The idea of traveling for free sounds almost mythical, but the reality is closer than you think. With the right credit cards in your wallet, you can earn points, miles, and rewards to cover flights, hotel stays, and other travel expenses. These cards can cover basic expenses, but they can do so much more. They can also unlock upgrades, lounge access, and exclusive perks for savvy travelers. Picking the perfect card is where the magic starts. Different cards cater to different travel styles, so finding one that fits your habits can turn everyday spending into dream getaways. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top credit cards that can help you travel for free.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a favorite among frequent flyers and first-time travelers alike. It offers a generous sign-up bonus, often enough to cover a round-trip domestic flight or multiple nights at a mid-range hotel. Points earned through spending can be redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal or transferred to over a dozen travel partners like Southwest, United Airlines, and Hyatt.

Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel through the portal, boosting the value of every dollar spent. Every day categories, such as dining and travel, earn double points, so you rack up rewards quickly. There are no foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international travelers.

Best tip for beginners? Focus on spending enough to meet the sign-up bonus within the first three months. If the requirement is $4,000 in spending, plan to use the card for groceries, bills, and online purchases.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Straightforward rewards systems make the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card a standout. You earn two miles per dollar on every purchase, without rotating categories or spending caps. This flat-rate earning structure keeps things simple and efficient, especially for travelers who prefer not to micromanage their spending.

Miles can be redeemed as a statement credit for travel purchases, like flights or hotels, essentially erasing the cost of any travel-related expense. Partnerships with several airlines and hotels also allow users to transfer miles, further boosting their value.

Pair the card with tools like Hopper or Expedia to monitor deals and then use your miles to book those discounted trips.

American Express Gold Card

The American Express Gold Card strikes a balance between earning potential and exclusive perks. Four points per dollar spent at restaurants and supermarkets give foodies and home chefs a major advantage, and three points per dollar on flights means frequent fliers don’t miss out. Points seamlessly transfer to Amex’s travel partners, including Delta, British Airways, and Hilton Honors.

You’ll also enjoy dining credits and other rebates that add extra value. Up to $120 in Uber Cash or dining credits can offset part of the annual fee. Think of those rewards as a bonus savings account for future travel.

To unlock the most potential, transfer points to international airline partners instead of redeeming through the portal. Using 15,000 Membership Rewards points might translate to a long-haul first-class flight when used wisely.

United Explorer Card

United Airlines loyalists will appreciate the United Explorer Card, which combines valuable miles with convenient perks. Every dollar spent on United flights racks up miles quickly, and dining and hotel purchases earn additional rewards. Cardholders are treated to early boarding, free checked bags (for the first bag and companion), and discounts on in-flight purchases.

The two one-time United Club passes included make this card especially appealing for those who prefer a premium airport experience before taking off. Lounge access, complimentary Wi-Fi, and free snacks elevate your trip without dipping into your budget.

Pro tip? Book award flights during United’s “saver” periods. These limited-time promotions allow you to redeem miles at reduced rates, stretching your rewards further.

Citi Premier Card

Versatility sets the Citi Premier Card apart. Points earned are part of the ThankYou Rewards program, which supports travel expenses, gift cards, and even loan payments. Travel-related spending, including airfare, hotels, and car rentals, earns triple points, and spending at restaurants and supermarkets continues to earn rewards.

Points can be transferred to more than a dozen airline loyalty programs, including Turkish Airlines and Air France-KLM. These partnerships provide access to global destinations at top value when redeemed in a specific way.

A smart idea with Citi Premier points? Combine them with other Citi cards in the ThankYou Rewards ecosystem to increase your balance. Teaming up with friends or family who use Citi cards can pool points toward shared travel expenses.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Card

Budget flyers who love Southwest Airlines will feel right at home with the Rapid Rewards Priority Card. Points add up quickly, thanks to a generous sign-up offer and bonus miles on Southwest purchases. Booking flights on points comes with major flexibility since Southwest charges neither change fees nor penalties for canceling.

The Priority Card goes beyond earning points. You’ll receive a $75 annual Southwest travel credit, four upgraded boardings per year, and account anniversary bonus miles. These perks offset the annual fee, leaving you more to spend on your actual trip.

For couples or families traveling together often, aim for the Southwest Companion Pass. By earning qualifying points, one traveler flies free (excluding taxes and fees) with every paid ticket for the life of the pass.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card

Hotel loyalists looking to reduce accommodation costs should check out the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Card. Spending on the card earns points redeemable at over 7,000 Marriott properties worldwide, ranging from budget-friendly stays to luxurious resorts. The annual free night certificate alone can cover the card’s annual fee.

Purchases at Marriott properties earn six points per dollar. Every day spending at restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations earns two points per dollar. Flexible redemption options include bundled travel packages containing both flights and hotel stays.

Getting the most value comes down to timing. Use points during off-peak periods to stretch them further. For road trips or longer vacations, redeem free-night awards for locations with higher price tags to get the most bang for your buck.