How to Maximize Travel Perks with Credit Card Points?

Focus on travel cards: IBe on the lookout for travel cards offering very high travel rewards, such as Chase Sapphire Preferred, American Express Platinum, and Capital One Venture.
Sign-up bonuses: Choose the cards offering significant sign-up bonuses, usually in terms of tens of thousands of points when minimum spend requirements are met.
Co-branded cards: If you have a favorite airline or hotel chain, consider their co-branded credit card for special perks such as free checked bags or room upgrades.

Classify your spending: Select cards that match your most expensive spending categories, such as dining, groceries, or travel.
Bonus points: Many travel cards have a 2-5x points bonus on specific categories; spend your money in those.

Point transfers: Select cards Certain cards let you transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs at favorable ratios. Examples include Chase Ultimate Rewards and AmEx Membership Rewards, whose transfer partners are highly valued.
Maximize value: Transfers of points may generate greater value than redemption for cash or gift cards. Explore the best redemption options for your travel goals.

Bonus booking: Several issuers provide a travel booking portal where you can earn additional points or take advantage of some discounts.
Premium options: Cards such as Chase Sapphire Reserve offer higher point values when redeemed through the card’s portals (e.g., 1.5 points).

Travel insurance: Many travel cards have provisions for benefits, including trip cancellation insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, and travel accident insurance.
Lounge access: Cards such as AmEx Platinum include lounge access, making your airport experience even nicer.
Fee waivers: Search for credit cards that waive foreign transaction fees and provide credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

Annual fees: Make sure the rewards and perks compensate for the annual fee.
Avoid interest: Pay the entire balance every month to avoid interest charges that would negate any travel savings.