Best Credit Card for Bad Credit Travel in 2026

Other Options to Consider

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opensky® Secured Visa® Credit Card

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Revvi Card

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[[ SINGLE_CARD * {"id": "3039", "isExpanded": "false", "bestForCategoryId": "52", "bestForText": "Boosting Your Credit Score", "headerHint" : "CREDIT BUILDER" } ]]

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How to Choose a Credit Card for Bad Credit Travel

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A subpar credit score doesn't mean your travel dreams are grounded, but it does require a more strategic approach to choosing a credit card that can help you get there.

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When searching for a travel card with a less-than-perfect credit history, be wary of cards with exorbitant annual fees that can outweigh any rewards you might earn. It's also crucial to look beyond the marketing and scrutinize the interest rates and reward structures, as some cards offer minimal travel benefits that won't get you very far.

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Key Factors

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• Secured vs. Unsecured Cards: Secured cards require a cash deposit that typically becomes your credit limit, making them easier to get, while unsecured cards for bad credit don't require a deposit but often come with higher fees and interest rates.
• Fees: Look for a card with a low or non-existent annual fee, and be sure to check for other costs like monthly maintenance or setup fees that can quickly diminish the value of any rewards.
• Interest Rates (APR): Cards designed for poor credit almost always carry high interest rates, so it's critical to plan on paying your balance in full each month to avoid costly debt.
• Rewards Program: Opt for a card with a straightforward rewards program, such as flat-rate cash back, which can be easily redeemed for statement credits to offset travel purchases without complex rules.
• Credit Bureau Reporting: Ensure the card reports your payment activity to all three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion), as this is essential for building a positive credit history.
• Foreign Transaction Fees: If you plan to travel internationally, a card with no foreign transaction fees is a must-have to avoid paying an extra percentage (typically 3%) on every purchase made abroad.
• Path to Better Cards: Some issuers offer the ability to graduate to a better card with more perks after a period of responsible use, providing a clear path toward more valuable travel rewards in the future.

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What to Watch Out For

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Be cautious of cards that promise amazing travel rewards but hide predatory fees and sky-high interest rates in the fine print. Additionally, avoid any card that doesn't report to all three major credit bureaus, as this is crucial for improving your score and eventually qualifying for premium travel cards.

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Decision Flow

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Navigating the options for a travel credit card with bad credit can feel like a maze. Use this decision flow to find the clearest path based on your financial situation and travel goals.

• If you have cash for a security deposit, a secured credit card is often your best first step. They are easier to qualify for and typically have lower fees, providing a solid foundation for rebuilding your credit.
• If a security deposit isn't an option, focus on unsecured cards designed for building credit. Be extra cautious and read the fine print to avoid cards with high monthly maintenance fees or setup costs that can negate any benefits.
• If you plan to travel internationally, a card with no foreign transaction fees is a must. Otherwise, you’ll pay an extra fee, usually around 3%, on every purchase made outside the country.
• If you want to earn rewards, look for a card with a simple, flat-rate cash back program. This offers the most flexibility, as you can redeem the cash back for a statement credit to pay for flights, hotels, or any other travel expense without navigating a complicated rewards portal.
• If your long-term goal is a premium travel card, choose an issuer that offers a clear upgrade path. Some banks will review your account after several months of responsible use and may graduate you to an unsecured card with better perks, putting you on the fast track to more valuable rewards.

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Maximize Your Return with Bad Credit Travel

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To get the most value from your purchases, here are some key strategies for maximizing your credit card rewards when shopping with Bad Credit Travel:

• Leverage welcome offers: Time your Bad Credit Travel bookings to help meet the minimum spending requirement for a new credit card's lucrative welcome offer.
• Use the right card for the category: Pay for your bookings with a credit card that offers a high rewards rate on travel purchases to accelerate your point accumulation.
• Stack your rewards: Combine your credit card's rewards with any points or discounts offered directly through the Bad Credit Travel portal to double up on your earnings.
• Redeem for maximum value: Avoid redeeming points for cash back or merchandise, as you'll often get a higher value by transferring them to airline or hotel partners for travel bookings.
• Watch out for foreign transaction fees: If you're booking international travel, ensure your credit card doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, which can negate the value of your rewards.

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This free app automatically selects your highest-earning credit card at checkout, helping you earn more rewards without the guesswork. Get started for free.

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Other Things to Consider

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Beyond just picking a card, consider your broader financial strategy. A store-specific card, such as one for a particular airline, might be an easier entry point and offer targeted travel perks if you're loyal to one brand. Regardless of the card you choose, diligent debt management is crucial; always aim to pay your balance in full to sidestep the high interest rates common with subprime cards. It's also wise to be cautious with Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) plans, treating them as another form of debt that requires careful tracking alongside your cash and credit spending. This holistic approach ensures your travel card becomes a tool for adventure, not a financial burden.

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Our Methodology

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We evaluate nearly 3,000 credit cards across the U.S. market — far more than the ~150 cards commonly featured on sites that focus only on products tied to affiliate commissions. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive, unbiased view of the credit card landscape so you can make confident, data-driven decisions.

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Our editorial team combines deep industry experience with rigorous verification standards. While our experts surface the most relevant recommendations in our guides, you can also explore the full dataset yourself through our card explorer tool, which includes thousands of cards — more than 95% of which do not provide us with commissions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I get a travel rewards card with bad credit?

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While premium travel rewards cards are typically for those with good to excellent credit, some cards designed for bad credit do offer modest travel perks or cash back that can be used for travel expenses. It's important to manage expectations regarding the level of rewards you can earn.

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What are secured credit cards and can they be used for travel?

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A secured credit card requires a cash deposit that usually becomes your credit limit, making it easier to get approved with bad credit. These cards function like any other credit card for purchases, including booking flights and hotels, and can help you build your credit history with responsible use.

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How can I improve my credit score to qualify for better travel cards?

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You can improve your credit score by making all your payments on time, keeping your credit card balances low, and avoiding opening too many new accounts at once. Consistently demonstrating responsible credit use over time is the key to qualifying for more rewarding travel cards in the future.

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