If you’re a frequent business traveler, you know the value of having a reliable travel credit card in your wallet. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the perfect card to suit your needs. In this article, we’ll explore the best business travel credit cards and their features, as well as some tips on how to maximize their benefits. So, let’s dive in!
Factors to Consider
When evaluating business travel credit cards, there are several factors to consider, including reward programs, travel benefits, annual fees, and foreign transaction fees.
Reward Programs
A key feature of any travel credit card is its rewards program. These programs allow you to earn points or miles for every dollar spent, which can then be redeemed for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotels, or car rentals. Look for cards with generous rewards rates and flexible redemption options.
Travel Benefits
Beyond rewards programs, many travel credit cards offer additional benefits such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, or priority boarding. These perks can make your business travel more comfortable and stress-free.
Annual Fees
Some travel credit cards come with hefty annual fees. It’s essential to weigh the benefits against the cost to ensure that the card is worth the investment.
Foreign Transaction Fees
If you frequently travel abroad, look for cards with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges on international purchases.
Top 5 Business Travel Credit Cards
Now that we’ve covered the essential factors to consider let’s take a look at the top 5 business travel credit cards on the market.
American Express Business Platinum Card
The American Express Business Platinum Card offers a high rewards rate, with 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through amextravel.com and 1.5x points on eligible purchases over $5,000. This card also comes with valuable travel benefits, such as access to the Global Lounge Collection and a $200 airline fee credit. However, it does have a steep annual fee of $595.
Chase Ink Business Preferred Card
With the Chase Ink Business Preferred Card, you can earn 3x points on travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services, and advertising purchases up to $150,000 annually. Points can be redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal or transferred to various airline and hotel partners. This card also offers travel protection and has a more reasonable annual fee of $95.
Capital One Spark Miles for Business
The Capital One Spark Miles for Business card offers a flat 2x miles per dollar spent on all purchases, making it a simple and flexible option. Miles can be redeemed for travel purchases or transferred to various airline partners. The card also comes with no foreign transaction fees and offers a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit. The annual fee is $95, but it’s waived for the first year.
Bank of America Business Advantage Travel Rewards
The Bank of America Business Advantage Travel Rewards card is an excellent choice for those looking for a no annual fee option. You’ll earn 1.5x points per dollar spent on all purchases, and 3x points on travel booked through the Bank of America Travel Center. Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or cashback. This card also comes with no foreign transaction fees.
CitiBusiness AAdvantage Platinum Select World Card
If you’re a frequent American Airlines traveler, the CitiBusiness AAdvantage Platinum Select World Card could be the perfect fit. You’ll earn 2x AAdvantage miles on American Airlines purchases, as well as on telecommunications, cable, satellite, car rental, and gas station purchases. Cardholders also enjoy perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and a 25% savings on in-flight purchases. The annual fee is $99 but is waived for the first year.
How to Choose the Right Card for Your Business
To choose the right business travel credit card, consider the following:
- Evaluate your business’s spending habits and travel preferences.
- Determine the importance of travel benefits and perks to your business.
- Compare reward programs and redemption options.
- Consider annual fees and foreign transaction fees.
By assessing these factors, you’ll be able to select the card that best meets your business’s needs and maximizes your rewards and benefits.
Maximizing Your Card’s Benefits
Once you’ve chosen the right business travel credit card, it’s essential to make the most of its benefits. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
- Use your card for all business-related expenses to maximize your rewards.
- Pay attention to bonus categories and adjust your spending accordingly.
- Redeem your rewards strategically, considering the best redemption options and transfer partners.
- Make full use of travel benefits and perks offered by your card.
- Monitor your account regularly to ensure you’re aware of any changes to your card’s terms or benefits.
Conclusion
In summary, finding the best business travel credit card requires careful consideration of your business’s needs and preferences. By evaluating factors such as rewards programs, travel benefits, annual fees, and foreign transaction fees, you can select the card that offers the most value for your business. Don’t forget to maximize your card’s benefits and rewards to make your business travel more comfortable and rewarding.
FAQs
1. Can I have multiple business travel credit cards?
Yes, you can have multiple business travel credit cards if it makes sense for your business’s spending habits and travel needs. Just be sure to manage them responsibly and avoid overspending.
2. How do I decide which business travel credit card is best for me?
Consider your business’s spending habits, the importance of travel benefits and perks, reward programs, and redemption options, as well as annual fees and foreign transaction fees when deciding on the best card for your needs.
3. Can I use my business travel credit card for personal expenses?
While it’s technically possible to use a business credit card for personal expenses, it’s generally not recommended. Mixing business and personal expenses can make accounting and tax preparation more challenging.
4. Do business travel credit cards affect my personal credit score?
Some issuers report business credit card activity to personal credit bureaus, which can impact your personal credit score. It’s essential to check your card’s terms and conditions to understand how your business credit card usage may affect your personal credit.
5. What should I do if my business travel credit card is lost or stolen while I’m traveling?
If your business travel credit card is lost or stolen, immediately contact your card issuer to report the issue and request a replacement card. Most issuers offer 24/7 customer service and can provide emergency assistance, such as overnight shipping of a new card or granting temporary access to funds. Additionally, be sure to monitor your account for any unauthorized charges and report them to the card issuer as soon as possible.
