Travel smart with the best rewards credit cards and loyalty programs

Travel can be expensive, but those availing themselves of the best loyalty and rewards programs are offered plenty of opportunities to earn free or discounted travel and hotel rooms through everyday spending on gas, groceries, and other purchases.
To find the best options, USA TODAY 10Best invited a panel of travel and miles-and-points experts to share their favorite programs for American travelers — the credit cards, frequent flyer programs, and hotel loyalty programs with the best earning potential, flexibility, extra perks, and ease of redemption. Then, our readers voted for their favorites to determine the winners.
Click on each category below to see the full winners list:
The Allways Rewards Visa Card earns 3 points per dollar on Allegiant purchases (including air, hotel, and car rental), 2 points per dollar on qualified dining, and a point per dollar on everything else. Other perks include a 25,000-point sign-up bonus (after qualifying purchases), BOGO airfare on qualifying vacation packages, priority boarding, and a free beverage on every Allegiant flight.
Earn rewards on your spending: See the best credit cards
Full list of winners: Best Airline Credit Card »
Earn all kinds of rewards in all kinds of ways with Allways Rewards by Allegiant Air — and explore a variety of exclusive member offers and promotions. The program is free to join, and points don’t expire until 24 months of inactivity. Earn 1 point for every dollar spent on Allegiant.com or 2 points per dollar for itineraries over $500.
With no minimum required for points redemption, you can enjoy flexibility in rewards.
Full list of winners: Best Frequent Flyer Program »
The Wyndham Rewards program honors stays at more than 50,000 participating hotels, vacation clubs, and resorts worldwide. These include popular brands like Wyndham, La Quinta, Days Inn, Super 8, and Ramada. Points can also be redeemed for gift cards, tours, sporting events, and more.
Full list of winners: Best Hotel Loyalty Program »
The Citi Strata Premier card earns cardholders an annual $100 hotel credit, plus 3 points per dollar spent on travel, restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and EV charging stations. That’s in addition to 10 points per dollar spent on hotels, car rentals, and experiences booked through CitiTravel.com. Points can be transferred to partners like TrueBlue and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.
Full list of winners: Best Rewards Credit Card »
For fans of the Wyndham brand, carrying a Wyndham Rewards Earner Card offers great rewards and value. There is the sign-up bonus of 75,000 points (after qualifying purchases), plus points on everyday purchases to redeem on free hotel nights, gift cards, and more.
Cardholders also enjoy automatic Wyndham Rewards Gold status, providing perks like preferred room selection and late check-out. This card also has no annual fee.
Full list of winners: Best Travel & Hotel Credit Card »
Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers’ Choice Awards.
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