Travel reward credit cards: a practical guide

Imagine using your daily spending — on food, coffee, or even online shopping — to pay for your next big trip. This is the idea behind travel reward credit cards. They change regular purchases into chances to save money and get travel benefits, provided you pay your balance in full each month, allowing you to get more from your money while also paying for your holiday.

Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or planning your very first trip abroad, understanding how to use a credit card effectively can help you manage your travel finances. This guide will walk you through the key benefits of a travel reward credit card and show you how to choose one that fits your lifestyle.

A credit card is a form of loan, as with any credit facility, you should consider the full financial commitment involved, including interest and fees.

Warning: if you don't meet the repayments on your credit card, your account will go into arrears. This may affect your credit rating, which may limit your ability to access credit, a hire-purchase agreement, a consumer-hire agreement, or a Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) agreement in the future.

The power of a credit card for travel

A credit card is more than just a tool for making payments — it can make your trip easier, more secure, and more affordable.

What are travel rewards and how do they work with a credit card?

Travel rewards are benefits you earn by using a specific credit card. While some cards offer cashback, a travel reward credit card gives you points or miles that can be redeemed for travel-related benefits. With a Revolut credit card, this means earning RevPoints with every eligible purchase — these count towards flights, hotel stays, car rentals, gift cards, and even access to airport lounges.

The concept is simple: you use your credit card for a wide range of purchases, and as you do, you accumulate rewards. For example, a card might offer one point for every euro you spend on everyday items, but it might offer 2 or 3 points for every euro spent on travel, flights, or dining out. This tiered system helps you maximise your rewards when booking your travel.

Our Revolut Credit Card offers a standard earn rate regardless of the category of purchase, unlike some traditional credit cards that have tiered reward systems for different categories like travel or dining. This means you'll always know exactly how many points you'll earn, making it easy to track and maximise your benefits without any guesswork.

Is it worth it to have a credit card with travel rewards?

The short answer is yes, but only if you use it responsibly. A travel reward credit card can be a powerful financial tool that gives you more value from your spending. However, the value you get from a card depends entirely on how you manage it.

The main risk of any credit card is incurring debt and paying interest. If you carry a monthly balance and are charged interest, these costs can quickly outweigh any rewards you earn. The golden rule is to always pay your full balance on time to avoid interest and fees. If you can do this, the card's benefits can make it a worthwhile addition to your financial toolkit.

What other benefits do credit cards have?

Beyond the potential to earn points and miles, credit cards come with a number of other practical benefits that can protect your money and provide peace of mind.

• Fraud protection: our cards offer a safer alternative to cash while travelling. If your card is lost, stolen, or used fraudulently, you aren't typically held responsible for unauthorised charges. You can quickly freeze or block the card in-app, and a new one will be sent to you.
• No foreign transaction fees: we don't charge foreign transaction fees on Premium, Metal and Ultra Plans, which can save you a significant amount of money when spending abroad. Note that exchange fees and fair usage limits still apply.
• Travel insurance: Revolut Premium, Metal, and Ultra plans offer complimentary travel insurance with your credit card, which can include cover for delayed flights, lost luggage, and even emergency medical expenses.
• Purchase protection: many of our credit cards offer purchase protection, which means that if an item you bought is damaged, lost, or stolen, you may be able to claim a refund.

How to choose the best credit card for travel rewards

The right card for you depends on your financial habits and travel goals. Here's what to consider when looking for the best travel reward credit card:

• Understanding your spending habits: look for a card that rewards your regular spending. If you spend a lot on dining and groceries, choose a card that offers higher points in these categories. If you travel often, a card with more points you can earn on travel-related purchases would be better. With us, your RevPoints accumulation is directly tied to your spending.
• A balanced approach to interest rates and fees: a card with a high annual fee might not seem worth it, but if the value of the rewards and benefits you receive outweighs the fee, it could still be a good deal. While rewards and benefits are important, you should always review the fees and interest rates.
• Flexible rewards: our RevPoints program allows you to redeem your points on partner airlines or hotels. Or, use them to book tickets to tours and various attractions through Experiences.
• Other benefits: use our credit cards for perks like airport lounge access, purchase protection, and travel insurance for a stress-free trip.

How to apply for a travel reward credit card

Applying for a credit card is a straightforward process that can be done online. Before you begin, you'll need to have a few things ready. Here's how to apply:

1. Download the Revolut app: complete the sign-up process in just a few taps.
2. Verify your identity: we'll ask you to provide proof of identity and address to verify your account. You'll need a passport or national ID card, along with a recent utility bill or bank statement.
3. Apply in-app: once your identity is verified, you can apply for a credit card in-app by submitting your financial information, including details about your income, employment status, and any debts you may have.

Most credit card applications are processed quickly, and you may receive a decision within a few minutes. Once approved, you can start using a virtual credit card right away while you wait for your physical card to arrive.

Repayments and rates: things to know before you apply

Before you apply for a credit card, it's crucial to understand how repayments and interest rates work. You can learn more about credit cards, rates, and repayments in our credit card introduction guide.

• Annual Percentage Rate (APR): this is the interest rate you'll be charged on your balance if you don't pay it off in full each month. The typical APR for a credit card may be around 15-20%.
• Minimum payment: every month, you'll be required to make a minimum payment on your balance. However, paying only the minimum will result in you paying interest on the remaining amount. It's always best to pay your full statement balance each month to avoid paying interest.
• Grace period: most credit cards offer an interest-free period on purchases. If you pay your balance in full before the due date, you won't be charged interest on those purchases.

Understanding fees, APR, and other fine print

While ‌rewards are the main attraction, it's crucial to look at the fine print of a card's T&Cs.

• Annual fees: a card with an annual fee might seem expensive, but if the value of the rewards you receive outweighs the fee, it can be a great investment. For example, a card with a fee might offer travel insurance that's worth more than the fee itself.
• Annual Percentage Rate (APR): this is the interest you'll be charged if you don't pay your balance in full each month. To get the most from your rewards, it's best to pay your balance in full and on time. A high APR can quickly negate any benefits you earn. The APR is also a calculation that helps you compare different credit products in a fair and transparent way.
• Fair usage limits: be aware of any limits on cash withdrawals, currency exchange, or other services. These can vary based on your plan tier and can impact the value of your card.

We offer a range of financial tools designed to make your money work smarter, including a credit card that offers competitive rewards and flexible control.

Representative example of a Revolut Credit Card: assuming a single purchase of €1,500 repaid in equal instalments over a 12 month period, at a variable interest rate of 13.34% and an Annual Percentage Rate (APR) 17.99%, the total amount repayable (including Government Stamp Duty charge of €30) would be €1,640.58. The total cost of credit would be €110.58.

What's Revolut’s best credit card with travel rewards?

Our Credit Cards are a great way to earn travel rewards. As a Revolut customer, you can turn your eligible spending into RevPoints with our loyalty programme. You can then redeem them on travel discounts and hotel stays, or convert them into Airline Miles with over 30 partner airlines.

With higher-tier plans, you can earn more points for every euro you spend. Here's a quick look at our plans and the specific travel benefits they offer. You can find more information about all our plans and their benefits on our dedicated pricing plans page.

• Revolut Standard: while this plan doesn't include a credit card, it's a great starting point for travellers. You can exchange and hold over 30 currencies, and spend in over 150 countries without hidden fees.
• Revolut Plus: this plan offers purchase protection and higher limits for spending abroad.
• Revolut Premium: in addition to the above, this plan includes travel insurance and unlimited currency exchange. With this plan, you can also earn one RevPoint for every €4 spent.
• Revolut Metal: this plan is designed for global travellers and traders, offering comprehensive travel insurance, enhanced limits, and lounge access. It also allows you to earn one RevPoint for every €2 spent.
• Revolut Ultra: our top-tier plan provides the ultimate travel experience, with unlimited airport lounge access, global medical insurance, and more. With this plan, you can earn one RevPoint for every €1 spent.

How to use your travel rewards

With our credit cards, you can earn RevPoints with every eligible purchase. The more you spend, the more you earn. This lets you use your daily spending to fund your next adventure — with added security, flexibility, and savings. Redeem your RevPoints on a variety of travel-related rewards in-app, including Airline Miles, hotel stays, gift cards, and experiences.

Get started with Revolut

Ready to start earning travel rewards? Apply for a credit card with us today. Here's how:

1. Download the Revolut app: find it on the App Store or Google Play, then download it on your phone.
2. Sign up and verify your identity: follow the simple on-screen instructions to create your account and verify your identity. This typically involves providing your ID and a proof of address.
3. Apply in-app: once your account is set up, you can submit an application for a Credit Card. In the Accounts section, select + Add new, tap Credit, and choose Credit Cards. Our quick and easy process will guide you through submitting your financial information.

The information provided is accurate as of 12 September 2025.

18+ only. RevPoints T&Cs apply. RevPoints earned depend on your plan. RevPoints rewards require opt-in to RevPoints programme, and vary by plan.

Revolut Bank UAB is regulated and authorised by the Bank of Lithuania in the Republic of Lithuania, and by the European Central Bank, and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules.


Lending criteria, as well as terms and conditions, apply. Credit Cards are available to Revolut customers who are residents of the Republic of Ireland over the age of 18. All Credit Cards applications are subject to approval.