.<\/p>\n<p>No matter which airline you choose, a companion pass will go a long way. You could save hundreds of dollars and thousands of points when you can use a companion pass instead.<\/p>\n<p>Don't forget about complimentary checked bags, either. Several <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/airlines\/top-airline-credit-cards\/\" rel=\"noopener\">airline credit cards with annual fees under $100<\/a> offer free bags as a perk of carrying the card. And depending on the card, this benefit can extend to several people traveling on the same reservation. That's hundreds of dollars in additional savings per year!<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Family_Hotel_Credit_Card_Strategy\">Family Hotel Credit Card Strategy<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Unlike airlines, hotels do not belong to alliances, and therefore their loyalty programs stand alone. Hotel loyalty programs continue to evolve, whether that be by offering more properties or expanding on or removing certain elite perks. Either way, no two loyalty programs are exactly alike.<\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Choosing_a_hotel_loyalty_program\">Choosing a hotel loyalty program<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The most popular hotel loyalty programs are <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/hilton-honors\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Hilton Honors<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/news\/ihg-one-rewards\/ihg-one-rewards-program-overhaul\/\" rel=\"noopener\">IHG One Rewards<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/marriott-bonvoy\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Marriott Bonvoy<\/a><sup>\u00ae<\/sup>, and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/world-of-hyatt\/\" rel=\"noopener\">World of Hyatt<\/a>. Additional and less common programs include <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/accor-live-limitless\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Accor Live Limitless (ALL)<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/choice-privileges\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Choice Privileges<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/radisson-rewards\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Radisson Rewards<\/a>, and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/wyndham-rewards\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Wyndham Rewards<\/a>.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_77774\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/375\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-77774 lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/venus-hotel-riviera-maya.jpg\" alt=\"a large hotel bedroom with views beyond the patio to a pool and ocean\" width=\"600\" height=\"375\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/venus-hotel-riviera-maya.jpg 960w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/03\/venus-hotel-riviera-maya-300x188.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>El Cid La Ceiba Beach Hotel, Riviera Maya, Mexico. Credit: Choice Hotels<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<p>Most people have a preference for which hotel chain they like to stay at. In addition to loyalty perks, award redemption prices and how easy it to earn points play a major factor in which hotel chain you'll want to be loyal to.<\/p>\n<p>Marriott has the largest footprint globally, but, unfortunately, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/news\/marriott-bonvoy\/marriott-dynamic-award-pricing\/\" rel=\"noopener\">often requires a lot of points to redeem a free night<\/a>. So despite its wide-reaching availability, it can take a lot to stay for free. <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/world-of-hyatt\/hyatt-brand-explorer\/\" rel=\"noopener\">World of Hyatt<\/a> has fewer properties but is a fan favorite, thanks to great redemption rates. It continues to grow its footprint including all-inclusive resorts and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/world-of-hyatt\/mr-mrs-smith\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Mr and Mrs Smith properties<\/a>. <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/hilton-honors\/earn-points-you-can-transfer-to-hilton\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Hilton offers generous sign-up bonuses on its co-branded credit cards<\/a> but sometimes requires a ton of points for a free night as well.<\/p>\n<p>Additional programs may catch your attention if they have properties at your intended destination. Families should no doubt choose a hotel credit card offered by their favorite loyalty program \u2014 one that offers perks that are valuable to them. Perks can include automatic elite status \u2014 like the <a data-ccid=\"4048211\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-HiltonHonorsAmericanExpressAspire\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card<\/a> and <a data-ccid=\"4048231\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-MarriottBonvoyBrilliantAmericanExpressCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> American Express<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a> \u2014 annual or monthly credits, and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/hotels\/free-night-certificates\/\" rel=\"noopener\">free night certificates<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Similar to airline credit cards, families won't need each adult to have the same card. Even if you've booked multiple rooms to accommodate your family, each room under your loyalty number will qualify for the same perks. That means only one partner will need to pursue elite status with a particular rewards program. That way everyone can enjoy the perks as long as you're traveling together.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related:\u00a0<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/how-to-get-hotel-elite-status-for-free\/\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Get Hotel Elite Status for Free (or Almost Free)<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Best_hotel_credit_card_perks\">Best hotel credit card perks<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The best hotel credit card perk might be, hands-down, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/hotels\/best-hotel-card-elite-status\/\" rel=\"noopener\">elite status<\/a>. Elite status is traditionally only earned by staying at a particular hotel brand so many times a year \u2014 such as 50 or 60 nights. But with the right credit card, you can earn elite status just by being a cardholder and paying an annual fee.<\/p>\n<p>Elite status perks vary by brand and status level. However, you can expect benefits like space-available room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and more rewards earned on each (paid) stay.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/hotels\/status-match-offers\/\" rel=\"noopener\">All Hotel Elite Status Match & Fast Track Opportunities<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Some hotel credit card perks go beyond hotel-related benefits. A card that comes with annual travel credits like the <a data-ccid=\"4048231\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-MarriottBonvoyBrilliantAmericanExpressCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card<\/a> can also help families save money when paying cash for their hotel stay. This card grants a $100 on-property credit when staying two nights or more at Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis hotels, as well as <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/marriott-bonvoy\/amex-bonvoy-brilliant\/\" rel=\"noopener\">up to $25 in monthly dining credits<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Enrollment is required for select Amex benefits.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Family_Transferrable_Points_Strategy\">Family Transferrable Points Strategy<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A credit card that earns <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/travel\/types-of-rewards-points\/\" rel=\"noopener\">transferrable points<\/a> is a must-have for any rewards traveler. It's especially important in a credit card strategy for families. Transferrable points are easier to earn than hotel points and airline miles and go even further. That's thanks to valuable airline and hotel transfer partners you can send your points to for higher value redemptions.<\/p>\n<p>Because transferrable points are so valuable, it almost always makes sense that two players would have a card that earns the same points. For example, one might hold the <a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphireReserve\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Chase Sapphire Reserve<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1975477.10005148&type=3&subid=00aef38ad7fe4ec349f6debafb314d59c&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>) and the other the <a data-ccid=\"2061159\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphirePreferredCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Chase Sapphire Preferred<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"2061159\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1753725.10005147&type=3&subid=02e3aaba7394049392d0e75f35b845e74&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>), both of which earn <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/chase-ultimate-rewards\/chase-transfer-partners\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Ultimate Rewards points<\/a>. <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/chase-ultimate-rewards\/application-rules-sapphire-cards\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Chase doesn't allow one person to hold both of these cards<\/a>, but two players could take advantage of the sign-up bonuses of each and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/chase-ultimate-rewards\/how-to-combine-chase-points\/\" rel=\"noopener\">can combine their points <\/a>for redemptions.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_116197\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img data-aspectratio=\"600\/400\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-116197 size-full lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Happy-family-packing-for-a-trip.jpeg\" alt=\"A mom, dad, and young child sit in front of their couch looking at a map. There is a suitcase open in front of them with a sun hat on top.\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Happy-family-packing-for-a-trip.jpeg 600w, https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Happy-family-packing-for-a-trip-300x200.jpeg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><center><em>Image Credit: Nattakorn via Adobe Stock<\/em><\/enter><\/figure>\n<h3><span id=\"Non-premium_travel_credit_cards\">Non-premium travel credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Non-premium travel credit cards are a great first stop when entering the points and miles world. In addition to lower annual fees, they also come with valuable perks. Below are some popular non-premium credit cards:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a data-ccid=\"2061159\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphirePreferredCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Chase Sapphire Preferred<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a data-ccid=\"4028085\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-AmericanExpressGoldCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">American Express<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Gold Card<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a data-ccid=\"3006151\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-COV\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a data-ccid=\"520083\" href=\"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/credit-cards\/citi-thankyou-rewards\/citi-strata-premier\/\">Citi Strata Premier<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Card<\/a> (<a data-ccid=\"520083\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=a3pDkecFgAg&offerid=1978593.4328&type=3&subid=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These cards have various transfer partners, such as Virgin Atlantic, World of Hyatt, and Southwest Airlines, as well as a lower annual fee than their premium counterparts. They're also great starter cards. You can transfer points to partners for maximum value or use them to book travel directly through their respective travel portals.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Related: <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/airlines\/best-award-bookings-for-families\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Practical Airline Award Sweet Spots for Families<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<h3><span id=\"Premium_travel_credit_cards\">Premium travel credit cards<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>On the other hand, you've got the premium versions of the credit cards listed above. Depending on the card, you'll gain access to exclusive hotel collections and resorts, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/credit-cards-with-lounge-access\/\" rel=\"noopener\">lounge access<\/a>, <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/cards-with-travel-statement-credit\/\" rel=\"noopener\">annual credits toward travel<\/a>, elite status with other travel brands, and much more.<\/p>\n<p>The trade-off is definitely a higher annual fee. For the cards listed below, the annual fee can range from $395 to $795.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphireReserve\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Chase Sapphire Reserve<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-ThePlatinumCardfromAmericanExpress\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">American Express Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a><\/li>\n<li><a data-ccid=\"4048272\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-CapitalOneVentureXRewardsCreditCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Below is a table comparing the benefits of premium credit cards that offer transferrable rewards:<\/p>\n\n<table id=\"tablepress-116\" class=\"tablepress tablepress-id-116 tablepress-responsive\">\n<thead>\n<tr class=\"row-1 odd\">\n\t<th class=\"column-1\">Benefits<\/th><th class=\"column-2\"><a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-ThePlatinumCardfromAmericanExpress\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">American Express Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a><br \/>\n (<a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/platinum-card\/91101-10-0#offer-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/th><th class=\"column-3\"><a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/ChaseSapphireReserve\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Chase Sapphire Reserve<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a><br \/>\n (<a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1975477.10005148&type=3&subid=00aef38ad7fe4ec349f6debafb314d59c&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/th><th class=\"column-4\"><a data-ccid=\"242\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CitiStrataElite?var2=ccid~242\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Citi Strata Elite\u2120 Card<\/a><br \/>\n (<a data-ccid=\"242\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=a3pDkecFgAg&offerid=1978593.4347&type=3&subid=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/th><th class=\"column-5\"><a data-ccid=\"4048272\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-CapitalOneVentureXRewardsCreditCard\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card<\/a><br \/>\n<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody class=\"row-hover\">\n<tr class=\"row-2 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Annual Fee<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$895<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$795<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">$595<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">$395<br \/>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-3 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Authorized User Fee<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">$195 for each additional Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> for Authorized Users  (<a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/platinum-card\/91101-10-0#offer-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$195<br \/>\n (<a data-ccid=\"4048084\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=g3lR0xvjyAU&offerid=1975477.10005148&type=3&subid=00aef38ad7fe4ec349f6debafb314d59c&subid=639396\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">$75<br \/>\n (<a data-ccid=\"242\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/fs-bin\/click?id=a3pDkecFgAg&offerid=1978593.4347&type=3&subid=0\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>)<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">$0 for up to 4 authorized users<br \/>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-4 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Welcome Offer<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">As High As 175,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Points after spending $12,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">150,000 bonus points Ultimate Rewards points<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">75,000 bonus Points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months of account opening.<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">75,000 Capital One miles<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-5 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Travel Credit<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">\u2022 Up to $200 Airline incidental credit (with a preselected, preferred airline)<br \/>\n\u2022 $600 prepaid hotel credit - up to $300 semiannually. (The Hotel Collection requires a minimum 2-night stay)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">$300 Travel credit<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">$300 Hotel credit booked through Citi Travel<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">$300 annual travel credit for bookings made with Capital One Travel<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-6 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Category Bonus<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\"><ul>\r\n<li>Earn 5X points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> (up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year).<\/li>\r\n<li>Earn 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel<sup>\u00ae<\/sup>.<\/li>\r\n<li>Earn  5X points on Fine Hotels + Resorts<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> and The Hotel Collection bookings.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/td><td class=\"column-3\"><ul>\r\n<li>8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel\u2120<\/li>\r\n<li>4x points on flights and hotels booked directly<\/li>\r\n<li>3x points on dining worldwide<\/li>\r\n<li>1x points on all other purchases<\/li><\/ul><\/td><td class=\"column-4\"><ul>\r\n<li>12X \u2013 Earn 12 Points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on cititravel.com.<\/li>\r\n<li>6X \u2013 Earn 6 Points per $1 spent on Air Travel booked on cititravel.com.<\/li>\r\n<li>6X \u2013 Earn 6 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants including Restaurant Delivery Services on CitiNights\u2120 purchases, every Friday and Saturday from 6 PM to 6 AM ET. Earn 3 Points per $1 spent any other time.<\/li>\r\n<li>1.5X \u2013 Earn 1.5 Points per $1 spent on All Other Purchases.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/td><td class=\"column-5\"><ul>\r\n<li>10X miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel<\/li>\r\n<li>5X miles per $1 on purchases through Capital One Entertainment<\/li>\r\n<li>5X miles per $1 on flights when booking via Capital One Travel<\/li>\r\n<li>5X miles per $1 on vacation rentals booked via Capital One Travel<\/li>\r\n<li>2X miles per $1 on all other eligible purchases<\/li>\r\n<\/ul><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-7 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Priority Pass\u2122 Select<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">1 guest per cardholder<br \/>\n(Enrollment Required)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">2 guests per cardholder<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">2 guests per cardholder<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Guests cost $35 each for primary cardholder<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-8 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Other Lounges<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">\u2022 Centurion Lounges<br \/>\n\u2022 Delta Sky Club<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> (when traveling same day on Delta - limited to 10 per passes per year)<br \/>\n\u2022 Select Lufthansa Lounges (when traveling on Lufthansa Group airlines)<br \/>\n\u2022 Airspace & Escape Lounges<br \/>\n\u2022 Plaza Premium Lounges<br \/>\n(Guest policy varies)<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">\u2022 Chase Sapphire Lounges<br \/>\n\u2022 Chase Sapphire Terrace<br \/>\n\u2022 Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges (with eligible same-day boarding pass when traveling on Air Canada or Star Alliance partners)<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">\u2022 4 annual day-passes to American Airlines Admirals Clubs (when traveling on same-day American Airlines or Oneworld Partner flight)<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">\u2022 Capital One Lounges<br \/>\n\u2022 Capital One Landing lounges<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-9 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Elite Status<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">\u2022 Hilton Honors\u2122\u202f & Marriott Bonvoy<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Gold<br \/>\n\u2022 Leaders Club Sterling Status<br \/>\n\u2022 Avis Preferred<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><br \/>\n\u2022 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> President's Circle<br \/>\n\u2022 National Emerald Club Executive<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">\u2022 IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite Status (through December 31, 2027)<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">\u2022 Hertz Gold Plus Rewards<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> President's Circle<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-10 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Global Entry\/TSA PreCheck Credit<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Every 4 years<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Every 4 years<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Every 4 years<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Every 4 years<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-11 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Trip Delay<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">\u2022 6 hours<br \/>\n\u2022 $500<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">\u2022 6 hours<br \/>\n\u2022 $500<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">\u2022 6 hours<br \/>\n\u2022 $500<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">\u2022 6 hours<br \/>\n\u2022 $500<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-12 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Baggage Delay<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">\u2022 6 hours<br \/>\n\u2022 $500<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">N\/A<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">N\/A<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-13 odd\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Auto Rental CDW<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">Secondary up to $75,000<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">Primary up to $75,000<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">Secondary<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">Primary up to $75,000<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"row-14 even\">\n\t<td class=\"column-1\"><b>Additional Perks & Benefits<\/b><\/td><td class=\"column-2\">\u2022 Up to $200 annual Uber Cash plus $120 Uber One Credit<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $209 CLEAR+ membership fee reimbursement <br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $300 Equinox credit<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $300 SoulCycle credit<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $300 in digital entertainment credit<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $400 Resy credit<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $300 Lululemon credit<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $200 Oura Ring credit<\/td><td class=\"column-3\">\u2022 Up to $300 in annual dining credit with Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables program and 3X points at restaurants worldwide<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $288 in complimentary Apple TV and Apple Music credit*<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $300 annually in DoorDash promotional credits and up to $120 in annual credits toward a DashPass membership*<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $120 in Lyft credit annually*<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $300 in annual credits with StubHub<\/td><td class=\"column-4\">\u2022 3X points at restaurants<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $200 Annual Blacklane<sup>\u00ae<\/sup> Credit<br \/>\n\u2022 Up to $200 Annual Splurge Credit\u2120 at select brands<br \/>\n\u2022 Citigold clients receive a $145 Banking Relationship Annual Credit<\/td><td class=\"column-5\">\u2022 Access to Capital One Premier Collection of luxury hotels with perks including free breakfast and resort credits.<br \/>\n\u2022 10,000 mile Anniversary Bonus each year you renew your account<br \/>\n\u2022 Use miles at 1\u00a2 apiece to offset recent travel purchases made with your card.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n<p>  <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> <\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"A_Note_on_Annual_Fees\">A Note on Annual Fees<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Annual fees can be a hindrance for some when deciding which credit card to get. However, the perks offered by many\u00a0<a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/best-credit-card-for-travel\/\" rel=\"noopener\">travel rewards cards<\/a> far exceed the dollar amount paid in the annual fee.<\/p>\n<p>For example, the <a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-ThePlatinumCardfromAmericanExpress\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">Platinum Card<sup>\u00ae<\/sup><\/a> is one of those cards that everyone seems to want, but the $895 annual fee  (<a data-ccid=\"4028089\" href=\"https:\/\/www.americanexpress.com\/us\/credit-cards\/card-application\/apply\/prospect\/terms\/platinum-card\/91101-10-0#offer-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Rates & Fees<\/a>) understandably stops most people in their tracks.<\/p>\n<p>However, benefits to this particular card include up to <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/amex-membership-rewards\/amex-hotel-credit\/\" rel=\"noopener\">$600 hotel credit<\/a>, up to <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/amex-membership-rewards\/amex-platinum-airline-credit\/\" rel=\"noopener\">$200 airline fee credit<\/a>, up to <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/uber-amex-credit\/\" rel=\"noopener\">$200 in Uber Cash<\/a>, and up to <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/amex-membership-rewards\/amex-platinum-entertainment-credit\/\" rel=\"noopener\">$300 digital entertainment credit<\/a>. These annual benefits vary in form. Most are statement credits, while the Uber Cash goes straight to your Uber account. But they are worth more than the card's annual fee if you can get full value from them. <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"\/credit-cards\/amex-membership-rewards\/amex-platinum\/\" rel=\"noopener\">The card has other valuable benefits<\/a> that, when used, can make the annual fee more than worth it. Enrollment is required for select Amex benefits.<\/p>\n<p>So, don't be afraid of annual fees on credit cards. They can make all the difference in the quality of your family vacation especially if they have the right perks. Just make sure to do the math, based on your family's situation and travel goals.<\/p>\n<h2><span id=\"Final_Thoughts\">Final Thoughts<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Credit card strategies for families are complex, to say the least. Luckily, there are many ways to piece one together. Hopefully, the information above will make it a bit easier to decide on a credit card strategy for your family.<\/p>\n<p>Looking for personalized offers? Check out <a href=\"\/blog\/link\/CR-CardFinderTool\" rel=\"noopener nofollow sponsored\">our new tool<\/a> that shows offers tailored to you\u2014with no impact on your credit score.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The world of points and miles can seem daunting even if you\u2019re just one or two travelers traveling together. Imagine the hurdles that families have to face when trying to figure out how to plan for family travel that involves four or more people. Thankfully, with proper planning and taking advantage of things like pooling points, families can enjoy the benefits of travel with points and miles too. Here\u2019s how to create a travel rewards credit card strategy for families.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":76,"featured_media":118017,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_wpscppro_dont_share_socialmedia":null,"_wpscppro_custom_social_share_image":0,"_facebook_share_type":"default","_twitter_share_type":"default","_linkedin_share_type":"default","_pinterest_share_type":"default","_linkedin_share_type_page":"","_instagram_share_type":"default","_medium_share_type":"default","_threads_share_type":"","_google_business_share_type":"","_selected_social_profile":[],"_wpsp_enable_custom_social_template":false,"_wpsp_social_scheduling":{"enabled":false,"datetime":null,"platforms":[],"status":"template_only","dateOption":"today","timeOption":"now","customDays":"","customHours":"","customDate":"","customTime":"","schedulingType":"absolute"},"_wpsp_active_default_template":true},"categories":[12054],"tags":[12519,12621,12623],"coauthors":[36406],"class_list":["post-115476","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-tips","tag-application-strategy","tag-earning-strategy","tag-family-travel"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/115476","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/76"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=115476"}],"version-history":[{"count":64,"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/115476\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":247620,"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/115476\/revisions\/247620"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/118017"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=115476"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=115476"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=115476"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/awardwallet.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=115476"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}