How do you want to take advantage of your benefits?
Your best option without charges
Do you want your money to go further?
Rewards credit cards are your ticket to turning your everyday purchases into cashback, points, or travel benefits—without changing your spending habits.
Whether you're fueling up, shopping online, or planning a vacation, the right card can help you get valuable benefits every step of the way.
In this 2025 guide, we show you the best card options for cashback, travel rewards, and loyalty programs—so you can find the one that's best for you.
Why choose a rewards credit card?
A rewards card doesn't just process your payments—it also gives you something in return. You earn rewards for what you're already spending, and in many cases, without paying an annual fee.
There are three main types of rewards cards:
- Cashback cards: Receive a percentage of your purchases as cash.
- Travel rewards cards: Earn miles or points that you can use on flights, hotels, and car rentals.
- Loyalty program cards: Enjoy exclusive benefits linked to brands like Marriott and United.
Let's discover the best options in each category.
What is a rewards credit card?
What are the main reward categories available?
What factors should I consider when choosing a rewards card?
What are some of the best rewards cards in 2025?
Are there any drawbacks to rewards cards?
The Best Cashback Cards for Everyday Value
Keep it simple and earn more with every purchase
Cashback credit cards are ideal for those who value flexibility. You get money back on your purchases, without worrying about points or complicated redemption rules.
1. Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card
2% unlimited cashback on all purchases
$200 Welcome Bonus after qualifying purchases
0% Initial APR for 15 months
No annual fee
Why it's great: You don't need to follow categories or sign up for special programs. It's a card you can use and forget about.
2. Citi® Double Cash Card
Earn 1% when you shop and 1% when you pay — total of 2%
Without rotating categories or limits
No annual fee
Ideal for those who spend regularly. From groceries to services to subscriptions, you earn with every dollar.
3. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
1.5% cashback on daily purchases
5% on travel, 3% in restaurants and pharmacies
No annual fee
Strong welcome bonus
Perfect for those who want a mix of fixed and bonus rates. You get even more when you book travel with Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
The Best Travel Cards for Miles and Points
Earn rewards for your everyday purchases and turn them into real adventures
Do you love to travel? These cards transform your everyday spending into a vacation—and many don't charge fees for foreign transactions.
1. Capital One VentureOne Rewards
1.25 miles for each purchase
No annual fee
Transfer miles to over 15 travel partners
No commission on purchases abroad
Flexible and simple, ideal for frequent or casual travelers.
2. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Card
1.5 points for every dollar spent
Points without expiration date
Welcome bonus of 25,000 points
No annual fee
Bonus: If you're part of the Preferred Rewards program, you can boost your earnings up to 75%.
3. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
2x points on travel and restaurants
25% more value in Chase Ultimate Rewards®
Attractive welcome bonus
Premium travel protections
Perfect for those who travel several times a year and want maximum flexibility when redeeming points.
The Best Cards for Loyalty Programs
Get benefits where you already stay or fly
If you're loyal to a hotel chain or airline, a co-branded card can unlock VIP treatment on every trip.
1. Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
- 3x points at Marriott hotels
- 2x on travel, 1x on everything else
- No annual fee
- Automatic Silver Elite status
Ideal for those who frequently stay at Marriott and want free nights, upgrades, and access to Bonvoy Experiences.
- 2. United Gateway℠ Card
- 2x miles on United flights, gas, and local transit
- No annual fee
- 25% discount on onboard purchases
- Access to MileagePlus benefits
Do you fly United often? This card offers airline-specific benefits with no additional fees.
How to Choose the Right Rewards Card
Start by asking yourself some key questions:
- Do I prefer cashback, points, or travel benefits?
- How much do I spend each month — and in what categories?
- Do I want fixed or category-based rewards?
- Do I take advantage of brand loyalty programs?
- Do I need a card with no annual fee, or am I interested in paying for additional benefits?
Also consider:
Welcome Bonuses: Can You Reach the Minimum Spend?
Redemption Flexibility: Is it easy to convert your points or miles?
Interest Rates and Fees: Are There Hidden Costs You Should Avoid?
Credit Requirements: Some cards require excellent credit history.
The right card should fit your lifestyle—not complicate it.
| Card Name | Ideal For | Reward Rate | Annual Fee |
| Wells Fargo Active Cash® | Fixed cashback | 2% on all purchases | $0 |
| Citi® Double Cash | Win by paying | 1% when purchasing + 1% when paying | $0 |
| Chase Freedom Unlimited® | Various purchases | 1.5%–5% | $0 |
| Capital One VentureOne | One-way trips | 1.25x miles | $0 |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® | Premium trips | 2x on travel and restaurants | $95 |
| Marriott Bonvoy Bold® | Hotel loyalty | Up to 3x points | $0 |
| United Gateway℠ | Airline benefits | 2x miles | $0 |
Pro Tip: Maximize Your Rewards
To get the most out of any card:
- Pay your balance in full to avoid interest charges.
- Use a specific card for certain categories (such as restaurants or travel).
- Combine cards strategically if you're looking to maximize benefits (for example, a cashback card + a travel card).
- Don't chase bonuses you can't reach — spend only what you can afford.
Spend Wisely, Earn More
The best rewards cards of 2025 let you earn for what you already do—whether it's grocery shopping, commuting, or booking flights.
Choose the one that fits your lifestyle, not just the one with the most attractive promotion. From cards with no annual fee to flexible redemption options, these tools are designed to help you live better financially.
Take control of your rewards today—and turn every purchase into a step toward something better.
