The Best Cards of 2026
A vertical breakdown of my current favorites, why I use them, and where they might fall short.
The Starter Essential
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
If you only get one travel card, make it this one. It's the most flexible way to earn points that can be transferred directly to Hyatt or United.
✓ Pros
- • Transfer points to 14 travel partners, including Hyatt
- • Primary rental car coverage (huge!)
- • No foreign transaction fees
✕ Cons
- • No airport lounge access
- • $95 annual fee is not waived
Premium Travel
Capital One Venture X
This card effectively pays you to keep it. Between the $300 credit and the 10k anniversary bonus, the "real" cost is $0 for premium lounge access.
✓ Pros
- • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit
- • Unlimited lounge access (Priority Pass)
- • Simple 2x earning on everything
✕ Cons
- • Must use the portal to get the $300 credit
- • Transfer partners are slightly more complex
Everyday Powerhouse
Citi Strata Premier℠ Card
If you spend a lot on groceries and gas, this is the card that will rack up points the fastest for your daily life.
Other Notable Cards
Amex Gold
Dining King4x on dining and groceries. The ultimate points earner for foodies.
Learn More →✓ Pros
- • 3x points on Gas and Groceries
- • 3x points on Dining and Travel
- • Great transfer options like American Airlines
✕ Cons
- • No purchase protection or travel insurance
- • Customer service can be hit or miss