Best Credit Card for Airbnb

Elevate Your Travel Experience

Choosing a credit card tailored to travel can significantly enhance the value of Airbnb bookings. From flexible redemptions to generous reward rates and thoughtful travel protections, the right card can help travelers save while adding convenience to every trip. Below is a selection of credit cards that align well with frequent short-term rental stays, offering benefits that extend beyond the standard travel perks.

Top Credit Cards That Complement Airbnb Usage

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

A popular choice for travel enthusiasts, this card offers strong value for Airbnb users.

• Earn 2x points on travel and dining, both of which can relate directly to Airbnb stays and experiences.
• Points are worth 25% more when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards, including lodging.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Frequently features sizable welcome bonuses.

Its versatile reward structure makes it well-suited to those who want to earn meaningful travel rewards while booking accommodations or dining locally.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Simple and consistent, this card appeals to those who prefer flat-rate rewards with flexible redemption options.

• Earn unlimited 2x miles on every purchase.
• Miles can be used to cover a broad range of travel expenses, including Airbnb charges.
• No blackout dates or travel restrictions.
• Travel accident insurance and secondary car rental coverage are included.
• No foreign transaction fees.

This card is highly adaptable, offering rewards without the need to track rotating categories.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

Though tied to a hotel brand, this card provides value to travelers who occasionally mix Airbnb stays with hotel visits.

• Earn Hilton Honors points on various purchases, with high earning potential at Hilton properties.
• Complimentary Gold status includes room upgrades and late checkout.
• Annual spending can qualify cardholders for a Free Night Reward.
• No foreign transaction fees.

A good match for travelers who seek flexibility between traditional hotels and rental stays.

Citi Double Cash® Card

For those favoring straightforward cashback over travel points, this card offers simplicity without sacrificing value.

• Earn 2% cash back on all purchases (1% when buying and 1% when paying).
• Cashback can be applied as a statement credit toward Airbnb bookings or other expenses.
• No annual fee.

Its consistent cashback structure works well for anyone who prefers ease of use over point systems.

Discover it® Milesa

An entry-level travel card with high earning potential in the first year.

• Earn 1.5x miles on every purchase.
• At the end of the first year, Discover matches all miles earned with no cap.
• No annual fee.
• Miles can be redeemed toward travel purchases, including Airbnb.

Ideal for those who plan to spend significantly within the first 12 months and want rewards without category tracking.

American Express® Gold Card

Well-suited for travelers who prioritize dining while on the road.

• Earn 4x Membership Rewards® points at restaurants, including delivery and takeout.
• Monthly statement credits are available at select dining partners.
• Includes protections for trip delays, baggage loss, and car rental coverage.
• No foreign transaction fees.

With strong dining rewards and travel benefits, this card appeals to those who integrate food experiences into their travel routine.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

An uncomplicated card offering consistent rewards and adaptable redemption.

• Earn 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases.
• Points can be redeemed as statement credits against travel expenses like Airbnb stays.
• No annual fee.
• No foreign transaction fees.

Its simplicity and no-cost structure make it an accessible option for a broad range of travelers.

Chase Freedom Flex℠

A rotating rewards card that can offer elevated returns on Airbnb-related expenses at certain times of the year.

• Earn 5% cashback on rotating quarterly categories (up to a spending cap).
• Earn 3% on dining and drugstores and 1% on all other purchases.
• Points earned can be combined with other Chase Ultimate Rewards cards for better redemption value.
• No annual fee.

With proper timing, this card can deliver substantial value on short-term rentals and related travel purchases.

Wells Fargo Propel® American Express® Card

Though discontinued for new applicants, many existing cardholders still benefit from this versatile travel rewards card.

• Earn 3x points on dining, travel, rideshares, and streaming services.
• No annual fee.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Redeem points for travel, cashback, or statement credits.

Stanford eRewards Visa Signature® Card

A more niche offering tailored to a specific alumni base, this card may suit a limited audience.

• Offers periodic promotions tied to alumni events or university initiatives.
• Reward structure and value may vary depending on user eligibility.
• May provide added value through university partnerships.

Best considered by individuals with direct ties to the issuing institution.

What to Prioritize When Selecting a Credit Card for Airbnb

When comparing travel credit cards for use with Airbnb, consider these features:

Reward Structure

Look for cards that offer high earnings on general travel, online purchases, or all spending, since Airbnb may not always code as “travel” with every issuer.

Redemption Flexibility

Choose cards that allow rewards to be applied directly toward Airbnb charges, whether through statement credits or travel portals.

International Use

If traveling abroad, selecting a card with no foreign transaction fees helps avoid extra charges on Airbnb bookings.

Travel Protection Benefits

Cards with protections for trip delays, cancellations, and lost baggage add peace of mind when booking accommodations.

Final Thoughts

Selecting a credit card that complements Airbnb usage can make a meaningful difference in both cost savings and travel experience. Whether the goal is to earn flexible rewards, enjoy premium travel protections, or save through cashback, a well-matched credit card enhances the value of every stay. Evaluate the features that align with your habits and preferences to choose the card that best supports your journeys.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pay for Airbnb with credit card rewards?

Yes, many travel credit cards allow you to redeem rewards as statement credits toward Airbnb purchases. Cards like the Capital One Venture Rewards and Bank of America Travel Rewards are particularly useful, as their points or miles can be directly applied to offset Airbnb charges.

Does Airbnb qualify as a travel purchase for credit card rewards?

In most cases, yes, but not always. Some issuers, like Chase and Capital One, typically categorize Airbnb as a travel expense. However, it’s important to check with your card issuer, as categorization can vary and may affect how points or miles are earned.

Are there credit cards that offer Airbnb-specific discounts or partnerships?

While there are currently no mainstream credit cards with exclusive Airbnb discount partnerships, many cards offer flexible travel credits or statement redemptions that can be applied to Airbnb purchases. Occasionally, promotional offers may appear through card-linked services like Amex Offers or Chase Offers.

What credit score is needed for a good travel rewards card?

Most premium travel credit cards require good to excellent credit, typically a FICO score of 670 or above. However, entry-level travel cards like the Discover it® Miles can be accessible with fair to good credit.

Is it better to use a travel rewards card or a cashback card for Airbnb?

It depends on your travel habits. If you travel frequently and redeem rewards toward flights, hotels, or Airbnb stays, a travel rewards card offers more long-term value. If you prefer simplicity or occasional travel, a cashback card provides flexibility with fewer restrictions.

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Reviewed and edited by Albert Fang.

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Article Title: Best Credit Card for Airbnb

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