8 Things to Ask Before Choosing a Travel Rewards Credit Card

When it comes to choosing a travel rewards credit card to add to your wallet, the options are seemingly endless, and that’s not a bad thing. Many credit cards are now co-branded, which means you can earn points on purchases and turn those points into travel rewards that fit you and your lifestyle.

According to a 2021 GigaPoints/Ipsos poll of just over 1,000 U.S. adults, more than half said that earning credit card points and rewards makes them want to use their credit cards more often, and about half would consider getting a credit card, or switching to another credit card, if they could earn more rewards.

Still, as a consumer, knowing when to apply for a card, and what to consider as you survey the field of travel rewards cards at your fingertips, can be murky business. Read on to discover things to consider before applying.

Is there an annual fee?

Before applying for a card, check to see if there is an annual fee associated with being a cardholder. Not every credit card has a fee; however, for those that do, the fee can range from between $0 to $650. Of course, terms apply.

Be sure to see if the card you’re considering has a fee and what the cost is, and evaluate whether the rewards you’ll earn based on your usage will offset the cost of the annual fee.

Do I get Elite status when I sign up?

One benefit to consider when choosing a travel rewards credit card is if that card awards you complimentary Elite status simply for being a cardmember. Each of the five Marriott Bonvoy credit cards — Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card from Chase, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card from Chase, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card and Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card — provides varying levels of complimentary Elite status.

In addition to complimentary in-room Wi-Fi, member rates, mobile check-in and other mobile services, Elite benefits include reservation guarantees, points bonuses on eligible hotel purchases and late checkout. Additional benefits like welcome gifts, room upgrades and more are available as you achieve higher Elite status levels. Benefits are only available for qualifying rates and subject to availability.

Do I immediately receive free nights?

Have upcoming travel for which you’re planning? You may decide that a credit card with a bonus of free nights is best for you. While some offer free nights upon an approved application, others may reward you with One Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. One thing to keep in mind is that certain hotels have resort fees.

Those free nights can be used any way you like — all at once or one night at a time. When searching for hotels in your destination, be sure to check the “Use Points/Awards” box and see what pops up. Keep in mind that Free Night Awards start at a redemption value of 35,000 points, but certain cards have a wider range of value.

Are earned Elite night credits an option?

In addition to a Free Night Award, you can earn Elite Night Credits, too.

Each of the Marriott Bonvoy co-branded credit cards award cardholders between 15 and 25 Elite Night Credits annually, which put you well on the road to achieving the next level of Elite status. Additional Elite Night Credits can be earned at different spending level thresholds.

Are any large purchases in your near future?

When looking at different credit cards, think about how you can use them to maximize your accrual of points. For instance, if you are considering a sizable purchase — think new home appliances, a celebratory trip or even business expenses — this could be the perfect time to apply for a travel rewards credit card and quickly earn a large volume of points.

Once points are deposited into your account, they’re ready to be used however you’d like, and it’s easy to do just that. Search for Marriott Bonvoy properties in the destination of your choice — be sure to check the “Use Points/Awards” box — and take your pick.

Will my normal spending habits earn me additional points?

Choosing a credit card that awards points for everyday purchases is certainly advantageous and a terrific way to build up your points bank.

Instead of pulling out your debit card or paying cash for hotel costs, gas, groceries, lunches and dinners at your favorite restaurants, and even your cell phone bills, use your rewards credit card and watch your points grow.

Depending on the travel rewards credit card you apply to and are approved for, you can rapidly accelerate your points. For example, some cards will offer up to six points for each dollar spent of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy or three points for every $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on gas stations, grocery stores and dining.

Another way to earn additional points is when you travel: Use your rewards card when purchasing flights, hotel nights or renting a car and you’ll add even more points into your account.

Am I a small business owner?

If you’re a small business owner, consider a credit card like the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card, which supports you and rewards your business expenses.

What’s more, you can continue to accrue points on everyday expenses, like wireless telephone services as well as travel, that are part of running your business.

What are the other travel benefits offered?

Each of the five Marriott Bonvoy credit cards omits foreign transaction fees on international purchases. Marriott Bonvoy cards can also include benefits like Baggage Insurance Plan◊.

Choosing a credit card that works for you takes some research, but finding the one that rewards you and your lifestyle can pay off in spades.

Any last things to keep in mind?

Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms and Conditions apply to all the benefits mentioned in the article.