It’s time to choose your first sidekick for all the globetrotting adventures you are about to embark on. We have some awesome recs we can provide you, but here’s are the most primary things to consider!

Know Thyself, Wanderlust Warrior: First things first, understand your travel habits. Are you a jet-setter who craves luxurious lounges and first-class upgrades, or more of a budget backpacker seeking cheap flights and hostels? Some cards offer VIP lounge access, concierge services, or even free checked bags.This self-discovery journey sets the tone for your credit card selection.
Credit Score: Make sure your credit score is in good shape to be accepted. So, pay bills on time, watch your credit utilization, and banish debt. Ideally you want a score of 700 before you begin applying for new cards.
Capitalize on Categories: Most travel credit cards offer rewards in the form of miles or points. The goal is to accumulate as many as possible. Check if the card gives you more miles for categories you frequently spend in, like dining or travel expenses.
Sign-Up Bonuses – the Holy Grail: As mentioned, the jackpot is really in the sign up bonuses! The more generous the bonus, the quicker you can embark on your adventures. Look for the best options, and especially when they are running special elevated promos.
Travel Partners – Allies in Exploration: Pay attention to a card’s partnerships with airlines and hotel chains. Make sure these partners align with your travel aspirations.
Travel Insurance – Your Guardian Angel: Travel insurance is your safety net in the unpredictable world of adventure. See if your card offers goodies like trip cancellation coverage, rental car insurance, and lost luggage protection.
Last, stay on top of your game! Ensuring you keep a record of the dates you activate credit cards, the dates you bag those bonuses, and your annual fees is crucial. And once you have the cards, be responsible in payments. This is NOT intended for those who may not be able to pay their monthly bills.




Important: Be Responsible
The #1 Rule
Ensure that you exercise responsibility when it comes to your credit cards. It’s essential to pay your credit card balances in full and on schedule every month. I strongly advise against pursuing this interest if you’re currently burdened with credit card debt.
Who Should Not Be Applying for New Credit Cards
If you have intentions of applying for a mortgage or car loan within the next year, it is wise to delay your travel strategizing until after securing your loan.
How Is Your Credit Score Affected?
Your credit score is primarily affected by two key factors: payment history (so make timely, full payments) and credit utilization (less usage is better). The age of your credit also matters, with long-standing accounts impacting your score more than recently opened ones. While responsible leveraging of points and credit cards doesn’t have a lasting impact on your credit score, it’s worth noting that opening a new credit card can temporarily decrease your credit score by 5-10 points.
What About Annual Fees?
A top-notch travel reward credit card typically justifies any annual fee in the first year with its lucrative sign-up bonus. For example, receiving over $1,000 in travel for a $95 fee is a no-brainer, right??
However, what should you do when the annual fee comes around in subsequent years? You have a few options when it comes to handling your credit card after the initial year. You can opt to maintain the card and pay the annual fee if the card’s benefits outweigh the cost, as is the case with certain hotel cards that offer a valuable free night. Another choice is to downgrade the card to a no annual fee option, which preserves your credit line without impacting your credit score. Lastly, you can choose to cancel the card entirely.