Why the Atmos Rewards Summit was our favorite new personal credit card last year

Last August, after months of anticipation, Alaska Airlines unveiled the Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit Card — and its debut set the credit card world abuzz.

Yes, it had some of the perks you'd expect to find on any premium cobranded airline credit card, such as a free checked bag for you and up to six guests on the same reservation when you pay for your flight with your card, preferred boarding and a degree of lounge access. But it also had a slate of innovative benefits that made it our runaway pick for Best New Personal Credit Card at the 2026 TPG Awards.

As a Portland, Oregon, resident and frequent Alaska Airlines flyer, I was quick to add the card to my own rotation. But you don't need to live near Alaska's Pacific Northwest hubs or even regularly fly the airline to reap substantial value. In fact, plenty of my fellow TPG staffers scattered across the country, including several based in New York and Florida — which are almost as far away as you can get in the Lower 48 — applied.

Here's a look at the features that set this card apart from the competition last year and made adding it to our wallets a no-brainer.

Related: I've never flown Alaska Airlines before — here's why I want its new premium credit card

Earning rates

THE POINTS GUY

The Atmos Rewards Summit has some strong earning rates, including a standout multiplier on international purchases that quickly caught the eye of many TPG staffers. Cardholders earn:

• 3 points per dollar spent on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines purchases
• 3 points per dollar spent on eligible dining purchases
• 3 points per dollar spent on foreign transactions
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases

You'll also earn a 10% rewards bonus on all points earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America account.

The foreign transaction rate makes the card the best pick for purchases abroad, and if you spend a significant amount of time (or money) outside the country, it's a reason to apply in its own right. Shortly after taking out the card, I took my family to Portugal and racked up tons of points on purchases that typically only earn 1 point per dollar, including baby supplies, boat tour tickets and souvenir bottles of port.

The 3 points per dollar spent on eligible dining purchases is another nice feature, considering how valuable Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards points are — and how difficult they've previously been to earn through credit card spending. TPG values them at 1.5 cents per point, per our February 2026 valuations, meaning you'll get a 4.5% return on each dining dollar spent.

Global Companion Awards

COLORBLIND IMAGES LLC/GETTY IMAGES

On the benefits side, the card's Global Companion Awards steal the spotlight. Each anniversary, cardholders receive a 25,000-point award, and they can earn a second award worth 100,000 points after spending $60,000 or more on purchases each anniversary year.

The annual perk discounts the award price for a second person traveling on an itinerary with Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines or a partner airline, and they apply to tickets in any cabin class. For example, if you want to travel one-way from Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) in business class with fellow Oneworld alliance member American Airlines, a ticket costs 55,000 Atmos Rewards points. The primary traveler would pay that sum, while the companion's flight, after applying the 25,000-point award, would cost 30,000 points for a total of 85,000 points (plus taxes and fees) for a one-way flight.

In economy, where a ticket for the primary traveler only costs 27,500 points, the grand total for two tickets would be just 30,000 points (plus taxes and fees).

Related: Alaska Trifecta: Why I signed up for the new premium Atmos Rewards Summit credit card

Elite status boosts

If securing elite status is on your vision board this year, you can't do better than the Atmos Rewards Summit. The card not only offers 10,000 status points for every card anniversary — a tally that will put you halfway to earning Atmos Rewards Silver status — but it includes a spending-based status fast-track, too.

Cardholders earn an uncapped 1 status point for every $2 spent on the card, marking the fastest path to status available on any airline credit card. By putting $20,000 on the Summit, you'll lock in Atmos Rewards Silver status (equivalent to Oneworld Ruby status), and by spending $60,000, you'll earn Atmos Rewards Gold status (equivalent to Oneworld Sapphire status).

Other travel benefits (for a reasonable fee)

Alaska Lounge entrance at the North Concourse at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA). SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUY

Like other premium travel cards, the Atmos Rewards Summit sports a host of additional benefits that help offset its $395 annual fee — which, by today's standards, is on the lower side for a premium product.

Many of those can help make the travel experience smoother and more comfortable, including:

• Eight Alaska Airlines lounge passes per year (two per calendar quarter)
• A free checked bag for you and up to six guests on the same reservation when you pay for your flight with your card
• Preferred boarding
• Free points sharing
• Waived same-day confirmed fees
• An instant $50 voucher for cancelations or 2+ hour departure delay
• Waived booking fees on partner award redemptions

Those waived partner award booking fees on their own can really add up, with fees starting at $12.50 per person one-way. When booking round-trip partner award flights for a family of three like mine, I'll save at least $75.

Bottom line

Alaska Airlines shook up the airline card market in the best possible way with the Atmos Rewards Summit Visa. The card's unique foreign transactions bonus category and its slate of innovative benefits differentiated it from other premium cards and airline cobranded cards on the market — and scored it the Best New Personal Credit Card win at the TPG Awards along the way.

To learn more about the card, read our full review of the Atmos Rewards Summit Visa.

Apply here: Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite Credit Card

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Bilt's best-ever transfer bonus? Book a business-class flight to Japan starting at 25K points

Bilt Rewards offers special promotions on or around the first of each month, but next month is particularly special.

For this upcoming Bilt Rent Day on March 1, members can enjoy a status-based Japan Airlines Mileage Bank transfer bonus of 25% to 100%. Plus, Bilt members can use $135 of Bilt Cash to unlock a higher transfer bonus of up to 125%.

This transfer bonus has caught our attention as arguably the most valuable offer we've seen. If you're dreaming of traveling to Japan (or booking a Oneworld partner flight) with your Bilt Points, here's how to get the most value from this amazing offer and decide if it's right for you.

Earn up to a 125% bonus when you transfer your Bilt points to Japan Airlines

You can normally transfer Bilt points to Japan Airlines Mileage Bank at a 1:1 ratio. On March 1 only, the transfer ratio improves based on your Bilt Rewards status level:

• Blue: 25% bonus (so 10,000 Bilt points become 12,500 Japan Airlines miles)
• Silver: 50% bonus (10,000 Bilt points become 15,000 Japan Airlines miles)
• Gold: 75% bonus (10,000 Bilt points become 17,500 Japan Airlines miles)
• Platinum: 100% bonus (10,000 Bilt points become 20,000 Japan Airlines miles)

Platinum members can go even further. By redeeming $135 in Bilt Cash, they can unlock a 125% transfer bonus, meaning 10,000 Bilt points become 22,500 Japan Airlines miles.

Members at lower status tiers can also redeem $135 in Bilt Cash to access the transfer bonus of the next tier up (a Blue member can access the Silver bonus, for instance), but you can only move up one tier.

Therefore, a Silver member cannot spend $270 in Bilt Cash to access the Platinum rate.

Related: Bilt 2.0 transition questions answered: What you need to know

CLINT HENDERSON/THE POINTS GUY

Why this is a valuable airline transfer bonus

Bonuses from transferable rewards programs to airline partners are a regular occurrence; however, the bonus levels are usually no more than 30%, with 40% being an especially generous offer.

So, for Bilt Rewards to offer up to a 125% bonus on a valuable Oneworld airline transfer partner is particularly noteworthy. It may make this bonus the best one we've seen.

Japan Airlines miles are typically harder to earn, and because the loyalty program offers a distance-based, dynamically priced award chart, there are some great deals you can book.

Japan Airlines' Mileage Bank program offers flights from various North American mainland gateways to Japan starting from just:

• 27,000 miles in economy class
• 40,000 miles in premium economy
• 55,000 miles in business class
• 110,000 miles in first class

Related: Japan Airlines' Airbus A350-1000 inaugural from New York to Tokyo: Same great service, fabulous new seats

JAPAN AIRLINES

This means that for booking lie-flat business-class seats to Japan with this bonus, you would need to transfer the following Bilt points:

• Blue status member (25% bonus): 44,000 Bilt points for 55,000 Japan Airlines miles
• Silver (50% bonus): 37,000 Bilt points for 55,500 Japan Airlines miles
• Gold (75% bonus): 32,000 Bilt points for 56,000 Japan Airlines miles
• Platinum (100% bonus): 28,000 Bilt points for 56,000 Japan Airlines miles
• Platinum plus $135 Bilt Cash (125% bonus): 25,000 Bilt points for 56,250 Japan Airlines miles

Seats at these lowest saver-level amounts are strictly limited and won't be available on all routes or dates.

The program does at least offer additional award seats at relatively low dynamically priced levels, with several months of availability from Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka, Japan, for under 100,000 miles one-way in business class, for example. If you do have access to at least a 100% transfer bonus from Bilt, this is still an excellent deal with much wider availability.

You can also book flights on Oneworld partner airlines like American Airlines, Qantas and British Airways at the following rates:

JAPAN AIRLINES

The program also partners with other airlines, such as Air France, Emirates and JetBlue, which use a different award chart.

In theory, the same award inventory that programs like Air France-KLM Flying Blue provide to other partner programs, such as Virgin Atlantic Flying Club, should be bookable with Japan Airlines miles; however, in our searches, we were unable to find business-class awards to Europe, even when they were available through other partners, as shown on the handy Seats.aero tool.

Economy awards were easy to find this summer at a reasonable 23,000 Mileage Bank miles from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and an astonishingly low $5.60 in taxes and fees compared with the $104 Air France-KLM Flying Blue charges for the same redemption.

JAPAN AIRLINES

How to find award seats using Japan Airlines miles

Log in to your Mileage Bank Account and then select the type of flights you want to book from the Domestic or International Award Tickets dropdown menu.

JAPAN AIRLINES

For long-haul flights operated by Japan Airlines, choose JAL International Award Tickets, or for flights operated by partner airlines, choose JMB Partner Airlines Award Tickets.

JAPAN AIRLINES

You'll then be shown different flight price options with the ability to see prices for three dates either side, and then you can book your flights online paying the taxes and fees by credit card.

JAPAN AIRLINES

You can also search for any route across the whole year using the international award ticket search availability calendar to see the cheapest months.

JAPAN AIRLINES

How to prepare for Bilt's up to 125% transfer bonus to Japan Airlines

There are some important caveats to note before jumping on this offer.

Japan Airlines Mileage Bank accounts must be at least 60 days old before miles can be used to book travel. Bilt members do receive an exception; if your account is less than 60 days old, there is a hold of up to seven days after a transfer before you can redeem, but that narrow window still requires you to have a specific redemption ready to go immediately. It's a good idea to create your account as soon as possible, but you can still search for availability even if you haven't cleared this window.

We expect plenty of Bilt Rewards members to take advantage of this transfer bonus, so the sooner you create your Mileage Bank account, the sooner you will be outside of the seven-day hold and can snap up the limited availability at the lowest rates.

Japan Airlines Mileage Bank has a firm three-year expiration policy on miles. There is no activity-based extension mechanism like many other programs offer. If you transfer miles speculatively and don't use them within 36 months, you will lose them. Transfers from Bilt Rewards to any transfer partner cannot be reversed.

Japan Airlines miles can only be used to book award travel for you and direct family members — those connected through blood or marriage. Unlike many other programs, you cannot book for a friend or travel companion who is not a family member.

The program tends to release award space for its own members and partner program members from the same inventory pool, so holding a Mileage Bank account does not guarantee better access to premium cabin seats over those you'd find through American Airlines AAdvantage or Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards. However, Japan Airlines opens its award schedule to Mileage Bank members 360 days in advance (at midnight in Japan, or 10 a.m. Eastern time). Most Oneworld partner programs work within a booking window of around 330 to 331 days. That roughly 30-day gap may not sound significant, but on competitive routes where business-class saver award space is limited, it can be the difference between securing your preferred dates and missing out entirely.

Members who search for flights approximately 12 months out on Japan Airlines' own website will frequently see business-class availability that has not yet appeared in any partner program.

ERIC ROSEN/THE POINTS GUY

Bottom line

While we don't usually recommend speculatively transferring points and miles (i.e., when you don't have an immediate use for them), no matter how generous the transfer bonus, this is the one time we may not follow our own advice.

If you have elite status in the Bilt Rewards program and/or Bilt Cash, you'd be happy to redeem to move up a tier; this may be the best transfer bonus we see this year.

While securing four business-class seats to Japan this summer at the lowest saver rates is unlikely, if you are looking to travel in 12 or 13 months, such as for the 2027 cherry blossom season, this could be an amazing opportunity to get incredible value from your Bilt points. This is especially true given the Mileage Bank program offers plenty of awards at fair rates, even when the cheapest saver seats are no longer available, and provides its members with a month head start on booking awards.

Because the transfer bonus only lasts a day, we recommend signing up for the Mileage Bank program immediately. Play around with routes and dates to get a sense of the availability and pricing and better understand how the program works, then crunch the numbers and decide if you want to participate, as transfers cannot be reversed.

And remember, if you're looking to easily earn Bilt points, a transferable currency that TPG values at 2.2 cents per point, per our March 2026 valuations, you may want to consider one of Bilt's credit cards.

Related reading:

• Huge suites and phenomenal amenities: A review of Japan Airlines' new A350 first class
• The 12 best places to see cherry blossoms abroad this spring
• New first class, business class and the rest: Flying Japan Airlines' Airbus A350-1000 in all 4 cabins

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card review: High potential for a reasonable fee

As someone who is naturally drawn to travel cards that earn transferable rewards, it takes a lot for me to be impressed by a cobranded option. But when it comes to the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, I'd recommend it to many types of travelers.

The Hilton Surpass was the first cobranded hotel card that won me over. Now that I have the card, I've thoroughly enjoyed maximizing its benefits, earning Hilton Honors points and enjoying Hilton Gold elite status perks when I stay with the brand.

I love how easy it is to find a Hilton property wherever I travel, and I appreciate that this card offers high potential value without an exorbitant annual fee.

Whether you're a road warrior who loves to stay at Hilton hotels and resorts or a semifrequent traveler looking for a card with practical rewards, the Hilton Surpass is worth a look. Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐½

*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

Hilton Surpass: The basics

The Hilton Surpass is a mid-tier Hilton card issued by American Express. It earns Hilton Honors points and is well positioned for travelers who often stay at Hilton properties but don't want to pay a sky-high annual fee.

The Surpass charges a $150 annual fee (see rates and fees), which places it in the middle of Hilton's cobranded card suite.

My favorite Surpass benefit is the up-to-$50 quarterly statement credit on eligible Hilton purchases (up to $200 per calendar year). If you maximize this statement credit each quarter, the card effectively pays you $50 to hold it.

KATIE GENTER/THE POINTS GUY

With the Hilton Surpass, you'll receive complimentary Hilton Gold elite status. You'll also receive complimentary National Car Rental elite status (after enrollment in the Emerald Club program) and travel protections.

The best way to redeem the Hilton points you'll earn on the Surpass is by booking award nights. Since Hilton uses dynamic award pricing, rates can vary. If you have the patience and flexibility to find high-value stays, you can find some serious value with the points you'll earn.

Related: How much value does the Hilton Honors program provide when you book directly?

Hilton Surpass pros and cons

Pros	Cons
<ul> <li>Annual Hilton credit</li> <li>Hilton Honors Gold status, with the opportunity to earn Diamond status with spending</li> <li>No foreign transaction fees (see <a href="/tc/220312354?pid=220312354&amp;name=Hilton%20Honors%20American%20Express%20Surpass%C2%AE%20Card&amp;data-testid=ratesFees" target="_blank">rates and fees</a>)</li> <li>Reasonable annual fee</li> </ul>	<ul> <li>Dynamic award pricing can require many points for a redemption</li> <li>Ties you to Hilton properties</li> </ul>

Related: 5 reasons to get the Hilton Honors Amex Surpass card

Hilton Surpass benefits

For a $150 annual fee, the Hilton Surpass packs a punch in benefits. Here's what to know about its perks.

Complimentary Hilton Gold status

Hilton Gold status is mid-tier elite status in the Hilton Honors loyalty program.

My favorite Hilton Gold perks are the daily food-and-beverage credit (or continental breakfast at select brands outside of the U.S.) for up to two guests and the 80% bonus points.

MATT MOFFITT/THE POINTS GUY

Surpass cardmembers can unlock Diamond elite status (the next tier up) if they spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on the card in a calendar year.

Hilton statement credit

Hilton Surpass cardmembers earn up to $200 back every calendar year on eligible Hilton purchases. This benefit is earned as up to $50 in statement credits each quarter.

You can use your Hilton statement credit in a variety of ways, such as bookings made directly with Hilton, incidental charges billed to your room (including dining and room service), eating at a restaurant in a Hilton property or purchasing items from gift shops in a Hilton property.

I typically use my Hilton credit to shave $50 off impromptu hotel stays, weekend getaways or when I need to travel for events like birthdays and weddings. Since I'm in a phase of life where I'm often on the road for quick trips, the number of Hilton properties and the reliability of this quarterly credit have helped me save cash.

National Car Rental status

Cardmembers also receive complimentary National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive status after they enroll in the Emerald Club program.

Executive status perks include guaranteed upgrades, Executive Area access and no second-driver fees.

LUKE SHARRETT/BLOOMBERG/GETTY IMAGES

I've used this perk when my partner and I rented a car for a family trip in Minnesota. Because of my elite status, we didn't have to pay an extra fee to add him as a driver, and we were able to pick a vehicle from a higher class than the Midsize rate we paid for.

Spending-incentivized free night reward

If you put at least $15,000 of eligible spending on your Hilton Surpass in a calendar year, you'll receive a free night reward.

Travel and purchase protections

The card also provides a decent level of travel and purchase protections, including:

• Access to Amex's Global Assist Hotline*
• Baggage insurance**
• Extended warranty**
• Purchase protection**
• Secondary car rental insurance***

The Surpass is also a solid card to take on international trips since it doesn't charge foreign transaction fees.

*Eligibility and benefit level vary by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Cardmembers are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

**Eligibility and benefit level vary by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

***Eligibility and benefit level vary by card. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered, and geographic restrictions apply. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

Related: Is the Hilton Surpass Amex card worth the annual fee?

How to earn and use Hilton points

Earning points

It's easy to earn Hilton points with the Hilton Surpass. Here are the card's earning rates:

• 12 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases made directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio
• 6 points per dollar spent on purchases at U.S. gas stations, U.S. restaurants and U.S. supermarkets
• 4 points per dollar spent on U.S. online retail purchases
• 3 points per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases

CLINT HENDERSON/THE POINTS GUY

I most frequently use this card for paid Hilton stays, since it earns a 6% return on my spending (per TPG's February 2026 valuations). I also like to use this card at gas stations (for a 3% return on my spending) and when I shop online (to get a 2% return on my spending).

When it comes to the other bonus categories, however, I have other cards with better earning rates, so I don't typically use the Surpass when I'm at restaurants or the grocery store.

Redeeming points

The best way to redeem Hilton points is to use them for free nights at Hilton hotels and resorts, and this is how I like to redeem the rewards I earn with my Surpass.

Since Hilton uses dynamic pricing on its rewards, you may have to be flexible and do some extra work to find good deals. The brand's Points Explorer tool can be helpful here, as it shows redemption price ranges to help you decide.

Hilton's Points & Money option allows cardmembers to top off their redemptions with cash. Using this method, I redeemed 100,000 points and around $65 for a two-night stay at The Graduate Chapel Hill in North Carolina for a college basketball weekend. This stay would've cost more than $1,400 if I had paid in cash entirely.

AUGUSTA STONE/THE POINTS GUY

Another solid option for redeeming Hilton points is to use them for premium room awards to upgrade an upcoming stay. You can also pool your points with up to 10 friends or family members to unlock higher-value redemptions.

Finally, Hilton points can be redeemed for event credits, experiences, Lyft rides, car rentals, Amazon purchases and even transfers to a list of airline partners. However, these options may not offer the best value for your points, so we generally don't recommend redeeming them this way.

Related: Ways to redeem points with the Hilton Honors program

Where the Hilton Surpass falls short

The Hilton Surpass may not be the best choice for every traveler. Here are some downsides to weigh:

• Hilton points aren't highly valuable, so you may not be satisfied with the brand's redemption rates (especially compared to other programs like World of Hyatt).
• If you want more perks or automatic Diamond elite status, the Surpass may leave you wanting more.
• The Surpass doesn't offer a complimentary annual free night reward; you have to make $15,000 in eligible purchases on your card in a calendar year to unlock one.
• You must pay a $150 annual fee to hold this card.

Hilton Surpass vs. Hilton Aspire

If you're a frequent traveler who loves to stay at Hilton properties and wants more perks when you're there, the Surpass' premium sibling may be the better choice for you.

The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card charges a much higher $550 annual fee (see rates and fees) but provides automatic Diamond elite status and a free night reward within your first cardmember year and every year you renew.

The Aspire also features more statement credits, but keep in mind it doesn't have a statement credit for general Hilton purchases like the Surpass. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Related: Hilton Surpass vs. Hilton Aspire: Do you want Gold or Diamond status?

When to apply for the Hilton Surpass

The best time to apply for the Hilton Surpass is when it offers at least 150,000 bonus points in value or includes statement credits, automatic free night rewards or an introductory $0 annual fee for the first cardmember year.

New cardmembers can currently earn 130,000 bonus points plus a free night reward after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Offer ends April 15. This bonus is worth $650 plus the value of a free night reward, per TPG's valuations.

While the current offer isn't the highest we've seen in the card's history, it meets our criteria for when to apply.

ERIC ROSEN/THE POINTS GUY

American Express has a "once per lifetime" rule on card bonuses, which is worth considering. However, having most other Hilton cards won't make you ineligible for this welcome bonus.

Related: Current welcome offers on Hilton Amex cards

Other cards to consider instead of the Hilton Surpass

If the Hilton Surpass isn't quite the fit for you, here are some other options to consider.

• If you don't want to pay an annual fee: The Hilton Honors American Express Card is the most basic Hilton Honors card. It provides complimentary Silver status and earns Hilton points, but it doesn't charge an annual fee (see rates and fees). To learn more, read our full review of the Hilton Honors Amex.
• If you want to earn more flexible rewards: The American Express Platinum Card® earns flexible Membership Rewards points, which you can transfer to Hilton Honors at a 1:2 ratio. However, you aren't limited to only Hilton redemptions with Membership Rewards points, as they also transfer to 19 other partners that could unlock higher value. Amex Platinum cardmembers also receive Hilton Gold status (enrollment required). To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Platinum.
• If you own a business: The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card is a solid option for business owners loyal to Hilton. It provides similar perks to the Surpass but also includes business management tools. To learn more, read our full review of the Hilton Amex Business.

For additional options, see our list of the best travel credit cards.

Related: Hilton Surpass vs. Hilton Business: Which mid-tier Hilton card is better for you?

Bottom line

The Hilton Surpass is an excellent hotel card if you often stay at Hilton hotels and resorts and don't want to pay a high annual fee. It's the perfect fit for the way I travel, and I've thoroughly enjoyed being a cardmember.

Of course, if you don't value Hilton points highly, you'll be better off with a card that earns transferable rewards. On the other hand, if you want to truly go all-in on Hilton, you may want to consider the premium Hilton Aspire, which offers more perks.

However, the potential value in the Hilton Surpass is high, especially when you consider that you can come out ahead if you maximize the quarterly statement credit on Hilton purchases. If its mid-tier level of benefits would be useful to you and your travel style, this could be an excellent addition to your wallet.

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Apply here: Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card

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For rates and fees of the Hilton Surpass Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Hilton Aspire Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors Amex Card, click here.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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The 10 best places to travel in April 2026

April is one of the smartest months to book leisure travel. The climate is blissfully mild in many parts of the world at this time of year. And since many spring break holidays fall in early April this year, you can expect fewer crowds later in the month, which means more affordable flights and accommodations and easier access to key attractions.

For those in the Northern Hemisphere, the best reason to travel in April is to enjoy the outdoors after winter's cold and darkness. From budding branches and trilling birds to longer stretches of daylight, signs of nature springing back to life are everywhere.

Ahead are 10 of the best places to travel in April this year — plus tips for putting your points and miles to use in these destinations.

Istanbul

Tulips in Sultanahmet Square in front of the Hagia Sophia. ANADOLU/GETTY IMAGES

For comfortably cool weather in the low 50s to high 60s and spectacular spring scenery, plan an April vacation to Istanbul. One of the city's most beloved events is the Istanbul Tulip Festival, a month-long celebration featuring more than 30 million tulips. Symbols of abundance and renewal, the flowers were cultivated by the Ottoman Empire long before becoming popular in Europe. You can find them planted throughout the city's green spaces, including Emirgan Park and Sultanahmet Square.

When the city is less crowded, sightseeing at top attractions, like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern, is also far more enjoyable.

To include Istanbul in a multi-destination vacation, consider Viking's "Ancient Mediterranean Treasures" sailing aboard the Viking Vesta. The upscale line's newest all-veranda ocean ship, which debuted last year, carries just 998 guests for a more intimate experience.

TPG tip: Opened last September in the trendy neighborhood of Karakoy, Aloft Istanbul Karakoy is a 107-key hotel geared toward savvy travelers. Guests enjoy many of the perks of a higher-end stay — such as a fitness center, spacious rooms featuring local art and a restaurant serving excellent Turkish fare — at far more reasonable rates. Rooms start at $130 or 18,500 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in April.

Another smart choice is Moxy Istanbul Taksim, one of our best new hotels that opened in 2025.

Houston

Some of the cars from the Annual Art Car Parade. MARIE D DE JESUS/HOUSTON CHRONICLE/GETTY IMAGES

As America's fourth-largest city, Houston boasts a wealth of cultural, culinary and entertainment options. The Houston Art Car Parade (April 9-12), which debuted in 1988, showcases 250-plus creative vehicles. On April 11, the family-friendly annual Houston Latin Fest will feature live music (salsa, reggaeton and cumbia) alongside food and craft vendors.

Houston's art scene is nothing short of thrilling. Rothko Chapel and the nearby Menil Collection are must-stops for contemporary art fans, while Meow Wolf Houston and Pop Air Balloon Museum offer more playful, interactive experiences.

Thanks to Houston's incredible diversity, the city is home to tantalizing regional eats — such as Viet-Cajun and Tex-Mex — as well as acclaimed hot spots like the Asian-American diner Agnes and Sherman.

With daytime highs ranging from the mid-60s to the low-70s, April is a sublime time to be outdoors. Experience peak wildflower season at Buffalo Bayou Park, where you can spot bluebonnets, upright prairie coneflowers and pink evening primroses. For cherry blossoms, head to the Japanese Garden at Hermann Park Conservancy.

TPG tip: One of the city's newer stays, Thompson Houston blends resort-style luxury with a prime urban setting just minutes from downtown. For wellness and relaxation, there's the one-acre rooftop, Thompson Spa and an infinity pool with cabanas. The globetrotting Sol 7 and swanky French brasserie Chardon have all your meals covered from breakfast through dinner. April rates start at $310 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.

Copenhagen

Copenhagen during its annual Sakura Festival. KERSTIN WAURICK/GETTY IMAGES

While most people descend upon Denmark's capital during the summer months, April is when the city suddenly springs back to life after a long winter, making it an equally lovely (read: less crowded) time to visit.

The annual Copenhagen Sakura Festival, a two-day celebration of the cherry blossoms in Langelinie Park, takes place from April 18 to 19. Meanwhile, Tivoli Gardens has reopened after its winter break.

April is an opportune time to take advantage of the city's world-class dining scene. Koan, the two-Michelin-starred fine dining hot spot by Korean-born, Danish-raised chef Kristian Baumann, is a top pick. Copenhagen is also undergoing an Italian food renaissance, with the swanky Japanese-Italian Restaurant Levi and Surt by Sicilian pizzaiolo Giuseppe Oliva leading the wave. Don't forget to drop by Noma Projects for edible souvenirs, like Mushroom Garum and Pumpkin Bushi, to take home.

TPG tip: A member of Amex's The Hotel Collection, the new 1 Hotel Copenhagen is a sanctuary of sustainability with 282 guest rooms cocooned in reclaimed wood. Guests can also look forward to the produce-driven restaurant Fjora, helmed by chef Chantelle Nicholson, as well as the Bamford Spa. Rates start at $302 per night in April.

Jeju Island, South Korea

Blooming cherry trees on Jeju Island, South Korea. F9PHOTOS/GETTY IMAGES

If you want to be surrounded by stunning cherry blossoms while avoiding the crushing crowds of Yoshino, Japan and Washington, D.C., Jeju Island is the answer. This cherished subtropical South Korean leisure destination is famed for its abundance of native king cherry trees, whose fluffy, vibrant blooms cascade across the island.

Though the fleeting flowers are weather-dependent, they typically peak in early April. Take advantage of the spectacular natural backdrop by hiking the iconic volcanic mountain Hallasan (don't worry, it's dormant), and fuel up afterward with local delicacies like black pork, galchi (hairtail fish) and abalone.

TPG tip: Set on the coastline overlooking Beomseom Island, JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa is a 197-room resort featuring a striking design by Bill Bensley, a restorative spa and several enticing restaurants, including The Flying Hog. Rooms are available from $725 or 55,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in April.

Costa Rica

Guiones Beach in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. DIEGO FIORE/GETTY IMAGES

Costa Rica is an appealing destination year-round, but April is especially underrated for visiting. The month may signal the end of the country's dry season, but the weather — particularly in the western and central regions — remains comfortably hot and sunny for outdoor pursuits such as surfing on the Pacific Coast, hiking Rincon de la Vieja National Park and spotting wildlife like nesting sea turtles and humpback whales.

Semana Santa, or Holy Week, runs from March 29 to April 5. It is one of Costa Rica's most cherished occasions, with ceremonies and special food. Be sure to try dulce de chiverre, a marmalade featuring the native sweet squash, served in traditional desserts during the weeklong festivities.

TPG tip: Book your stay at the luxurious and eco-friendly Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, which opened last May on the country's northern Pacific coast. In April, rates start at $1,118 or 120,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Northern Territory, Australia 

Parrtjima is a free festival in Northern Australia. CHE CHORLEY/PARRTJIMA AUSTRALIA/FACEBOOK

Included in TPG's list of the best places to go in 2026, Australia's vast and remote Northern Territory is the heart of Aboriginal culture. One of the best ways to learn more about how Indigenous Australians shaped the region is at Parrtjima in Alice Springs (Mparntwe). The free 10-day art and light festival (April 10-19) is unlike any other in the world. Ancient traditions converge with modern technology, showcasing the region's rich cultural heritage through dazzling light installations, captivating artworks and lively performances. Explore the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (Mount Olga) rock formations to round out a trip here. Dropping by Alice Springs' Kangaroo Sanctuary is a necessity for animal lovers.

TPG tip: With an outdoor pool, three restaurants — including the popular pan-Asian eatery Hanuman — and a neighboring 18-hole golf course, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Alice Springs has everything you need for a comfortable stay. April rates start at $113 or 33,000 Hilton Honors points per night.

Hoi An, Vietnam 

Tour boats on Thu Bon River in Hoi An, Vietnam. BRUCE YUANYUE BI/GETTY IMAGES

Often bypassed by tourists heading to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An is the gateway to Central Vietnam. This historic port town, brimming with cultural treasures, is also near several uncrowded beaches — try An Bang for its sugary sands and crystal clear waters.

Designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Hoi An's Old Town is a portal to the past, when trading merchants from Asia and Europe shaped the city into a cultural melting pot from the 15th to the 19th century. The neighborhood comes alive at night when paper lanterns illuminate the Hoai River and the Night Market's stalls clamor for your attention.

Dive into the region's rich food culture on a guided Vespa Adventures tour; you'll see lesser-known parts of the city and sample local dishes like White Rose Restaurant's delicate flower-shaped dumplings.

TPG tip: Situated on a tranquil stretch of Hoi An Beach, the legendary Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, Vietnam — a member of American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts — stretches across 86 lush acres and features dreamy villas with outdoor showers. Rates start at $930 per night in April.

Sacred Valley, Peru

Weavers in the Sacred Valley of Peru. JAMES STRACHAN/GETTY IMAGES

Located in Peru between Cusco and Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley is a 62-mile expanse of fertile land irrigated by the Urubamba River and surrounded by the Andes Mountains. The region has plenty to experience, from Pisac, a stunning pre-Colombian archaeological site, to the Maras Salt Mines, where salt harvesting even predates the Inca Empire.

It's also a smart jumping-off point for Machu Picchu. With five departure stations from the Sacred Valley (Wanchaq, San Pedro, Poroy, Ollantaytambo, Urubamba), PeruRail's glass-domed Vistadome train whisks you to the mystical UNESCO World Heritage site and back in comfort and style. April is an ideal time to go because it's the beginning of the dry season, but well before the peak crowds arrive from June to August.

TPG tip: Urubamba's Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Valle Sagrado offers a locally inspired stay with garden-fresh Peruvian cuisine, a restorative spa and a biophilic design. Accommodations are available from $520 or 53,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night in April.

Botswana

Elephant in the Okavango Delta in Botswana. PETER ADAMS/GETTY IMAGES

Botswana should be on your radar if your dream vacation means being surrounded by nature. An astonishing 40% of the country's land is protected, ensuring that its diverse ecosystems, including savannas and wetlands such as the iconic Okavango Delta, can flourish.

As April shifts from the wet to the dry season, you can look forward to warm days followed by brisk nights and ample opportunities to spot breeding herds of elephants and antelopes. Fewer crowds and more affordable rates than you'd find during the peak travel months between June and October make visiting this time of year even more memorable.

TPG tip: Comprising 12 intimate cottages, andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge is famed for its understated luxury, personalized service and unbeatable location within the Okavango Delta. In April, the all-inclusive overnight rates start at $2,680.

Tucson

Saguaro National Park near Tucson. KENCANNING/GETTY IMAGES

April is a smart time to visit Arizona's second-largest city because there are fewer crowds than during winter's high season, and it's not too hot yet. Located in the Sonoran Desert, Tucson is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who want to take advantage of the area's hiking, stargazing — the next Lyrid meteor shower is expected to peak on April 11 — and wildlife viewing.

Food lovers should also consider planning a trip. In 2015, Tucson became America's first UNESCO City of Gastronomy for its unique culinary scene, blending Mexican and Native American traditions. Some of the best old-school spots to savor local cuisine (and history) include El Charro Cafe, which opened in 1922, and El Minuto Cafe, which opened in 1936.

TPG tip: Centered around a boomerang-shaped pool, Voco The Tuxon has rates starting at $105 or 21,000 IHG One Rewards points per night in April.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 7 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Who should (and shouldn’t) get the United Quest Card?

If you fly United Airlines regularly, the United Quest℠ Card (see rates and fees) can be a powerful way to earn more miles and reduce your out-of-pocket travel costs.

As someone who frequently chooses United for flights, I've found the card hits a practical middle ground: It offers meaningful airline perks — like a $200 annual United TravelBank credit, two free checked bags and elevated earning rates on United purchases — without having to put in the time and spending required to earn elite status.

The key question is whether you fly United often enough (and can use those perks strategically enough) to justify the card's $350 annual fee.

Here's a closer look at who the United Quest Card is best for and who should consider another option.

Related: I just changed my airline loyalty — here's how the United Quest Card sealed the switch

Who the United Quest Card is best for

There's a lot to love about the United Quest Card. Here's who will benefit most from having the card.

Semifrequent United flyers

If you fly United several times per year, the United Quest Card starts to make a lot of sense.

That's because many of the card's most valuable perks are tied directly to flying United. Cardholders receive:

• 25% back on United inflight purchases as a statement credit (including Wi-Fi, food and beverages)
• Priority boarding on United flights
• Up to 20,000 miles in award flight discounts annually
• Strong travel protections

A United Airlines plane on final descent into Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington, D.C. SEAN CUDAHY/THE POINTS GUY

One of the strongest perks of the card is its earning structure. Currently, the United Quest earns a strong 3 miles per dollar spent on United purchases in addition to the at least 5 miles per dollar spent you earn as a United MileagePlus member — that's a whopping 8% return, according to TPG's February 2026 valuations.

United recently announced changes to its earning rates. For tickets purchased on or after April 2, the Quest Card will earn 4 miles per dollar spent on United purchases, and cardholders will earn 6 miles per dollar spent on United flights as MileagePlus members — for a total of 10 miles per dollar spent.

The upside is even greater for travelers with elite status. Earning rates increase for cardholders across every Premier tier. For example, I currently hold Premier Silver status; as a Quest Card holder, I'll earn 12 miles per dollar spent on United flights, which is a substantial return on paid travel.

If United is the airline you naturally book anyway, this card rewards you for doing what you're already doing.

Related: United unveils huge MileagePlus shake-up, rewarding cardholders with higher earn rates

Travelers who check 2 bags

This is one of the most underrated — and potentially most valuable — perks of the United Quest Card.

The card includes two free checked bags for you and a companion on the same reservation. On domestic economy flights, United typically charges $40 ($35 if prepaid) for the first checked bag and $50 ($45 if prepaid) for the second bag.

SOLSTOCK/GETTY IMAGES

That means you could pay up to $90 per person each way if you check two bags without a card benefit.

If you and a companion each check two bags round-trip on just one domestic flight, that could cost up to $360 total. That alone covers the Quest Card's $350 annual fee.

Personally, I frequently fly United and regularly check two bags free thanks to my Quest Card. For travelers who don't pack light, take longer trips or occasionally travel with bulkier items like skis or golf clubs, this benefit alone can justify holding the card year after year.

Related: These 27 credit cards can get you free checked bags on your next flight

Travelers who can maximize the $200 TravelBank credit

Each account anniversary, the Quest Card provides $200 in United TravelBank cash. This credit can be used toward United-operated flights and is automatically deposited into your TravelBank account.

There are plenty of practical ways to use it:

• Offset the cost of a short domestic flight
• Cover part of a round-trip ticket for a weekend getaway
• Reduce the out-of-pocket cost of a positioning flight
• Help pay for a last-minute ticket when prices spike

While I haven't redeemed this year's credit yet, I've already earmarked it for an upcoming domestic trip from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington, D.C., to visit my family this spring, which will help offset what's often an expensive cross-country flight.

Even if you only book one or two United flights per year, it's typically easy to use this credit organically. When you subtract the $200 TravelBank credit from the $350 annual fee, your effective cost of holding the card drops to $150 — before factoring in free checked bags, award flight discounts and other benefits.

If you already fly United, it's one of the easiest credits to fully use.

Flyers who want more perks than the Explorer offers

The United Quest Card is a strong step up from the United℠ Explorer Card (see rates and fees) — especially for travelers who fly United more than once or twice per year.

The Explorer is a great entry-level option, with a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year (then $150) and useful perks like a free checked bag and two one-time United Club passes each year. For occasional United flyers, that may be all you need.

JLCO-JULIA AMARAL/GETTY IMAGES

But if you're booking multiple United flights annually and check bags or redeem miles, the Quest's incremental perks can quickly outweigh the difference in annual fees and deliver stronger long-term value.

In short, the Explorer fits the occasional flyer. The Quest is designed for frequent United travelers who can maximize its recurring value.

Who should skip the United Quest Card

While the United Quest Card is packed with benefits for United fans and frequent travelers, there are a few reasons why the card might not be the right fit. Let's take a deeper look at who the card isn't the right fit for.

Travelers who want United Club access

While the United Quest Card has many travel-related benefits, it does not come with any lounge privileges, and you don't get any guest passes.

ZACH GRIFF/THE POINTS GUY

If lounge access is a priority, the United Club℠ Card (see rates and fees) may be a better fit. It includes a United Club membership as part of its annual fee, which grants access for the primary cardholder and eligible guests.

And for those who don't want to pay the United Club's steep $695 annual fee, remember that the United Explorer offers two guest passes annually for a much more approachable fee ($0 introductory; $150 after the first year).

That said, not everyone needs airline-specific lounge access. For example, I personally get lounge access through the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, so I don't need the Quest Card to provide that benefit. While the number of Capital One lounges is limited, the Venture X also includes a Priority Pass lounge membership (at participating lounges), giving access to over 1,300 airport lounges, so I rarely feel short on options.

If you also already have lounge access through another premium travel card, the lack of United Club access here may not matter.

Related: Is the United Club Card annual fee worth it?

Those over Chase's 5/24 rule

The United Quest Card is subject to Chase's 5/24 rule. If you've opened five or more personal credit cards across all issuers in the past 24 months, you're unlikely to be approved.

If you're currently over 5/24, you may need to wait — or consider a card from another issuer.

Related: Chase's 5/24 rule: Everything you need to know

Travelers who prefer earning flexible points

The United Quest Card earns United MileagePlus miles. If you don't regularly fly United — or you prefer more flexibility in how you redeem your rewards — a transferable points or miles card could be a better option.

Flexible points and miles can typically be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners or redeemed in other ways, giving you more options.

Two strong alternatives with significantly lower annual fees include:

• The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card ($95 annual fee; see rates and fees) earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points that can be transferred to several airline and hotel partners (including United). To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.
• The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ($95 annual fee) earns transferable Capital One miles that can be used across a wide range of travel partners. To learn more, read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

If you value flexibility over airline-specific perks, one of those cards may be a better long-term fit.

Bottom line

If you fly United multiple times per year, check bags regularly and can easily use the $200 annual TravelBank credit, the United Quest Card's ongoing perks can quickly offset much of its $350 annual fee.

However, if you prioritize lounge access, prefer flexible points or miles over airline-specific miles or only fly United occasionally, another card — either within United's lineup or outside of it — may be a better fit.

Ultimately, the Quest Card shines for travelers who are loyal enough to United to benefit from its airline perks but don't need the full premium treatment of a club membership.

To learn more, read our full review of the United Quest Card.

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Apply here: United Quest Card

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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