2024 Best Credit Cards for Points & Miles Enthusiasts

The world of travel rewards is evolving faster than ever, and 2024 brings a fresh wave of credit cards designed to maximize points, miles, and perks. Whether you're a frequent flyer, a luxury traveler, or someone who just wants to stretch every dollar, the right credit card can unlock incredible value—especially in an era of rising travel costs, inflation, and shifting loyalty programs.

Here’s a deep dive into the best credit cards for points and miles in 2024, tailored for enthusiasts who want to stay ahead of the curve.

Top Picks for 2024: Cards That Stand Out

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Why It’s a Must-Have in 2024
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® remains a fan favorite for its balance of affordability and high rewards. With inflation impacting travel budgets, this card’s 60,000-point sign-up bonus (after spending $4,000 in the first three months) is a game-changer.

• Earning Potential: 5x points on travel booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, and 2x on all other travel.
• Flexibility: Points transfer 1:1 to partners like United, Hyatt, and British Airways.
• Annual Fee: $95 (a steal for the value).

Best For: Travelers who want premium rewards without a hefty annual fee.

2. American Express® Gold Card

The Ultimate Dining & Grocery Card
With food prices soaring, the Amex Gold’s 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year) and restaurants make it a powerhouse.

• Perks: $120 annual dining credit (Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, etc.) and $120 Uber Cash.
• Annual Fee: $250, but the credits often offset it.
• Transfer Partners: Includes Delta, Emirates, and Hilton.

Best For: Foodies and those who spend heavily on groceries.

Luxury Travel Cards Worth the Splurge

3. The Platinum Card® from American Express

The King of Travel Perks
In 2024, airport chaos and rising business-class fares make the Amex Platinum’s lounge access and travel credits more valuable than ever.

• Highlights:
  • 5x points on flights (booked directly or through Amex Travel).
  • $200 annual airline fee credit, $200 Uber Cash, and elite status with Hilton and Marriott.
  • Centurion Lounge access (a lifesaver during delays).
• Annual Fee: $695 (justified for frequent travelers).

Best For: Jet-setters who prioritize comfort and convenience.

4. Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Premium Travel, Fewer Hassles
With its $300 annual travel credit (which now covers more expenses like tolls and parking), the Sapphire Reserve is perfect for road warriors.

• Rewards: 3x points on travel and dining.
• Travel Protections: Top-tier trip delay/cancellation insurance.
• Annual Fee: $550.

Best For: Those who want Chase’s transfer partners with premium benefits.

Best for Business Travelers & Entrepreneurs

5. Capital One Venture X Business

A Business Card That Pays for Itself
Remote work and "bleisure" (business + leisure) travel are booming, making this card ideal for entrepreneurs.

• Key Features:
  • 2x miles on all purchases.
  • $300 annual travel credit and 10,000 bonus miles yearly.
  • Priority Pass lounge access.
• Annual Fee: $395.

Best For: Small business owners who travel frequently.

6. Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Maximize Business Spending
With supply chain issues driving up costs, the Ink Business Preferred’s 3x points on shipping, advertising, and travel is a smart choice.

• Sign-Up Bonus: 100,000 points after $15,000 spend in 3 months.
• Annual Fee: $95.

Best For: Businesses with high marketing or shipping expenses.

Hidden Gems & Niche Cards

7. Bilt Mastercard®

Earn Points on Rent (Yes, Rent!)
As housing costs skyrocket, the Bilt Card lets you earn points on rent payments—with no fees.

• Rewards: 1x on rent, 3x on dining, 2x on travel.
• Annual Fee: $0.

Best For: Renters who want to turn housing costs into travel rewards.

8. Citi Premier® Card

The Underrated All-Rounder
With gas and grocery prices still high, the Citi Premier’s 3x on these categories (plus travel) is clutch.

• Transfer Partners: Includes Avianca and Turkish Airlines.
• Annual Fee: $95.

Best For: Families and road-trippers.

How to Choose the Right Card in 2024

Consider Your Spending Habits

• Dining & Groceries: Amex Gold or Chase Sapphire Preferred.
• Luxury Travel: Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve.
• Business Expenses: Capital One Venture X Business or Ink Business Preferred.

Watch for Limited-Time Offers

Banks often boost sign-up bonuses in Q1 and Q4—timing matters!

Think Beyond Airfare

With hotel prices surging, cards like the World of Hyatt Credit Card offer outsized value for free nights.

The right credit card can turn everyday spending into unforgettable travel experiences—even in an unpredictable economy. Whether you’re escaping inflation with a points-funded vacation or leveraging perks to offset rising costs, 2024’s best cards are your ticket to smarter travel.