Dreaming of stress-free travel without spending extra? The secret might already be in your wallet. Packed with value, many cards offer underrated credit card perks you’re probably not using, from airport lounge access to trip delay insurance and hotel upgrades.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a once-a-year adventurer, these hidden benefits can seriously elevate your next trip.
1. Trip Delay and Baggage Insurance: Your Built-In Safety Net
If your flight gets delayed or your luggage vanishes, your credit card may have you covered.
Many premium cards include trip delay insurance, offering up to $500 per person for expenses like meals and hotels after a certain delay (usually 6+ hours). Some also include baggage protection, reimbursing you for essentials if your checked bag is delayed.
Look for this perk in:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve
- Capital One Venture X
- Amex Platinum
Pro tip: To qualify, you usually need to book the flight with the same card that provides the benefit.
2. Airport Lounge Access: Free Drinks, Wi-Fi, and Less Chaos
Skip the crowded gate area and relax in style. Several travel cards offer airport lounge access, one of the most underrated credit card perks you should take advantage of.
With cards like the Amex Platinum or Venture X, you can access networks like Priority Pass, Centurion Lounges, or Capital One Lounges. Expect complimentary snacks, drinks, showers, and Wi-Fi.
Some cards also reimburse the Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee every 4–5 years, making airport security less stressful.
Read More: How to Plan the Perfect Long Weekend Getaway (Without Stressing Out)
3. Rental Car Coverage: Skip the Upsell
You can often decline that expensive rental car insurance if your credit card includes primary rental car coverage.
Unlike secondary coverage, which only kicks in after your own auto insurance, primary rental car insurance handles claims directly and can save you hundreds in case of an accident or damage.
This perk is included with:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve (primary coverage)
- Amex Platinum (secondary by default; upgrade to premium)
Want more smart travel tips? Check out our guide to Trip Planning Tools That Make Your Life Easier.
4. Hotel Elite Status & Upgrades
Some premium cards offer automatic hotel elite status, unlocking perks like late checkout, complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, and early check-in. These benefits can dramatically elevate your stay, especially at large hotel chains.
For example, the Amex Platinum grants Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold status. Capital One Venture X, on one hand, includes Hertz President’s Circle and transferable hotel rewards
Even hidden credit card perks like free anniversary nights or early check-in can add luxury to your stay without extra cost.
5. Purchase Protection & Cell Phone Insurance
Beyond travel, cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Wells Fargo Active Cash offer purchase protection and cell phone insurance when you pay your bill with the card.
If your phone gets stolen or your camera breaks while abroad, these travel credit card perks can save you hundreds in unexpected replacement costs.
Learn more about coverage and how to file a claim from Investopedia’s guide on travel insurance.
Don’t Leave Perks (or Money) on the Table
Most travelers overlook hundreds or even thousands of dollars in built-in benefits simply because they don’t read the fine print. These underrated credit card perks aren’t hidden; they’re just underused.
Before you book your next trip, take a few minutes to scan your card’s travel protections and rewards. You might already have VIP treatment, upgraded stays, or free insurance waiting to be claimed.
Read More: The Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist for Any Trip Type
