For most Americans, the quickest path to travel rewards and cash back is simple: apply for the best credit cards and use the right card for each purchase. The difference between earning 1 point per dollar and 5 can be dramatic, and the credit card landscape has evolved rapidly in recent years, offering more opportunities than ever before. This article breaks down the cards a seasoned rewards user leverages to maximize spending across key categories.
Airfare: The American Express Platinum Card
For airfare purchases, the American Express Platinum Card stands out. It offers 5x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, up to $500,000 annually. Valued at 1.7 cents per point, this translates to an 8.5% return. Beyond rewards, the card provides superior travel protection, making it a compelling choice for peace of mind.
Hotels: Chase Sapphire Reserve and Niche Options
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is the primary card for hotel purchases, providing 4x Chase Ultimate Rewards points with no spending cap (valued at 6.8%). However, strategic exceptions exist. The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card delivers 14x Hilton Honors points on eligible Hilton stays (7% return), while the World of Hyatt Credit Card offers 4x Hyatt points plus additional perks.
Dining: American Express Gold and Citi Nights
For dining, the American Express Gold Card earns 4x Membership Rewards points on restaurant purchases (6.8% return, up to $50,000 per year). A key exception: the Citi Strata Elite℠ Card provides 6x points on dining purchases made during Citi Nights (Friday/Saturday evenings), making it exceptionally lucrative when used strategically.
Groceries: American Express Gold Again
The American Express Gold Card also dominates grocery spending, offering 4x Membership Rewards points on U.S. supermarket purchases (6.8% return, up to $25,000 per year).
International Spending: Atmos Rewards Summit Card
When traveling abroad, the Atmos Rewards Summit Card shines with 3x Alaska Atmos Rewards points per dollar spent (4.5% return) and no foreign transaction fees. This includes a blanket bonus category for all foreign purchases, plus additional incentives like Atmos Rewards status points and companion award opportunities.
Bills: Ink Business for Protection and Cash Back
Cell phone protection is a key benefit of the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card, which earns 3x Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Meanwhile, the Ink Business Cash® Credit Card provides 5x Chase Ultimate Rewards points on internet and cable purchases, making it a high-value option for recurring bills.
Gas: An Overlooked Category
Despite having over two dozen credit cards, the author doesn’t actively use any with gas rewards, as driving isn’t a major expense. This highlights that maximizing rewards requires aligning cards with individual spending habits.
Everyday Spending: A Mix of Loyalty and Cash Back
For non-bonused spending, a diversified approach is best. The Citi AAdvantage Business Card provides double-dip opportunities for some cardholders, while the Bilt Palladium Card earns 2x Bilt Rewards points plus 4% cash back redeemable for housing payments. The Capital One Venture X Business offers 2x Capital One miles with no cap.
Housing: Bilt Rewards for Rent and Mortgages
The Bilt Palladium Card stands out for housing costs, allowing users to redeem Bilt Cash for rewards on rent or mortgage payments. This generates significant points for frequent spenders.
The Bottom Line
Today’s credit card rewards structures have come a long way. By strategically leveraging bonus categories, it’s possible to earn over 3x transferable points per dollar spent, with a value exceeding 5%. While not everyone needs dozens of cards, focusing on a few that align with your spending habits can yield substantial rewards.
