Studying abroad, heading on a gap-year adventure, or just planning budget-friendly trips with friends in 2026? A travel credit card can be your secret weapon — helping you earn free flights, hotel perks, lounge access, and more just for spending wisely. But with so many options out there, which ones are worth your attention as a student?
We’ve rounded up the best travel credit cards for students in 2026, from beginner-friendly cards with no annual fees to flexible reward machines you can grow into. Let’s unlock those travel perks!
1 – Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card — Best All-Around Student Travel Card
Why it’s awesome:
This card is a perfect starter travel card for students — no annual fee, no foreign transaction fees, and a solid bonus offer that gets your travel fund going fast. You’ll earn flexible points for every purchase that can be redeemed toward travel charges.
Perks you’ll love:
- 25,000 bonus points (worth about ₹18,000–₹20,000) after meeting the spend requirement.
- No foreign transaction fees — great for international study or vacations.
- Points that can be applied toward travel purchases like flights, hotels, and trains.
Best for: Students new to credit cards who want simplicity and travel rewards without commitments.
2 – Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card — Chill & Rewarding
If you want travel perks and good cash-back rewards on everyday life as a student, this card is incredibly versatile. It combines travel-friendly benefits with cash back on purchases like dining — perfect for campus life and trips.
Top perks:
- 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel.
- 3% back on dining and entertainment — big help for student budgets.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- $0 annual fee keeps things affordable.
Best for: Students who want travel benefits plus rewards on everyday spending.
3 – Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card — Best Starter Travel Reward Card
Though not designed just for students, this card is hugely popular among young travelers ready to step up their travel game. It often comes with a big welcome bonusand flexible travel points you can transfer to airlines and hotel partners.
Why it’s great:
- Big sign-up bonus rewards that can cover a flight or two.
- Earn lots of points on travel and dining spending.
- Points can be transferred to airline/hotel partners for great value.
- No foreign transaction fees.
Heads up: This card usually has an annual fee, so it’s best if you’re planning frequent travel and can use the perks it offers.
4 – Chase Sapphire Reserve® — Premium Perks for Frequent Travelers
If you’re a frequent traveler — maybe exploring Europe, Asia, or beyond in 2026 — this is a high-end travel card with lounge access, travel credits, and premium benefits worth it for regular flyers.
Perks include:
- Large travel credits and enhanced point earnings.
- Priority Pass lounge access — great for early flights and long layovers.
Best for: Students who travel often or are planning big overseas adventures.
5 – BILT Mastercard — Earn Rewards on Everyday Spending
A unique card that helps you earn points on everyday life (even rent!) and travel — ideal if you’re studying abroad or building credit at home. Points can be used on travel through partners like airlines and hotel programs.
Standout features:
- Earn points on rent and dining.
- Points transfer to travel partners.
- Tiered card options, including a no-fee version.
Best for: Students who pay rent and want a flexible travel rewards card.
6 – Local UAE Travel-Friendly Cards Worth a Look
If you’re based in the UAE or travel from here often, several local travel cards offer perks like 0% foreign currency fees, lounge access, and cashback on flights/hotels — a great complement to your student life:
ADCB Traveller Credit Card
- Cashback on flights and hotel bookings — up to significant amounts monthly.
- No foreign currency fees — saves money abroad.
- Complimentary airport lounge access.
Note: Local cards may have monthly spend requirements to unlock full perks.
Quick Tips for Students Choosing a Travel Card
– No Foreign Fees Matter: When studying or traveling abroad, foreign transaction fees can add 2–3% to every purchase — choose cards that waive them.
– Welcome Bonuses = Free Travel: Many cards offer points or miles just for meeting a spending amount within the first few months.
– Build Credit While You Travel: Using your card responsibly helps your credit score — helpful for future loans and bigger rewards cards.
– Annual Fees vs. Value: Don’t be scared by an annual fee if the travel benefits outweigh it!
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best travel credit card as a student in 2026 is all about matching it to your travel goals and lifestyle. If you want low fees and simple rewards, go for a no-fee travel card. If you’re ready to earn serious points and travel more, consider mid-tier or premium cards.
Planning a semester abroad or that dream backpacking trip? Start with one of these cards — and watch your travel budget stretch further than you thought possible!
