Bank of America Travel Rewards – How to Apply
Most travel credit cards come with conditions: bonus categories, fees, and fine print that complicate the experience.
The Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card takes a different approach—it offers a clean, easy-to-use system that lets you earn points on every dollar you spend and redeem them for travel anytime, anywhere.
Whether you’re buying coffee on a layover or booking a flight to another continent, your purchases are helping you earn toward your next adventure. That’s the kind of seamless earning strategy travelers appreciate.
The card is also designed to minimize the financial barriers typically associated with travel rewards.
You don’t need to pay an annual fee, worry about international fees, or plan your spending around specific categories. It’s one of the most accessible and affordable travel cards on the market.
Bank of America Travel Rewards
No annual fee No travel insuranceHow Does the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card Work?
With this card, you earn 1.5 points per dollar on every purchase—grocery store, gas station, restaurants, or Amazon—it all counts. There are no limits and no activation required.
You can redeem your points for statement credits against travel-related purchases. This includes flights, hotel stays, Airbnb bookings, baggage fees, and even bus or train tickets.
The flexibility continues with the absence of blackout dates or partner restrictions. You’re free to use your points however they best fit your travel needs. And if you’re enrolled in Bank of America’s Preferred Rewards program, you’ll earn even more—up to 2.62 points per dollar spent.
And if you’re a Bank of America customer, the benefits get even better. Preferred Rewards members can earn up to 75% more points on purchases, significantly boosting your travel earning potential.
Main Benefits for the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card
The unlimited 1.5x points on all purchases mean you’re earning rewards every time you swipe your card, without needing to think twice. It’s consistent, reliable, and simple.
The lack of an annual fee makes this card incredibly cost-effective. You can use it year-round without feeling pressure to “earn back” the value. This is especially important for travelers who want a solid card without overhead costs.
And because it doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, it’s ideal for international trips. Many travel cards that offer bonuses still charge 3% on foreign transactions—Bank of America Travel Rewards does not.
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Cons for the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card
While the card offers great earning potential and flexibility, it does have a few drawbacks. You won’t get luxury perks like travel insurance, extended warranties, or airport lounge access. Those features are typically found on higher-tier travel cards.
Also, your redemptions are limited to travel-related purchases. That means you can’t redeem for gift cards, statement credits on non-travel expenses, or merchandise.
And finally, while Preferred Rewards members earn more, this only applies to those with significant assets in Bank of America accounts, making it less beneficial for everyone else.
APR and Fees
The Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card offers a variable APR that depends on your credit score, generally ranging from competitive to slightly above average. There is no introductory 0% APR for purchases or balance transfers, which may be a disadvantage for users looking to finance larger purchases.
However, the card truly shines in the fee department: there’s no annual fee, and no foreign transaction fees. This is a big win for budget-conscious travelers who want to avoid hidden charges while abroad.
Late and returned payment fees do apply, but they are in line with industry standards and can be avoided with responsible use.
How to Apply for the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card
Applying is quick and can be done entirely online. Here’s how:
- Go to the official Bank of America website and find the Travel Rewards Credit Card page.
- Click on “Apply Now” and enter your personal details, including your income and housing situation.
- Review the terms and disclosures before submitting.
- You’ll receive an instant decision in most cases.
- If approved, you’ll get your card in the mail and can activate it right away to start earning rewards.
If approved, your card will be mailed out promptly. Once activated, you can begin earning unlimited cash back on every purchase, right from the start.
