Traveling as a student or young adult doesn’t have to break the bank — especially when you’re earning points or miles on every purchase. Whether you’re studying abroad, taking a gap year, or just love weekend getaways, the right travel credit card can help you save money, earn free flights, and enjoy travel perks.
Here are the top travel credit cards for students and young adults in 2025 that combine rewards, flexibility, and low fees.
🌍 1. Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students
- Annual Fee: $0
- Rewards: 1.5 points per $1 on all purchases
- Sign-up Bonus: 25,000 points ($250 value) after $1,000 in purchases
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Why it’s great: Simple, no-hassle travel rewards and no international fees — perfect for students abroad.
🌐 2. Capital One VentureOne Rewards for Good Credit
- Annual Fee: $0
- Rewards: 1.25 miles per $1 spent
- Sign-up Bonus: 20,000 miles after spending $500 in 3 months
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Why it’s great: Low spending threshold for the bonus + flexible rewards redemption.
🎓 3. Deserve® EDU Mastercard for Students
- Annual Fee: $0
- Rewards: 1% cash back on all purchases (redeemable for travel)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Perks: 1-year Amazon Prime Student credit ($59 value)
Why it’s great: Designed specifically for students, even international ones — no SSN required to apply.
🧳 4. Chase Sapphire Preferred® (For Young Adults with Established Credit)
- Annual Fee: $95
- Rewards: 2x points on travel and dining
- Sign-up Bonus: 60,000 points ($750 travel value) after $4,000 spend
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Why it’s great: A premium travel card for young professionals or grads starting to build wealth.
📱 5. Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
- Annual Fee: $0
- Rewards: 3x points on travel, transit, dining, gas, streaming, and phone plans
- Sign-up Bonus: 20,000 points ($200 value)
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Why it’s great: Loaded with bonus categories relevant to students and everyday travel.
🛫 6. Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards
- Annual Fee: $0
- Rewards: 3% back on dining, entertainment, streaming, and grocery stores
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Why it’s great: Not a traditional travel card, but excellent if your travel includes food, events, and city hopping.
✈️ 7. Bilt Mastercard® (If You Pay Rent)
- Annual Fee: $0
- Rewards: 1x on rent (without fees), 2x on travel, 3x on dining
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
Why it’s great: Earn valuable travel points on rent — a huge win for students in apartments or dorms.
🔑 Key Features to Look for in a Travel Card
- No foreign transaction fees – Essential for international travel.
- Flexible point redemption – Flights, hotels, or even cash.
- Low or no annual fee – Especially for students or new grads.
- Travel perks – Insurance, rental car coverage, or TSA PreCheck.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Travel rewards cards are more accessible than ever. You don’t need to be a frequent flyer to benefit — just pick a card that fits your lifestyle and spending habits. And always remember to:
- Pay your balance in full to avoid interest
- Use your card responsibly to build credit
- Redeem points smartly for maximum value
💡 Pro Tip: Pair a travel card with a cashback card for the best of both worlds — use the right card in the right situation!