See the cards we use

These are the cards our family actually carries and uses to fund our trips. We only recommend cards we hold ourselves. Always check the issuer's site for the current welcome offer, rates and fees.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Best for: Getting started
This is the card we'd hand to any family new to points. It earns Chase Ultimate Rewards on everyday categories like dining, travel, and now gas and vacation rentals. Those points transfer to airline and hotel partners like United, Southwest and Hyatt.
It also includes strong travel protections, like trip delay coverage and primary rental car insurance, which help a lot when you're traveling with kids.

The Platinum Card from American Express

Best for: Frequent flyers
This is the premium card for families who travel often. It includes airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines. The annual fee is high, so it only makes sense if you'll actually use the credits and benefits.

Best for: Hotel stays
Hyatt is our favorite program for family stays. This card's yearly free night certificate can more than cover the annual fee. You also get automatic elite status and extra points on Hyatt stays, so every resort visit counts toward the next one.

World of Hyatt Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Best for

• Travel

• Dining

• Transfer partners

• Earns Ultimate Rewards points that transfer 1:1 to World of Hyatt, United, Southwest, and more

• The "hub" card: points from our Freedom Flex and Ink Business Cash move here to become transferable

• Includes trip delay and rental car coverage, which we've found useful with kids in tow

Annual fee: $95
Welcome offer: Check current offer