Travel credit cards are a valuable tool, especially for frequent travelers who want to earn and redeem travel rewards.
But beyond rewards, these cards also offer travel protections, like trip delay reimbursement and baggage delay coverage, which can save the day when a trip doesn't go as planned.
Those are just the more common card benefits. There are other lesser-known perks that don't always get the attention they deserve. As a frequent traveler who has used travel rewards credit cards for over a decade, I've gotten significant value from some of these overlooked benefits.
In this article
Cell Phone Protection
Some travel credit cards, such as the Capital One Venture X card, for example, include cell phone protection insurance, which can cover the cost of repairing or replacing a stolen or accidentally damaged phone up to a set dollar amount per claim.
Most card issuers require you to pay your monthly cell phone bill with the card to qualify, and a deductible will apply when making a claim.
A few years ago, I learned firsthand how valuable this coverage is. I started using a brand-new phone before my case arrived, dropped it on the pavement, and cracked the screen and frame.
Fortunately, my credit card had cell phone protection. Repairs cost around $425, and after my $100 deductible, my card reimbursed me $325. Since I had just spent money on a new phone, it was a relief not having to pay full-price for repairs.
Annual Travel Credits
Annual travel credits are one of my favorite card perks. Some premium travel cards offer annual credit reimbursements for eligible travel purchases. The benefit typically works in one of two ways:
Some cards apply the credit automatically as a statement credit for eligible purchases. The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card, for example, offers up to $300 in annual travel credit. Just use your card for eligible travel purchases, such as airline or hotel bookings, and the credit is automatically applied to your account.
Other cards require you to book through the card issuer's travel portal to qualify. The Capital One Venture X, for example, provides up to $300 annually, but only for eligible Capital One Travel bookings.
This is an especially useful perk that can help offset a card's annual fee.
Automatic Elite Status
Some hotel credit cards include automatic elite status benefits.
The Hilton Honors Amex Aspire is one example. It automatically grants cardholders Hilton Honors Diamond status, the second-highest elite tier in the Hilton Honors program. Some of the benefits include executive lounge access, room upgrades when available, a daily food and beverage credit, and a 100% points bonus on hotel stays.
Not all elite status benefits offered by credit cards are automatic, though. Some cards grant status only after meeting a minimum annual spend threshold. Before applying, review the benefits carefully so you know what to expect. If you're loyal to one hotel brand, a card offering automatic elite status could be worthwhile.
Free Checked Bags
If you opt for an airline credit card over a general travel rewards card, free checked bags are a major perk. Many airline cards include this benefit.
Typically, the cardholder plus at least one companion on the same reservation qualify for a free checked bag. Some airline cards extend this benefit to even more companions, making it an especially valuable benefit for families.
For example, the Citi AAdvantage® Platinum Select World Elite Mastercard offers a first free checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries for the cardholder and up to four companions.
A family of five checking in five bags at $45 per bag, each way would spend $450 roundtrip in fees. An airline credit card could eliminate this additional travel expense. Most U.S. carriers now charge at least $45 for a first checked bag each way, so even if you only fly once or twice a year, it’s beneficial.
Rideshare or Food Delivery App Memberships and Credits
Another cool credit card perk is rideshare or food delivery app memberships and credits. Some premium travel credit cards include complimentary memberships or statement credits for services like Uber or DoorDash, which you can use at home or when traveling.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one example. Cardholders receive a complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership (normally $95 annually), which includes free delivery and reduced service fees on eligible orders. The card also includes a monthly $10 credit toward non-restaurant DoorDash orders, such as grocery and convenience store purchases.
I've had cards offering these benefits and have found that they help me save money. I've used food delivery app memberships and credits in my everyday life, both at home and while traveling. If you order delivery or use ride share services often, you’ll likely appreciate benefits like this.
The Shortcut
Cell phone protection can cover cracked screens and theft. Most cards just require you to pay your monthly bill with the card.
Free checked bags on an airline card can save a family of five $450 roundtrip, enough to justify an annual fee on its own.
Some hotel cards grant automatic elite status the day you're approved, no stays required.
Annual travel credits often offset a card's full annual fee before you've earned a single point.
DashPass, Uber Cash, and ride-share credits aren't just travel perks. Most cards let you use them at home too.
