10 Best Credit Cards for Travel in the Philippines: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re planning a vacation, having the right credit card can make all the difference. From earning miles to getting discounts on travel expenses, the best travel credit cards in the Philippines can help you save money and make your trip more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll introduce you to the 10 best credit cards for travel in the Philippines.
Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just planning a one-time trip, there’s a travel credit card that’s right for you. Some cards offer generous rewards programs that allow you to earn miles for every purchase you make, while others provide discounts on travel expenses like airfare and hotel bookings. With so many options available, it can be difficult to choose the right card for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top 10 travel credit cards in the Philippines.
Before you choose a travel credit card, it’s important to consider your travel habits and spending patterns. Do you travel frequently or only occasionally? Are you looking for a card that offers rewards for everyday purchases or one that provides discounts on travel expenses? You can narrow down your options and choose the right card by answering these questions. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at the 10 best credit cards for travel in the Philippines.
Understanding Travel Credit Cards
These cards are specifically designed to provide rewards and perks to make your travels more enjoyable and affordable. Here are some things you should know about travel credit cards:
Earning Rewards
Most travel credit cards offer rewards in the form of points or miles. These rewards can be earned by using your card to make purchases and can be redeemed for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotel stays, tour packages, and car rentals.
Sign-Up Bonuses
Many travel credit cards offer sign-up bonuses to new cardholders. These bonuses typically require you to meet a spending threshold within a certain amount of time and can be worth a return flight or a certain number of miles.
Annual Fees
Some travel credit cards come with annual fees. These fees can range from Php1,500 to Php5,000 per year. However, many cards offer enough rewards and perks to offset the annual fee cost.
Foreign Transaction Fees
If you plan on using your travel credit card outside of the Philippines, it’s important to be aware of foreign transaction fees. These fees can add up quickly, so looking for a card that doesn’t charge them is a good idea.
Travel Insurance
Many travel credit cards offer travel insurance as a perk. This insurance can cover travel cancellations, lost luggage, and medical emergencies.
Other Perks
In addition to rewards and travel insurance, many travel credit cards offer other perks, such as airport lounge access, free checked bags, priority check-in, priority boarding, and concierge services. These perks can make your travels more comfortable and convenient.
A travel credit card can be an excellent tool for frequent travelers. Just be sure to research and choose a card that fits your needs and budget.
10 Best Travel Credit Cards in the Philippines
A travel credit card can be a game-changer if you’re a frequent traveler. With the right card, you can earn rewards and perks to make your trips more enjoyable while earning miles that you can use for your future trips. Here are the 10 best travel credit cards in the Philippines that you should consider:
Citi PremierMiles Mastercard
The Citi PremierMiles Visa is among the best credit cards for earning miles. You can earn 1 PremierMile for every PHP 30 spent locally and abroad. Plus, you can earn up to 30,000 bonus miles when you spend PHP 100,000 within the first 3 months of card issuance.
Convert your miles to redeem airline miles (1.6 PremierMiles = 1 mile) for your future travels or redeem cash credits (5 PremierMiles = 1 PHP) that you can use to offset your next purchase. You can redeem your miles for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses. The best thing about Citi PremierMiles is that it does not expire, and you can use it anytime.
Read More: https://www.citibank.com.ph/credit-cards/travel/premiermiles-card.
HSBC Platinum Visa Rebate Credit Card
The HSBC Platinum Visa is a great card for travelers who want to earn rewards points. You can earn 1 reward point for every PHP 20 spent locally and abroad. You can redeem your points for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses. Plus, you can enjoy exclusive discounts and privileges at over 27,000 establishments worldwide. If you love road trips, This card offers a 6% Rebate on your first Caltex transaction and a 3% rebate on your Caltex fuel purchases year-round.
Earn a 5% rebate on online shopping and travel spending, 1% on insurance, and 0.5% on all other spending.
Read More: https://www.hsbc.com.ph/credit-cards/products/platinum-visa/
UnionBank Miles+ Platinum Visa
The UnionBank Miles+ Platinum Visa is a great card for earning miles. You can earn 1 mile for every PHP 25 spent locally and abroad for nontravel-related transactions, while you can easily earn 1.5 points for all travel-related spend. Plus, you can earn up to 10,000 bonus miles when you spend PHP 100,000 within the first 3 months of card issuance. You can redeem your miles for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses. You also have complimentary access to selected airport lounges and enjoy free travel insurance.
Read More: https://www.unionbankph.com/cards/credit-card?id=161-pop.
PNB-PAL Mabuhay Miles World Mastercard
The PNB-PAL Mabuhay Miles World Mastercard is a great card for earning miles. Get a 2,000 Mabuhay Miles welcome gift. You can earn 1 mile for every PHP 33 spent locally and abroad. Plus, you can earn up to 30,000 bonus miles when you spend PHP 100,000 within the first 3 months of card issuance. You can redeem your miles for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.
EastWest Bank Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum Mastercard
The EastWest Bank Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum Mastercard is a great card for earning miles. You can earn 1.5 KrisFlyer miles for every PHP 45 spent locally and abroad. Plus, you can earn up to 5,000 bonus miles when you spend PHP 10,000 within the first 60 days of card issuance. You can redeem your miles for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.
Take advantage of your EastWest Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Platinum Mastercard’s free Priority Pass™ membership and treat yourself to a luxurious and comfortable experience while waiting for your flight. Enjoy complimentary refreshments, spa treatments, and even sleeping areas in over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. Plus, you can bring a guest with you to share the experience! For more details, download the Priority Pass mobile app or check out their website at www.prioritypass.com.
Read More: https://www.eastwestbanker.com/creditcards/krisflyer-platinum-mastercard.
RCBC Bankard AirAsia Credit Card
The RCBC Bankard AirAsia Credit Card is great for earning AirAsia BIG points. You can earn 1 AirAsia BIG point for every PHP 22 spent locally and abroad. Plus, you can earn up to 8,000 bonus points when you spend PHP 20,000 within the first 60 days of card issuance. You can redeem your points for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.
Take advantage of airasia rewards Final Call and exclusive deals available to AirAsia Cardholders every quarter. Redeem free flights and vouchers from Lazada, SM Gift Pass, Grab, and many more through the airasia Super App and www.airasia.com/rewards with your airasia points. Enjoy the convenience of accessing thousands of rewards with just a few clicks!
Read More: https://rcbccredit.com/airasia
Metrobank Travel Platinum Visa
The Metrobank Travel Platinum Visa is a great card for earning rewards points. You can earn 1 point for every PHP 20 spent locally and abroad. Plus, you can earn up to 10,000 bonus points when you spend PHP 50,000 within the first 90 days of card issuance.
Discover the ultimate travel card that rewards you with miles quickly at 1 mile for every P17* spent on airline tickets, hotel stays, and foreign currency transactions. Enjoy complimentary airport lounge membership and a free first supplementary card! You can redeem your points for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses.
Read More: https://www.metrobankcard.com/cards/metrobank-travel-platinum-visa
Security Bank Complete Cashback Platinum Mastercard
The Security Bank Complete Cashback Mastercard is a great card for earning cashback. Get Php3,000 EGC from The Travel Club for your travel essentials. You can earn 5% cashback on travel-related expenses like flights, hotels, and transportation. Plus, you can earn 1% cashback on other purchases. There’s no limit to the amount of cashback you can earn.
Read More: https://www.securitybank.com/personal/credit-cards/rebate/complete-cashback-platinum-mastercard/.
AUB Platinum Mastercard
The AUB Platinum Mastercard is a great card for earning rewards points. You can earn 1 point for every PHP 20 spent locally and abroad. Plus, you can earn up to 10,000 bonus points when you spend PHP 50,000 within the first 90 days of card issuance.
You can redeem your points for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses. Transfer your Rewards Points to Mabuhay Miles Frequent Flyer Program. Enjoy complimentary airport lounge access when you travel. This card offers no Annual Membership fee for life.
Read More: https://www.aub.com.ph/creditcards/goldandplatinum
Cebu Pacific Gold Credit Card by UnionBank
If you’re a frequent Cebu Pacific flyer, the UnionBank Cebu Pacific Gold Travel Benefits card is the perfect travel companion! With this card, you’ll earn miles and exclusive perks with the low-cost airline, including 1 Go Rewards Point for every Php200 spent, and 1 Go Rewards Point for every Php100 spent at Cebu Pacific. Plus, you’ll enjoy automatic transfer of points to your Go Rewards number and exclusive access to Cebu Pacific seat sales. It’s the perfect way to get the most out of your travels!
Read More: https://gorewards.unionbankph.com/cebupacific
Criteria for Choosing a Travel Credit Card
Choosing a travel credit card can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some criteria to consider when selecting the best travel credit card for you:
Rewards Program
The rewards program is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a travel credit card. Look for a card that offers rewards that align with your travel preferences. Some cards offer points that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or car rentals, while others provide cashback or discounts on travel-related expenses.
Sign-Up Bonus
Many travel credit cards offer sign-up bonuses that can be a great way to earn rewards quickly. These bonuses usually require you to spend a certain amount within a specified timeframe. Make sure you can meet the spending requirement before applying for the card.
Annual Fee
Most travel credit cards come with an annual fee. Consider whether the rewards and benefits of the card outweigh the cost of the fee. Some cards may waive the yearly fee for the first year, so be sure to check for any introductory offers.
Foreign Transaction Fees
If you plan to use your travel credit card overseas, make sure to check if the card charges foreign transaction fees. These fees can add up quickly and negate any rewards you earn from using the card.
Travel Benefits
Look for a travel credit card that offers additional benefits such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, or concierge services. These perks can make your travel experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Considering these criteria, you can select the best travel credit card for your needs and preferences.
Benefits of Travel Credit Cards
Travel credit cards are designed to help you earn more rewards and perks when you travel. Here are some of the benefits of using a travel credit card:
Earn Rewards Points or Miles
Most travel credit cards allow you to earn points or miles for every peso you spend on your purchases. These rewards can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel-related expenses. Some cards also offer bonus points or miles when you make purchases from specific merchants or when you book your travel through their partner websites.
Enjoy Travel Perks
Many travel credit cards offer exclusive perks such as free airport lounge access, hotel and fuel discounts, and exclusive shopping and dining deals from merchants worldwide. Some cards also offer free travel and accident insurance coverage, which can help you save money on your travel expenses.
No Foreign Transaction Fees
You may be charged a foreign transaction fee when you use your credit card to make purchases in a foreign country. However, many travel credit cards waive this fee, which can save you significant money on your travel expenses.
Fraud Protection
Travel credit cards often come with additional security features, such as fraud protection and zero liability for unauthorized purchases. Knowing that your credit card is protected against fraudulent activity can give you peace of mind when traveling.
Build Your Credit
Using a travel credit card responsibly can help you build your credit score over time. By making your payments on time and keeping your balances low, you can demonstrate to lenders that you are a responsible borrower and improve your creditworthiness.
Travel credit cards can be a great way to earn rewards and save money on your travel expenses. However, it’s important to choose a card that matches your spending habits and travel needs and to use it responsibly to avoid racking up debt.
How to Apply for a Travel Credit Card
The process is quite simple if you’re interested in applying for a travel credit card in the Philippines. Most banks and financial institutions offer online applications, making applying from home easy. Here are some steps to follow:
- Research and compare credit cards: Before applying for a travel credit card, it’s important to research and compare the options available. Look at each card’s rewards, benefits, fees, and interest rates to determine which will best suit your needs.
- Check your eligibility: Each credit card has its own eligibility requirements, such as minimum income, age, and credit score. Make sure you meet the criteria before applying.
- Prepare your documents: When applying for a credit card, you’ll need to provide personal and financial information, such as your name, address, income, and employment details. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as your ID, payslips, and bank statements, ready to go.
- Apply online: Once you’ve chosen a credit card and checked your eligibility, you can apply online through the bank or financial institution’s website. Fill out the application form and attach any required documents. Some credit cards may require a minimum spend within a certain period to qualify for sign-up bonuses.
- Wait for approval: After submitting your application, you’ll need to wait for approval from the bank or financial institution. Depending on the card and your creditworthiness, this can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
- Activate your card: Once approved for a travel credit card, you’ll need to activate it before you can start using it. Follow the instructions provided by the bank or financial institution to activate your card, which may involve calling a hotline or visiting a branch.
Following these steps, you can easily apply for a travel credit card in the Philippines and earn rewards and benefits on your next trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top credit cards for travel rewards in the Philippines?
Some of the top credit cards for travel rewards in the Philippines include the HSBC Platinum Visa, Citibank PremierMiles Card, and BPI Skymiles Platinum Mastercard. These cards offer generous rewards points or miles for travel-related purchases and other perks like airport lounge access and travel insurance.
Which credit card offers the best travel insurance for international trips?
Several credit cards in the Philippines offer travel insurance for international trips, but the coverage and terms may vary. Some of the credit cards with comprehensive travel insurance coverage include the Citibank PremierMiles Card, BDO Platinum Mastercard, and Metrobank Travel Platinum Visa.
What are the benefits of using a travel credit card in the Philippines?
Using a travel credit card in the Philippines can offer several benefits, including earning rewards points or miles that can be redeemed for travel-related expenses like flights, hotels, and car rentals. Travel credit cards also offer perks like airport lounge access, travel insurance, and discounts on travel-related purchases.
Which Philippine credit cards offer access to airport lounges?
Several Philippine credit cards offer access to airport lounges, including the HSBC Platinum Visa, Citibank PremierMiles Card, and BPI Skymiles Platinum Mastercard. These cards typically offer a certain number of free lounge visits per year or access to a network of lounges.
What are the best credit cards for earning miles on travel purchases in the Philippines?
The best credit cards for earning miles on travel purchases in the Philippines include the Citibank PremierMiles Card, BPI SkyMiles Platinum Mastercard, and Metrobank Travel Platinum Visa. These cards offer generous rewards points or miles for travel-related purchases and other perks like airport lounge access and travel insurance.
Which credit card is recommended for use abroad by Philippine residents?
Several credit cards in the Philippines are recommended for use abroad by Philippine residents, including the Citibank PremierMiles Card, BDO Platinum Mastercard, and Metrobank Travel Platinum Visa. These cards typically offer low foreign transaction fees and other perks like travel insurance and airport lounge access.
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