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Your 11 Most Frequently Asked Travel Questions—Answered

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The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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As experts and media spokespeople, the editors at SmarterTravel get asked a lot of travel questions. How early should you book? Which booking sites have the cheapest fares? What’s the best way to avoid bag fees?

The good news is that we have answers. From pinpointing the best day of the week for booking airfare to selecting the best destination for your next trip, here are solutions to some of your most common travel questions.

How Far in Advance Should I Book?

man typing on laptop with a coffee in hand

Truth be told, airfare prices—which fluctuate constantly—are impossible to predict. However, there are a few strategies that will guide you to a good deal and minimize your risk of overpaying.

For domestic travel, you’ll typically find the best fares one to two months before your trip. For international itineraries, you’ll often want to start searching for fares a bit further in advance, especially if your dates are firm or you’re traveling at a busy time of year. Add an extra month or two for peak travel times like holidays or major events. Some destinations, such as Disney World during spring break or popular beach spots in August, require even more advance planning, so do your homework.

To help you figure out when to jump on a fare, set up airfare alerts through sites like Airfarewatchdog (SmarterTravel’s sister site) or smartphone apps like Hopper ( iOS | Android ). You can put in your targeted trip dates and itinerary, and you’ll be notified when the fare drops.

How Can I Find the Best Travel Deal?

We’d love to point you definitively to a single booking site that always has the lowest possible airfares and hotel rates, but, unfortunately, that site doesn’t exist—and shopping around is always required. It’s best to check multiple types of sites before you book, including the provider’s own website as well as online travel agencies (think Expedia and Orbitz ) and metasearch sites (like Kayak and SmarterTravel’s parent company, TripAdvisor ).

To help you find the best sites to check, see the following lists:

  • The 12 Best Flight Search Sites for Booking Cheap Airfare
  • The 10 Best Hotel Booking Sites
  • The 14 Best Car Rental Booking Sites
  • The 10 Best Sites to Book a Cruise
  • The 8 Best Travel Package Sites for Booking a Cheap Vacation
  • The 9 Best Vacation Rental Sites for Travelers

One tip to keep in mind: The more flexible you are, the better the deals will be. Moving your trip a few months from a destination’s peak season to its shoulder season, for example, often means lower prices and smaller crowds. Flying out on a Tuesday or Wednesday rather than a Friday or Sunday can also save you money. For more information, see The Best and Worst Days to Fly .

How Can I Avoid Fees?

Yes, travel fees are pervasive and have wormed their way into every facet of travel, including flights, hotels, and rental cars. The good news is that many can be avoided. When it comes to flying, look for airlines that don’t charge fees for common services like baggage: For example, Southwest allows two checked bags for free, and some airlines will waive bag fees for frequent flyers or travelers who carry their branded credit cards. For more ideas, see 7 Smart Ways to Bypass Baggage Fees .

Many hotel fees can be avoided if you simply say no to certain services. In other words, don’t touch the minibar or make in-room calls (buy your own snacks and use your cell phone instead). Other charges, such as resort fees , are trickier. It’s best to find out about the charge in advance and book with another hotel, or ask the hotel manager to remove it—he or she might say no, but it never hurts to ask.

When renting a car, read the fine print. Look for easily avoidable fees like early-return and fuel charges. Also, most agents will pressure you into buying a collision damage waiver (CDW), but you might already have collision coverage through your credit card or your own auto insurance policy. Always check in advance.

What Are My Rights When Your Flight Is Delayed or Canceled?

airhelp

When you find yourself faced with a flight delay or cancellation, know that your rights vary depending on whether the situation is the airline’s fault (such as a mechanical delay) or due to some uncontrollable outside force (like a hurricane or winter storm ). Every airline’s policy varies, but most state that for delays or cancellations within the airline’s control, passengers are entitled to be rebooked on the next available flight, possibly transferred to another carrier, or to receive a refund for the unused portion of the trip. Some lines will also provide meal vouchers, hotel stays, and ground transportation at their discretion.

When the situation is beyond the airline’s control, a refund is all that most airlines promise. However, for major storms, airlines have set a precedent for preemptively canceling flights in advance so you’re not stranded at the airport, and they will allow you to rebook within a specific time frame without penalty.

To learn more, see Flight-Cancellation Rights: The Ultimate Guide and Flight Delays: What to Do and How to Prevent Them .

Do I Need Travel Insurance?

To buy or not to buy: That is the question when it comes to travel insurance . It all depends on risk and your tolerance for it. In general, if you’re taking a relatively short trip and haven’t paid a fortune for it, you probably don’t need it. Plus, most airlines—and hotels, for that matter—will give you a refund or allow you to rebook when there’s a widespread storm or incident.

However, if you have put down significant nonrefundable deposits, are traveling at a risky time of year (such as hurricane season ), have a potential medical condition, or are traveling to remote places where hospitals are scarce, travel insurance could be a good idea.

If you do opt insurance, make sure you know what’s included in your policy; most are very specific and won’t allow coverage to kick in once a storm is predicted or if you have a preexisting medical condition. You can also buy a policy that will allow you to cancel for any reason, but those usually come with a higher premium.

How Do I Know When a Deal Is Really a Deal?

Sadly, not all travel deals are created equal. And while some are bona fide, others are nothing more than gimmicks, if not downright scams. Your best defense is to take the time to fully research a deal before handing over your credit card number.

First, make sure you’re dealing with a reputable supplier, especially when it comes to tour operators and promoters. If you haven’t heard of the company, check with the Better Business Bureau or United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) to make sure it is sound. Look for online reviews of the company on sites such as TripAdvisor or TrustPilot . Also, always compare prices across multiple suppliers. A deal might look good at first glance, but you may be able to beat the price elsewhere.

When it comes to hotel packages, price out inclusions like gift baskets or spa services separately to determine whether it’s cheaper to go a la carte. For example, many hotels offer individual room rates that are way cheaper than what you’d pay for the room plus the extras in a package. Remember: You can bring your own Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries (likely higher-quality ones, too).

Lastly, always read the fine print, with a particular eye on blackout dates and other restrictions. You don’t want to get a deal that you can’t even use.

How Do I Score an Upgrade?

man sitting next to empty comfort seat on the plane.

Everyone wants to vault to the front of the airplane cabin or that penthouse suite in the hotel, but most of us feel that an upgrade is out of reach. Not necessarily so. The best way to get upgraded is to join a loyalty program. While it’s hard for many leisure travelers to accrue enough miles for a free first- or business-class ticket, basic upgrades usually require fewer miles. For hotels and rental cars, points generally add up more quickly and you can get additional free perks just for being a member.

Another way to land a better seat is to look for deals; some airlines will launch short-term sales on premium seats. For more information, see First Class for Free: How to Get an Airline Upgrade .

With hotels, arriving late in the day can increase your chances of a better room, since the hotel might have vacant rooms to fill (and can subsequently open up a cheaper room for another paying customer). Also, at check-in, mention if you are celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon or an anniversary. Check out How to Get a Hotel Upgrade for Free to learn more.

At the rental car desk, asking for an upgrade might work, but make sure you’ve weighed your options: A larger car could mean higher gas costs, which can quickly negate any benefit. In any situation, even with the airlines, it never hurts to ask; when you do, dress nicely, be specific with your request, and above all, be polite.

What Can I Bring on the Plane?

This is such a complicated topic that SmarterTravel has a whole airport security FAQ to cover it. But here are the basics: In your carry-on, you can bring a single clear, quart-size plastic bag of liquid and gel items (such as shampoo, insect repellent, and sunscreen) in bottles of 3.4 ounces or less. If you need to bring larger quantities, you can put them in your checked bag—just make sure they’re well sealed to prevent messy spills. Exceptions to this rule include prescription medications, breast milk, and baby formula, which you can carry on in larger amounts.

The TSA has strict rules for items such as scissors, razors, sharp objects, and even wrapped gifts. To learn more, see the FAQ above or visit the TSA’s website .

What Should I Pack?

man packing suitcase for upcoming trip with gear spread out

Speaking of complicated topics … where do we begin? Of course, the answer depends on where you’re going and for how long, but you’ll want to start with SmarterTravel’s Ultimate Packing List , which has you covered with the basics you’ll need for just about any type of trip. If you want more specific advice, consider these lists:

  • The Essential Beach Packing List
  • The Essential Carry-on Bag Packing List
  • The Ultimate Holiday Packing List
  • The Ultimate Cruise Packing List
  • The Essential International Packing List
  • How to Pack for an African Safari
  • The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List

You’ll also want to check out Ingenious Packing Tips Every Traveler Should Know , which includes information on how to pack for the TSA’s requirements, tips on saving space, a discussion of whether you should roll or fold your clothes, and clever tips from SmarterTravel readers. Trying to avoid overpacking? See A Traveler’s Guide to Minimalist Packing .

I’m Unhappy with My Seatmate(s) on the Plane. What Can I Do?

SmarterTravel readers often write in with travel questions about airplane seating dilemmas. “I have severe allergies to animals. What are my rights if I am sitting by someone with an animal?” asks one reader.

“I was recently seated next to a large person whose body overhung the armrest and crowded me,” writes another. “What can be done in this situation?”

Generally speaking, your best bet is to approach a flight attendant discreetly and ask if there are any available seats to which you could be moved. In the case of animal allergies, even if no seats are free, the airline staff might be able to find a non-allergic passenger who’s willing to switch with you. Bring up your concerns early—because once the plane has taken off, the flight attendants will have much less flexibility.

For more information, see the following resources:

  • What You Need to Know About Flying with a Service or Emotional Support Animal
  • Airline Passenger of Size Policies

What Are the Best Travel Destinations, and How Do I Know If They’re Safe?

There’s no single right answer to the first part of this question. It really depends on factors like your personal travel style and when you plan to travel. But there are a few tricks to identifying a great hot spot.

If affordability is a priority, look for destinations with new airline routes or hotels; providers will often release introductory rates at a discount, and you can be among the first to check things out. Additionally, keep an eye out for destinations making a comeback from natural disasters or political unrest; it can take time for tourists to return, even after the place is safe and open for business again, and the low demand can mean great deals for those who are willing to visit.

If you want to go where the excitement is, look for locales with big events, such as major sporting competitions, festivals, and museum openings. Check with the local tourism bureau to see what’s on; you might even stumble upon corresponding deals and packages.

SmarterTravel frequently publishes inspirational lists of places to travel for just about every interest. Check out Top Travel Destinations for 2020 or browse the site’s Destinations section to learn more.

As for safety, your first step is to research your destination on the U.S. State Department’s website . Here you’ll find important travel advisories and information about crime, health concerns, and other safety issues for every country around the world. Pay attention to the details before writing off an entire destination; it may be perfectly safe as long as you steer clear of certain problem areas. Keep an eye on news headlines in the lead-up to your trip so you’re aware of any last-minute issues.

If you have specific concerns, consider posting questions on travel forums such as TripAdvisor and Lonely Planet . Destination experts and locals can often offer up-to-the-minute updates from the ground.

Traveling? Consider Bringing These:

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Weekend Bag

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Tea Tree Oil Active Wipes

More from smartertravel:.

  • Ultralight Travel: How to Pack Light Every Time
  • 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Flight
  • The Worst Seats on a Plane (and How to Avoid Them)

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2012. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Anne Banas and Sarah Schlichter contributed to this story.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Common Travel Scams and How to Avoid Them

Richard Kerr

A vacation can go downhill in a hurry when you find yourself the victim of fraud. Even if your trip goes smoothly, you may return rested and relaxed only to review your finances and realize you've been had. Today, I'll cover some of the most common scams and fraud attempts that specifically target travelers. I'll offer some tips to help you avoid becoming a victim in the first place, along with suggestions for what to do in the event that things do go wrong.

Common Scams

Some scams can make you feel dumb, but only cost you a few dollars. Others can be far more sinister. Let's start by looking at what I'll call the streetwalker scams; these are the ones you'll likely encounter when walking between popular sites in a busy city.

1. The found ring — I figured I'd take my lumps up front and admit to the scam I fell victim to, albeit only for a couple Euros. Scammers will pick up a ring (that they dropped) right in front of you, and ask if it's yours. They'll then attempt to prove that it's highly valuable and convince you to take it, asking for some money in exchange for the nice gift. They might also try and sell you the ring for a "good" price, though the ring is essentially worthless.

2. Finger trap — Popular below the Eiffel Tower, street entertainers will create an elaborate design with a string and offer to show you a trick if you put your finger in the middle. A quick release of the design has your finger stuck in the string and the artist asking for money before they let you go.

3. The helper — Whether you're trying to buy a subway or bus ticket, or find the entrance to an attraction, there usually seem to be a plethora of "helpers" in large cities. They may seem quite bombastic in their duties, and often try to appear like official workers. It's all well and good until your ticket is held hostage for a small ransom. A man lift our suitcases onto a train in Rome without permission and refused to let go until I paid him. The train was accelerating 5 miles per hour before he gave up and hopped off.

4. Street games — If someone offers for you to play a game or puzzle, just say no.

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Next come the transportation scams. You can take every proper precaution, but still find yourself in a precarious position when it comes to taxis, trains or buses.

5. Taxi/tuk tuk scams — There are as many taxi scams now as there are flavors of Skittles. Meter rigging, price swapping, taking you far out and demanding money to return you, circuitous routes, unlicensed drivers posing as a taxi, drivers who get a cut when taking you to a particular non-requested shop or restaurant — the list goes on. If your "taxi" looks different from all the others, find another one.

6. Stolen luggage — It sure seems convenient to not have to hold your heavy suitcase or backpack for that long bus or train ride, but consider who might be rummaging through it in the baggage compartment while you nap. Keep your luggage in sight at all times.

7. Bag collectors — You're in a hurry to get to the airport for your flight and may not remember your laptop bag or small suitcase in the back of the taxi. They drive off quickly before you can get it or remember that it's even in the car.

8. Fake ticket — The line for a train ticket is quite long, but this gentleman is selling tickets at the back of the line. Unfortunately, you'll be denied boarding and be out some cash.

Lastly, there are shopping and credit card scams. Some good advice here is to not try and become an expert on Oriental rugs, precious stones or electronics on the spot. You'll most likely end up with cut-rate goods.

9. Keystroke recorder/skimmer — Extremely simple programs can be installed on public computers or magnetic devices on ATM machines that record the keys you press for passwords, or your personal PIN code and card information. Once the card number and PIN is in a scammer's possession, your cash is as good as gone. They can also log in to your banking accounts and wreak havoc.

10. Shocking bar tab — Gentlemen, the girl is just not that into you. She gets paid a commission on your drink sales, or is being forced to coerce drinks out of you. They will be $20 each, and you will have to pay. Girl or not, check the drink prices before you order, and don't drink to the point where you won't remember what receipt you sign.

11. Wrong change — You may get metal slugs back mixed in with real coins, or the cashier will count the correct amount out loud while handing you the wrong amount.

12. Aggressive touts — Other cultures are aware of many people's discomfort with and aversion to confrontation. Aggressive sales people may stay on your hip for multiple blocks and pester you until you're more than happy to part with a few dollars rather than deal with the person for another block.

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Avoid Becoming a Victim

Here are some tips to help you minimize your chances of being swindled. Rather than instruct you on how to avoid each scam individually, I think the most important thing to learn is the proper attitude.

Situational awareness — Of all the skills I picked up in basic training when I went through Officer Candidate School for the Navy, this is the one I prize most. For 13 weeks, I was taught to recognize who is around me, what they're doing, anything that looks out of place and how to take action to rectify the situation. Nothing can go further in protecting you and your companions than to develop what my wife now calls my own spider sense.

You don't have to be motivated like I was by the most terrifying individuals that exist, Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant drill instructors. Practice before traveling by noticing who walks in the door at a restaurant, start taking notice of your fellow commuters and see if you can recognize when someone is walking behind you down the sidewalk. When traveling, heighten this sense and always be aware of your surroundings.

There's no such thing as a free lunch — Apply this commonsense economic principle to your travel and recognize that if something is too good to be true, then it's probably false. If the price is too low, then the thing you're buying (or hopefully not buying) is a fake. If an offer has too many perks for the price, it's a scam.

Save credit card receipts — TPG reader Rahul wrote in with the following problem:

"I was at a bar in Roppongi (Tokyo), and used my Chase Sapphire to pay for a tab of around $40. I later realized that I had been charged $3,800! I raised a dispute, and when Chase asked the merchant for proof, the bar somehow produced a transaction receipt and even an invoice for that amount. Chase denied this as a fraud, since the card was swiped in person. I assume the merchant must have presented me with a bill showing a different amount than what it was swiped for. I wish I had kept the receipt with me; I'm not sure what case I have to dispute it now."

Rahul also pointed out a notice from the US Embassy in Tokyo in regards to this scam and other problems in the Roppongi area. Without the receipt, I'm not sure what recourse Rahul has with Chase, and I hope other readers can point him in the right direction in the comments. As a former resident of Tokyo, I'm sorry and deeply disappointed that this happened, and I hope this particular case doesn't reflect poorly on Japan overall.

The lesson for all of us to learn from Rahul's situation is to watch the merchant swipe your card for the amount charged, save your credit card receipts, and if anything seems out of place with the merchant's credit card operations, pay with cash.

Do your research — In the age of technology, there's really no excuse to not have a basic understanding of the environment you're entering. Check US State Department travel advisories, read destination message boards to learn from the misfortune of others and gain insight into common scams and bring along contact information to have readily accessible in case something goes awry. I also highly recommend filling out the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) so our government can keep tabs on you in case disaster strikes.

When Things Go Wrong

If you do find yourself the victim of a scam, don't panic. Taking the right steps may help you remedy the situation, or at least prevent you from making things worse.

Remove yourself from the situation — Your safety and well-being are more important than money and electronics. If you realize your situation has taken a bad turn, look for the quickest exit point. Don't argue, don't be confrontational, just leave. Record as many mental details as possible, and write them down as soon as you're safe (e.g., the location, description of people around you, exact order of events, etc.). Adrenaline can have funny effects on your mind. A short pencil is better than a long memory.

Have a backup — This pertains more to preparation before the fact. When you leave home, have an ID and money stored in two separate locations. That way if your bag, purse or wallet is lost or stolen, you won't be stuck in quicksand without a rope. I tend to keep my driver's license, cash and a credit card with me, and my passport and more cash in the hotel room safe.

File a police report — Having official documentation can go a long way in helping resolve your case down the line. While the local police probably won't put much effort into solving petty crime, documentation can be a golden asset for insurance or credit card filings. Many credit cards offer protection for certain losses and damages that occur while you travel, but you'll need a police report to grease the skids.

Contact the embassy — In my experience, all US Embassies post a 24-hour duty phone or emergency line on their webpage for Americans to utilize when things go wrong. Don't hesitate to make use of their expertise in local law and their relationships to help your situation.

Cancel your credit card — I take inventory of my wallet and try to check my online credit card statement before heading to bed each night. If anything is missing or something abnormal is on my statement, I call and cancel the card immediately.

Use hotel security — A hotel's security manager should have the insight and connections to help you out if you're victimized. They can contact local police and help guide you in the first hours after an incident. If nothing else, they can be a listening ear and help you calm down. Just know that not all hotel security managers are created equally. Some are much more helpful than others.

Bottom Line

Unfortunately, scammers are out there, but don't let that discourage you from exploring the world. Sometimes it's difficult to find a balance between excessive paranoia and the carefree travel mindset that allows you to simply enjoy your travels. You can't foresee every circumstance, but I've found that being prepared and having a plan (in case things go wrong) help me strike the required balance. Being prepared becomes habit just like the ability to notice something that looks out of place.

Feature photo by TommL / Getty Images

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Is A Good Travel Promotion Enough To Get You Back Right Now?

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Not only that, a few thoughts on how promotions could actually dissuade customers in the future. I wanted to touch on a few highlights for those without the time to watch the one hour discussion, but also share the video, since it might help to frame the mind for readers as far as how businesses must balance risk and other thoughts when launching new promos.

Promotions Cost Money

The first thing to understand with loyalty promotions is that they cost something, in one way or another. Points have value, which means giving a travelers 4X points instead of 1X has the brand footing a larger bill at some point. Giving away free nights or upgrades is the same.

It may seem like something that’s just a bit of mystical math, but someone in some department must account for it, and points in circulation that are unused are a liability for any travel brand. At the same time, loyalty programs have been proven to be more valuable than airlines or many hotel chains themselves. How much more?

Like three times more. American Airlines is valued at just over $7 billion, whereas the airlines loyalty program, AAdvantage, is closer to $20bn. Similar figures exist for United and others. Basically, the loyalty program is more valuable than the planes, facilities and everything else.

Promotions Mean Nothing If Brands Don’t Deliver

One excellent early point made in the discussion was that promotions mean nothing if they bring people to a bad experience. Airlines and hotels are spending considerable time and effort advertising new cleaning and social distancing practices, and providing extra points, free nights or any promotion is an added cost to get heads in beds or butts in seats.

If someone arrives at their flight to see masks not enforced, or a hotel to see cleaning practices far from what’s advertised, not only is the promotion then ineffective, but it may cost longer term business. Loyalty only matters when the basics are done right, and right now that seems to be a struggle in some areas.

Taking away the health element, what if guests experience a diminished product? Like no real food service in the cabin they expect to find it, or closed pools etc? Could that leave a sour taste in someone’s mind?

Relationship History Can Win Or Cost You

As borders open and many regions seem to have the worst of covid-19 behind them, the marketing and loyalty machine is revving up again, and we’re starting to see some good offers. There are a few key ones discussed in the video, like Etihad’s 50% bonus, Fairmont’s Buy One Get One, etc.

The thing is, the brands that they’ll be most effective for are the brands that did the right thing in a tough time. For an airline or or hotel which failed to properly refund or address customer issues during the pandemic, who may still be holding onto customer cash, the idea of making a future booking is preposterous.

That customer feels wronged, and only the juiciest of promotions would ever make a customer even consider booking with them again. This again speaks to the importance of all elements of a travel business firing properly, so as not to tarnish the work of another.

The Basics Ain’t Good Enough Anymore

Undoubtedly, if you follow the offers, you’ve seen some which sound a lot like ones you’ve seen before. That just ain’t good enough right now. The brands that are winning and actually converting these loyalty program offers into money in the bank are the ones that are tearing out the rule book, or creating unique and inventive promos.

Qatar Airways and Air Canada have been thought leaders here. Qatar turned their booking drive into a game, telling customers they can book any ticket, and then swap it for one to any destination up to 5,000 miles away. The possibilities for savings and amusement were endless and millions of revenue in bookings were made.

Air Canada decided to create ways for people to earn extra points from home, including things like UberEats. Not only that, they were clever enough to say any flying you give us this year will help someone else get status – yours is already extended, so this will help share the love.

Basically – people like new, fresh thinking – not just basic bonus points.

Anyway, hope you enjoy the video. It’s nerdy, but the inner workings of loyalty rarely aren’t!

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Gilbert Ott

Gilbert Ott is an ever curious traveler and one of the world's leading travel experts. His adventures take him all over the globe, often spanning over 200,000 miles a year and his travel exploits are regularly... More by Gilbert Ott

Join the Conversation

Absolutely enough to get me back and I’ve already booked a cheap Southwest ticket for a trip this fall I otherwise wouldn’t take. I’m not the typical consumer of travel services though. First of all, while I take reasonable precautions, I am not paranoid about the virus to the extent I stay home. I have traveled 4 times since March on pleasure and have a 10 day trip to a Florida beach next week (not a crowded beach and we have, along with another family, rented a house with a pool so will be pretty independent and removed from others).

As for expectations, again, it is all about knowing what to expect. That is the same as flying American first class one week and then Frontier the next (as I’ve done on numerous occasions). You have to understand the product and not be surprised. Right now I know about masks, very limited food/drink, etc. I’ve got a business call ticket booked to Germany in November and understand even by then the in flight experience (assuming I can travel to Germany by then) will likely be very diminished from pre-COVID days (for economic reasons if nothing else). I accept that since 84,000 American miles is a steal for r/t business class to Europe and I am fine basically just paying to get me there.

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10 Ways to Save Money on Travel with AARP

Natasha Etzel

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If you enjoy traveling, you’re likely interested in finding ways to save money — after all, travel isn’t always cheap. One option is using travel credit cards to earn rewards in the form of points or miles when making everyday purchases. Then, you can cash in your rewards for free or discounted flights and hotel stays.

Another way to reduce travel costs is by joining a membership-based program to access money-saving travel discounts. One such organization is AARP, which offers savings on shopping, entertainment, health, travel and more to its members — and you don’t have to be retired to take advantage of the benefits.

Here's how you can keep more money in your pocket by taking advantage of AARP travel discounts.

What is AARP and how much does it cost to join?

AARP is a nonprofit organization that advocates for Americans ages 50 and older. While the organization is popular among retirees, adults of all ages can join — and many do so to get discounts on everyday expenses.

You’ll need to pay a membership fee to take advantage of AARP’s money-saving perks. Here’s a breakdown of what it costs to join AARP:

One-year membership: $16.

One-year membership with auto-renew: $12.

Three-year membership: $43. 

Five-year membership: $63.

You can save on AARP membership fees using the shopping cash-back portal Rakuten. Current offers include $6 back on a one-year membership, $10 back on a three-year membership and $20 back on a five-year membership. You must activate this offer before joining to qualify for cash-back earnings.

» Learn more: How cash-back sites give you money for shopping

10 ways to save money on travel with AARP

If you’re not careful when planning for and booking your next vacation, the cost of your trip could add up quickly. But if you’re strategic and take advantage of discounts like AARP travel deals, you can plan an unforgettable adventure without spending more than you can afford.

AARP provides its members with many opportunities to save money on travel. Here’s a sampling of some of the travel discounts and perks available:

Avis: Get up to 30% off base rates or up to 35% off when selecting Pay Now. When booking, members also receive a 3% credit to apply to future rentals within 12 months. You’ll also get an upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings, when available, and you can add an additional driver at no cost. These benefits are available when booking online or by phone through Avis.

British Airways: Save $65 when booking an economy or premium economy class ticket or $200 when booking a business class ticket on select round-trip transatlantic fares through the British Airways website.

Collette Cruise Tours: Save $50 per person on all cruise tours.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts: Get up to 10% off and a 2 p.m. checkout when available. Hilton Honors members also get instant Hilton Honors Silver status and can keep their status for the next year when they complete two stays within six months.

Holland America Line: Get up to $200 in onboard credit per stateroom. The credit amount varies based on the length of the cruise and the stateroom.

Kimpton Hotels & Resorts: Get discounts of 10% or more off the best available rate.

Payless Car Rental: Save 5% on leisure daily, weekly, weekend and monthly base rates. Members are also eligible for a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings.

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts: Get up to 10% off and a 2 p.m. checkout when available.

Wyndham: Get up to 10% off the best available rate when booking by phone or online. Join the Wyndham Rewards program to take advantage of extra perks.

Zipcar: Get $20 off an annual Zipcar membership. New Zipcar users will also receive $40 in driving credit.

Keep in mind this is just a sampling of available deals. AARP members can review current travel deals and discounts by logging in to their accounts.

» Learn more: Your guide to hotel bonus point promotions

Book your travel reservations through the AARP Travel Center

Discounts above aren't the only way to save on travel costs. AARP members can also get a deal when booking travel reservations through the AARP Travel Center, a booking platform powered by Expedia . How much money you can save by using the travel center varies depending on what you’re booking.

Here's a look at of some of the AARP Travel Center savings available to members:

Car rentals: Save up to 30% on base rates at Avis and Budget and 5% on rentals from Payless Car Rental. You can also get free upgrades, an additional driver at no cost and insurance benefits when booking car rentals through the AARP Travel Center.

Cruises: Get up to $100 in onboard credit on select voyages to certain destinations when booked through AARP Travel Expedia.

Flights and vacation packages: When booking a flight package through the AARP Travel Center, you'll get a $50 gift card of your choice.

Hotels: When booking select Choice, Wyndham and Best Western properties through the portal, you'll get a 10% discount.

Are you looking for other ways to save money when booking travel reservations as an AARP member? The AARP Travel Center has exclusive deals and seasonal savings, so regularly reviewing discount opportunities is worthwhile to ensure you don't miss out.

» Learn more: Best hotel credit cards

Is an AARP membership worth it for travelers?

Only you can decide if an AARP membership is worthwhile. But considering the affordable annual fee to become a member and the variety of ways to save on travel expenses, a membership could be worth it.

When deciding if this membership will meet your needs, consider how often you travel and whether you'd use the perks offered. Combining AARP deals with travel loyalty and rewards programs, along with a travel credit card , makes for an excellent money-saving strategy.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 travel memberships that are worth the money

Leila Najafi

November 11, 2021 // By Leila Najafi

By Leila Najafi November 11, 2021

The Salon at PS

We live in a subscription-obsessed world and there’s a subscription for everything you can imagine, from razors to clothing and even hot sauces. Travel memberships are on the rise, providing new ways to ease some of the stress that comes with traveling these days and help make the journey more seamless.

Whether you’re willing to pay a premium for exclusive travel experiences that provide a little more privacy or you're more budget-conscious and want to find the best travel deals, there’s a membership for every type of traveler. Here are 10 travel memberships that are worth considering.

Wheels Up King Air 350i on runway

Wheels Up offers private jet charter memberships so travelers can access a fleet of aircrafts, including a King Air 350i, an 8-passenger Citation Excel/XLS, and one of the fastest aircrafts, the Citation X. Wheels Up uses a dynamic pricing model offering competitive rates, so members can book flights on-demand with the flexibility to pay as they go.

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Additional m embership benefits include invites to signature events, President’s Circle status with Hertz, a complimentary trial of Inspirato Club subscription for 12 months (Core members only), certain perks at select Waldorf Astoria hotels across North America, a partnership with Delta SkyMiles, dedicated partnership rates with Porsche and more.

Membership cost: Three membership options are available – Connect, Core and Business. The Connect membership requires a one-time initiation fee of $2,995 and annual dues of $2,495 which begin on year two. The Core membership has an initiation fee of $17,500 and annual dues of $8,500 which begin on year two. The Business membership requires an initiation fee of $29,500 and $14,500 for subsequent years and includes up to six lead passengers.

A private suite at PS at LAX

Getting through airport security lines can be a drag, especially during holiday weekends and a pandemic that has increased the demand for more seclusion when traveling. PS (formerly known as Private Suite) is designed for first and business class travelers who are seeking privacy and convenience, allowing them to bypass LAX altogether.

Travelers check into a private terminal where they can relax in a fully-stocked luxury private suite that includes complimentary in-suite meals catered by h.wood Group , as well as additional services upon request such as in-suite massages, manicures and detailing services for personal cars. PS also provides a designated on-site TSA and Customs agent for expedited screening.

Upon boarding, travelers are transported across the tarmac directly to their aircraft in a BMW 7 Series sedan. Earlier this year, the Salon at PS launched, which features a new full-service lounge at the terminal for travelers who want the same benefits of PS but seek a more social experience.

Membership cost: Annual membership costs $4,500, which gives members access to a preferred rate of $3,250 for a one-way Suite experience for up to four travelers. The Salon is available to members and non-members for $695 per use per person.

Vail Grand View Great Room

Inspirato is a subscription-based luxury travel service that gives members exclusive access to over 150,000 luxury vacation homes and resorts around the world that are staffed by Inspirato. There are two membership types: Inspirato Club and Inspirato Pass. The former gives you access to the luxury residences and hotels around the world, on-site concierge and daily housekeeping with additional benefits such as late check-in and check-out, room upgrades, spa credits and more. However, members also pay nightly room rates.

With the Inspirato Pass, you automatically get the benefits of Inspirato Club plus nightly rates are already factored into the price of membership, so you can book as many vacations as possible in one month with one active reservation at a time. There is also no long-term commitment, so you can cancel the membership at any time.

Membership cost: Inspirato Club membership is $600/month plus a $600 enrollment fee and you pay nightly rates as you go. Inspirato Pass is a flat rate of $2,500/month which includes all hotel stays.

Scott’s Cheap Flights

Scott and Brian

A membership to Scott’s Cheap Flights includes flight deals and “Mistake Fares” accidentally published by airlines sent straight to your inbox. The team scours the internet for the lowest published airfare rates to popular destinations and shares them with members.

Subscribers can also track deals from a specific airport close to home or destinations of interest. A membership to Scott’s Cheap Flights is best for travelers who have flexibility on the destination and dates and are willing to fly based on low airfare rates. Flight deals don’t last long so you’ll have to act fast.

Membership cost: There are three membership tiers including Limited which is free, Premium costs $49/year and Elite $199/year.

PRIOR was started by a former travel editor who saw a gap in the market for travelers wanting a more immersive experience during their vacation. A team of experienced travel editors and local tastemakers on the ground design itineraries for curious travelers.

A PRIOR WORLD membership includes access to curated destination guides, unique local experiences in cities around the world, pre-planned group trips led by experts and for an additional fee, the team can create a custom itinerary based on your interests.

If you're a frequent traveler, PRIOR BESPOKE might be the membership better suited for you. For a flat fee per year, members get unlimited trip planning by their expert team of travel editors and membership managers.

Membership cost: PRIOR WORLD membership costs $249 per annum. PRIOR BESPOKE is $5,000 per annum.

Priority Pass

The Club MCO Lounge at Orlando International Airport, accessible via Priority Pass

Airport terminals may have come a long way in the last decade, but killing time for a three-hour layover in a crowded airport isn’t exactly on anyone’s list of things to do, especially on vacation. Trade the busy terminals for private lounge access with Priority Pass and enjoy guaranteed Wi-Fi and snacks.

Members of Priority Pass receive access to over 1,300 airport lounges globally, including several airline lounges such as Virgin Atlantic, Air France and Turkish Airlines. Several credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve, American Express Platinum and Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express offer free Priority Pass memberships as part of their member benefits.

Membership cost: Choose from three membership tiers which start at $99/year for the Standard membership plus $32 per visit and go up to $429/year for the Prestige membership which includes unlimited lounge visits.

CLEAR touchless identification

TSA Pre-Check and Global Entry are services that allow travelers to expedite the security screening process upon departure and arrival. With CLEAR Plus, enrolled members get escorted to the front of the security line once they’ve been verified using facial recognition or fingerprint scans, so they no longer have to verify identification at security. However, for expedited clearance through security screenings, TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry are still required.

CLEAR uses biometric identifiers to create a unique ID assigned to each member that is used for verification at stations across airports, stadiums and other major venues nationwide.

Membership cost: A CLEAR Plus membership is $179 per year. American Express Platinum Card Members receive a $179 statement credit and United MileagePlus members receive a discounted membership rate.

Well Traveled

Well Traveled Lists

Well Traveled is a members-only social and booking platform that allows members to connect with friends to find and share travel recommendations. The community-driven platform is intended to make travel planning easier by allowing you to follow people in your network that you trust, in addition to other like-minded travelers who share similar budgets and travel preferences.

Members can also take advantage of the personalized booking service that includes perks like exclusive rates, room upgrades, food & beverage credits, complimentary breakfast and more. Currently, membership is invite-only but you can also apply to be considered.

Membership cost: $150 per year.

Travel + Leisure Club

T+L Club login

Travel + Leisure Club is a new travel subscription service offered by Travel + Leisure Group. Members can pay a monthly fee for access to preferred pricing on curated itineraries and an average of 25% savings on hotels, resorts, car rentals and activities that are listed on Travel + Leisure GO, the online travel booking site. Plus, members get a subscription to the glossy print magazine.

Members also get access to a personal concierge that can assist with travel planning, scoring tickets to sold-out events, making dinner reservations and more.

Membership cost: Travel + Leisure Club is currently offering an introductory rate of $9.95/month.

Exclusive Resorts

Lake Tahoe Northstar Mountainside Treehouse

Designed for families who value privacy, Exclusive Resorts is a small community of members (only 150 new members accepted each year) that get access to over 350 luxury residences around the world including the Amalfi Coast, Barcelona, Deer Valley, Kaua’i, Los Cabos, St. Barts and more.

Guests enjoy a more personalized experience with a dedicated on-site team who can assist with pre-trip planning details such as stocking the fridge with your favorite snacks, booking a massage or private chef, and housekeeping services.

Membership cost: There is a one-time, non-refundable initiation fee of $150,000 for a 10-year membership. Annual dues are $1,395/night and members travel 15-30 nights per year.

Leila Najafi

About Leila Najafi

Leila Najafi is a luxury travel writer based in LA who is a member of more subscription services than she'd like to admit.

Read more about Leila Najafi here.

Connect with Leila via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card review: A simple travel rewards card with basic features

Photo of Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card on a blue and pink abstract background

Our take: The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card stands out for its simplicity: It’s a $0-annual fee card that earns simple, flat-rate rewards that you can redeem as statement credits for travel or dining.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

Intro bonus, reward rates.

  • 1.5x 1.5 points on all purchases
  • Easy to redeem rewards for dining and travel
  • Offers welcome bonus
  • Extra rewards for Preferred Rewards members
  • No notable travel benefits
  • No travel transfer partners
  • Free FICO score, Balance Connect® for overdraft protection
  • Foreign transaction fee: None

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card: Overview

Card type: Travel

With no annual fees or foreign transaction fees, the Bank of America Travel Rewards card is an appealing choice for budget travelers or anyone who wants simplicity in their travel credit card. Although the rewards earned on this card lack the versatility you might find in cards that offer the ability to transfer rewards to loyalty programs or book travel through the card issuer’s portal, this card does allow you to redeem their points for statement credits for travel and dining, as cash back, or to purchase gift cards.

Who is the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card good for?

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is well-suited for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize simplicity over extravagant perks. Plus, with the card’s 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers made within the first 60 days of account opening, the card can be a valuable tool for those looking to finance big-ticket purchases or consolidate their debt.

Who shouldn’t get the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card?

Those who prioritize reward flexibility, lavish travel benefits, and a substantial welcome bonus may find the Travel Rewards Credit Card less appealing. The card’s modest welcome offer, and absence of transfer partners for airline or hotel loyalty programs could be drawbacks for those seeking more extensive rewards and perks. 

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card: How to earn rewards

The rewards structure is easy to understand—there are no rotating categories to keep track of or activate or different rewards rates. Cardholders earn a flat 1.5 points on all purchases. 

You’re also eligible to earn a modest welcome offer that’s worth 25,000 points, or $250, if you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. 

How to redeem Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card points

There are only a few ways to redeem your points with the Travel Rewards Card You can use your rewards to book travel, cover travel and dining purchases, get cash-back as a statement credit, and buy gift cards.

However, when you redeem for cash or gift cards, you may not get the best value. One point is valued at 0.6 cents, so 2,500 points will only give you $15. There’s a 2,500 point minimum redemption requirement, too. The redemption value for gift cards will vary.. Travel and dining credits are typically the best value for your rewards, where a point is worth one cent.

Get a statement credit for travel or dining

To redeem points with the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card, you can get a statement credit to offset eligible travel—like airlines, hotels, car rentals—and dining purchases made within the past 12 months. There’s a 2,500 point minimum redemption requirement. 

When you redeem your points this way, one point is worth one cent. 

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card rates and fees

  • Annual fee: $0
  • Intro APR: 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases made in the first 60 days of account opening, then the standard variable APR will apply.
  • Purchase APR: 18.24%–28.24% variable
  • 0% APR balance transfer:  0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days of account opening. After that, the APR is 18.24%–28.24% variable
  • Balance transfer fee: 3% for 60 days from account opening, then 4% will apply
  • Penalty fee: up to $40 for late payments

Additional benefits

  • Free FICO Score. Through online and the mobile banking app, you can access your FICO Score from TransUnion, which is updated monthly, for free.

Credit cards similar to Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking for a no-annual-fee travel card with greater flexibility than  the Bank of America Travel Rewards Card, there are other options to consider. Here’s a look at how some of the competition stacks up. 

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card vs. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card boasts a versatile rewards program, although the rewards rate is slightly lower.. The Bank of America Travel Rewards card earns  1.5 points per dollar, the VentureOne offers a slightly lower 1.25 miles per dollar, but it does earn with 5 miles per dollar on prepaid hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel.

The VentureOne also has a decent welcome offer for a no-annual-fee card of 20,000 miles after spending $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening. 

But the biggest benefit the VentureOne Card has over the Bank of America Travel Rewards card is the redemption flexibility. With this card, you can transfer your miles to over 15 of Capital One’s travel loyalty programs, so you can potentially wring even more value from your rewards. You can also book a trip through Capital One Travel, get reimbursed for travel purchases made within the previous 9- days, or opt for a statement credit, although like the Bank of America card, this last option is also worth less than a penny per point. 

Discover it® Miles vs. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

Just like the Bank of America Travel Rewards Card, the Discover it® Miles card dishes out 1.5 miles on general purchases, without any annual or foreign transaction fees. But a key distinction between these two cards lies in the redemption options. You cannot use your miles to make a purchase, but you can redeem them for a statement credit against a travel purchase made within the last 180 days. Or, you can simply apply your earnings as a cash-back statement credit without any travel involved. Either way, a mile is worth a penny a point. Allowing you to take cash back at the same value as a travel reimbursement is a much better option than the less than a penny per point cash-back option on the Bank of America Travel Rewards card.  

The Discover it Miles card also goes the extra mile when it comes to a welcome offer. Instead of an upfront offer after meeting a minimum spending requirement, the issuer doubles the rewards you earn in the first year. For example, if you earned a total of 50,000 miles in the first year, you would earn an additional 50,000 miles at the end of the year.

Is the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card right for you?

The Bank of America Travel Rewards Card is best for those looking for a no-frills travel card who can take advantage of the card’s 0% APR offer. It’s also best for someone who wants to use the earnings on a travel rewards card solely for travel, and doesn’t mind not taking cash-back. 

However, potential users should be aware of its limitations, including the limitations on redemption. Most people will fare better with a card that offers 2% cash back, which is both more rewarding and allows you to use your money on anything you’d like, travel or otherwise.

Frequently asked questions

Is it hard to get a bank of america® travel rewards credit card.

Since the Bank of America Travel Rewards Card is a rewards card, you’ll likely need a good or better FICO Score, which starts at 670 or higher.However, keep in mind there is no one set score which will guarantee you’ll be approved for a card as issuers take several factors into consideration when determining approval.

Is the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card worth it?

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card may be worth it for some—it’s a solid option for budget-conscious travelers seeking simple rewards who may only want to redeem their rewards for travel one way.

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.

EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE : The advice, opinions, or rankings contained in this article are solely those of the Fortune Recommends ™ editorial team. This content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of our affiliate partners or other third parties.

Guide to travel credit cards

Best travel credit cards of march 2024, 10 credit card tips to help you avoid disaster when traveling abroad, how credit card travel insurance works—and what it doesn’t cover, insure your adventures: the ultimate guide to credit cards offering travel insurance, how credit card rental car insurance saves money on every rental, luxury travel for less: your guide to free airport lounge passes, chase lga lounge review: luxury at laguardia, chase beefs up new york profile with a new jfk sapphire lounge—here's what you need to know, biggest-ever amex centurion lounge opens in atlanta — with outdoor terraces and bars for both whiskey and smoothies, amex centurion lounge atlanta: what to expect now that it’s open, how to use your credit card to save on travel as airline costs soar, do you have travel rewards saved up these are the best ways to use them, 5 ways your credit card can help you save on holiday travel costs, chase sapphire reserve: a rockstar among premium travel cards, capital one ventureone rewards card review: unlimited travel rewards with an intro apr offer and no annual fee, capital one venture x review: premium travel benefits at a reduced price, bilt mastercard: earn travel rewards just by paying rent, u.s. bank altitude® connect visa signature® card review: a well-rounded low-cost rewards card with extra perks for occasional travelers, chase ink business preferred: stellar travel perks for a low annual fee, world of hyatt card review: a rapid free-night generator that every hyatt loyalist should have in their wallet.

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Capital One bonuses and promotions of March 2024

Emily Batdorf

Jenn Jones

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Published 8:00 a.m. UTC March 4, 2024

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Featured Image

fizkes, Getty Images

When you find the right bank account, earning a cash bonus is icing on the cake. Capital One has a lot of great perks, but a cash bonus isn’t currently one of them. 

Read on to learn about Capital One and to decide whether or not the bank fits your needs — promotion or not. 

Details, promotions and annual percentage yields (APYs) are accurate as of February 16, 2024.

Capital One promotions overview

Capital One doesn’t currently offer any promotions. But Capital One’s saving account interest rates — compared to traditional banks — may yield more over the years than any new customer cash bonus. 

The Capital One 360 Performance Savings account has no monthly fees, no minimums and offers an APY of 4.35%. That means with a balance of $10,000, you could earn $435 in interest over one year alone, and pay nothing in fees. 

While Capital One doesn’t have many savings products, its few offerings are competitive. Capital One 360 certificates of deposit earn from 4.00% to 5.00% APY. And the Capital One Kids Savings Account earns a respectable 2.50%; not bad for little ones just learning to save. 

How Capital One bonuses and promotions compare

While Capital One doesn’t currently offer any bonuses or promotions, several banks do. Some banks offer cash bonuses of several hundred dollars or more for customers opening new personal checking accounts, business checking accounts or savings accounts. Compared to these competing banks, Capital One’s lack of promotions is a little disappointing.

Here’s how Capital One’s bonuses compare with Bank of America , Chase , Citi and Wells Fargo . 

Note: Each bank bonus requires certain actions in order to qualify for the cash. Listed below are just the bonuses you could earn if you meet the specific criteria.

Capital One review

Capital One is the country’s ninth largest bank, managing $475 billion in assets, and is perhaps best-known for its Capital One credit cards and  business credit cards . It offers online checking, savings and CD accounts for individuals and businesses, plus it has 283 locations across the country. 

While many large banks charge plenty of fees and pay pennies in interest, Capital One is an exception. There’s even a free tool for consumers, Capital One Shopping , which makes it easier to find great deals online.

And a customer-centric view shows. Capital One ranked number one for four consecutive years by J.D. Power in overall customer satisfaction.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Currently, Capital One doesn’t offer any bonuses. That doesn’t mean it won’t in the future, but there’s no guarantee. Regardless, Capital One offers fee-free accounts and competitive interest rates, so it may be worth considering if you’re looking for a new bank.

Capital One used to offer a $350 bonus for opening a Capital One 360 Checking Account, but that bonus is no longer available. 

While there aren’t currently any Capital One 360 bonuses, but, to qualify for a bank bonus in general, you typically have to meet several criteria, which might include requirements like opening a new account, setting up direct deposit and depositing a certain amount of money within a limited time frame. 

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Emily Batdorf

I'm a personal finance geek with a knack for words. I love making the world of personal finance more accessible to all people -- whether that's explaining the benefits of high-yield savings accounts, comparing budgeting strategies, or sharing the ins and outs of opening a Roth IRA. Recently, my work has appeared on Forbes Advisor.

Jenn Jones is the deputy editor for banking at USA TODAY Blueprint. She brings years of writing and analytical skills to bear, as she was previously a senior writer at LendingTree, a finance manager at World Car dealerships and an editor at Standard & Poor’s Capital IQ. Her work has been featured on MSN, F&I Magazine and Automotive News. She holds a B.S. in commerce from the University of Virginia.

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