The most rewarding credit cards in 2024, offering exceptional cashback, travel perks, and low fees Also Maximize your spending with expert insights on these top picks
With the cost of living rising and consumer spending shifting more toward digital and contactless payments, credit card companies are stepping up their game in 2024.
From high cashback rates to unbeatable travel rewards, there's no shortage of benefits available to cardholders.
But how do you choose the right card? This guide breaks down the top five credit cards in 2024 that offer the best value in terms of cashback, travel perks, and fees.
1. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Best for Everyday Spending
The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a standout this year thanks to its incredible 5% cashback on travel purchases made through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% on dining, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
What’s great about this card is that it doesn’t have an annual fee, making it accessible to everyday spenders who want maximum cashback without extra costs.
i. Trending Insight: As more consumers shift to online shopping, Chase has adapted its rewards structure to encourage cardholders to use their card for e-commerce purchases. Whether you’re buying groceries online or booking a staycation, the Freedom Unlimited® ensures you get something back for every dollar spent.
2. Discover it® Cash Back
Best for Rotating Categories
This card is still a top contender due to its 5% cashback on quarterly rotating categories—categories that include popular choices like grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants.
And the real kicker? Discover automatically matches all the cashback you earn at the end of your first year, effectively doubling your rewards with zero hassle.
i. In-Depth: What sets Discover it® apart from the competition is its transparency. Many cards hide their best perks behind high fees, but Discover it® keeps it simple.
No annual fees, no foreign transaction fees, and no redemption hassles. The rotating categories help you get cashback on what matters most, as they’re aligned with consumer spending trends like dining out and fuel costs, which are steadily climbing in 2024.
3. Citi Double Cash Card: Best for Consistency
When simplicity and consistency are your priorities, the Citi Double Cash Card is a must-have. Offering 2% cashback on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay), this card doesn’t complicate its rewards structure. It's a reliable go-to for anyone looking to maximize every dollar spent, regardless of spending category.
i. Expert Tip: For 2024, Citi is leaning into its simplicity while adding a robust online banking experience that allows you to manage your rewards seamlessly. As contactless payments and mobile wallet use rise, the Citi Double Cash Card ensures ease in tracking your cashback and spending trends directly from their user-friendly app.
4. American Express® Gold Card: Best for Foodies
Dining out and grocery shopping are inevitable, but with the American Express® Gold Card, they become highly rewarding. The card offers 4x Membership Rewards® points at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases). It’s a strong choice for food lovers who frequently dine out or stock up on groceries.
i. Detailed Insight: The rise of food delivery services and the shift toward dining out post-pandemic make the Amex Gold Card incredibly valuable in 2024.
Services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub, as well as new loyalty partnerships, ensure cardholders are getting rewarded for everyday dining activities.
Amex continues to innovate in this space by introducing unique bonus points for curated dining experiences.
5. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Best for Frequent Travelers
For globetrotters, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card remains unbeatable. With 2x miles on every purchase, it’s ideal for those who travel frequently for work or leisure.
What makes this card even more attractive in 2024 is its partnership with major travel brands, enabling more redemption options for flights, hotels, and even vacation rentals.
i. Trending Insight: Capital One is responding to the travel surge in 2024 by expanding its travel portal, making it easier than ever to book flights, hotels, and even car rentals directly through their platform.
Additionally, their recent partnership with PayPal allows cardholders to use their miles for everyday purchases, making it an all-around flexible travel companion.
Ready to get more out of your credit card in 2024? Compare these top cards today and apply to start maximizing your spending with cashback, rewards, and unbeatable perks!
