Traveling to China is exciting, but handling payments can be tricky because international acceptance, currency conversion, and reward optimization matter. Using a good travel credit card helps you earn points, avoid foreign transaction fees, and enjoy extra protection while exploring China’s cities, countryside, and attractions. Below are ten excellent travel credit cards for China trips, chosen based on rewards, global usability, and travel perks.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card issued by JPMorgan Chase & Co. is one of the best beginner-friendly travel cards for China trips. It offers strong bonus points on travel and dining, which is perfect for exploring Chinese cuisine. The card has no foreign transaction fees, making purchases in major Chinese cities easier. Its points can be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners, increasing flexibility when booking flights to China. Travel insurance protection is also included, adding safety for international journeys.
2. American Express Platinum Card
The premium American Express Platinum Card from American Express Company is ideal for travelers who want luxury perks. It offers airport lounge access worldwide, which is helpful when flying to China. Cardholders receive strong travel insurance, hotel credits, and concierge services. However, acceptance in smaller Chinese merchants may be limited compared to Visa or Mastercard networks. It is best used for flights, hotels, and large purchases while traveling in China’s major international cities like Shanghai or Beijing.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card issued by Capital One Financial Corporation is famous for its easy reward system. You earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, making it simple for travelers who don’t want complicated reward categories. The miles can be redeemed to offset travel expenses, including flights to China. Foreign transaction fees are usually waived, which is important for international shopping. The card is widely accepted because it runs on the global Visa network.
4. Citi Premier® Card
The Citi Premier® Card from Citigroup Inc. is excellent for travelers who enjoy dining rewards. It offers higher points for restaurants, which is perfect in China where food culture is a major travel highlight. You can earn points on airfare, hotels, and supermarkets. The card has no foreign transaction fees, helping reduce travel costs. Points can be transferred to multiple airline partners, making it easier to book international flights when planning a trip across major Chinese tourism destinations.
5. HSBC TravelOne Card
The HSBC TravelOne Card issued by HSBC Holdings plc is highly suitable for Asia travel, including China. It provides flexible reward redemption options and competitive foreign currency rates. This card is especially useful for travelers visiting Hong Kong, Shanghai, or Shenzhen. The reward structure is straightforward, allowing you to earn miles on daily purchases. Travel insurance benefits are included for international trips. If you frequently travel within Asia, this card is a convenient choice.
6. Bank of America Travel Rewards Card
The Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card from Bank of America Corporation is great for beginners. It offers unlimited 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases. There are no foreign transaction fees, which is important for China travel expenses. Points can be used to offset travel purchases, such as hotels or flights. Although the reward rate is not the highest, the simplicity and reliability make it a popular entry-level travel card for international tourists.
7. Discover it® Miles
The Discover it® Miles card from Discover Financial Services offers excellent cashback-style travel rewards. One unique feature is the first-year mile match program, effectively doubling rewards for new users. However, acceptance in mainland China may be limited compared to Visa or Mastercard. Travelers often use this card for online bookings or international transactions before arriving in China. The card has no annual fee, making it budget-friendly for occasional travelers.
8. U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature®
The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature® Card from U.S. Bancorp is a strong travel companion for China trips. It offers points on travel, gas, and streaming services. Cardholders can enjoy airport lounge access credits and travel insurance protection. Since it operates on the global Visa network, merchant acceptance in China is relatively good in tourist-friendly locations. This card is ideal for travelers who want balanced travel perks without paying premium annual fees.
9. Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card from Wells Fargo & Company is designed for modern travelers. It offers bonus points for dining, travel, and transportation, which are common spending categories when exploring Chinese cities. The card charges no foreign transaction fees, helping tourists save money. Its flexible rewards system allows users to redeem points for travel expenses easily. The Visa network compatibility improves payment success rates at many international hotels and shopping centers in China.
10. Chase Sapphire Reserve®
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® issued by JPMorgan Chase & Co. is considered a top-tier travel card for frequent international travelers. It provides extremely high travel reward value when booking flights to China. Cardholders enjoy airport lounge access, premium travel insurance, and bonus points on dining and travel expenses. Although the annual fee is high, the travel credits and rewards often offset the cost for frequent flyers visiting Asia. This card is best suited for luxury or business travelers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right travel credit card can make your China trip smoother and more rewarding. Cards from major issuers such as Chase, American Express, and Capital One offer reliable international acceptance and strong reward systems. Before traveling, always check foreign transaction fees, network compatibility, and reward redemption options. With the right card, you can enjoy convenient payments while exploring China’s beautiful destinations, food, and culture.