10 Best Credit Union Credit Cards with the Best Travel Rewards

Are you looking for a credit card that will help you earn travel rewards? If so, you may want to consider a credit union credit card. Credit union credit cards often offer better rewards and lower fees than traditional bank credit cards.

Credit union credit cards are credit cards that are issued by credit unions. Credit unions are non-profit financial institutions that their members own. This means that credit unions are not beholden to shareholders, and they can pass on savings to their members in the form of lower fees and better rewards.

In this blog post, we will discuss the 10 best credit union credit cards with the best travel rewards. We will also briefly overview each card and its key features.

Credit Union Credit Cards: A Comprehensive Overview

Credit union credit cards are financial products offered by credit unions, which are not-for-profit, member-owned cooperatives that focus on serving their members’ needs and providing personalized financial services. As an alternative to traditional bank credit cards, credit union credit cards often come with a range of benefits, such as lower interest rates, lower fees, and competitive rewards programs. Here’s an overview of the key features and advantages of credit union credit cards:

1. Lower Interest Rates and Fees: Due to their not-for-profit status, credit unions generally offer lower interest rates and fees on their credit cards compared to traditional banks. This can result in significant savings for cardholders, particularly for those who carry a balance or utilize balance transfer options.
2. Competitive Rewards Programs: Credit union credit cards often feature rewards programs, such as cash back, points, or miles, that can be competitive with those offered by major banks. Some credit unions may even provide more personalized or community-focused rewards programs tailored to the needs of their members.
3. Exclusive Perks and Benefits: Credit union credit card holders can enjoy exclusive perks and benefits, such as travel insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranties on eligible items. While the range of offerings might be more limited compared to traditional banks, these benefits still add value to the cardholder experience.
4. Relationship-Based Lending: Credit unions typically take a more holistic approach to lending, considering factors beyond just credit scores. This can make it easier for individuals with limited or less-than-perfect credit history to qualify for a credit card, providing an opportunity to build or rebuild their credit.
5. Community-Driven Focus: Credit unions are deeply rooted in their local communities, often offering credit cards designed to cater to the needs and preferences of their members. This can include cards that support local charities, offer rewards at regional businesses, or provide other unique benefits tailored to the community.
6. Personalized Service: Credit unions are known for their personalized customer service, as they focus on their members’ needs. This can result in a more tailored banking experience and better support when dealing with credit card-related issues.

In summary, credit union credit cards offer a range of benefits that cater to the unique needs and preferences of their members. With competitive rewards programs, lower fees, and a focus on community and personalized service, credit union credit cards have become an increasingly popular choice among consumers seeking a more tailored and rewarding banking experience.

10 Best Credit Union Credit Cards with the Best Travel Rewards

Travel rewards credit card can make exploring the world more rewarding and budget-friendly. We’ll uncover the 10 best credit union credit cards that can help you earn the best travel rewards and make your globetrotting dreams a reality.

Here are 10 best credit union credit cards with the best travel rewards and their benefits:

1. Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card:

The Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card is a cash back credit card offered by Alliant Credit Union. It offers a welcome bonus of $300 cash back after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Earn 3% cash back on all purchases.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of $300 cash back after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 3% cash back on all purchases
• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Extended warranty protection
• Purchase protection
• Auto rental collision damage waiver
• Travel accident insurance
• Personal identity theft protection

Benefits

• The Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card is a great option for people who want a simple cash back card with no annual fee.
• The card’s 3% cash back earning rate is one of the best in its class.
• The card offers a wide range of benefits, including extended warranty protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and personal identity theft protection.

2. PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card:

The PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card is a travel rewards credit card offered by PenFed Credit Union. It offers a welcome bonus of 80,000 points after spending $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 5x points on travel purchased through PenFed, 3x points on gas and groceries, and 1.5x points on all other purchases.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of 80,000 points after spending $4,000 on eligible purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 5x points on travel purchased through PenFed, 3x points on gas and groceries, and 1.5x points on all other purchases
• $95 annual fee (waived for PenFed Honors Advantage members)
• No foreign transaction fees
• Extended warranty protection
• Purchase protection
• Auto rental collision damage waiver
• Travel accident insurance
• Personal identity theft protection

Benefits

• The PenFed Pathfinder® Rewards Visa Signature® Card is a great option for people who want a travel rewards card with a high earning rate on travel and a welcome bonus of 80,000 points.
• The card’s 5x points earning rate on travel purchased through PenFed is one of the best in its class.
• The card offers a wide range of benefits, including extended warranty protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and personal identity theft protection.

3. Navy Federal CashRewards Credit Card: 

The Navy Federal CashRewards Credit Card is a cash back credit card offered by Navy Federal Credit Union. It offers a welcome bonus of $200 cash back after you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 1.75% cash back on net purchases with direct deposit at Navy Federal, or 1.5% cash back for cardholders without direct deposit.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of $200 cash back after you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 1.75% cash back on net purchases with direct deposit at Navy Federal, or 1.5% cash back for cardholders without direct deposit
• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Extended warranty protection
• Purchase protection
• Auto rental collision damage waiver
• Travel accident insurance
• Personal identity theft protection

Benefits

• The Navy Federal CashRewards Credit Card is a great option for people who want a simple cash back card with no annual fee.
• The card’s cash back earning rate is competitive, especially for those who have direct deposit with Navy Federal.
• The card offers a wide range of benefits, including extended warranty protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and personal identity theft protection.

4. Navy Federal More Rewards American Express® Card: 

The Navy Federal More Rewards American Express® Card is a cash back and rewards credit card offered by Navy Federal Credit Union. It offers a welcome bonus of 50,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 3x points on gas, transit, restaurants, food delivery, supermarkets, and 1 point for every $1 of other net purchases.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of 50,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 3x points on gas, transit, restaurants, food delivery, supermarkets, and 1 point for every $1 of other net purchases
• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Extended warranty protection
• Purchase protection
• Auto rental collision damage waiver
• Travel accident insurance
• Personal identity theft protection

Benefits

• The Navy Federal More Rewards American Express® Card is a great option for people who want a cash back and rewards credit card with no annual fee.
• The card’s cash back and rewards earning rate is competitive, especially for those who spend on gas, transit, restaurants, food delivery, and supermarkets.
• The card offers a wide range of benefits, including extended warranty protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and personal identity theft protection.

5. Platinum Rewards Visa Signature® Card: 

The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature® Card is a cash back and travel rewards credit card offered by PenFed Credit Union. It offers a welcome bonus of 15,000 points after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 5x points on gas purchased at the pump and EV charging stations, 3x points at the supermarket (including most Target and Walmart locations†), restaurants, and TV, radio, cable, streaming services. 1x points on all other purchases.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of 15,000 points after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 5x points on gas purchased at the pump and EV charging stations, 3x points at the supermarket, restaurants, and TV, radio, cable, streaming services. 1x points on all other purchases.
• $0 annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Extended warranty protection
• Purchase protection
• Auto rental collision damage waiver
• Travel accident insurance
• Personal identity theft protection

Benefits

• The PenFed Platinum Rewards Visa Signature® Card is a great option for people who want a cash back and travel rewards credit card with no annual fee and a competitive earning rate.
• The card’s cash back and rewards earning rate is competitive, especially for those who spend on gas, groceries, restaurants, and entertainment.
• The card offers a wide range of benefits, including extended warranty protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and personal identity theft protection.

6. Power Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Card

The PenFed Power Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Card is a cash back credit card offered by PenFed Credit Union. It offers a welcome bonus of $100 statement credit after you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases.

For PenFed Honors Advantage members, earn 2% cash back on all purchases.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of $100 statement credit after you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 1.5% cash back on all purchases, for PenFed Honors Advantage members, earn 2% cash back on all purchases
• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Extended warranty protection
• Purchase protection
• Auto rental collision damage waiver
• Travel accident insurance
• Personal identity theft protection

Benefits

• The PenFed Power Cash Rewards Visa Signature® Card is a great option for people who want a simple cash back card with no annual fee and a decent earning rate.
• The card’s cash back earning rate is competitive, especially for PenFed Honors Advantage members who can earn 2% cash back on all purchases.
• The card offers a wide range of benefits, including extended warranty protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and personal identity theft protection.

7. Navy Federal GO REWARDS® Credit Card: 

The Navy Federal GO REWARDS® Credit Card is a cash back rewards credit card offered by Navy Federal Credit Union. It offers a welcome bonus of 15,000 points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on net purchases at restaurants, 2 points for every $1 spent on gas, and 1 point for every $1 spent on all other net purchases.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of 15,000 points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on net purchases at restaurants, 2 points for every $1 spent on gas, and 1 point for every $1 spent on all other net purchases
• $0 annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Extended warranty protection
• Purchase protection
• Auto rental collision damage waiver
• Travel accident insurance
• Personal identity theft protection

Benefits

• The Navy Federal GO REWARDS® Credit Card is a great option for people who want a simple cash back card with no annual fee and a decent earning rate on dining and gas.
• The card’s cash back earning rate is competitive, especially for those who spend on restaurants and gas.
• The card offers a wide range of benefits, including extended warranty protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and personal identity theft protection.

8. USAA Rewards Credit Card

The USAA Rewards Credit Card is a cash back rewards credit card offered by USAA, a financial services company that serves the military community and their families. It offers a welcome bonus of $200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of $200 cash back after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Extended warranty protection
• Purchase protection
• Auto rental collision damage waiver
• Travel accident insurance
• Personal identity theft protection

Benefits

• The USAA Rewards Credit Card is a great option for people who want a simple cash back card with no annual fee and a competitive earning rate.
• The card’s cash back earning rate is one of the best in its class, and it is unlimited.
• The card offers a wide range of benefits, including extended warranty protection, purchase protection, auto rental collision damage waiver, travel accident insurance, and personal identity theft protection.

9. USAA Cash Back Rewards Credit Card:

The USAA Cash Back Rewards Credit Card is a straightforward cash back credit card offered by USAA, a financial services company that primarily serves the military community and their families.

It offers a simple rewards structure and no annual fee, making it an attractive option for those seeking a hassle-free cash back card.

Key Features

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases. This straightforward cash back rate applies to all purchases made with the card, with no limitations on spending categories or caps on rewards earnings.

• No annual fee. Unlike many other cash back credit cards, the USAA Cash Back Rewards Credit Card does not charge an annual fee, allowing cardholders to keep the full amount of cash back they earn.

• No foreign transaction fees. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who travel frequently, as it eliminates the added cost of foreign transaction fees.

• Extended warranty protection. This benefit provides extended coverage for eligible purchases made with the card, protecting your purchases from unexpected repairs or replacements.

• Purchase protection. This feature safeguards your purchases against theft or damage for up to 90 days from the purchase date.

• Auto rental collision damage waiver. When you rent a car using the USAA Cash Back Rewards Credit Card, you’re automatically covered for primary collision damage waiver insurance, providing peace of mind during your rental.

• Travel accident insurance. This benefit provides coverage for accidental death or dismemberment while traveling as a passenger on a common carrier.

• Personal identity theft protection. The card offers Identity Theft Protection Services to help protect you from the financial consequences of identity theft.

Benefits

• Simple and straightforward cash back rewards structure. The USAA Cash Back Rewards Credit Card simplifies cash back earning by offering a flat 1.5% cash back rate on all purchases, making it easy to understand and maximize your rewards.

• No annual fee. The absence of an annual fee allows you to keep the full amount of cash back you earn, making it a cost-effective option for everyday spending.

• Convenient cash back redemption. Redeeming your cash back rewards is simple and convenient. You can choose to receive your cash back as a statement credit, direct deposit into your eligible USAA checking or savings account, or a check mailed to your address.

10. First Tech Federal Credit Union Cash Back Plus Visa Signature® Card: 

The First Tech Federal Credit Union Cash Back Plus Visa Signature® Card is a cash back credit card offered by First Tech Federal Credit Union, a financial institution serving the technology community and their families.

It offers a competitive welcome bonus and a simple rewards structure, making it an attractive option for those seeking a hassle-free cash back card.

Key Features

• Welcome bonus of $200 cash back after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. This welcome bonus provides a boost to your cash back earnings right from the start.

• Earn unlimited 2% cash back on all purchases. This straightforward cash back rate applies to all purchases made with the card, with no limitations on spending categories or caps on rewards earnings.

• No annual fee. Unlike many other cash back credit cards, the First Tech Federal Credit Union Cash Back Plus Visa Signature® Card does not charge an annual fee, allowing cardholders to keep the full amount of cash back they earn.

• No foreign transaction fees. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who travel frequently, as it eliminates the added cost of foreign transaction fees.

• Extended warranty protection. This benefit provides extended coverage for eligible purchases made with the card, protecting your purchases from unexpected repairs or replacements.

• Purchase protection. This feature safeguards your purchases against theft or damage for up to 90 days from the purchase date.

• Auto rental collision damage waiver. When you rent a car using the First Tech Federal Credit Union Cash Back Plus Visa Signature® Card, you’re automatically covered for primary collision damage waiver insurance, providing peace of mind during your rental.

• Travel accident insurance. This benefit provides coverage for accidental death or dismemberment while traveling as a passenger on a common carrier.

• Personal identity theft protection. The card offers Identity Theft Protection Services to help protect you from the financial consequences of identity theft.

Benefits

• Competitive welcome bonus and simple rewards structure. The First Tech Federal Credit Union Cash Back Plus Visa Signature® Card provides a generous welcome bonus and a straightforward 2% cash back rate on all purchases, making it easy to earn rewards.

• No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees. The absence of an annual fee and foreign transaction fees allows you to keep the full amount of cash back you earn and avoid additional expenses when using your card overseas.

• Convenient cash back redemption. Redeeming your cash back rewards is simple and convenient. You can choose to receive your cash back as a statement credit, direct deposit into an eligible First Tech Federal Credit Union account, or a check mailed to your address.

Conclusion

Credit Union Credit Cards with the Best Travel Rewards can make your journeys even more memorable and enjoyable. With various options catering to different travel preferences and spending habits, credit unions have risen to the challenge of providing competitive travel rewards programs.

So, whether you’re a frequent jet-setter or a casual vacationer, one of these 10 best credit union credit cards with travel rewards is bound to fit your needs and help you make the most of your globetrotting experiences. Happy travels!

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About Author

Marshal NosaCEO

I'm a professional digital marketer with over 7 years of experience in the field. I create well researched content related to finance, cryptocurrency, stocks, forex and metaverse related articles.

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