If you are planning a trip abroad or just want to earn some rewards for travel expenses, getting a travel credit card can be a great idea. However, not all credit cards are created equal and some can be difficult to get approved for, especially if you have a limited credit history or a low credit score. Fortunately, there are some travel cards that are easier to get approved for, even if you are a first-time credit card user.
What is a Travel Credit Card?
A travel credit card is a type of credit card that is designed to help you earn rewards or points for travel-related expenses, such as flights, hotels, car rentals, and more. These rewards can be redeemed for free or discounted travel, or for other perks such as access to airport lounges or travel insurance. Travel credit cards may also offer other benefits, such as no foreign transaction fees, enhanced travel protections, and more.
Why Are Some Travel Cards Easier to Get Approved For?
Travel credit cards can be more difficult to get approved for than other types of credit cards, such as cash-back or rewards cards, because they often require a higher credit score and a longer credit history. However, some travel cards are designed for people with lower credit scores or limited credit histories, and may have more lenient approval criteria. These cards may also have lower fees and interest rates, making them a good option for people who are new to credit or who are trying to rebuild their credit.
The Easiest Travel Cards to Get Approved for
There are several travel credit cards that are relatively easy to get approved for, even if you have a limited credit history or a low credit score. Some of the best options include:
Card Name | Credit Score Required | Annual Fee | Key Benefits |
---|---|---|---|
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card | Fair (580-669) | $0 | Earn 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases; 20,000 bonus miles when you spend $500 in the first 3 months; no foreign transaction fees |
Discover it Miles | Good (670-739) | $0 | Earn 1.5 miles per dollar on all purchases; all miles earned in the first year are matched; no foreign transaction fees |
Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card | Good (670-739) | $0 | Earn 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases; 25,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in the first 90 days; no foreign transaction fees |
These cards have relatively low credit score requirements and no annual fee, making them a good option for people who are new to credit or who are trying to improve their credit score. They also offer rewards or points for travel-related expenses, as well as other benefits such as no foreign transaction fees.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved
If you are interested in getting a travel credit card, there are several things you can do to improve your chances of getting approved:
- Check your credit score and credit report to make sure they are accurate and up-to-date
- Apply for cards that are designed for people with your credit score or credit history
- Consider getting a secured credit card, which requires a security deposit but can help you build credit
- Pay your bills on time and keep your credit utilization low
- Consider getting a cosigner or authorized user on your account to improve your chances of getting approved
Conclusion
Getting a travel credit card can be a great way to earn rewards or points for travel-related expenses, but it can be difficult to get approved if you have a limited credit history or a low credit score. Fortunately, there are several travel cards that are designed for people with lower credit scores or limited credit histories, and that may be easier to get approved for. By checking your credit score, applying for the right cards, and taking steps to improve your credit, you can increase your chances of getting approved for a travel credit card and start earning rewards for your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest travel credit card to get approved for?
The easiest travel credit cards to get approved for are typically those that have low credit score requirements and no annual fee, such as the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card, Discover it Miles, and Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card.
What is a secured credit card?
A secured credit card is a type of credit card that requires a security deposit, typically equal to the credit limit of the card. This deposit is used as collateral in case you are unable to repay your debts. Secured credit cards can be a good option for people who are new to credit or who are trying to rebuild their credit.
A cosigner or authorized user is someone who is added to your credit card account and who agrees to be responsible for any debts or charges that you incur. A cosigner is typically used when you have a low credit score or limited credit history, while an authorized user is typically used when you want to add someone to your account who can use the card but is not responsible for the debt.
How can I improve my chances of getting approved for a travel credit card?
You can improve your chances of getting approved for a travel credit card by checking your credit score and credit report to make sure they are accurate and up-to-date, applying for cards that are designed for people with your credit score or credit history, considering getting a secured credit card, paying your bills on time, keeping your credit utilization low, and getting a cosigner or authorized user on your account.