Are you a pesky tootaler who travels extensively? Do you have trouble keeping up with rewards and points you collect from different rewards programs? If any of this sounds familiar, a specialized gas card that can reward you for your travels is an absolute must-have. With the right gas card, you’ll be able to collect points not just for your driving, but for all your extensive travel expenses.
But how do you choose the right gas card for your traveling needs? Here, we’ve assembled a list of the best gas cards for heavy travelers so you can familiarize yourself before you buy.
Types of Gas Cards
Not all gas cards are created equal, and you’ll need to understand the types of cards available before you choose the right one for you. Here are some of the most commonly available types of gas cards:
• Reward Cards: A rewards-friendly gas card will allow you to collect points and rewards with every purchase. Most reward cards will also allow you to redeem these points for cash or other awards, such as frequent flyer miles.
• Gas-Only Cards: Some cards are limited just to gas purchases, with no ability to collect points or rewards. These cards usually provide cardholders with discounts on gas costs.
• Airline Cards: An airline-specific gas card will offer you points for everyday purchases, but specifically rewards you for frequent flyer miles. If you’re a frequent flier, this is the ideal card for you.
• Prepaid Cards: Prepaid gas cards are usually limited to gas purchases, and you’ll need to load it independently before you use it.
• Store-Brand Cards: Some gas stations issue their own store-brand cards, which might be linked to a special Student, Government or Seniors discount program.
The Best Gas Card for Heavy Travelers
Now that you understand the types of cards that are out there, we’ve compiled a list of the best gas cards for heavy travelers. Here’s an in-depth look at each one:
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Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: This is a great choice for travelers who need to keep up with their spending on the road. The Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express offers an outstanding 6% cash back on one local select supplier and 6% cash back on US supermarkets on up to $6,000 of eligible purchases. This card also offers 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and 1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
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Chase Freedom Unlimited: Chase’s Freedom Unlimited card is a fantastic choice for travelers. With this card, you’ll receive 3% cash back on all US supermarket purchases, 2% cash back on all US gas station purchases, and 1.5% cash back on all other purchases. Plus, you’ll be covered by Chase’s No-Hassle Rewards Program, which allows you to exchang cash back points for gift cards, travel or direct deposit.
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Discover it® Miles: The Discover it® Miles Card is an ideal choice for a global traveler who wants maximum rewards for their spending. With this card, you’ll receive unlimited 1.5x miles for every dollar you spend, plus bonus miles for ever type of purchase. Another great feature is the interest-free offer: If you CAN pay off the balance within the first 14 months, you’ll get 1.5x miles for every dollar spent, with no interest fees.
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PenFed Gold Cash Membership Card: This is one of the best options for an occasional traveler. The PenFed Gold Cash Membership Card offers 1.5x points on eligible purchases, 3x points at US supermarkets, and 5x points at US gas stations. Plus, there are no annual or balance transfer fees and no foreign transaction fees.
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Card: This is a fantastic card for frequent flyers who need a little extra for their in-air rewards. The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Card gives travelers 2 points per $1 spent on Southwest Airlines, while they can earn 1.5 points on everything else.
The right gas card can be a lifesaver for any esteemed traveler. Whichever card you choose, make sure it offers rewards that fit your unique profile and the right level of comfort and convenience.
By familiarizing yourself with the types of gas cards out there and the best ones for heavy travelers, you can surely find a card that fits your every need. We hope this guide was helpful and wish you the best of luck in your future traveling adventures.
