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The best portable induction cooktops in 2022 | CNN Underscored

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Long the go-to option for recipe demonstrators, food vendors, dorm room cooks and even professional chefs, a portable induction cooktop is more than just a simple hot plate. These single-burner devices come in handy even in the best-equipped kitchen. Whether you’re experimenting with induction to learn new techniques or cut down on using your stove, looking for a tabletop device for family hotpot nights or need extra cooking space at the holidays, induction burners are a convenient way to increase your kitchen’s cooking capacity quickly and efficiently.

To find the best portable induction cooktops for your kitchen, we spent the depths of winter preparing classic meals like French onion soup and beef bourguignon on a handful of different models to find the best options.

Best overall portable induction cooktop

Compact and powerful, the Duxtop is quick to heat food, and cooks more evenly than any other we tested. This burner also comes with a bevy of useful settings like a child safety lock, timer and boil and keep warm presets.

Best budget portable induction cooktop

At about half the price of the 9600LS, the Duxtop 8100MC Portable Induction Cooktop is just as powerful and equally great at cooking, though it drops the convenience features and isn’t as attractively styled.

The Duxtop 9600LS Portable Induction Cooktop was the best all-around induction burner we tried. It excelled on our cooking tests, handling a variety of tasks with ease. Since an induction cooktop can heat pans directly and efficiently via electromagnetism, it can get up to temperature much faster than a flame or traditional electric burner, and the Duxtop 9600LS got up to temperature the quickest of the competition (and held that temperature more accurately). It cooked just as well as our brand new LG electric range, but in a fraction of the time.

The Duxtop 9600LS was the top-performing burner in our cooking tests. With 1800 watts of power, and temperature settings ranging from 130 degrees to 460 degrees Fahrenheit, the 9600LS handled every ingredient and task we tested well. It boiled two quarts of water in 4 minutes, quicker than some cooktops that took upwards of 5 minutes to reach a full boil. The 9600LS burner also gently sauteed onions, caramelizing them perfectly, rather than blackening or charring, as happened with the other cooktops we tested. At the highest heat setting, the 9600LS also beautifully browned a beef chuck roast in a cast-iron skillet.

The 9600LS is compact — about 11.5 inches wide by 14 inches deep — and suited even to cramped kitchens, and its design is clean and functional, with a responsive, easy-to-read angled control panel that enabled us to make the most of this burner’s cooking capabilities. You can adjust the burner’s output by either power level or temperature; we found it easier to maintain a steady simmer using the power settings (rather than temperature selection). A child safety lock, timer, boil and keep warm settings round out the selection of useful features.

The only issue we encountered was the high-pitched whine common to induction cooktops when used with certain cookware. This was actually less severe with the 9600LS than with the other cooktops we tested, so a point in its favor if you are sensitive to the sound.

The Duxtop 8100MC is a great alternative for the occasional user, someone on a budget or people tight on space. For around half the cost of the 9600LS, the Duxtop 8100MC cooks nearly as well, browning meat, sauteing onions and holding a simmer better than the competition. It even brought water to a boil faster than its bigger sibling, in around 3.5 minutes.

The 8100MC is slightly more compact than the 9600LS (it’s about an inch shorter in depth), and has a similarly intuitive design, though the aesthetics are a bit less slick and the display more minimal. Like the 9600LS, the 8100MC lets you adjust settings by temperature or power level, though those settings are not as granular, spaced in increments of 40 degrees Fahrenheit rather than 20 degrees as on the 9600LS — even more so than with the higher-end model, we found it easier to stick to adjusting the burner output by power instead.

The 8100MC also has a timer function, but it lacks a child lock or presets for boiling water and similar common uses. That said, the lack of presets didn’t feel like a dealbreaker, because it’s still possible to simply set the burner on low (or high) and maintain a constant temperature regardless of having a specialized button for it. We liked the 8100MC’s tactile buttons, by the way, which were a pleasure to use.

As with the 9600LS and the rest of the cooktops we tested, the Duxtop 8100MC produced a whine when in use, but again, we didn’t find that to be a dealbreaker.

Alex Arpaia/CNN Underscored

Induction cooktops work very differently from the electric or gas ranges you might be familiar with, and their advantages over both traditional technologies make them a great addition to your meal prep routine. Rather than transferring energy by thermal conduction to your pots and pans (which is what’s happening when you use a flame or an electric coil), an induction burner heats the pan directly via electrical induction.

An induction burner works by passing a rapidly oscillating current through a coil of wire located under the burner surface. This creates a magnetic field (you probably remember this from experimenting with electromagnets in school) and the current (which is alternating at a high frequency) produces an eddy current in a pan placed atop the coil; resistance within the pan then creates heat.

For this to happen, the pan has to be made of a ferrous material, which is why aluminum and copper cookware don’t work on induction surfaces. Cast iron and most stainless steel cookware should work fine. A good way to test is by bringing a small magnet with you when you’re shopping for cookware — if a magnet sticks to the bottom of a pan you’re interested in, it will work on an induction cooktop. Luckily, the great majority of high quality cookware we’ve tested recently, from dutch ovens and cast-iron skillets to nonstick pans, is induction compatible, and manufacturers, recognizing the interest in the technology, have been making compatibility clear in packaging and labeling.

The benefits of induction are many (you can find a nice write-up on the finer points of induction over at Fine Cooking). Induction burners are at least twice as fast as gas or electric burners for most tasks. Since induction doesn’t depend on transferring thermal energy, induction burners are both comfortable to work in front of and very safe — only the pan itself is heated during cooking so there’s no residual heat and the burner’s surface remains relatively cool. And there’s of course no environmental risk or climate impact, as there is with gas burners.

Single-burner portable induction cooktops are a great way to experiment with the technology if you’re considering swapping out your gas or electric stove, or to incorporate it into your routine if you rent and don’t have that option. About the footprint of a food processor, they’re great for temporarily adding additional capacity to your kitchen for the holidays or for family meals like hotpot that require a heat source at the table. Since they’re cool to to the touch, they’re a lot safer than traditional electric hotplates — and they’re superior performers too. And they’re easy to keep clean and to store away when not in use.

An issue common to induction burners — and we encountered it to some extent on every burner we tested — was that they tend to emit a high-pitched whine, whistling, rattling or humming sound when pots or pans are on the activated burner. Although the sound was annoying to us, some people are more sensitive to it than others and your mileage may vary. Either way, it is not cause for concern or the result of a defective burner.

The whining noise is more pronounced at high-heat settings, or in lightweight pans, pans smaller than the burner coils or pans with little food, Heavier cookware (like cast-iron pans) can mitigate it somewhat, as can always making sure to choose pans that fully cover the burner area.

Alex Arpaia/CNN Underscored

We tested each induction burner with an array of simple, but standard cooking tasks, noting which models performed especially well or poorly and if there were any design issues that impacted functionality. We assessed the burners across a range of criteria.

We tested how well the burners sauteed onions, noting whether they caramelized or if they started browning and burning. We also tested the high-heat searing abilities of the burners by browning large chunks of chuck roast for a beef bourguignon. And finally, we did a couple simple tests to see how quickly the burners were able to boil water, and subsequently, if they were able to consistently hold a simmer.

Out of the box, we noted things like preset cooking functions, the size of each burner and quality of construction. We also paid attention to any useful features like a child safety look or cooking timer. If any burners beeped when making setting selections, or when the timer was up, we also took note of that. Finally, we noted how tactile the buttons were, and if any were especially unresponsive. Some burners only had membrane control panels, while others had physical buttons and switches.

Isiler’s Portable Induction Cooktop was a close second to the two Duxtop cooktops we recommend. This burner’s large footprint — it’s about an inch deeper than the Duxtorp 9600LS — is what ultimately pushed it out of contention. If you have a lot of counter space, this burner worked as well as our main recommendations, but in my small Brooklyn apartment, that extra depth meant it was harder to use and store.

The popular and affordable Max Burton 6400 Digital Choice Induction Cooktop has an attractive look, with an angled display that makes setting the burner simple. We ultimately dismissed this burner because its heat settings weren’t granular enough to maintain a simmer — we could get water to boil or entirely still. It also has a higher-pitched whine than others, which was difficult to tolerate, and burnt onions rather than nicely caramelizing them.

The NuWave PIC Flex Precision Induction Cooktop has a bunch of great features, like heat settings with the appropriate cooking style (boil, sear, simmer, etc.) listed, and no noticeable whine at any setting. But the NuWave only lets you adjust temperature incrementally (though in relatively fine increments of 10 degrees Fahrenheit), offering only low, medium and high power selections (we much preferred models that let us fine-tune burner output by both power and temperature). It was the only burner that didn’t have a power off button, which we found inconvenient, and it lacked a child safety lock.

The Zavor Pro Portable Induction Cooktop works well, and offers a lot of functionality, like numerous preset cooking settings. If you’re highly sensitive to noise, this burner might be a good choice, as we didn’t notice a whining sound when using this model. However, the Zavor has the largest footprint of the models we tested, was more expensive than most induction cooktops (costing well over $100, even on sale) and its heat settings are incrementally adjustable only by temperature, not by power level, which we missed when trying to hold a simmer.

The design of the Aobosi Induction Hob is visually appealing, and it’s a steal for around $56, but we found the buttons tough to use, and it was unable to consistently maintain a simmer.

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January 13, 2023
Our 33 favorite backpacks for travel | CNN Underscored

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While luggage and packing cubes are certainly important to a traveler’s arsenal, we’re laser-focused on the travel backpack right now — the elusive bag that’s big enough to fit everything you might need while flying but also diminutive enough to comply with the standard size allowance of 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high (including wheels and handles). It’s one of our favorite pieces of carry-on luggage out there, allowing for one-bag travel.

Not only do backpacks allow you to be hands-free as you make your way through airport security and the duty-free shops, but they’re also a bastion of organization, with laptop compartments, battery charging ports and interior and exterior pockets galore, ensuring you’re utterly prepared for the journey ahead. To maximize the backpack’s space, you’ll want to pay attention to its true volume — also known as the amount of usable space within the bag — which is measured in liters. Most travel-appropriate backpacks range from 17 liters (a smaller, slimmer bag) to 45, which is the max we’d recommend for a carry-on.

Whether your travel backpack is carrying a Kindle, laptop, travel snacks and a travel blanket or if you’re using it as a true carry-on, packing it like a suitcase with your trip’s wardrobe and necessities, the key is finding the right one for you. In addition to size, you’ll also want to be on the lookout for one that’s lightweight, that’s comfortable to wear and includes clutch design details like suitcase handle sleeves, cord corrals, locked zippers, key clips and durable materials (or, sometimes, cute materials). It’s also good to know whether the pack is top-loading or panel-loading (otherwise known as “clamshell”).

To get you on your way, we’ve rounded up 33 of our favorite travel backpacks below, ranging from rough-and-tumble, all-terrain options that can go from the airport to the camping trip, to utterly fashionable picks for those heading to date night upon reaching their destination.

Probably the most comfortable backpack on our list, the Dagne Dover Dakota is swathed in a downy neoprene fabric that is not only easy on the eyes but also totally cozy on your back. Available in three sizes, the bag’s medium and large formats are most appropriate for travel, as they contain luggage sleeves and can hold 13- and 16-inch laptops, respectively. Both also come with a shoe bag, a detachable zip-topped pouch and a wild amount of pockets and pouches for stashing everything from your lip balm and cell phone to your keys and headphones.

With more than 2,000 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on the Dagne Dover site, the Dakota is a bestseller for the brand. The hardest part is choosing which of the nine colors you love the most.

Small but mighty is how we like to describe this petite backpack from luggage brand Away. Made with water-resistant nylon, the bag has a clamshell opening that we’re obsessed with, a design feature that makes it super easy to find your glasses, AirPods or any other accessory while crouched over mid-flight.

Boasting three zipped pockets — in addition to a zipped, padded 15-inch laptop compartment with a magnetic lock — the backpack also has padded straps, a top leather handle and a trolley sleeve to comfortably rest on your luggage. Want to personalize it? For $35, you can.

The Metro Backpack from travel pros Monos is a versatile option for travelers who want to mix business and leisure — while still carrying style on their backs. The bag is made of a water-resistant nylon with vegan leather details. Inside the bag, you’ll find a slew of pockets and other organizational features as well as space to store a 15-inch laptop. What really sets this backpack apart is its QuickSnap technology, which allows the bag to be combined with Monos’ Folio Kit. Snap the kit on or off to boost your organization throughout all of your travels ahead.

Ladies who love their bags will certainly recognize this brand, originally famous for its quilted texture across dozens of styles — backpacks included. This option is a favorite of ours because not only is it extremely lightweight, clocking in at less than 2 pounds, but it’s also got a handy luggage sleeve and top handle in addition to six interior pockets, a phone pocket, a key ring and a cute detachable pouch. Oh, and despite its petite size, it can fit a 13-inch laptop too. Did we mention you can easily wipe down the nylon exterior?

With nearly 25,000 positive reviews and a 4.7-star rating, Amazon’s top pick for laptop backpacks is perfect for travel, too. Boasting a luggage strap, a top handle, an external USB port and loads of pockets, the backpack can host up to a 15-inch laptop and comes with a lock that can be attached to the zippers, fully securing all your stuff. Available in six colors, the bag’s back and strap undersides are lined with a breathable mesh that will keep you cool, even when you’re racing to your gate.

When minimalism meets accessories, the Carry All from luggage brand July is the result. But don’t let all those clean lines fool you — this 20-liter backpack can fit a lot of stuff. In addition to accommodating a 16-inch laptop, which is stored in a separate, zipped and padded compartment, the Carry All’s main section has another zipped divider, perfect for storing shoes or clothes away from your main travel necessities, which all have a home of their own, thanks to internal pockets and dividers. We love the sturdy leather top handle, the comfortable quilted back panel and the secret top pocket with magnetic closure that is a perfect, easy-to-access but also safe spot for your passport. The brand offers a five-year warranty.

Longtime luggage maker Samsonite has a slew of travel backpack options, among them the slim, lightweight Modern Utility Double Shot Travel Backpack. Perfect for quick work trips where the user wants professional-looking travel gear from a trusted brand, this backpack can accommodate up to three days’ worth of clothes, a 17-inch laptop and a 10-inch tablet.

We appreciate the slew of pockets — from zippered quick-stash options to water bottle holders and organizational slots galore — as well as the S-curve ergonomic straps that are easy on the back, even when the backpack is completely full.

Launched via Kickstarter in 2017, Nomatic has become a cult-favorite brand in the travel gear landscape, known for bringing innovative, highly functioning products to masses. Among the brand’s bestsellers is this backpack, which has more than 2,500 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on its site. Ideal for short trips ranging from one to three days, the water-resistant backpack’s chief selling point is that it’s able to quickly expand in size — from 20 liters of capacity to 24 liters — via a zipped extension panel.

We love that the customizable straps allow you to go from backpack mode to briefcase, thanks to the side carrying handle and that the bag comes with a removable hard shell for sunglasses. More fun details: The clamshell bag has more than 20 pockets (mesh, zippered, hidden … you name it!) a luggage sleeve, a retractable key leash, a full-perimeter zipper for easy access and cord pass-through holes for seamless charging during your travels. Yep, Nomatic has thought of everything.

Actress Shay Mitchell launched the luggage brand Béis with the goal of making affordable, fashion-forward travel accessories — and she surely succeeded with the cult-favorite Backpack. Boasting more than 2,000 positive reviews from Béis shoppers, the clamshell-style bag’s front panel has three zipped compartments, while the interior features elastic compression straps that allow for packing bulkier items like clothing and travel shoes. The rest of your small accessories — pens, phone and gum, for example — can be stored in the backpack’s front pocket, and the laptop heads to a separate padded sleeve in the rear. In addition to a luggage sleeve, two water bottle pockets also flank the bag’s exterior. Oh, and it comes in all-black or a pretty two-tone cream hue.

Designed specifically with work-related travel in mind, this durable 30-liter backpack from Able Carry has a dedicated “work” compartment with sleeves for both an oversized laptop (up to 17 inches) and a tablet, not to mention a zippered pocket with slots for your tech gear — backup battery packs, charging cords, zip drives and more. The main compartment has two built-in zippered pockets for storing accessories like headphones, reading glasses and more, while the roomy cavity has room for a weekend’s worth of clothes.

The Max’s water-resistant exterior is chock-full of bells and whistles too, including a hidden top pocket for your phone or Kindle, a zippered bottle pocket (that can fit anything from a standard water bottle to a full-size bottle of Champagne!) and a vertical front pocket with organizational spots for all your necessities, plus a key leash. We love the luggage sleeve, the top loop for hanging on a towel hook and the padded straps and back section that make for a comfortable carrying journey, which is especially important if your flight just got delayed … again.

We appreciate that for this price — it’s under 50 bucks! — you also get padded, adjustable straps, a tote handle for carrying and a luggage sleeve. Want something slightly larger? Target also has a 45L option in black for $11 more.

Up to the task for your biggest outdoors adventures, this backpack from Swedish adventure brand Thule is equally prepared to head straight to the boardroom, thanks to its convertible nature that allows it to transition from backpack to briefcase in a snap. Hyperorganized, the ultra-durable backpack also has lots of fun selling points like a crush-resistant pocket for sunglasses and your phone, two hidden side pockets for your passport and money and lots more stash spots for your keys, cords and everything else. Even your water bottle can be tucked away in a side zipper pocket.

Our favorite detail, however, was that one reviewer raved that despite having the backpack fly off Disney World’s Space Mountain ride, it was found the next day without a scratch and with everything inside intact. Want to spend a bit less? Check out the brand’s equally spacious Subterra Backpack that features fewer pockets and will save you nearly a hundred bucks at checkout.

Rugged and luxe all at once, this backpack from STM Goods can seamlessly take you from the airport to your next adventure in a snap. Swathed in a 360-degree “foam fortress,” the 30-liter backpack can accommodate a 17-inch laptop in an ultra-protected section that is separated from the main compartment in order to keep your most prized tech possession up and away from the impact zone. But what’s truly genius about the bag is the main section’s customizable shelving options that can easily accommodate a weekend’s wardrobe — or can be removed via Velcro and zippers. We’re also obsessed with the fold-open flaps that are loaded with pockets, and the detachable pouch that is about to be your new go-to Dopp kit.

Heading into the great unknown for the foreseeable future? Consider taking Peak’s 45-liter backpack with you. Boasting more than 650 positive reviews and a 4.8-star rating on its site, the backpack is an airline-approved carry-on that can expand to fit more — or contract to become a daypack. Constructed from a durable, weatherproof, recycled nylon shell, the bag’s roomy interior has enough volume to accommodate three of Peak Design’s coordinated packing cubes, which can hold four (or more) days’ worth of clothing.

In addition to a padded laptop sleeve, the Peak 45L also has dual side pockets, a top pocket, hidden side pockets, adjustable padded shoulder and waist straps (that can be tucked away if checking) and external straps for carrying more stuff like rain jackets, sleeping bags or your camera’s tripod.

Cool and refined, this hip backpack checks off all the boxes. Luggage sleeve? Check. Separate laptop compartment? Check. Myriad extra pockets? Check. And all those design details are ensconced in a simple silhouette that comes in five fabrics and colors — ranging from a water-resistant navy to a coated canvas black — making it the perfect backpack for the businessman heading out for a quick work trip.

A critically hailed favorite, this Cotopaxi Allpa backpack is loaded with bells and whistles that are bound to impress. First of all, the 35-liter bag can be packed like a traditional suitcase with zippered mesh compartments but strapped on like a traditional backpack. Second, it’s got a padded laptop sleeve. And beyond that, it’s got a bunch of other great design details like four grab handles, a sternum strap and a removable hip belt, not to mention a slew of carabiner loops.

We’re big fans of everything Yeti churns out — from coolers and chairs to wine tumblers and water bottles — and that includes this tough-as-nails, clamshell opening pack. Also available in 22- and 27-liter sizes (which are better for day trips), the Crossroads has a water- and abrasion-resistant nylon exterior, padded straps for comfortable carrying, a no-pressure back panel that keeps your lumbar feeling good and two zipped pockets for water bottles and other easy-access necessities.

Inside, the 35-liter pack has a 15-inch laptop sleeve and a zippered main compartment with enough space for a weekend’s worth of clothes. When testing this one out, we appreciated the removable straps on the front of the bag, which are great for quickly attaching your rain jacket or yoga mat. A front vertical pocket is also super handy for storing travel documents or anything else you need to grab quickly while on the road. More to know: It can fit under the seat in front of you on most airlines, and it has a handle for carrying.

Ever wished you could turn your dry pack into a backpack? Well, leave it to Sea to Summit to get the job done. Perfect for snowy, rainy or just plain wet adventures — white water rafting, anyone? — the 35-liter Dry Pack’s top-loading, roll-top main compartment is completely waterproof, to the point it can even be briefly submerged under water while still keeping your PJs and extra socks safe and dry. And don’t worry, the pack’s shoulder straps are ventilated and quick-drying too.

In addition to a padded compartment for a 15-inch laptop, the TRT also offers easy-access storage via two front organizational compartments, one of which is lined with fleece for fragile items like sunglasses. We loved the detachable key clip, which also happens to have a handy bottle opener. Looking for something a bit smaller? Check out the brand’s Nature Pack, which is smaller (24 liters) and cheaper ($99), and packed with organizational details, plus has room for a 15-inch laptop.

This nearly 12-liter backpack from Boarding Pass NYC is great for travelers, whether that means you’re hopping on a plane or on a commuter rail to head to a business meeting. It’s got a ballistic nylon exterior and features cordura nylon on the interior. Each of the straps is adjustable and made from leather with brass hardware finishings. Inside, you’ll find a padded laptop sleep, zippered pocket and key clip, and dedicated spaces for pens and your phone.

Mamas need travel backpacks too! And what we love most about this diaper pack option from Dagne Dover is that it works for parents and nonparents alike. Comprised of the aforementioned super-cozy neoprene material, the Indi has an extra-wide top-panel opening, can be attached to your travel stroller, thanks to handy built-in clips and included straps or slid onto your suitcase, thanks to a handy luggage strap. It also comes with a changing pad, a shoe bag and a matching neoprene zipped pouch. Inside, the 17-liter backpack can hold a 15-inch laptop and includes multiple pockets for corralling everything from a baby’s bottle to your phone and a stash of clean pacifiers.

Let us count the ways we love this lacquered backpack. Enveloped in MZ Wallace’s signature quilted texture, the Metro Backpack Deluxe features a shiny, airport-friendly fabric, and we think it’s one of the sexiest travel backpacks out there. Beyond looks, however, it’s highly functional for travel, with a magnetic luggage sleeve that can be used for storage when not attached to a suitcase, three exterior pockets, six interior pockets and a 15-inch laptop compartment to boot. If the airport security line is your runway, this is the backpack for you.

Leave it to Paravel, one of our favorite luggage makers, to dream up the perfect travel backpack solution — one that folds right up. Made from “negative nylon,” a silky fabric created by upcycling water bottles, the backpack’s biggest selling point is just how diminutive it is. Weighing less than a pound, it folds into itself and can be zippered into a cute little pouch that is easy to tuck into your carry-on tote or luggage.

Once unfolded, however, the backpack is a powerhouse, offering loads of room for a change of clothes, souvenirs, a 15-inch laptop and anything else you might need to carry on your back as you explore a new locale. We love the adjustable straps, the luggage sleeve and the fact that you can add a monogram. The hardest part is choosing from the six cute colorways.

Need proof that travel backpacks can be dainty? Look no further than this sweet and chic leather option from Cuyana that can be carried as a tote or a backpack and can fit a 13-inch laptop. Available in black, caramel, stone or black crocodile (for an extra $50), the Italian-made bag features two roomy front pockets and two interior pockets (one zippered, one not). Our favorite design detail, however, is the uber-feminine adjustable straps.

Part tote, part backpack, the Lo & Sons nylon Rowledge is the perfect option for any woman racing from the office to the airport, as the straps tuck into the back pocket to give you a convertible bag. Available in seven color combinations, the water-resistant backpack comprises an easy-access 13-inch laptop compartment on the back exterior and a collection of cleverly arranged pockets and holders on the interior for everything from pens and snacks to earbuds, phones and more. We love that the bag’s hardware and interior jacquard print lining are customizable. Trust us, this looks like a designer bag on the outside, but it’s a workhorse on the inside.

Have you ever seen a prettier laptop backpack? We think not. Made from faux leather, the Kaya can accommodate a 15-inch laptop in its back compartment, while the front area is ready to host your book, snack or that extra pair of socks. We love the braided border detail, the dainty zipper pulls and the extra-wide luggage sleeve that will keep your bag ultra secure when racing through the airport.

Don’t be fooled by the sleek, chic exterior of Modern Picnic’s backpack — the vegan leather bag has a roomy interior that is perfect for stashing backup shoes and airplane snacks … and keeping them cold, thanks to the insulated lining. (That lining is also super handy for mamas looking to keep baby bottles chilled!) In addition to a padded 13-inch laptop sleeve, the backpack also has pockets for pens and travel necessities (keys, wallet, phone), adjustable straps and a top handle for carrying. Available in cream, black or saddle croc, this is one of the most stylish options on our list.

Mamas gotta travel too — oftentimes with baby in tow — which is why we love this Fawn backpack-style diaper bag so much. Any parent who has traveled with little ones knows that being hands-free throughout the journey is imperative, and Fawn’s multifunctional Original Diaper Bag is just that.

Ultra roomy and made from faux leather, this bag is beloved by mommy influencers far and wide not only for its chic design but also because it’s chock-full of storage (with 12 pockets to be exact) and smart details like a key clip and detachable backpack straps (which can be substituted with a messenger strap or carried via a top handle). Great for corralling bottles, extra clothes, toys and whatever else you’ll need to keep baby busy during that layover, the Fawn bag has more than 300 glowing reviews on its website.

Meet Amazon’s No. 1 bestseller in laptop backpacks. With more than 75,000 reviews, the bag is divided into three compartments, and in addition to being able to accommodate a 15-inch laptop, it’s got loads of key design details you’ll want. Think of a top handle, hanging clasps, a USB port and adjustable straps, not to mention a ton of pockets for storing all your things. Boasting a 4.8-star rating, the backpack’s highlight is a padded mesh backing that will keep you as cool as can be, no matter how many times your flight is delayed. Did we mention it’s just $30 right now? Done and done.

Amazon knows a thing or two about a thing or two, which is why we’re not surprised that the brand features a beloved utilitarian laptop travel backpack under its Amazon Basics umbrella that fits all your needs. Boasting four compartments for storing all your belongings, the bag’s main section can fit up to a 17-inch laptop. With nearly 17,000 reviews, a 4.5-star rating and a $39 price tag, this is a bag worth considering.

Italic is one of the fastest-growing online companies for a reason. The brand offers a vast array of products that have one thing in common: All are produced in the same factories as luxury competitors (Prada, Miu Miu and All Clad, among others), albeit for 50% to 80% less. The producer of the Rafa travel backpack’s past clients include Away, Boss and ISM. Sleek and simple, the nylon-and-leather backpack can accommodate a 15-inch laptop in a separate back compartment and includes a sturdy leather top handle, a luggage sleeve and a few well-placed pockets.

Parisian luggage brand Delsey has multiple laptop backpack options, our favorite of which is the Maubert 2.0. Priced affordably, the 17-liter bag is eco-friendly, with fabric and lining made from recycled water bottles and vegan leather. Beyond that, the top-panel backpack is hyperorganized, with the main compartment divided to hold a 15.6-inch laptop in a padded sleeve, and all your other things (phone, pens, books and snacks) in the adjacent section. And fear not, the bag includes zippered pockets galore as well as two mesh side pockets for bringing a water bottle with you to fill up after security. Want a bigger option? Check out the Chatelet Air Soft Backpack, which is 10 liters larger.

No surprise here: Herschel knows its way around a backpack! For travel, the Tech Backpack is tops, offering three main compartments, each outfitted with a variety of mesh and zippered pockets that will deliver your most organized journey ever. Accommodating a 16-inch laptop in a padded and fleece-lined compartment, the 30-liter backpack has a mesh luggage sleeve and other perks like a key clip and hidden passport pocket.

More than 5,000 Amazon reviewers agree that this rolling backpack is worth the purchase. Featuring a telescoping and fabric handle, two back inline wheels and two zippered front pockets, the backpack’s main selling point is a big clamshell main compartment that you can pack suitcase-style. The bag also features backpack straps and can fit under most airline seats.

A fancy rolling backpack if we’ve ever seen one, this Matein is packed with selling points. In addition to having a fully water-resistant bottom panel, the bag has a two-height telescoping handle and lockable zippers, the top-panel backpack has three compartments, including a clothing section that can open 180 degrees and has an elasticized belt for easy packing. A separate padded pocket can hold a 15.6-inch laptop too.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards.

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January 11, 2023
8 of the best business-class seats you can book nearly for free | CNN Underscored
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CNN Underscored reviews financial products such as credit cards and bank accounts based on their overall value. We may receive a commission through the LendingTree affiliate network if you apply and are approved for a card, but our reporting is always independent and objective. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

There was once a time when flying business class meant sitting in a recliner-style seat that was ever so slightly more spacious than economy. But ever since British Airways launched the first lie-flat business-class seat in 2000, the gap between business class and first class has continuously shrunk. Now lie-flat business-class seats are not only standard on international flights, but they’ve become common offerings on domestic flights as well.

We’re now entering a new era where airlines are introducing even more first-class perks into their business-class cabins in order to lure frequent travelers. And, better yet for travelers who may otherwise be unable to afford the luxuries of business class, there are ways to fly at the front of the plane for a fraction of the price. Thanks to travel rewards, you can redeem your points and miles for nearly free flights — you’ll just be on the hook for paying the taxes and fees on your ticket.

From fully lie-flat beds to fully enclosed suites, here are eight of the best business-class seats you can book with points and miles.

Qatar Airways

Since Qatar Airways introduced its famed Qsuite product in 2017, it’s become the gold standard in business-class seating. With the launch of Qsuite, Qatar Airways became the first airline to launch a fully enclosed business-class seat — and it remains one of the best options out there today.

Between the chic color palette and sleek finishes, the Qsuite is stylish yet functional. But what makes it unique is that the seats are incredibly versatile in the way they can be configured. Couples traveling together can choose to have adjoining seats combined into a single suite with a double bed.

Or families can choose the middle section with seats that can swivel into a “pod” for four people to dine together. It’s a feature unique to Qsuite, making it a worthwhile splurge on a long-haul flight, especially if you’re traveling with a group.

Qatar Airways’ Qsuite seat can be found on various routes operated by the airline’s Airbus A350-1000s as well as some of its Airbus A350-900s, Boeing 777-200LRs and Boeing 777-300ERs. Research your route and aircraft to determine if the flight you’re interested in features a Qsuite cabin. Generally speaking, you can find the Qsuite flying on routes from Doha (DOH) to cities like New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), Seattle (SEA), Los Angeles (LAX) and more.

How to book Qatar Qsuite with travel rewards

Travelers with frequent flyer rewards to spend will be pleased to know that despite offering arguably the best business-class seat, the Qatar Qsuite is still attainable using travel rewards. Both Qatar Qmiles and partner program American AAdvantage require 70,000 miles, plus taxes and fees one way for a flight to the Middle East. (As of 2022, Qatar has replaced its own Qmiles currency with Avios, which is the loyalty currency used by British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling.)

To search, you’ll want to head to American Airlines’ website and search for award tickets. Find a route and a date with availability that works for you. If you’ve got enough American AAdvantage miles in your account, you’ll be able to book the Qsuite and just have to pay the taxes and fees on the ticket.

You can nearly earn enough miles for a one-way flight from the US to the Middle East just from the sign-up bonus offer from either of the following credit cards:
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®: Earn 50,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $5,000 within the first three months of account opening.

AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®: Earn 60,000 AAdvantage® bonus miles after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.
All information about the AAdvantage Aviator Red card has been collected independently by CNN. The AAdvantage Aviator Red card is not currently available through CNN.

ANA

All Nippon Airways (ANA) has a relatively new business-class product called “The Room,” which gives Qatar’s Qsuite a run for its money. The Room lives up to its name with spacious, fully enclosed suites. The suites are nearly 3 feet wide and rival even the most aspirational first-class seats on some of the world’s best airlines. Travelers can relax in the privacy of their sanctuary while enjoying world-class cuisine from either a Western or Japanese menu.

The cabin of the aircraft is arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, and seats alternate throughout the cabin between forward- and rear-facing. If you’re traveling with a companion, you’ll want one of the two middle seats where you can share a space, whereas if you’re traveling alone, you’ll want one of the seats flush against the window so you have more privacy.

ANA’s The Room is available on some of the airline’s Boeing 777 aircraft. Flights between Tokyo-Haneda (HND) and London (LHR), Tokyo-Haneda (HND) and Chicago (ORD) and Tokyo-Haneda (HND) and New York (JFK), among others, tend to operate with The Room.

How to book ANA’s The Room with travel rewards

You can book ANA’s The Room for as few as 75,000 miles, plus taxes and fees round trip for a low-season award from the US to Tokyo directly through ANA’s Mileage Club program. High-season awards increase to as much as 88,000 miles, plus taxes and fees round trip. Especially at the lower end of the spectrum, this is a fantastic deal for a round-trip award ticket, considering programs like United MileagePlus charge at least 70,000 miles, plus taxes and fees one way for a business-class ticket to Japan.

Perhaps the best news of all is that it’s incredibly easy to get miles in your ANA Mileage Club account. That’s because ANA is a 1-to-1 transfer partner of the Amex Membership Rewards program. In other words, you can transfer your Amex points right to ANA for this sweet redemption.

Better yet, it’s easy to rack up American Express Membership Rewards points from welcome bonus offers that come with the issuer’s credit cards. Consider any of the following American Express credit cards:

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines’ Sky Suite has been around for years — it even won an award as the best business-class seat in 2013 — but it continues to get high marks for comfort. That’s because the lie-flat seat offers Airweave mattresses and pillows for passengers to sleep in comfort while they’re cruising through the skies.

Privacy is a key feature of the JAL Sky Suite, as it offers a motorized partition to close off access to your neighbors. With a 1-2-1 cabin configuration, every seat has direct aisle access, offering privacy and ease of mobility throughout the cabin.

The JAL Sky Suite is available on the airline’s Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 787-8 and Boeing 787-9 aircraft. You can find the product on routes between the US and Tokyo from cities like Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK), Dallas (DFW) and more.

How to book JAL’s Sky Suite with travel rewards

A Japan Airlines Sky Suite business-class award between the US and Japan starts at 50,000 miles, plus taxes and fees each way. This rate can increase substantially if you’re booking a PLUS award, which means you’ll be asked to pay more for a ticket that would otherwise be unavailable for redeeming miles.

You can also book Sky Suite using miles in partner airline programs. For example, American Airlines’ AAdvantage program and Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan program are both partners with JAL, and awards with both to Asia start at just 60,000 miles, plus taxes and fees each way. Alaska even allows a free stopover on one-way awards, enabling you to make Tokyo your stopover and then continue to a second destination in Asia.

You can cover a one-way flight with the Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card, which currently offers 50,000 bonus miles plus a companion fare after you spend $2,000 within the first 90 days of account opening. Alternatively, you can pick up two AAdvantage credit cards to cover a round-trip flight at the 50,000-mile each-way mark. Consider one of the following:
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®: Earn 50,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $5,000 within the first three months of account opening.

AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard: Earn 60,000 bonus miles after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, within the first 90 days.
All information about the Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN. The Alaska Airlines Visa Credit Card is not currently available through CNN.

Turkish Airlines

Foodies, take note: One of the most notable features of flying Turkish Airlines business class is access to a “flying chef.” Not only does Turkish Airlines have some of the best catering in the air, but on flights of eight hours or longer, the airline also staffs the flight with a chef who prepares meals onboard.

And not only does Turkish Airlines offer some of the best catering you’ll find at 35,000 feet, but its business-class seat on the Boeing 787 aircraft is also renowned for its luxurious comfort. The cabin offers 30 seats, which are arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration, meaning each passenger has direct access to the aisle. Passengers also have a good amount of privacy along with modern amenities like in-seat power outlets, a lie-flat seat and a large entertainment screen.

If you fly Turkish Airlines business class from Istanbul, you’ll also have the privilege of visiting its lounge at Istanbul Airport. Considered one of the better airport lounges in the world, it offers expansive meal options, a golf simulator, a tea garden, a massive kids play area and much more.

You’ll find the Turkish 787 on several routes between the US and Istanbul (IST), including Atlanta (ATL), Dallas (DFW) and Washington, D.C. (IAD), among others.

How to book Turkish Airlines business class with travel rewards

While it may seem strange, one of the cheapest ways to book a Turkish Airlines business-class award is via the ANA Mileage Club, as they’re both members of the Star Alliance. A round-trip award flight between the US and Europe will set you back just 88,000 miles when booked via ANA Mileage Club.

As mentioned above, ANA miles are relatively easy to come by, thanks to the fact that ANA is a 1-to-1 transfer partner of the Amex Membership Rewards program. The welcome bonus offers from the following credit cards offer enough points for a round-trip transatlantic flight in Turkish business class:

Meanwhile, Turkish Airlines’ Miles&Smiles program requires just 45,000 miles, plus taxes and fees each way for a business-class ticket from the US to Turkey. Miles&Smiles is a 1-to-1 transfer partner of the Citi ThankYou program, meaning the ThankYou points earned from Citi cards can transfer to Turkish to get you a nearly free flight. With the Citi Premier® Card, you can earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of account opening. That’s not quite enough for a round-trip ticket to Turkey, but it is enough to cover a one-way ticket.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines is the world’s most awarded airline and offers some of the best business-class seats in the air. Onboard Singapore’s A380, you’ll find a podlike business-class product with hand-stitched leather seats.

If you’re traveling with a companion, you can turn any two middle seats into a double bed. Meanwhile, if you’re traveling solo, you’ll get a great amount of privacy, thanks to the sculpted wings around the top of the seat.

Until May 2023, Singapore Airlines is flying this double-decker A380 to New York (JFK). The plane flies nonstop from NYC to Frankfurt (FRA) before continuing on to Singapore (SIN), its final destination. New York is your only option for finding this A380 business-class seat from the US, but you can also find it on several routes from Singapore (SIN) to Asian cities such as Shanghai (PVG) and Beijing (PEK), among others.

How to book Singapore Airlines business class with travel rewards

Singapore Airlines awards are some of the most accessible for travelers looking to redeem rewards, and that’s because the Singapore KrisFlyer program is a transfer partner of all of the major transferable currencies: Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, Capital One miles and Citi ThankYou Rewards.

One of the best ways to experience Singapore Airlines’ A380 business class is from New York (JFK) to Frankfurt (FRA). This route operates a terrific value at just 72,000 miles, plus taxes and fees each way if you can find availability directly through Singapore Airlines.

As mentioned, Singapore KrisFlyer miles are easy to earn, thanks to Singapore KrisFlyer’s 1-to-1 transfer partnership. You can transfer points earned from the following cards — along with others — right to Singapore.

American Airlines

American’s Flagship First and Business offer an elevated flying experience. In fact, the Flagship business product provides more privacy than the first-class cabin on the same Boeing 777-300ER aircraft — in fact, many flyers agree that business class on that aircraft is better than first class. Business-class passengers can enjoy a lie-flat seat with a Casper sleep set and a three-course meal.

Flagship business-class travelers also get access to American’s famed Flagship Lounges, which offer premium amenities like shower suites, chef-curated meals and expansive wine and cocktail menus.

American Airlines Flagship business class is available on various domestic routes, including Los Angeles (LAX) to New York (JFK) on the A321T, though those seats are configured differently than the internationally equipped aircraft. Internationally, you can try this fantastic product on routes to Europe (New York to London), South America (Miami to Buenos Aires) and Asia (Los Angeles to Hong Kong), for example.

How to book American Flagship business with travel rewards

Domestically, you can fly Flagship business class for just 25,000 AAdvantage miles each way. You can earn enough miles for a round-trip ticket — for example, between New York and Los Angeles — after just one welcome bonus. The Citi AAdvantage Executive World Elite Card currently offers 50,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 within the first three months of account opening.

If you’re looking for more time in the air, you can book a one-way award ticket in Flagship business class for just 57,500 miles each way, plus taxes and fees from the US to Europe and parts of South America. With the welcome bonus from two AAdvantage credit cards, you’ll have nearly enough to cover a round-trip itinerary.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®: Earn 50,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after spending $5,000 within the first three months of account opening.

AAdvantage Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard: Earn 60,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after making your first purchase and paying the $99 annual fee in full, both within the first 90 days.
JetBlue

For a few years, JetBlue Mint has arguably been the best domestic business-class seat on the market, yet the airline outdid itself with the introduction of its new JetBlue Mint Studio on its newer, longer-range aircraft. There are just two Mint Studio seats on the longer-range A321LRs, and they feature stylish lie-flat seats in the first row, while the other seats in the cabin are called Mint Suites.

The Mint Studio is currently available on both domestic and international routes, including Los Angeles (LAX) to New York (JFK), and New York (JFK) to London (LHR).

The spacious seat converts into the largest bed on a US airline and comes with Tuft & Needle bedding, plenty of storage, wireless charging and more.

How to book JetBlue Mint Studio with travel rewards

JetBlue TrueBlue points can be redeemed in line with the price of a cash ticket. If you’re redeeming TrueBlue points toward a Mint seat, they’re worth about 1.01 cents each, so a $2,505 flight would cost 247,500 TrueBlue points, plus taxes and fees.

JetBlue has two credit cards you can earn these points with: The JetBlue Card and the JetBlue Plus Card. The JetBlue Plus Card offers a welcome bonus of 40,000 TrueBlue points after spending $1,000 and paying the annual fee within the first 90 days.

While the JetBlue Plus offers a solid bonus, it won’t be enough to get you into the Mint Studio cabin. That’s where transferable rewards come in. You can transfer points from the Citi ThankYou and Chase Ultimate Rewards programs, both at a 1-to-1 ratio. Several credit cards affiliated with these programs offer higher welcome bonuses than the JetBlue Plus card. For example, consider any of the following:
Chase Ink Business Preferred: Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $15,000 within the first three months after account opening.

Chase Sapphire Preferred: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 within the first three months from account opening.

Citi Premier: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of account opening.
All information about the JetBlue Card and the JetBlue Plus Card has been collected independently by CNN. The etBlue Card and the JetBlue Plus Card are not currently available through CNN.

Delta Air Lines

There was a time when fully lie-flat business class seats were revolutionary. Delta turned that notion on its head in 2016 with the announcement of Delta One suites, offering fully enclosed “suites” with direct aisle access. Until that point, fully enclosed suites were featured only in the world’s best first-class cabins, making Delta One an anomaly. (Qatar Airways later beat Delta to become the first to implement and offer the first fully enclosed business-class suite by the way of its Qsuite product.)

Today, Delta is one of only a handful of airlines offering seats with doors that close and provide the utmost privacy. If you want to give the Delta One suite a spin, it’s available on the airline’s Airbus A350-900 and Airbus A330-900neo fleet of aircraft.

How to book Delta One suite with travel rewards

If you want to book a Delta One suite with travel rewards, the logical first choice is to use Delta SkyMiles. However, Delta uses dynamic award pricing, meaning the exact miles required for a Delta One suite depends on demand. Delta charges pretty astronomical rates for premium cabin awards regardless of how tickets are priced.

A better option is to use Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club, which requires fewer than 100,000 Virgin Points round trip, plus taxes and fees for a Delta One business-class award between the US and UK. Since Virgin Atlantic partners with Amex Membership Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, Citi ThankYou points and Capital One miles, earning enough miles is fairly easy.

The following cards offer enough points via the welcome bonus offers to help you cover one round-trip Delta One award ticket to Europe when booking via Virgin Atlantic:

Ultimately, if you’re looking to fly business class, travel rewards are your best option for affording a seat for a fraction of the price. While there are some other great business-class seats out there — British Airways Club Suite, Etihad Studio, United Polaris and others — these are some of our favorites. Many of these business-class products cost thousands of dollars to fly, but by using your rewards points and miles, you can fly at the front of the plane almost for free.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.
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January 10, 2023

The complete guide to the American Express Membership Rewards program | CNN Underscored

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CNN Underscored reviews financial products such as credit cards and bank accounts based on their overall value. We may receive a commission through the LendingTree affiliate network if you apply and are approved for a card, but our reporting is always independent and objective. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

American Express Membership Rewards are among the most valuable rewards points out there. That’s primarily because they fall into the category of “transferable rewards,” meaning you’re not tied down to a single airline or hotel program with which you can redeem them. In other words, you’re not just earning points that can transfer to Delta SkyMiles, but they can also transfer to any of the other 16 airlines in the Membership Rewards portfolio.

Having Membership Rewards points gives you options, and that’s always a good thing. If you’re ready to give your rewards portfolio a boost, here’s everything you need to know about earning and redeeming Amex Membership Rewards.

You can earn Membership Rewards points in various ways. Some require little effort, while others involve a heavier lift. It’s a good idea to take advantage of all the options out there in order to maximize your earnings. Here’s a look at how to earn Membership Rewards most efficiently.

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The primary way to earn Amex points is through credit cards that earn Membership Rewards. Amex has an extensive lineup of personal and business cards offering generous welcome bonuses and recurring benefits to help you earn maximum points.

These include well-known cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express and the American Express® Gold Card. With a single welcome bonus offer, you can give a pretty substantial boost to your Membership Rewards points balance. Here’s a look at the current welcome bonus offers on personal credit cards that earn Membership Rewards.

				Amex Everyday® Preferred Credit Card	Amex Everyday® Credit Card
Welcome bonus offer	Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 within the first six months of card membership.	Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 within the first six months of card membership.	Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $2,000 within the first six months of card membership.	Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $2,000 within the first six months of card membership.	Earn 10,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $2,000 within the first six months of card membership.
Category bonus earning	5x Membership Rewards points for flights booked directly with airlines or American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year); 5x points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel; 1x points on all other eligible purchases.	4x points at US supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year); 4x points at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the US; 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel; 1x points on all other eligible purchases.	3x points at restaurants including takeout and delivery in the US, transit and travel; 1x points spent on all other purchases.	3x points at US supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year); 2x points at US gas stations; 1x points spent on all other purchases. Earn a 50% bonus if you use the card 30 or more times a month.	2X points at US supermarkets (up to $6,000 per year); 1x points on all other purchases. Earn a 20% bonus if you use the card 20 or more times per month.

All information about the Amex EveryDay® Credit Card, American Express® Green Card and the Amex EveryDay® Preferred Credit Card has been collected independently by CNN. The Amex EveryDay® Credit Card, the American Express® Green Card and the Amex EveryDay® Preferred Credit Card are not currently available through CNN.

Keep in mind, too, that many of these cards carry an annual fee:

Similarly, American Express offers a suite of business credit cards.

			Business Green Rewards Card from American Express
Welcome bonus offer	Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $15,000 within the first three months of card membership.	Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $10,000 within the first three months of card membership.	Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $3,000 within the first three months of card membership.	Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $3,000 within the first three months of card membership.
Category bonus earning	5x points on flights and prepaid hotels through American Express Travel; 1.5x points on purchases of $5,000 or more and on eligible US purchases at construction material and hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software and cloud system providers and shipping providers (on up to $2 million per calendar year); 1x points on all other eligible purchases.	4x points on the two categories where a business spends the most each month (on up to $150,000 total spent); 1x points on all other purchases.	2x points on flights and hotels booked with American Express Travel; 1x points on all other eligible purchases.	2x points on all purchases up to $50,000 each year; 1x points on all other purchases after.

All information about the Business Green Rewards Card from American Express has been collected independently by CNN. The Business Green Rewards Card from American Express is not currently available through CNN.

Keep in mind that several of these cards also carry an annual fee:

Beyond the welcome bonus offers available, American Express makes it easy to earn Membership Rewards through category bonuses. If you spend a lot on groceries, it may be worth considering the Amex Gold card to earn 4x points per dollar spent at US supermarkets (on up to $25,000 in purchases per year). Or, if you travel often, the Amex Platinum card is a great option for earning 5x points per dollar spent on eligible travel bookings directly through the airline or with Amex Travel. With the right combination of Amex cards, you can continue earning Membership Rewards points well after you earn the welcome bonus.

When applying for American Express cards, be sure to take note of the application rules. For example, you can’t earn an Amex welcome bonus more than once (with a few exceptions), and you generally won’t be approved for more than two cards every 90 days. Before applying for a credit card, it’s important to do your research.

As mentioned before, American Express makes it manageable to earn bonus points long after the welcome bonus offer. One of those ways is by adding an authorized user to your Amex card, which will occasionally earn you bonus points. Aside from the special promotions where Amex will offer you bonus points for adding an authorized user, doing so can also help you double up your point earnings. That’s because you’ll not only earn points per dollar spent on your purchases, but you’ll also earn rewards on the authorized user’s purchases.

Of course, you’ll only want to consider adding a member of your household or someone you trust to pay you back as an authorized user on your account. Authorized users can make charges on the credit card they’ve been added to but have no liability when it comes to paying the bill — that onus falls on you, the primary card holder. Choose carefully who you add to your account, and you can earn extra Amex points without lifting a finger.

If you’ve picked up an American Express credit card, earned the welcome bonus offer and think others would enjoy doing the same, you can get rewarded for spreading the word to family and friends. American Express offers bonuses to current card holders when you refer someone and they are approved for an eligible card. You can earn up to 20,000 points per successful approval, though the exact bonus varies by card.

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To find out your card’s current referral bonus, head over to the Amex referral site. You’ll see referral bonuses based on your card. Simply enter your friend’s name and email address for each card you want to refer and they’ll get an email, inviting them to apply for the card. You can also copy the referral link on the page and share that with your friends and family directly.

Referrals are a lucrative way to earn Amex Membership Rewards points for recommending credit cards to your friends and family. Keep in mind there is a limit to how many friends you can refer in a year.

Booking travel with American Express is rewarding, too — you can earn bonus points on your credit card, plus you can often get additional perks and rewards. For example, with the Amex Platinum, you’ll get 5x points per dollar spent on hotels booked through Amex Travel. As an added incentive, you’ll receive perks like free breakfast for two, room upgrades when available and hotel credits to use at the spa or onsite restaurant just by booking with Fine Hotels & Resorts or the Hotel Collection. In general, booking travel through American Express pays off in more ways than one.

Card holders can also utilize one of the most underrated benefits of having an Amex card: Amex Offers. With Amex Offers, card holders can earn statement credits or bonus points at select retailers. In other words, it’s the perfect opportunity to save some cash or earn bonus points for purchases you were already planning on making.

In the past, Amex has offered cash back and bonus points on cell phone bills, utilities and insurance payments. I saved more than $2,000 on five of my Amex cards in 2021.

To find and take advantage of Amex Offers, you’ll need to log in to your account. From there, scroll to the bottom of the page to the Amex Offers & Benefits section of the page. Be sure to click “View All” to load all of your eligible offers, and also be sure to select “Add to Card” in order to activate your Amex Offer. From there, you’ll be eligible to earn the bonus points or cash savings that come as part of each Amex Offer — so long as you use the registered card to make your purchase. Amex Offers are a massive perk of Amex cards that can save you money or earn you bonus points on purchases you were already planning to make.

A slew of Amex Offers are typically available for card holders.

Thanks to a partnership with American Express, you can turn your Rakuten cash back rewards into Membership Rewards. It’s a great way to earn Membership Rewards points on regular purchases, without much added effort.

If you already have a Rakuten account, you can easily switch your earning preference to Membership Rewards. Simply log into your account and follow these steps:

At the top right side of the page, look for your name and select “Account Settings.”
Scroll down to “How would you like to get paid?”
Select “Switch to Membership Rewards points” and link your account.

After this, rewards get transferred to your Membership Rewards account quarterly.

Now, for the fun part! Once you’ve earned Membership Rewards points, it’s time to put them to good use. Amex gives you several options to redeem points, but the best option is travel. You can choose between statement credits for travel bookings or transferring them to airline or hotel partners.

Here’s a closer look at your options and how they work.

American Express has 20 airline and hotel transfer partners — in other words, the Amex points you’ve earned can be transferred to any of the 20 hotel and airline partners. The best way to redeem Membership Rewards for maximum value is through airline transfers. But keep in mind that not all airline loyalty programs are equal.

Ultimately, you’ll want to research which program will offer you the most in return, depending on what your travel plans are. With each of the partners, you’ll need to link your accounts, and you’ll also need to search for award availability with the airline of your choice before transferring any points.

If you’re looking to transfer your Amex Membership Rewards points, these are the 20 airline and hotel partner options, as well as the transfer rate.

It’s worth noting that Amex occasionally runs transfer promotions for certain airlines or hotels. So, at times, you can get more points in return than the standard transfer rate listed above. Bonuses like these can increase the value of your points by enabling you to book sought-after award tickets for substantially less.

By transferring Amex Membership Rewards points to partner airlines, you unlock the ability to travel for next to nothing — in most cases when redeeming points and miles, you’ll just have to pay the taxes and fees on a ticket. As a result, points and miles open up the door for flying experiences that would otherwise be out of reach.

Keep in mind that the most obvious airline choice may not always be your best option. Airlines typically have extensive alliance networks, allowing you to redeem points for partner airlines through their respective programs. For example, British Airways and American Airlines are both members of the Oneworld alliance, meaning you can transfer your Amex Membership Rewards points to British Airways Executive Club and redeem for flights operated by American Airlines.

Because of the vast number of airline transfer partners, your options are virtually endless for where your Membership Rewards points can take you. But, some redemptions are better than others — particularly when it comes to award sweet spots. Some examples of these sweet spot awards using your Amex Membership Rewards points include the following:

ANA Mileage Club: 88,000 miles plus taxes and fees round trip for a business class ticket from the US to Europe.
British Airways: 13,000 miles plus taxes and fees one way for an economy class ticket from the West Coast to Hawaii.
Etihad Guest: 44,000 miles plus taxes and fees one way for a business class ticket from the US to Morocco.
Virgin Atlantic: 10,000 miles plus taxes and fees one way for an economy class ticket from the East Coast to London.

Fly with Virgin Atlantic using your American Express Membership Rewards points.

Generally speaking, you’ll get the most value out of your Amex Membership Rewards points by transferring them to airline partners. But that may not always make sense for all card holders — and it’s not your only option.

If figuring out transfer partner options and award charts sounds daunting, you can also use your Membership Rewards for fixed redemptions. This includes using points for statement credits, travel bookings via Amex Travel, charitable donations, online shopping and gift cards.

Using points for statement credits toward qualifying purchases isn’t a great use of your points because you’ll only get 0.6 cents per point in value. If you’re looking to maximize the value of your Amex points, this isn’t the best route to take.

You’ll get slightly more value by redeeming your Membership Rewards for travel bookings. By doing so, you’ll get 1 cent per point toward airfare and 0.7 cents per point toward car rentals, hotels, cruises and vacation bookings. Business Platinum card holders also get a 35% rebate when redeeming points for flight bookings through Amex Travel.

If you choose to redeem your points for gift cards, you’ll get 1 cent per point in value. However, if you use Pay With Points (valid with Amazon, Best Buy, Boxed, Dell and GrubHub, among others), you’ll get a value of just 0.5 cents each — one of the lowest-value options out there.

Generally speaking, you should try to extract as much value as possible out of your Amex Membership Rewards points. However, that’s not always the case for everyone. You may want to save a few dollars here or there on a purchase you’re making online. Ultimately, we love Membership Rewards points so much because you have the option to use them however you like — whether for travel, Amazon purchases, gift cards and more.

Use your Amex Membership Rewards points to fly in Air France's business class.

When it comes to the worth of your Membership Rewards points, it ultimately comes down to how you use them. The value you can get ranges from about 0.6 cents each to about 2 cents each. Frequent flyer website The Points Guy values Amex Membership Rewards points at 2 cents apiece.

Amex offers 0.6 cents per point in value when you use points for statement credits. Meanwhile, travel bookings will get you a somewhat higher 1 cent per point. The highest value comes from transferring points to airline and hotel partners, as detailed above. Convert your points to airline miles and you can get 2 cents or more in value on premium award redemptions.

American Express Membership Rewards points are some of the most versatile and valuable out there. By earning them, you give yourself the option to save money on travel, buying gift cards, Amazon purchases and so much more. Ultimately, it’s the flexibility that makes having an Amex credit card so rewarding.

Click here for rates and fees of the Amex Platinum card.
Click here for rates and fees of the Amex Gold card.
Click here for rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum card.
Click here for rates and fees of the Amex Business Gold card.
Click here for rates and fees of the Amex Blue Business Plus card.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

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January 9, 2023

The best credit cards for adding authorized users | CNN Underscored
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CNN Underscored reviews financial products such as credit cards and bank accounts based on their overall value. We may receive a commission through the LendingTree affiliate network if you apply and are approved for a card, but our reporting is always independent and objective. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Sharing your credit is a sure sign of your commitment to someone. And, for couples, it can be a great opportunity to double down on your travel rewards strategy for free travel.

Adding your significant other, parent, child or any other important person in your life as an authorized user on your credit card could mean additional perks for you — and for them. But keep in mind that some cards are better than others.

Here are some of the best credit cards for adding authorized users. If you’re not sure whether an authorized user card is right for you, check out our most frequently asked questions about authorized users.

The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best premium credit card for authorized user benefits
Capital One Venture X: Best credit card with no fee for authorized users
Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best credit card with travel protection for authorized users
Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express: Best cash back credit card for authorized users

Why did we choose these as our best credit cards for authorized users? Let’s dive into the details of each card and see what makes each one of them worth considering for an authorized user.

Best premium credit card for authorized user benefits

Why it’s great for authorized users in one sentence: Authorized users, similar to primary card holders, receive their own hotel and car rental elite status with the Amex Platinum, have access to airport lounges and get a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee statement credit.

Highlights for both primary card holders and authorized users:
Earn 5 points for every dollar you spend on airfare booked with Amex Travel or directly through the airline.

Earn 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked via Amex Travel.

Access to the Global Lounge Collection, including Amex Centurion Lounges, a Priority Pass membership (enrollment required) and Delta Sky Clubs when flying with Delta.

Additional benefits on hotels bookings with Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection when booked via American Express Travel.

Up to $100 in credit for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership once every four and a half years.

No foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees).

Hotel elite status — Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold (enrollment required).

Car rental elite status — Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, Avis Preferred and National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive.

Terms apply.
What we like about the Amex Platinum: Authorized users receive a wide variety of benefits with the Amex Platinum card, perhaps more than any other credit card. Just as primary card holders do, they’ll get hotel Gold elite status with both Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy as well as car rental elite status with Hertz, Avis and National.

Authorized users also receive a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit every four and a half years, and they can also enter airport lounges even when traveling without the primary card holder. (Be sure to read the fine print on how many guests you can bring into different lounges, as it varies by lounge program.)

Also, when authorized users book a property that’s part of Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts and the Hotel Collection through Amex Travel, they’ll get additional benefits. It can also give primary card holders peace of mind to know authorized users get fraud and purchase protection too.

Additional key perks for primary card holders: Amex Platinum primary card holders get a myriad of other benefits that aren’t applicable to authorized users, such as up to $200 in Uber Cash each year, up to a $100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit annually (enrollment required), up to $240 in annual digital subscription credits (enrollment required), a CLEAR statement credit of up to $189 per year, up to $200 in statement credits on select prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel, up to a $200 airline fee credit, up to a $300 Equinox statement credit (enrollment required) and more.

Do note that all of these additional primary card perks, such as the up to $200 in annual airline fee credits and the CLEAR membership credit, will show up as a statement credit when charged to the authorized user’s card, but authorized users don’t get their own fee credit — it’s only one credit per card account.

Welcome bonus offer: Earn 80,000 bonus points when you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees)

Fee for authorized users: $175 total for up to three authorized users, then $175 per user for each additional card after the first three. Note that you can get free Gold Cards for authorized users, but they won’t receive many of the aforementioned authorized user perks if you don’t splurge for the cost of the Platinum authorized user card.

Learn more about The Platinum Card from American Express.

Best credit card with no fee for authorized users

Why it’s great for authorized users in one sentence: This card doesn’t charge a fee to add authorized users — you can add up to four — and offers them benefits such as a Priority Pass membership and Capital One Lounge access.

Highlights for both primary card holders and authorized users:
Priority Pass membership, including access for two guests.

Capital One Lounge access, including access for two guests.

Hertz President’s Circle elite status.

No foreign transaction fees.

Earn 10 Venture miles per dollar on hotels and cars, and 5 miles per dollar on flights when booked through Capital One Travel.

Earn 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases.

Access to purchase protection, trip delay insurance, trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption insurance and cell phone protection.
What we like: The Capital One Venture X gives both primary card holders and authorized users lounge access — at Priority Pass and Capital One Lounges — and the ability to take two guests in with them at no cost. Authorized users also get Hertz elite status and the ability to earn bonus points in select categories as well as being eligible for travel insurance and purchase protection.

Additional key perks for primary card holders: The Venture X offers additional benefits to primary card holders, including $300 in statement credits for travel purchases booked through Capital One Travel, plus 10,000 bonus miles on every account anniversary. Primary card holders also get up to a $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit once every four years.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months after opening the account.

Annual fee: $395

Fee for authorized users: $0 for up to four additional card holders

Best travel protection for authorized users

Why it’s great for authorized users in one sentence: Chase Sapphire Reserve authorized users get a Priority Pass membership — including access for two free guests — as well as the same travel protection coverage as primary card holders.

Highlights for both primary card holders and authorized users:
Earn 3 points per dollar on travel and dining purchases.

Earn 5 total points per dollar on flights purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Earn 10 total points per dollar on hotels and car rentals purchased through Chase.

Earn 10 total points per dollar on Chase Dining purchases.

Priority Pass membership, including access for two guests.

No foreign transaction fees.

Trip delay and cancellation/interruption insurance coverage.
What we like about the Chase Sapphire Reserve: Authorized users with the Chase Sapphire Reserve have the ability to enter Priority Pass lounges and bring two guests with them. They’re also eligible for all the card’s travel protections, though it’s worth noting that these protections are already extended to the immediate family of the primary card holder. But if the authorized user isn’t immediate family, this perk can be very beneficial.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card’s trip cancellation/interruption insurance offers protection for up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip for prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses, including passenger fares, tours and hotels. For trips that are delayed more than six hours or require an overnight stay, you’re covered for expenses like meals and accommodation up to $500 per ticket.

Additional key perks for primary card holders: Primary card holders also receive additional perks like a $300 travel credit each year and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck statement credit every four years.

Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months after opening the account.

Annual fee: $550

Fee for authorized users: $75 per year

Learn more about the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Best cash back credit card for authorized users

American Express

Why it’s great for authorized users in one sentence: Purchases made by Blue Cash Preferred authorized users are eligible for cash back on the card member’s statement.

Highlights for both card holders and authorized users:
Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).

Earn 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.

Earn 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit (including taxis/ride-share, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).

Earn 1% cash back on everything else.

All cash back is earned as a statement credit.

Terms apply.
What we like about the Blue Cash Preferred: For authorized users who want to build credit and help the primary card member get cash back, the Blue Cash Preferred from Amex is a great card to help them achieve their goals.

Additional key perks for primary card holders: This card is pretty basic, so don’t expect to get a lot of extras here. But for primary card members who simply want cash back, this is the way to go. Make sure to take advantage of the 6% cash back bonus categories for premium cash back earning.

Welcome bonus offer: Earn $250 in statement credits after you spend $3,000 in the first six months after opening the account.

Annual fee: $0 for the first year, then $95 (see rates and fees)

Fee for authorized users: None

Learn more about the Blue Cash Everyday card from American Express.

When considering adding an authorized user to your account, there are several things you’ll want to keep in mind. Here are some commonly asked questions about credit card authorized users.

When a person applies for and is approved to open a credit card, they become the primary card holder. Any additional users added to the card are deemed authorized users — sometimes referred to as secondary account holders or additional card holders. Authorized users get a credit card in their name, but the card is connected to the primary card holder’s account.

Authorized users can make charges on the credit card they’ve been added to but have no liability when it comes to paying the bill. This is exactly why primary card holders should be very cautious about adding authorized users to their account. At the end of the day, the primary card holder is responsible for paying off any charges made with the authorized user’s card.

What’s the difference between a joint account and an authorized user?

A joint credit card account is an account opened between two people. This means that both parties have separate cards, can make charges and are both responsible for payments. Both parties will see the effects of the card on their credit score too.

Consider a joint credit card as a partnership where both parties are responsible for the charges, whereas with an authorized user credit card, only the primary card holder is responsible for the charges even though both people can spend on the account.

In most cases, adding an authorized user to your credit card won’t negatively affect your credit score. However, if the authorized user is irresponsible or excessively charging purchases that you, as the primary card holder, can’t afford to pay off, your credit will be negatively affected.

It’s worth noting that being an authorized user can positively affect your credit score over time. This is especially beneficial for authorized users looking to build credit, such as teens or college students, or even adults who could use a credit boost. Keep in mind that you, as the primary card holder, could also hurt their credit score if you don’t pay your bills in full and on time.

Getty Images/iStockphoto

Pros and cons of adding an authorized user

While it may seem like there aren’t many pros to adding authorized users to your credit card, there are — especially on the right credit cards.

The biggest perk for adding an authorized user is that with some cards, authorized users can utilize the benefits that come as perks of the cards. For example, consider lounge access at airports. If you have a large family, it may be worth adding your partner as an authorized user on your card so they can also obtain their own lounge access. Plus, in many cases, you both get guest entry, so your entire family can enter the lounge.

And remember, many cards allow authorized users to earn bonus points on purchases, meaning the authorized user’s purchases can help you grow your stash of earned rewards, whether that be points, miles or even cash back on your statement.

You are responsible for paying off any charges the authorized user makes. This is why it’s important to be cautious about who you add to your card. If you can’t pay off the charges your authorized user makes, it will negatively affect your credit score or cost you more in additional fees or interest. Also, while every card is different, you may have to pay a fee for adding an authorized user.

Being added as an authorized user on a credit card can help build credit. While there are credit cards for people with bad credit, it may be worth exploring the option of becoming an authorized user first.

Authorized users can also piggyback off of some of the benefits the primary card holder gets, such as statement credits on purchases, elite status, bonus points, lounge access and other perks. And authorized users aren’t held liable for payment on any of the charges they make on the card either — that’s the responsibility of the primary card holder.

If the primary card holder mismanages the account, this can negatively affect the authorized user’s credit score.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.
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January 6, 2023

Last chance to earn 80,000 bonus points for travel with the Citi Premier credit card | CNN Underscored

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CNN Underscored reviews financial products such as credit cards and bank accounts based on their overall value. We may receive a commission through the LendingTree affiliate network if you apply and are approved for a card, but our reporting is always independent and objective.

Our quick take: The Citi Premier® Card is a top mid-tier credit card that earns Citi ThankYou Rewards points, which can be redeemed for cash back or travel or transferred to the program’s airline and hotel partners at a 1-to-1 ratio. But the card’s current 80,000-point sign-up bonus is going away soon, so it’s important to grab the card now if you can.

Pros:

Earn 3 points for every dollar you spend on air travel, hotels, gas stations, supermarkets and restaurants (including takeout).
Points can be redeemed for travel through the Citi ThankYou Rewards travel portal at a rate of 1 cent per point with no blackout dates or restrictions on award availability.
Points can also be transferred to any of Citi’s 14 airline partners and 2 hotel partners at a 1-to-1 ratio.
Access to World Elite Mastercard benefits.

Cons:

Other credit cards may earn more rewards on everyday purchases.
Limited travel insurance and shopping protections.
New card holders can’t earn the sign-up bonus if you’ve opened or closed other select Citi credit cards within the past 24 months.
$95 annual fee.

Current sign-up bonus: For a limited time, earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months after opening the account.

Best for: People looking for a credit card that earns flexible travel rewards, and those who are knowledgeable about the process of booking award travel using the loyalty programs of international airlines.

Click here for the 80,000-point bonus offer on the Citi Premier card.

The Citi Premier credit card comes with all of the perks of Citi’s ThankYou Rewards program, but doesn’t cost a fortune from year to year. While you won’t get all the travel benefits of a high-end ultra-premium travel credit card, you’ll earn bonus points in many popular categories, and can redeem them for cash or a number of useful travel options.

One of the best aspects of the Citi Premier is its many different international loyalty program partnerships. Those who are well versed in redeeming points and miles will enjoy the plethora of options, although beginners who are just starting out with travel rewards might find the choices overwhelming. Fortunately, you can always redeem your ThankYou points using the Citi travel portal at a rate of 1 cent apiece and not have to worry about the complexities of partner programs.

This is also an excellent credit card to pair with the Citi® Double Cash Card. When you have both the Citi Premier and the Citi Double Cash cards, you can convert the cash back earned on your Citi Double Cash into points that can be utilized by the Citi Premier card. Since the Citi Double Cash card earns 2% cash back on every purchase you make — 1% when you buy, and 1% when you pay it off — you can strategically use the Citi Premier card when you make purchases in its bonus categories, and then use the Citi Double Cash card on everything else.

And there’s never been a better time to get the Citi Premier. That’s because right now, new card holders can earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months after opening the account. You can easily get $800 in travel value with that bonus — and potentially even more. But this 80,000-point bonus is going away shortly, so if you want to get the card with as many points as possible, now’s the time to apply.

Get the Citi Premier credit card and earn 80,000 bonus points.

For a card with a low annual fee, the Citi Premier has some great bonus categories. You’ll earn 3 points for every dollar you spend on air travel, hotels, gas stations, supermarkets and restaurants (including takeout), and then 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. The points don’t expire as long as you keep the card open and there’s no limit to the number of points you can earn.

Unfortunately, you won’t earn bonus points on all travel-related spending — just air travel and hotels. But, the list of bonus categories includes so many everyday staples that it should be easy to quickly start racking up points, making this card a top earning contender.

When it comes to redeeming your rewards, one of the easiest methods is to “cash in” your ThankYou points for cash back or a statement credit. However, you’ll only get 0.5 cent per point when you redeem this way, which isn’t a good value. Another option is to redeem your points for gift cards — when you go this route, your points are worth a much better 1 cent apiece.

But if you’re planning to hit the road, you can also redeem your Citi Premier points for travel in two ways. The first is by using the Citi ThankYou travel portal, which is identical to booking through an online travel agency like Expedia or Orbitz, except that you can pay for your flight or hotel using points instead of cash. You’ll get the same 1 cent per point when you redeem this way, and you can even mix cash and points together if you don’t want to pay entirely with one or the other.

And if you’re an expert when it comes to travel rewards, transferring your points to one of Citi’s 16 different airline and hotel partners will most likely bring the best value, especially if you’re looking to travel internationally in first or business class. It takes some time and effort to learn how these partner loyalty programs work, but it’s the best way to get maximum value for your points, as well as fly in style.

While most of Citi’s partners are international airlines, JetBlue’s TrueBlue loyalty program is one domestic transfer option, which means Citi Premier card holders have at least one great straightforward choice when it comes to transferring ThankYou points to book flights on US carriers.

Other benefits of the Citi Premier include an annual $100 hotel credit on reservations of $500 or more when you book through ThankYou.com, extended warranty protection, damage and theft protection and no foreign transaction fees.

Additionally, since the Citi Premier is a World Elite Mastercard, you’ll be entitled to World Elite benefits as well, which include a $5 discount on three Lyft rides taken in a month, three free months of DoorDash’s DashPass food delivery membership and access to Mastercard Luxury Hotels and Resorts.

Apply now for the Citi Premier credit card with an 80,000-point bonus.

While the Citi Premier card is a solid performer on the travel rewards side, it lacks in the travel and purchase protections departments. In the last two years, Citi has dropped most of the protection benefits you’d expect to see on a travel rewards credit card, especially on one that carries an annual fee.

In fact, there’s no travel insurance coverage of any kind offered on the Citi Premier. This means you won’t have access to car rental insurance, trip cancellation and interruption protection, trip delay protection, baggage delay protection and more. Many comparable cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, offer all of these coverages, making the Citi Premier — and many other Citi cards — undesirable when it comes to booking vacations with them.

On the shopping side, you’ll also no longer have access to Citi’s Price Rewind feature or return protection with the Citi Premier. To be fair, these once-common perks have been wiped away from many credit cards in recent years — not just Citi’s — but it’s still an unfortunate loss. There are also no luxury travel benefits on the Citi Premier, such as lounge access or travel statement credits, but that isn’t something we’d expect to see on a mid-tier card that only costs $95 per year.

Lastly, Citi has some interesting terms when it comes to the sign-up bonus on the Citi Premier. The issuer determines your eligibility for the bonus based on whether or not you’ve opened or closed certain Citi cards in the past. Specifically, in the past 24 months, if you’ve received a bonus for the Citi Rewards+®, Citi ThankYou® Preferred, Citi ThankYou® Premier/Citi Premier® or Citi Prestige®, or if you have closed any of these accounts in the past 24 months, you won’t be eligible for the 80,000-point bonus.

See if you qualify for the bonus on the Citi Premier credit card.

CNN Underscored has chosen the Citi Double Cash Card as our “benchmark” credit card. That doesn’t mean it’s the best credit card on the market — rather, it means we use it as a basic standard to compare other credit cards and see where they score better, and where they’re worse.

Here’s how the Citi Premier scores against our benchmark. The features of each card in the below chart are colored in green, red or white. Green indicates a card feature that is better than our benchmark. Red indicates the feature is worse than our benchmark, and white indicates the feature is either equivalent or cannot be directly compared to our benchmark.

KEY DETAILS
	Citi Double Cash Card	Citi Premier Card
Card type	Mastercard	Mastercard
Sign-up bonus	None	80,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months after opening the account
REWARDS
Earning rate	2% on all purchases (1% when you buy, 1% when you pay it off)	3 points per dollar at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, air travel and hotels, and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases
Redemption value	1 cent (cash back)	1 cent when booking travel through the Citi travel portal, 1.7 cents per point for transfers*
Ease of basic redemptions	Easy	Easy
Advanced redemption options	Can transfer ThankYou points to 16 airline and hotel partners if you also have the Citi Premier or Citi Prestige	Yes, can transfer points to 16 airline and hotel partners without needing another credit card
Quality of advanced redemptions	Good	Great
FEES
Annual fee	$0	$95
Foreign transaction fee	3%	None
BENEFITS AND PROTECTIONS
Travel perks	None	$5 discount on every three Lyft rides taken within a calendar month, $100 off a hotel stay of $500 or more annually
Purchase protections	None	Purchase protection, Extended warranty
Travel protections	None	None
Other perks	None	None
INTEREST RATES ON PURCHASES AND BALANCE TRANSFERS
Introductory APR on purchases	None	None
Length of Introductory APR on purchases	N/A	N/A
Introductory APR on balance transfers	0%	None
Length of Introductory APR on balance transfers	18 months	N/A
Introductory balance transfer fee	3% or $5, whichever is greater	N/A
APR after intro period ends/standard APR	18.24%-28.24% variable	20.24%-28.24% variable
* Based on point valuations calculated by frequent flyer website The Points Guy.

When reviewing other credit cards, we use this format and these criteria to compare them with our benchmark. You can read our credit card methodology for more details on what we take into account when it comes to perks, protections and redemption value.

Get access to Citi ThankYou rewards with the Citi Premier credit card.

There are four major types of flexible credit card travel rewards — Citi ThankYou Rewards, Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards and Capital One miles. While they’re all great in their own ways, the big difference is in their various airline and hotel partnerships — and based on your personal travel habits, that might easily draw you into one program over another. But if you’re “program agnostic,” here are some other credit cards that are similar to the Citi Premier.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is Chase’s mid-tier credit card, with the exact same $95 annual fee, but you’ll earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points that can transfer to 14 airline and hotel partners, some of which are the same as Citi’s and some of which are different. Where this card shines over the Citi Premier is that there are three hotel partners included as well, and you can redeem your Sapphire Preferred points for any flight via the Chase travel portal and get 1.25 cents per point in value.

You’ll also get many shopping and travel protection benefits with the Chase Sapphire Preferred. For example, if you have to cancel a trip because you get sick or injured, the Sapphire Preferred will reimburse you for your prepaid and nonrefundable travel purchases, while the Citi Premier could leave you with many sunk costs.

That being said, the Citi Premier has both many more bonus categories, and you’ll even earn 3 points per dollar spent on travel — whereas the Chase Sapphire Preferred only earns 2 points in this category (unless purchased through Ultimate Rewards and you’ll earn 5 points per dollar). So you’ll need to consider whether earning more points or having better travel and purchase protections is a higher priority for you.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for an American Express card, the American Express® Gold Card is a comparable mid-tier option. The card earns Amex Membership Rewards points which can be transferred to a roster of 20 airline and hotel partners, or redeemed for flights and hotels through Amex Travel.

The Amex Gold also has the highest bonus categories of all three of these mid-tier card options. The card earns 4 points per dollar on dining worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1x). It also earns the same 3 points per dollar on flights as the Citi Premier (though flights must be booked directly with the airline in order to get bonus points on the Amex Gold) and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

You’ll also find many travel benefits and monthly credits on the Amex Gold, as well as travel insurance. The big difference, however, is that the Amex Gold comes with a $250 annual fee (see rates and fees), which is significantly higher than the $95 annual fee of the the Citi Premier. So you’ll have to consider if the additional points and perks are worth the cost.

The Citi Premier is a great choice if you're looking to earn travel rewards with your credit card.

If you’re looking for a credit card that comes with travel benefits or annual credits, the Citi Premier is probably not the best card for you. Instead, you’d be better off with the Chase Sapphire Preferred or the Amex Gold. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a higher-end card with VIP perks, you’ll want to consider options like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or The Platinum Card® from American Express.

But if your prime focus is getting a mid-tier travel credit card and diversifying your points, then the Citi Premier is a solid choice. It earns lots of valuable ThankYou Rewards points at a low annual fee, and Citi’s transfer partners open up many opportunities to book travel on many international airlines. So if you decide the Citi Premier is right for you, make sure you get it now and score 80,000 bonus points toward travel.

Learn more and apply now for the Citi Premier Card.

Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best credit cards currently available.

Get all the latest personal finance deals, news and advice at CNN Underscored Money.

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January 4, 2023

How you can earn Marriott’s top elite status by holding a credit card | CNN Underscored
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CNN Underscored reviews financial products such as credit cards and bank accounts based on their overall value. We may receive a commission through the LendingTree affiliate network if you apply and are approved for a card, but our reporting is always independent and objective. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

If you’ve always thought hotel elite status was a benefit for those who spend dozens of nights in hotels each year, we have a surprise for you: It’s not. In fact, hotel elite status can be earned without ever stepping foot in a hotel lobby, and that’s thanks to credit cards.

Most of the major hotel chains — think Hilton, Hyatt, IHG and Marriott — offer some kind of elite status through their credit cards. All you need to do is apply, get approved and hold the card. For Marriott’s Bonvoy program specifically, earning elite status couldn’t be easier.

That’s because Marriott offers status as a complimentary benefit on six of its credit cards. Additionally, you can earn complimentary Marriott elite status from a seventh credit card that isn’t even technically a Marriott card:

As you can see, Marriott elite status is easy to attain, especially with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, which offers complimentary Platinum status.

That card also currently comes with a welcome offer of 150,000 bonus points, which you’ll get after spending $5,000 in the first three months after opening the account. You’ll also get up to $300 in statement credits ($25 per month) to use at restaurants worldwide as well as a Free Night Award each year. However, the card charges an annual fee of $650 (see rates and fees), making it the most expensive Marriott card on the market by far.

With the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card, you can earn an elite status that’s even higher than Platinum, and the card itself only charges a $95 annual fee. But, be warned, you’ll have to spend a lot on the card in order to take advantage.

With this card, you’ll get 15 Elite Night Credits just by having the Marriott Boundless card, which is enough for Silver elite status every year, and you can earn Gold status after spending $35,000 on the card in a calendar year. However, you can also pick up even more Elite Night Credits with the card. For every $5,000 you spend on the card, you’ll earn an additional Elite Night Credit toward the next level of elite status.

There’s no limit to the number of Elite Night Credits you can earn as part of this benefit, so if you spend $35,000 to reach Gold status, which typically requires 25 Elite Night Credits, you’ll then need to spend an additional $125,000 in a calendar year in order to reach Platinum status — $160,000 on the card in a year in total. Beyond that, if you want to target Titanium elite status, you’ll need to spend a whopping total of $285,000 on the card in a calendar year.

While this is an unconventional (and extremely expensive) way to earn elite status, it is possible to do. Keep in mind, too, that this doesn’t account for any nights you’re planning to actually stay in a Marriott hotel, earning Elite Night Credits the “traditional” way.

For most people, this ability to earn one Elite Night Credit for every $5,000 you spend will likely come in handy if you’re only a couple of nights away from achieving status the “traditional” way. The ability to spend on your credit card to put you over the top to the next level of elite status could be essential to ensuring you don’t have to spend more nights in a hotel room than necessary.

For a limited time, the Marriott Boundless card is offering a sign-up bonus of three free nights (up to 50,000 Bonvoy points each night), which you’ll get after spending $3,000 in the first three months after opening the account. The card comes with a Free Night Award every year on your account anniversary starting with the second year you have the card as well as the ability to earn 3 points per dollar on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year at gas stations, grocery stores and dining.

If you’re looking for a way to make your next hotel stay more comfortable, elite status is the best route. With it, you can take advantage of perks such as complimentary upgrades, late checkout and early check-in, bonus points and more.

Of course, what you get depends on the level of elite status you have. The higher the level of status, the more benefits. Here are the benefits you can expect to receive at each tier of Marriott elite status:
Member status: This most basic level of elite status is automatic when you enroll in the Marriott Bonvoy program and stay between zero and nine nights each year. You’ll get benefits such as free in-room Wi-Fi, member rates and mobile check-in.

Silver elite status: Typically earned after spending 10 nights each year. Along with the benefits from the basic member status, you’ll get perks such as 10% more points on stays and late checkout (when available).

Gold elite status: Typically earned after spending 25 nights each year. You’ll get 25% bonus points on stays, room upgrades (when available), 2 p.m. late checkout (when available), a welcome gift of 250 or 500 points and enhanced in-room internet access along with the benefits you’ll get with Silver status.

Platinum elite status: Typically earned after spending 50 nights each year. You’ll get 50% bonus points on stays, room upgrades (including suites, when available), a welcome gift choice on arrival, an annual gift choice, lounge access and guaranteed 4 p.m. late checkout along with the benefits you’ll get with Gold status.

Titanium elite status: Earned after spending 75 nights each year. You’ll get 75% bonus points on stays, enhanced room upgrades (including suites, when available), a welcome gift choice, an enhanced annual gift choice and 48-hour room guarantee along with the benefits you’ll get with Platinum status.

Ambassador Elite status: Earned after spending 100 nights and $20,000 in qualifying spend each year. You’ll get dedicated Ambassador service and the ability to check in or check out at any time in a 24-hour period as well as all the benefits you’ll get with Titanium status.
Overall, if you’re going to be staying in a hotel regularly, it can only benefit you to have elite status. From free breakfast to lounge access and even suite upgrades, Marriott elite status can often make a stay more comfortable.

So if you didn’t think earning elite status was an option — as you don’t stay in Marriott properties enough during the year — your Marriott credit card can be your way in. For example, Marriott Boundless card holders can obtain even higher levels of elite status — similar to the way American Airlines allows its own AAdvantage members to earn elite status by spending on its credit cards — without having to spend a ton of nights on the road.

Click here for rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.
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January 3, 2023
Do you have one of the 10 best credit cards of December 2022? | CNN Underscored
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CNN Underscored reviews financial products such as credit cards and bank accounts based on their overall value. We may receive a commission through the LendingTree affiliate network if you apply and are approved for a card, but our reporting is always independent and objective. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

While credit cards sometimes get a bad rap, having the best credit card — or at least, the one that’s best for you — can make your life easier and more rewarding. And if it’s been at least three years since you put your current credit card in your purse or wallet, now’s the time to consider your options and see if a different credit card might serve you better.

How? Well, a new credit card can help by temporarily letting you finance the things you need to buy at 0% interest, or consolidating debt at a lower interest rate. Or perhaps you just want to make sure you’re earning as many rewards as possible when you’re ordering online or having food delivered to your home, or booking that long-needed vacation.

Our comprehensive methodology compares every aspect of each credit card to our “benchmark credit card” to determine which cards can potentially help you the most. So give yourself a few minutes to take a look at our list of the best credit cards for December 2022 and see if one might be useful to you right now.

Citi® Double Cash Card: Best for flat-rate cash back
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for beginners
Chase Freedom Flex℠: Best for flexible rewards
Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express: Best for U.S. supermarkets
American Express® Gold Card: Best for dining
Citi Premier® Card: Best for gas stations
Citi® Diamond Preferred® Card: Best for balance transfers
U.S. Bank Visa® Platinum Card: Best introductory rate on purchases
The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express: Best for small businesses
Capital One® Spark® Miles for Business: Best for larger businesses

Why did we select these cards as our best credit cards for December? Dive into the details of each card with us, and see how they stack up.

Why it’s great in one sentence: The Citi Double Cash Card is both simple and lucrative, offering a market-leading 2% cash back on every purchase — 1% when you buy, 1% when you pay your statement — for no annual fee.

This card is right for: People who want a card that will work for them but don’t have the time, patience or interest to chase bonus categories or figure out complicated travel loyalty programs.

Highlights:
Earn 2% cash back on all purchases with no limit.

0% introductory APR for 18 months on balance transfers made in the first four months after you open the card (18.24%-28.24% variable afterward).

Rewards from the card can also be used for travel when combined with the Citi Premier or (now discontinued) Citi Prestige® Card.

No annual fee.
Sign-up bonus: None.

What we like about the Citi Double Cash: Life is complicated enough — not everyone wants to make their credit card complicated as well. If you don’t want to deal with bonus categories, transfer partners or spending caps, you can’t get much simpler than the Citi Double Cash.

But “simple” doesn’t have to mean “weak.” In fact, you’ll get 2% cash back on practically everything you buy with this card, which is the best ongoing flat-rate return you’ll find on any no-annual-fee credit card out there.

Yes, if you want to put in extra effort to maximize bonus categories or if you’re willing to pay an annual fee, you can absolutely get more in overall rewards or perks. But if you don’t want to make your credit card another thing in your life to worry about, you can put the Citi Double Cash in your purse or wallet, and set it and forget it.

What could be better: The Citi Double Cash is a no-frills credit card, so you won’t find any fancy travel or dining perks on it, nor are there any significant travel or purchase protections. You also won’t want to use this card for overseas purchases, as the 3% foreign transaction fee will offset the rewards you earn.

When you have other premium Citi cards, the ability to use the Citi Double Cash card’s cash back for travel in the form of Citi ThankYou points is useful to points and miles experts, but the ThankYou program’s airline transfer partners can be challenging to leverage for beginners, who might want to just stick with the card’s cash back rewards.

The balance transfer offer does come with a 3% fee (with a minimum of $5) in the first four months after opening the account, though that’s comparable to other credit cards with similar balance transfer features.

And unfortunately, the Citi Double Cash doesn’t currently offer a sign-up bonus, which means there’s no opportunity to earn a bulk of points or cash back right away.

Why it’s our “benchmark” credit card: The ease of use and straightforward top-of-market cash-back earning rate of the Citi Double Cash are why CNN Underscored uses the Double Cash as our “benchmark” credit card to compare the features of other credit cards and determine if they’re better or worse overall.

You can read more about our benchmark credit card concept in our credit card methodology guide, or dig into our complete review of the Citi Double Cash.

Learn more and apply now for the Citi Double Cash Card.

Why it’s great in one sentence: The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months after you open the account, and the points can be redeemed for travel via Chase Ultimate Rewards, or in other eligible categories using the card’s “Pay Yourself Back” tool.

This card is right for: People with larger than average travel and/or dining expenses who want to redeem their credit card rewards for travel.

Highlights:
Earn 3 points for every dollar spent on dining, select streaming services and select online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs).

Earn 2 points for every dollar spent on travel, or 5 total points if purchased through Ultimate Rewards.

Earn 5 points per dollar on Lyft rides through March 2025.

Points can be redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal or with the “Pay Yourself Back” tool at a rate of 1.25 cents per point.

Points can also be transferred to any of Chase’s 14 airline and hotel partners.

10% anniversary point bonus on all your yearly spending.

$50 annual hotel credit that can be used for any booking made via the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.

No foreign transaction fees.

$95 annual fee.
Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months after opening the account.

What we like about the Chase Sapphire Preferred: It may not seem like it, but at over 10 years old, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is practically the granddaddy of travel rewards credit cards. But to Chase’s credit, it’s keeping the card fresh by introducing new features that make the card even more useful, which is just one of the reasons it’s our favorite travel credit card for beginners.

WIth classic travel and dining bonus categories, bonus points on streaming services and online groceries, 5 points per dollar on Lyft rides through March 2025 and a 60,000-point sign-up bonus, you should be able to score plenty of points even if you aren’t flying much right now, since Chase defines “travel” very broadly to include purchases like mass transit, tolls, parking and even ride-shares.

But the real power of the Chase Sapphire Preferred is in its redemptions. You’ll get 1.25 cents per point in value when you redeem your points through Chase’s travel portal. And Chase’s “Pay Yourself Back” tool allows you to redeem points on purchases beyond just travel.

Plus, you can get potentially even more value when you transfer your points to one of Chase’s 14 travel partners. In fact, the Ultimate Rewards program still features some of the best transfer partners around, including United Airlines, Southwest Airlines and Hyatt Hotels, and all partners transfer at a 1-to-1 ratio (meaning you’ll get 1,000 points in the partner program for every 1,000 points you transfer from Chase).

To top it off, you can safely use the Chase Sapphire Preferred overseas, since it has no foreign transaction fees on international purchases. It even provides primary car rental insurance, so you don’t have to look to your own auto policy first if you have an accident with your rental car.

What could be better: The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a classic, but in some ways, it’s starting to get a little long in the tooth. Other credit cards offer even higher bonus points on travel purchases (though usually accompanied by higher annual fees), though if you book travel through Ultimate Rewards with the Sapphire Preferred, you can earn 5 total points for every dollar you spend.

Even our benchmark Citi Double Cash card earns 2% cash back -— 1% when you make a purchase, and 1% when you pay it off — on everything you buy, including travel, though you can get more value when redeeming your Sapphire Preferred points than you can with simple cash back.

For many people, the Sapphire Preferred isn’t as flashy as its big brother, the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, which comes with travel perks and a $300 annual travel credit (but also a significantly higher annual fee). But if you don’t need or won’t use all those extra perks, you may be better off with this significantly less-expensive version.

Where it beats our benchmark card: Bonus categories, excellent travel protections, solid airline and hotel partners, sign-up bonus.

Where our benchmark card is better: The Citi Double Cash has no annual fee, an introductory rate on balance transfers and earns easy-to-redeem cash back.

Learn more and apply now for the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Why it’s great in one sentence: If you’re on the fence about whether you’d prefer to rack up cash back or travel points, the Chase Freedom Flex allows you to do both when paired with the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

This card is right for: People who want maximum flexibility in a no-annual-fee credit card.

Highlights:
Earn 5% cash back on travel purchases made through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% on dining and 3% at drugstores.

Earn 5% cash back in bonus categories that rotate, up to $1,500 in purchases each quarter.

Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Expert users can convert the cash back to flexible travel points when pairing the Freedom Flex with a Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve card.

0% introductory APR on all purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (18.74% to 27.49% variable afterward).

No annual fee.
Sign-up bonus: Earn $200 in bonus cash back after you spend $500 on purchases in your first three months after opening the account.

What we like about the Chase Freedom Flex: If you prefer cash back now but think that a dose of adventure is in your future, the Chase Freedom Flex can give you the best of both worlds.

The Chase Freedom Flex starts by earning cash back in three permanent bonus categories: 5% cash back on travel purchases made via Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% cash back on dining — including takeout and delivery — and 3% cash back at drugstores.

Then you’ll also earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in purchases in bonus categories that rotate each quarter. The categories for October through December are Walmart and PayPal, but each quarter’s categories are different.

That’s already a pretty great package for a cash back credit card. But when you pair the Chase Freedom Flex with the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve, you can convert your cash back to points at a rate of 1 cent per point. Then you’re able to redeem those points for travel at an increased value of 1.25 to 1.5 cents apiece via the Chase travel portal, or in other categories using the “Pay Yourself Back” tool.

Even better, once you’ve converted your cash back to points, you can transfer them to any of Chase’s 14 airline and hotel loyalty partners. This amazing flexibility is why frequent flyer website The Points Guy values Ultimate Rewards points at 2 cents apiece. At that rate, since you’re earning 1.5% cash back on the Freedom Flex, you could effectively end up with a 3% return on your purchases.

Other benefits of the Chase Freedom Flex include cell phone protection, purchase protection, extended warranty protection and a three-month complimentary subscription to DashPass.

What could be better: While the permanent bonus categories are uncapped, you can only earn bonus cash back on up to $1,500 each quarter in the rotating bonus categories. After that, you’re only getting a 1% return, so it’s important to keep track of how much you’ve spent in those categories over the quarter.

Also, you must remember to activate the rotating bonus categories each quarter in order to earn 5% cash back on them. While you can activate them almost anytime throughout the quarter and still get the bonus cash back retroactively on purchases you’ve already made, it’s important not to miss the deadline or you’ll lose out on an important feature of the card.

Where it beats our benchmark card: Sign-up bonus, cell phone and purchase protections, and introductory rate on purchases for 15 months.

Where our benchmark card is better: The Citi Double Cash offers a higher overall cash back rate.

Learn more and apply now for the Chase Freedom Flex.

Why it’s great in one sentence: The Blue Cash Everyday card earns 3% cash back as a statement credit at U.S. supermarkets (up to $6,000 annually, then 1%), U.S. online retail (up to $6,000 annually, then 1%) and U.S. gas stations, while also offering a generous introductory interest rate on purchases and balances for 15 months, all with no annual fee (see rates and fees).

This card is right for: People who spend a significant amount of their money at U.S. supermarkets and U.S. online retail stores each year and don’t want to pay an annual fee for a credit card.

Highlights:
Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).

Earn 3% cash back at U.S. online retail purchases on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).

Earn 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).

Earn 1% cash back on everything else.

Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit.

Earn statement credits for Home Chef and The Disney Bundle purchases

0% introductory APR on all purchases and balances for the first 15 months (18.24% to 29.24% variable afterward, see rates and fees).

No annual fee.

Terms apply.
Welcome bonus: Earn up to a $250 bonus in the form of a statement credit — earn $100 back after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new card within the first six months, plus 20% back when you use your card to check out with PayPal at merchants in the first six months (up to $150 back).

What we like most about the Blue Cash Everyday: For many Americans, a significant portion of the monthly family budget goes to supermarket expenses. The Blue Cash Everyday card dials up the bonus cash back in that category, as well as at gas stations and for online purchases, creating a go-to in your wallet for three routine purchases.

A newly added benefit to the card is the opportunity to earn statement credits with two different merchants. Both new and existing card members now get up to $180 in annual Home Chef credits, broken into portions of up to $15 each month, as well as up to a $7 monthly statement credit when you charge the $13.99 subscription cost of The Disney Bundle to your card (enrollment is required for both benefits).

The card also pairs its bonus categories with an introductory 0% APR on purchases and balances for the first 15 months. But you’ll want to make sure your debt is paid off by the end of the intro period, as the APR jumps to a variable 18.24% to 29.24% afterward.

New Blue Cash Everyday card members will also find a welcome bonus that should come in handy: up to a $200 bonus in the form of a statement credit — earn $100 back after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new card within the first six months, plus 20% back when you use your card to check out with PayPal at merchants in the first six months (up to $150 back). That’s a decent chunk of change for a card that has no annual fee, although isn’t as straightforward as many other bonus offers on this list.

What could be better: Bonus cash back isn’t earned on purchases outside of the US with the Blue Cash Everyday, and there’s a 3% foreign transaction fee on top of that (see rates and fees). Plus, there’s no way to convert your cash back to American Express Membership Rewards points, which are potentially more useful for those who may want maximum flexibility in redeeming credit card rewards for travel down the line.

Some people might want to consider the more expensive version of the Blue Cash Everyday, the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express, which earns 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets — double the Blue Cash Everyday — on up to $6,000 in purchases each year (1% thereafter). The Blue Cash Preferred also offers 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions and 3% cash back at U.S. gas stations and on transit.

In exchange for those higher bonus rates, you’ll pay a $95 annual fee each year, although $0 intro annual fee for the first year (see rates and fees). So you’ll need to consider whether the Blue Cash Everyday with no annual fee, or the Blue Cash Preferred with a $95 annual fee is a better choice for your needs.

Where it beats our benchmark card: Introductory interest rate on purchases and car rental damage coverage.

Where our benchmark card is better: With the Citi Double Cash card you are earning Citi ThankYou points, which means you can transfer your points towards travel — although your points are worth more when combined with the Citi Premier.

Learn more about the Blue Cash Everyday card.

Why it’s great in one sentence: The American Express Gold Card is a top-notch card when it comes to food, as you’ll not only get a relatively high return at both restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, but also some incredible baked-in benefits.

This card is right for: People who either eat at restaurants or order food for delivery on a regular basis.

Highlights:
Earn 4 points for every dollar you spend at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1x).

Earn 3 points per dollar for flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

Earn 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Up to $120 in annual dining credits.

Up to $120 in Uber Cash annually.

$250 annual fee (see rates and fees).

Terms apply.
Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first six months after opening the account.

What we like about the American Express Gold: It’s not a cheap card with a $250 annual fee. But hang on, because the perks on the Amex Gold can quickly outweigh its cost thanks to its numerous statement credits.

Aside from earning a lot of points, you’ll earn up to $10 in statement credits each month with the Amex Gold when you use your card to pay at select food merchants, including Grubhub, Seamless, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and participating Shake Shack locations (enrollment required).

You’ll also earn up to $10 in Uber Cash each month, which can be used for either Uber rides in the US or Uber Eats orders. So if you order out regularly, you can easily use up both the Uber Cash and the dining credits each month.

If you’re able to utilize all of these credits each year, that’s $240 in credits, which means you’re effectively only paying $10 for the card even with its $250 annual fee.

What could be better: The Amex Gold earns points that can be redeemed a number of ways, but are best used for travel. That means you’ll likely want to hold off on redeeming the points you earn with this card until you’re ready to travel. So, if you’re looking for a card with rewards that you can use more immediately, you might be better off with a cash back card.

You’ll also want to look elsewhere if you can’t utilize the annual credits on the Amex Gold, which do require a bit of effort to maximize since they’re doled out monthly. Otherwise you’ll be paying a lot of money for the card and not getting the most for it.

Where it beats our benchmark card: Welcome bonus, annual credits, bonus categories, solid airline and hotel partners.

Where our benchmark card is better: The Citi Double Cash has no annual fee, an introductory rate on balance transfers and easy cash back.

Learn more about the American Express Gold Card.

Why it’s great in one sentence: The Citi Premier card has a robust set of bonus categories that make it easy to earn extra points at gas stations and on many other major staples of most household budgets, plus its points can be easily redeemed for travel or transferred to any of Citi airline or hotel partners for potentially even more value.

This card is right for: People who want to earn bonus points in a broad set of categories and are willing to learn how to use Citi’s eclectic roster of transfer partners.

Highlights:
Earn 3 points for every dollar you spend at gas stations, restaurants, supermarkets, air travel and hotels.

Earn 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Points can be redeemed for travel through the Citi ThankYou Rewards travel portal or for gift cards at 1 cent apiece.

Points can also be transferred to any of Citi’s 16 airline and hotel partners at a 1-to-1 ratio.

Annual $100 credit on a single hotel stay of $500 or more, excluding taxes and fees, when booked through thankyou.com.

No foreign transaction fees.

$95 annual fee.
Sign-up bonus: Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months after opening the account.

What we like about the Citi Premier: With a $95 annual fee, the Citi Premier features a nice balance of solid bonus categories, powerful travel rewards and a great sign-up bonus that make it a package worth considering.

For starters, you can currently score a nice sign-up bonus on the Citi Premier. New card holders can earn 80,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on the card in the first three months after opening the account. The Points Guy values Citi ThankYou points at 1.8 cents apiece, which makes 80,000 points worth as much as $1,440 in travel.

While Citi’s ThankYou program typically doesn’t get as much attention as the bigger Chase and Amex programs, the issuer’s 14 airline transfer partners — and two hotel partners — offer several options that aren’t available anywhere else.

Of course, if you’d rather not jump through the hoops required to learn about transfer programs, you can always redeem your Citi Premier points by using Citi’s travel portal to book any flight or hotel room without having to worry about award availability or blackout dates at a value of 1 cent per point. Even if you take this easy path, the 80,000-point bonus is still worth a sweet $800 in value.

What could be better: While it’s great to have unique transfer partners, the Citi ThankYou airline partnerships lean heavily toward international programs that are best utilized by points and miles experts who don’t mind the time and effort required to take advantage of them. You can get top-notch value for your points by using them, but they’re not for the faint of heart.

One other surprising downside of the Citi Premier card is that, for a travel credit card, it’s seriously lacking in travel and purchase protections. Citi removed the vast majority of its travel insurance coverage from all its credit cards a few years ago, and as a result, it’s the one aspect of the Citi Premier that pales in comparison to its competitors.

Where it beats our benchmark card: Sign-up bonus, bonus categories, airline and hotel transfer partners.

Where our benchmark card is better: The Citi Double Cash has no annual fee, an introductory rate on balance transfers and easy cash back.

Learn more and apply now for the Citi Premier Card.

Why it’s great in one sentence: If you need to consolidate your debt to reduce your interest expenses, the Citi Diamond Preferred credit card offers an introductory interest rate on balance transfers for a full 21 months for transfers completed in the first four months after you open the card.

This card is right for: People who want to consolidate their existing debt at a low interest rate for an extended period of time.

Highlights:
0% introductory APR for 21 months on balance transfers made in the first four months after you open the card (17.24% to 27.99% variable afterward).

0% introductory APR on all purchases for the first 12 months (17.24% to 27.99% variable afterward).

No annual fee.
Sign-up bonus: Limited time offer — Earn a $150 statement credit after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

What we like about the Citi Diamond Preferred: The first step to getting out of credit card debt is to stop the bleeding by putting a halt to the exorbitant interest you’re paying on your accumulated debt. A credit card with a long introductory balance transfer offer is exactly what the doctor ordered.

The Citi Diamond Preferred comes with a lengthy 21-month introductory period, during which you’ll pay a 0% APR on any balance transfers made during the first four months you have the card. But you’ll want to pay off your entire balance transfer during those 21 months, because when that introductory period ends, the APR will jump to between 17.24% and 27.99%, depending on your creditworthiness.

Even better, you’ll get the same 0% APR on new purchases with the card for the first 12 months. Again, the APR goes to between 17.24% and 27.99% at the end of the intro period, depending on your creditworthiness, so make sure you pay off your balance before then.

The Citi Diamond Preferred card also comes with a free FICO credit score online and allows you to choose your payment due date, which is extremely helpful for those who pay their credit card bills around their paycheck schedule and need maximum flexibility.

What could be better: Aside from the balance transfer option and free FICO score, there aren’t a ton of exciting features with the Citi Diamond Preferred. There are no rewards on the card and no important other perks, though for a limited time, new card holders can earn a $150 statement credit after spending $500 on purchases (though not balance transfers) in the first three months after opening the account.

You’ll also pay a 5% fee (with a $5 minimum) on any balance transfers made to the Citi Diamond Preferred. That’s higher than average for a balance transfer fee, which is typically closer to 3%, so it’s something you should keep in mind when transferring debt to the card.

If you only need the balance transfer option and not the introductory rate on purchases, consider our benchmark Citi Double Cash card, which offers a 0% APR on balance transfers for the first 18 months you have the card (then a variable APR of 18.24% to 28.24% applies), but also earns cash back on all purchases (though note that balance transfers don’t earn cash back).

Still, if you need to pay no interest on both your new and existing debt for an extended period, the Citi Diamond Preferred is potentially worth the extra cost to buy yourself time to get back on track and firm up your financial picture.

Where it beats our benchmark card: An introductory interest rate on purchases for 12 months and on balance transfers for a longer 21 months.

Where our benchmark card is better: The Citi Double Cash earns cash back rewards on all purchases and currently comes with a slightly higher limited-time sign-up bonus.

Learn more and apply now for the Citi Diamond Preferred Card.

Why it’s great in one sentence: For those who’d rather pay no interest on purchases for as long as possible instead of earning cash back or travel rewards, the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card offers a 0% APR on all purchases for the first 18 billing cycles you have the card (the APR rises to a variable 18.74% to 28.74% after the introductory period ends).

This card is right for: People who want the longest possible introductory interest rate period on purchases when they first get a credit card.

Highlights:
0% introductory APR on all purchases for the first 18 billing cycles (18.74% to 28.74% variable afterward).

0% introductory APR for 18 billing cycles on balance transfers made in the first 60 days after you open the card (18.74% to 28.74% variable afterward).

Cell phone protection.

No annual fee.
Sign-up bonus: None.

What we like about the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum: Credit cards are generally known for having sky-high interest rates, making them terrible for financing large purchases. But the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum Card is an exception, at least for the first 18 billing cycles (meaning your first 18 monthly statements) after you get the card.

During that time, you can charge purchases to the card and pay them off slowly without incurring any interest at all. That’s a longer intro period on purchases than almost any credit card on the market, so it’s a good way to finance a large emergency purchase or even just daily expenses if you’re in a pinch.

But be careful! Once the introductory interest period ends, any balance remaining on the card jumps to a variable APR of 18.74% to 28.74%, depending on your creditworthiness. If you haven’t paid off all those purchases in full by then, you’ll be on the hook for some giant interest payments. Still, if you need to just make ends meet for now, this is a card that can be a useful tool in your toolbox.

There’s also an added perk on this card: ongoing cell phone protection. When you pay your cell phone bill with the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum, you’ll be covered for damage or theft to your cell phone up to $600, with a $25 deductible, for up to two claims per 12-month period.

What could be better: Beyond the introductory rate on purchases as well as a similar introductory interest rate on balance transfers (which comes with a 3% fee), this isn’t a card that’s going to do a lot for you. It doesn’t earn any rewards at all, doesn’t come with a sign-up bonus and doesn’t have any other significant perks.

The U.S. Bank Visa Platinum has no annual fee, but it charges a 3% foreign transaction fee on purchases made in a foreign currency, so you definitely won’t want to use it overseas. In fact, aside from using it to finance purchases during the introductory period, it’s not a card that we’d recommend for long-term usage.

And if you’re willing to trade a slightly shorter introductory period in exchange for earning rewards, you might consider the Chase Freedom Unlimited®, which offers an introductory interest rate on purchases for the first 15 months you have the card (then a variable APR of 17.24%-25.99%), but also offers 1.5% cash back on all purchases and additional bonus categories.

Where it beats our benchmark card: Cell phone insurance.

Where our benchmark card is better: The Citi Double Cash earns rewards on all purchases as well as a limited time welcome offer.

Learn more and apply now for the U.S. Bank Visa Platinum.

Why it’s great in one sentence: For businesses with less than $50,000 in annual expenses, the Blue Business Plus from American Express is a great and simple choice, since it earns a flat rate of 2 Membership Rewards points for every dollar you spend on all your business purchases up to $50,000 a year, then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, and all with no annual fee (see rates and fees).

This card is right for: Small businesses that want to stockpile transferable travel rewards and a credit card with no annual fee.

Highlights:
Earn 2 points for every dollar you spend on all purchases up to $50,000 per year, then 1 point per dollar thereafter.

Points can be redeemed for travel through Amex Travel at a rate of up to 1 cent per point.

Points can also be transferred to any of Amex’s 20 airline and hotel partners.

0% introductory APR on all purchases for the first 12 months (17.49%-25.49% variable afterward, see rates and fees).

No annual fee.

Terms apply.
Welcome bonus: Earn 15,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first three months after opening the account.

What we like about the Blue Business Plus: For small businesses looking for a business credit card comparable to the personal Citi Double Cash, our benchmark card, the Blue Business Plus is worthy of consideration.

The Blue Business Plus earns 2 Membership Rewards points for every dollar spent on all purchases, up to $50,000 each calendar year. And if you’re thinking about travel this year or next, the points can be redeemed directly for travel at a rate of up to 1 cent per point, or transferred to any of Amex’s 20 airline and hotel partners for potentially even more value.

Your business can also take advantage of the card’s 0% introductory APR on purchases for the first 12 months you have the card — just make sure it’s paid off by the end of that time, or you’ll find yourself facing an ongoing variable APR of 17.49%-25.49%, depending on your creditworthiness. Overall, it’s a pretty sweet package for small businesses, and all for no annual fee.

What could be better: Membership Rewards points earned with the Blue Business Plus can be converted to cash back, but at a poor rate of 0.6 cents per point, so small businesses focused on earning cash back instead of travel rewards should instead choose the American Express® Blue Business Cash Card, which has all the same features as the Blue Business Plus but earns cash back automatically credited to your statement instead of points.

You also won’t want to use this card for international purchases, as it carries a 2.7% foreign transaction fee on overseas transactions (see rates and fees). And larger businesses with more than $50,000 in credit card expenses each year will find the Blue Business cards limiting, as all charges beyond that amount in a calendar year earn only 1 point per dollar. (Businesses with bigger annual expenses should instead look below to our option for larger businesses.)

Where it beats our benchmark card: Extensive airline and hotel partners, some travel and purchase protections, introductory rate on purchases.

Where our benchmark card is better: The Citi Double Cash has an introductory rate on balance transfers and easy-to-redeem cash back.

Learn more about the Blue Business Plus Card.

Why it’s great in one sentence: The Capital One Spark Miles for Business card earns an unlimited 2 miles for every dollar you spend on the card — plus 3 additional miles for hotel and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel with the card — and those miles can be redeemed for any travel purchase you make at 1 cent per mile or transferred to Capital One’s airline partners for potentially even more valuable redemptions.

This card is right for: Larger businesses that want easy-to-redeem travel rewards miles, with the option to learn how to master transferable miles down the line for greater value.

Highlights:
Earn 5 miles for every dollar you spend on your card on hotels and rental cars booked via Capital One Travel.

Earn 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases with no cap.

Redeem miles for any travel purchase at a rate of 1 cent per mile.

Miles can also be transferred to any of 18 airline and hotel partners.

Up to $100 credit when applying for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

No foreign transaction fees.

No annual fee for the first year, then $95 per year.
Sign-up bonus: Earn 50,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,500 in the first three months of your account opening.

What we like about the Capital One Spark Miles: Businesses with large expenses that can be charged to a credit card will love the unlimited 2 miles per dollar of the Spark Miles for Business card, along with the extra 3x miles bump they’ll get when booking hotels or car rentals through Capital One Travel with the card.

Capital One miles are easy for businesses to redeem on any travel purchases made with the card at a rate of 1 cent per mile, or the miles can be transferred to any of Capital One’s 18 airline and hotel partners for potentially higher value with some extra work.

The Spark Miles card also comes with a 50,000-mile sign-up bonus after you spend $4,500 in the first three months you have the card, which is a pretty low threshold for any business with significant monthly expenses.

The best part is the card’s $95 annual fee is waived for the first year, so you can try it out for 12 months and see if it works for your business needs.

What could be better: If you’d rather earn cash back for your business instead of miles, you can look at the new Capital One Spark Cash Plus card as an option. It earns 2% cash back on all purchases and there’s no limit on how much you can spend with it, but it’s missing a few perks such as 5x on car rentals and hotels at Capital One Travel, plus it has a higher $150 annual fee.

Capital One deserves credit for expanding its mileage program in 2018 to include transfer partners and adding even more since then, but since it’s a relatively new part of the program, the Spark Miles for Business airline partners aren’t quite as lucrative as those from Chase and American Express, though with some effort you can still find terrific value.

It’s also not ideal that you have to book through Capital One Travel to earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals, especially since most hotels won’t honor earned elite status or award elite nights or points for reservations booked through third-party sites. However, the price prediction and protection features of Capital One Travel are worth a look.

The $95 annual fee you’ll pay for the Spark Miles after the first year makes this a more expensive card than our benchmark Citi Double Cash or the Blue Business Plus card, so businesses will want to make sure they’re getting enough extra value from their miles to make the cost worth it.

Where it beats our benchmark card: Sign-up bonus, purchase protections, travel protections.

Where our benchmark card is better: The Citi Double Cash has no annual fee and an introductory rate on balance transfers.

Learn more about the Capital One Spark Miles for Business.

Click here for rates and fees of the Blue Cash Everyday card.
Click here for rates and fees of the Blue Cash Preferred card.
Click here for rates and fees of the American Express Gold card.
Click here for rates and fees of the Blue Business Plus card.

Need help getting rid of credit card debt? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best balance transfer credit cards available right now.

Get all the latest personal finance deals, news and advice at CNN Underscored Money.
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December 31, 2022
The 26 best-selling travel products our readers couldn’t stop buying in 2022 | CNN Underscored

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There are thousands of travel products out there. From checked luggage to carry-on bags, travel backpacks, neck pillows, toiletry bags, headphones, portable chargers and much more, there’s a lot to choose from. At CNN Underscored, our goal is to help make the decision on what to get easier in order to help you travel better, smarter and more comfortably.

As the year comes to a close, we’re looking at the travel products that our readers can’t hit the road without. If you’re looking to boost your travel wardrobe before heading off on your first vacation of 2023, consider one of these Underscored reader favorites.

~~$20~~ $10 at Amazon

Mavogel

Our pick for the best sleep mask overall is a favorite among our readers, too — and for good reason. It’s got a nose wire and side covers that help to block out any and all light so you can catch some sleep on any long-haul flight.

~~$18~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

There’s nothing worse than streaming your favorite TV shows or movies from a plane only for your hand to go numb from holding your phone. Not to mention a sore neck from looking down at your phone! This ingenious phone mount clips onto the tray table on the seat in front of you to provide hands-free viewing.

$175 at July

July

The July Carry-All Backpack is a show-stopper. Not only does it have space to store everything you’ll need to carry with you — including space to store a 16-inch laptop — but it doesn’t sacrifice on style. Available in four colors, we love this backpack, too.

$275 at Away

Away

The Away Carry-On has a cult following for good reason. It’s an expertly crafted, durable piece of luggage that we dubbed the best overall hard-shell carry-on luggage in our testing. Not only are there plenty of colors available for every style, but it’s available at a reasonable price point.

$40 at Amazon

Amazon

This is our pick for the best travel pillow overall — in fact, we’ve dubbed it the “Goldilocks of travel pillows.” Readers love it, too, for its firm support and portability. The memory foam interior collapses to half its size, making it a great pick for easy transport.

~~$42~~ $30 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel backpack is not only available at a reasonable price point, but it’s got all of the storage you’ll need for a trip — whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. It can hold everything from laptops to tablets and offers compartments for small accessories like passports and charging devices you’ll take with you on the go.

~~$84~~ $76 at Cadence

Cadence

We love these modular, magnetic and leakproof containers — and our readers do, too! The TSA-compliant, 100% leakproof, customizable Cadence Capsules are a perfect option for transporting your liquids, gels, creams and more.

$21 at Amazon

Amazon

Packing cubes are a must-have for travelers. Our readers loved this set of six bags from Veken. The set is reasonably priced at just over $20 and included, you’ll get an extra large cube, large cube, medium cube, small cube, laundry bag and a travel shoe bag to keep your dirty shoes away from your clean clothes.

~~$35~~ $33 at Amazon

Twelve South

This simple accessory is a game-changer for travelers. The Bluetooth transmitter plugs into the in-flight entertainment system, allowing you to get the sound through directly to your wireless headphones. At just $35 — or less, when on sale — this is something you won’t travel without again.

~~$14~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

This dual-purpose passport and vaccine card holder will keep some of your most important travel documents safe while you’re in transit. Not only will it keep your things in one place, but it will protect your personal information with its RFID-blocking technology.

~~$230~~ $168 at Amazon

Amazon

Our pick for the best budget checked suitcase offers loads of storage in a stylish frame, available in 15 color options. We love this suitcase for its smooth-rolling wheels, high capacity and lightweight when empty, meaning you can pack more inside without nearing your airline’s weight limit.

$98 at Beis

Beis

Weekender bags are a staple in any traveler’s wardrobe. This one from Beis is a favorite, as it’s priced at less than $100 and offers a great amount of storage, including a zippered bottom compartment for storing your shoes and other travel essentials away from your clothes.

$295 at July

July

This bag holds a lot for a carry-on bag. In fact, its 42-liter volume is among the the maximum that’s allowed inside the cabin. Readers love, too, that it’s got an ejectable battery that will keep your devices charged on the go.

$26 at Amazon

Amazon

Looking for more packing cubes than the standard set of six? This eight-pack means you’ll get more space to store all of your travel essentials on every trip. At a price that won’t break the bank, this is a quality set to boost your organization.

$295 at Away

Away

If you’re seeking more space in your carry-on bag, the Away The Bigger Carry-On is a solid option. Featuring all of the best components of the classic Away Carry-On, this version can hold more while still fitting in most airline overhead bins.

$14 at Amazon

Amazon

Leak-proof bottles are essential when you travel. After all, who wants to end up at their destination with a mess of shampoos and moisturizers all over their clothes? CNN Underscored readers loved this four-pack of silicone leak-proof bottles, which are available in fun color sets to match your luggage.

~~$26~~ $16 at Amazon

Amazon

Planning to travel abroad? An international travel adapter is essential for keeping your devices charged up while you’re on the road. Our readers loved this reasonably priced option, which works in more than 150 countries.

$78 at Beis

Beis

This travel backpack is perfect for both overnight trips and for carrying on a plane with all of your must-have essentials in reach. We love its simple design and useful features, such as room to store a laptop, water bottle pockets, padded shoulder straps and much more.

~~$16~~ $14 at Amazon

Amazon

Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family in tow, this drink caddy is perfect for keeping your hands free. It can fit both drinks and phones, as well as any other travel essentials right on the handle of your suitcase.

~~$16~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

Traveling with a digital luggage scale is essential. They’re small and take up little space, but they can save you a lot of money — and stress — when it comes to avoiding overweight baggage fees. Our readers loved this option from Freetoo, which is available for just $13 when on sale.

~~$50~~ $40 at eBags

eBags

Underscored readers loved this set of six packing cubes from eBags. Included, you’ll get one large cube, one medium cube, one small cube and three slim cubes. Available in three different color options, each of the cubes features a mesh top for easy viewing.

~~$50~~ $42 at Amazon

Amazon

We love a crossbody bag for travel. This versatile option from Travelon can go straight from the airport to touring a new destination. It’s got plenty of organizational features to keep all of your travel credit cards and other essentials in place, and it also comes with RFID-blocking technology.

$19 at Amazon

Amazon

Keep your luggage protected all while remaining TSA-compliant with these travel luggage locks. The set of four means you’ll have enough for each of your bags — or for each member of the family. For just under $20, the peace of mind you’ll get from knowing your belongings are protected with these locks is worth it.

~~$27~~ $23 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel duffel bag doubles as a weekender bag, offering space to store clothes and other essentials for a quick getaway. At just over $20, it won’t break the bank, and you don’t have to sacrifice on style, either — it’s available in 35 colors and designs.

$16 at Amazon

Amazon

Trust us: travel shoe bags are essential. They’re a simple packing tool, as they’ll keep the dirt and grime on your shoes away from your clothes. This set of 12 is transparent, so you’ll be able to see which pair of shoes is in each bag when you get to your destination.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

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December 31, 2022
The best credit cards for international travel in 2023 | CNN Underscored
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CNN Underscored reviews financial products such as credit cards and bank accounts based on their overall value. We may receive a commission through the LendingTree affiliate network if you apply and are approved for a card, but our reporting is always independent and objective. Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Traveling abroad can be exhilarating, fun and sometimes a little stressful. Luckily, by having one of the best credit cards for international travel in your wallet, you can have some peace of mind knowing you’re protected. Gone are the days when you needed to purchase travel insurance or worry about bringing enough cash to cover your expenses. With the right credit card, you’ll not only receive a slew of protections, but you can also maximize your spending so you’ll earn enough points on vacation to cover your next jaunt abroad.

The criteria for determining the best international travel cards is different from the best credit cards for domestic travel. For one, when you’re traveling internationally, you’ll want additional protections. In some cases, you’re thousands of miles away from home in unfamiliar territory, so having the backing of your credit card to ensure a safe and comfortable travel experience can go a long way. Add in the benefits of not being charged added fees for spending while abroad, as well as perks when you’re traveling internationally, and you have a great card to use on your next vacation outside of the US.

Our best cards for international travel range in perks, depending on what you’re planning to spend the most on. Before your next trip outside of the country, consider adding one of these international travel credit cards to your wallet.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best card for hotels abroad
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best value for the annual fee
The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best card for travel insurance and for lounge access while traveling abroad
American Express® Gold Card: Best card for dining abroad
Capital One VentureOne Card: Best no-annual-fee card

Whether you’re looking for access to airport lounges or a full suite of insurance coverage, these cards offer protections that you should look for in a credit card to use abroad. Before we dive into the benefits of each of these cards, take a few minutes to understand the perks that make for a good card for international travel.

CNN Underscored’s comprehensive credit card methodology compares every aspect of each international travel credit card to our “benchmark credit card” to determine which cards can potentially bring you maximum value.

When you’re looking for a credit card for international travel, there are benefits to look for that can save you money and provide peace of mind. Perks like travel insurance would typically cost you money, but many credit cards offer it free of charge.

Of course, there are restrictions to these protections. In most cases, you’ll also need to charge your travel expenses — such as airfare or accommodation — to the card for the benefits to apply. Be sure to read the fine print on any card you’re applying for to make sure you understand the rules governing these perks before relying on their coverage.

That being said, here are the six benefits you should look for in a quality credit card to use abroad.

Some credit cards charge foreign transaction fees of around 3% on purchases made abroad. This may not sound significant until you factor in large expenses like hotels, rental cars, dining and shopping. On cards that charge this fee, you’ll incur a $30 fee for every $1,000 spent — and that can add up quickly.

If you spend more than $3,200 per year abroad, getting a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees makes sense. That’s because you’ll incur about $96 in fees, which is more than the annual fee on many cards. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card charges a $95 annual fee, but it charges no foreign transaction fees, making it a solid option to use when you’re traveling internationally.

Trip cancellation and interruption insurance can provide the ultimate peace of mind when you’re traveling abroad. This type of coverage provides reimbursement for nonrefundable expenses if your trip is delayed or canceled due to unforeseen circumstances. Covered circumstances include accidental injury, loss of life, sickness, severe weather and jury duty, to name a few.

Trip delay reimbursement comes in handy if your trip is delayed for more than six hours or requires an overnight stay. Several cards offer this protection, such as the Amex Platinum, which offers up to $500 per ticket to cover meals, lodging and other eligible expenses if your trip is delayed for a covered reason. You must have paid for the round-trip ticket entirely with your Amex Platinum in order to be eligible for the protection.*

There are few worse feelings than arriving to your destination only to realize that your bags didn’t make the trip. Baggage delay insurance is helpful when the airline you’re traveling with loses your luggage during your journey. For example, the Amex Gold card covers up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage in the event that your baggage is lost, damaged or stolen when you purchase the entire fare for a common carrier on the card.**

Some of the most significant expenses incurred during travel include airfare, hotels, rental cars and meals. Of course, you’ll want to get a credit card that rewards you generously in these categories.

Here’s a look at some of the best credit cards and what they reward you with for purchases you make on vacation:
Chase Sapphire Reserve: Earn 10x points on hotels, car rentals and dining booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards (after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually); 5x points on flight purchases made through Chase Ultimate Rewards (after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually); 3x points on travel worldwide (after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually) as well as on dining; 1x points on all other purchases.

Capital One VentureOne Card: Earn 5 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 1.25 miles per dollar on every other purchase.

Chase Sapphire Preferred: Earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards; 3x points on select streaming services, online grocery purchases and on dining worldwide; 2x points on other travel purchases; 1x points on all other purchases.

The Platinum Card from American Express: Earn 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel; 5x points on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel; 1x points on all other purchases.

American Express Gold Card: Earn 4x points on dining at restaurants worldwide, groceries at U.S. supermarkets up to $25,000 in purchases per year; 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel; 1x points on all other purchases.
Travel can be tiring and stressful, but plenty of credit cards offer perks to improve your travel experience and save you money. Some of the best credit cards for international travel offer benefits like lounge access, free hotel nights and elite benefits.

Hands down, the best credit card for travel perks is the Amex Platinum card, which offers a slew of credits and benefits. Card holders get Hilton Honors and Marriott Gold elite status (enrollment required), making them eligible for room upgrades, bonus points and complimentary breakfast at Hilton hotels. The Amex Platinum card also includes access to more than 1,000 airline lounges in the Priority Pass network (enrollment required) as well as access to its own network of Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs so long as you’re flying with Delta. Plus, card holders get up to a $200 airline fee credit and up to $200 back in statement credits each year on select prepaid hotel bookings with Amex Travel.

If you’re going to get a credit card for international travel, the perks are essential. But, you should also look at bagging a high welcome bonus offer while you’re at it. For the highest, most versatile bonus, you should opt for a card that earns transferable rewards. Here are some noteworthy welcome bonus offers.

Chip-and-PIN technology

For years, the US has lagged behind Europe in introducing chip-and-PIN technology. That’s started to change in the past decade, as most of the major banks have begun incorporating this technology into their most popular card products.

Considered more secure than magnetic strips, chip-and-PIN cards get inserted into the payment terminal. After the chip is read, card holders have to enter a PIN to approve the transaction, rather than a signature. Ultimately, chip-and-PIN technology will be more widely prevalent in Europe and will make it easier for you to complete payments while you’re abroad.

Now that you’ve got an idea of what makes for a good card to use for international travel, let’s dive into our choices of the best cards. Here are the details of each of our best international travel credit cards so you can see how they stack up.

Highlights
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 within the first three months of account opening.

Earn 10x points on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.

Earn 10x points on dining purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Earn 5x points on flight purchases made through Chase Ultimate Rewards after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.

Earn 3x points on travel worldwide after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually.

Earn 3x points on other dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out.

Receive up to $300 annually in statement credits as reimbursement for travel purchases.

Up to $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® credit every four years.

Priority Pass Select™ membership.

No foreign transaction fees.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is an excellent card for international travel because it checks most boxes. It’s great for earning tons of points and ensuring you get to your destination in comfort. The card comes loaded with premium perks like a Priority Pass Select membership for lounge access on your trip, a $300 annual travel credit and up to 10x bonus points on travel spending.

Card holders get up to a $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit every four years, enabling them to speed through the airport on international or domestic trips. Keep in mind that if you apply for and are approved for a Global Entry membership, you automatically receive TSA PreCheck.

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This card is particularly appealing for international hotel spending because you can earn up to 10x points on bookings made through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal. The portal offers great deals on hotel and rental car bookings, making this a fantastic card benefit. When you book your hotel with this card, you can even use your annual $300 travel credit toward it.

Also notably, the Chase Sapphire Reserve charges no foreign transaction fees and offers partner perks, so the card offers value both when you’re traveling abroad or staying at home. It comes with a $550 annual fee.

Highlights
Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of account opening.

$50 annual statement credits for hotel stays booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, excluding purchases that qualify for the $50 anniversary hotel credit.

Earn 2x points on other travel purchases.

Earn 3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out.

Earn 3x points on select streaming services and online grocery purchases.

No foreign transaction fees.
If the $550 annual fee on the Sapphire Reserve is more than you’re willing to spend, the Sapphire Preferred is a reasonable — and lucrative — alternative. The card has just a $95 annual fee and more pared-down travel benefits, but it still offers great value, especially as a card to use internationally. For example, card holders receive an annual $50 credit toward hotel bookings made through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

The card comes loaded with travel benefits, including trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, car rental protections and more. Notably, it charges no foreign transaction fees, so you won’t be charged extra for using the card abroad.

Overall, this is an excellent card if you want generous perks and a reasonable annual fee. The Sapphire Preferred also has the same sign-up bonus as the Sapphire Reserve even though it charges a lower annual fee. Currently, you’ll earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 within the first three months of account opening.

Highlights
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 within the first six months of card membership.

Earn 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel (up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year).

Earn 5x points on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com.

Gold elite status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors (enrollment required).

$200 annual hotel credit on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings with Amex Travel.

Up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year on incidental airline fees (enrollment required).

Up to $100 Global Entry/$85 TSA PreCheck® credit every 4.5 or 5 years (enrollment required).

Fine Hotels + Resorts program access.

Global Lounge Collection access (enrollment required).

No foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees).
If you want to travel like an elite and professional traveler, The Platinum Card from American Express is hands-down the best credit card for international travel. The Amex Platinum card comes packed with travel credits, hotel perks and elite status perks. Card holders pay a hefty $695 fee for these benefits (see rates and fees), but you may find it worthwhile if you manage to make use of them every year.

If you’re looking for an upgraded hotel experience, the Amex Platinum offers instant Marriott and Hilton Gold elite status once you enroll in the benefit. This is pretty significant, as Hilton Gold members get complimentary breakfast and bonus points. Platinum Travel Services can help you plan your dream vacation, while the International Airline Program can get you discounts on international premium economy, business and first-class seats. Meanwhile, Global Dining Access by Resy can get you a table at sought-after restaurants in the US, France, Italy, Peru and Spain. Notably, the card charges no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees).

American Express is renowned for its protection benefits, and the Amex Platinum card is no exception. Card holders get peace of mind when they book a round-trip ticket entirely with their Amex Platinum with up to $10,000 in trip cancellation insurance per trip. Additionally, you’ll get up to $500 per trip in trip delay coverage if your flight is delayed more than six hours, as well as access to the Global Assist Hotline when you travel more than 100 miles from home. The Amex Platinum is truly is the most well-rounded card, offering every type of travel benefit imaginable — especially if you’re planning to travel internationally.

Highlights
Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $4,000 within the first six months of card membership.

Earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide, plus takeout and delivery in the US.

Earn 4x points at US supermarkets on up to $25,000 per year.

Earn 3x on flights booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel.

$100 travel credit on stays booked through The Hotel Collection with Amex Travel (minimum two-night stay required).

No foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees).
The American Express Gold Card is one of the best cards for international travel thanks to a host of valuable perks and generous earnings on vacation spending. Card holders earn 4x points on restaurants worldwide, which can add up substantially — especially considering the card charges no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees). Card holders also earn 3x points on flights booked directly with the airline of their choosing or when booked through Amex Travel.

This card doesn’t charge as high of an annual fee as the Amex Platinum — you’ll pay $250 each year (see rates and fees) — but you’ll still get some of American Express’s valuable travel protections. For example, you’ll get up to $1,250 for carry-on baggage and up to $500 for checked baggage protections if your luggage is lost, damaged or stolen and you paid for the entire airfare with your Amex Gold card. Plus, if you travel more than 100 miles from home, you’ll have access to the Global Assist Hotline.**

The American Express Membership Rewards program is one of the best loyalty programs out there. Not only is the Amex Gold card great for earning Membership Rewards points on international travel, but those points will also go quite far when you’re ready to cash them in for your next trip abroad. For example, consider transferring 26,000 of your American Express Membership Rewards points to British Airways for a round-trip economy class ticket between the East Coast and Ireland (plus taxes and fees).

Highlights
Earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $500 within the first three months of account opening.

Earn 5 miles per $1 spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Travel accident insurance.

$0 annual fee.

No foreign transaction fees.
The great thing about the Capital One VentureOne Card is that it not only has no annual fee, but also still offers practical travel benefits. The card earns 5 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. All other purchases earn 1.25 miles per dollar, which is great if you want to maximize earnings on vacation spending without worrying about category bonuses.

The card also offers travel accident insurance, which is rare for a no-annual-fee card.

Capital One also has the Capital One Venture Credit Card, which charges a modest $95 annual fee and comes with added benefits, such as unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent, plus 5 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Additionally, you’ll get two free visits to the Capital One Lounge each year, no foreign transaction fees and more.

Not everyone is familiar with traveling internationally and determining what makes for a good credit card to use abroad, so we’ve assembled some of the more common questions and answers about the topic.

The best credit card for international travel depends on your travel goals and habits. If you want a card packed with luxury benefits, a great loyalty program and you don’t mind paying a $695 annual fee (see rates and fees), the Amex Platinum card is the best choice.

Using a credit card when you travel internationally is not only a good idea, it’s necessary. In most cases, you’ll need a credit card to secure a hotel and rental car. Using a credit card ensures that your purchases are protected and that you earn rewards on your spending, automatically working your way toward your next vacation.

To avoid credit card fees when traveling internationally, use a card with no foreign transaction fees — you’ll save at least 3% in fees by taking this step. All of our best cards for international travel listed above don’t charge a foreign transaction fee. Before applying for a card you intend to use internationally, read the fine print to ensure you’re not on the hook for these pesky fees.

The best credit card to use while traveling in Europe is one with chip-and-PIN technology. Many issuers are taking steps to offer this technology on their credit cards. If you’re especially interested on a card with chip-and-PIN ability, check the fine print before applying.

Click here for rates and fees of the Amex Platinum card.
Click here for rates and fees of the Amex Gold card.

*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. **Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit card currently available.
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December 30, 2022
The 26 best-selling travel products our readers couldn’t stop buying in 2022 | CNN Underscored

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There are thousands of travel products out there. From checked luggage to carry-on bags, travel backpacks, neck pillows, toiletry bags, headphones, portable chargers and much more, there’s a lot to choose from. At CNN Underscored, our goal is to help make the decision on what to get easier in order to help you travel better, smarter and more comfortably.

As the year comes to a close, we’re looking at the travel products that our readers can’t hit the road without. If you’re looking to boost your travel wardrobe before heading off on your first vacation of 2023, consider one of these Underscored reader favorites.

~~$20~~ $10 at Amazon

Mavogel

Our pick for the best sleep mask overall is a favorite among our readers, too — and for good reason. It’s got a nose wire and side covers that help to block out any and all light so you can catch some sleep on any long-haul flight.

~~$18~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

There’s nothing worse than streaming your favorite TV shows or movies from a plane only for your hand to go numb from holding your phone. Not to mention a sore neck from looking down at your phone! This ingenious phone mount clips onto the tray table on the seat in front of you to provide hands-free viewing.

$175 at July

July

The July Carry-All Backpack is a show-stopper. Not only does it have space to store everything you’ll need to carry with you — including space to store a 16-inch laptop — but it doesn’t sacrifice on style. Available in four colors, we love this backpack, too.

$275 at Away

Away

The Away Carry-On has a cult following for good reason. It’s an expertly crafted, durable piece of luggage that we dubbed the best overall hard-shell carry-on luggage in our testing. Not only are there plenty of colors available for every style, but it’s available at a reasonable price point.

$40 at Amazon

Amazon

This is our pick for the best travel pillow overall — in fact, we’ve dubbed it the “Goldilocks of travel pillows.” Readers love it, too, for its firm support and portability. The memory foam interior collapses to half its size, making it a great pick for easy transport.

~~$42~~ $30 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel backpack is not only available at a reasonable price point, but it’s got all of the storage you’ll need for a trip — whether you’re traveling for business or leisure. It can hold everything from laptops to tablets and offers compartments for small accessories like passports and charging devices you’ll take with you on the go.

~~$84~~ $76 at Cadence

Cadence

We love these modular, magnetic and leakproof containers — and our readers do, too! The TSA-compliant, 100% leakproof, customizable Cadence Capsules are a perfect option for transporting your liquids, gels, creams and more.

$21 at Amazon

Amazon

Packing cubes are a must-have for travelers. Our readers loved this set of six bags from Veken. The set is reasonably priced at just over $20 and included, you’ll get an extra large cube, large cube, medium cube, small cube, laundry bag and a travel shoe bag to keep your dirty shoes away from your clean clothes.

~~$35~~ $33 at Amazon

Twelve South

This simple accessory is a game-changer for travelers. The Bluetooth transmitter plugs into the in-flight entertainment system, allowing you to get the sound through directly to your wireless headphones. At just $35 — or less, when on sale — this is something you won’t travel without again.

~~$14~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

This dual-purpose passport and vaccine card holder will keep some of your most important travel documents safe while you’re in transit. Not only will it keep your things in one place, but it will protect your personal information with its RFID-blocking technology.

~~$230~~ $168 at Amazon

Amazon

Our pick for the best budget checked suitcase offers loads of storage in a stylish frame, available in 15 color options. We love this suitcase for its smooth-rolling wheels, high capacity and lightweight when empty, meaning you can pack more inside without nearing your airline’s weight limit.

$98 at Beis

Beis

Weekender bags are a staple in any traveler’s wardrobe. This one from Beis is a favorite, as it’s priced at less than $100 and offers a great amount of storage, including a zippered bottom compartment for storing your shoes and other travel essentials away from your clothes.

$295 at July

July

This bag holds a lot for a carry-on bag. In fact, its 42-liter volume is among the the maximum that’s allowed inside the cabin. Readers love, too, that it’s got an ejectable battery that will keep your devices charged on the go.

$26 at Amazon

Amazon

Looking for more packing cubes than the standard set of six? This eight-pack means you’ll get more space to store all of your travel essentials on every trip. At a price that won’t break the bank, this is a quality set to boost your organization.

$295 at Away

Away

If you’re seeking more space in your carry-on bag, the Away The Bigger Carry-On is a solid option. Featuring all of the best components of the classic Away Carry-On, this version can hold more while still fitting in most airline overhead bins.

$14 at Amazon

Amazon

Leak-proof bottles are essential when you travel. After all, who wants to end up at their destination with a mess of shampoos and moisturizers all over their clothes? CNN Underscored readers loved this four-pack of silicone leak-proof bottles, which are available in fun color sets to match your luggage.

~~$26~~ $16 at Amazon

Amazon

Planning to travel abroad? An international travel adapter is essential for keeping your devices charged up while you’re on the road. Our readers loved this reasonably priced option, which works in more than 150 countries.

$78 at Beis

Beis

This travel backpack is perfect for both overnight trips and for carrying on a plane with all of your must-have essentials in reach. We love its simple design and useful features, such as room to store a laptop, water bottle pockets, padded shoulder straps and much more.

~~$16~~ $14 at Amazon

Amazon

Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family in tow, this drink caddy is perfect for keeping your hands free. It can fit both drinks and phones, as well as any other travel essentials right on the handle of your suitcase.

~~$16~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

Traveling with a digital luggage scale is essential. They’re small and take up little space, but they can save you a lot of money — and stress — when it comes to avoiding overweight baggage fees. Our readers loved this option from Freetoo, which is available for just $13 when on sale.

~~$50~~ $40 at eBags

eBags

Underscored readers loved this set of six packing cubes from eBags. Included, you’ll get one large cube, one medium cube, one small cube and three slim cubes. Available in three different color options, each of the cubes features a mesh top for easy viewing.

~~$50~~ $42 at Amazon

Amazon

We love a crossbody bag for travel. This versatile option from Travelon can go straight from the airport to touring a new destination. It’s got plenty of organizational features to keep all of your travel credit cards and other essentials in place, and it also comes with RFID-blocking technology.

$19 at Amazon

Amazon

Keep your luggage protected all while remaining TSA-compliant with these travel luggage locks. The set of four means you’ll have enough for each of your bags — or for each member of the family. For just under $20, the peace of mind you’ll get from knowing your belongings are protected with these locks is worth it.

~~$27~~ $23 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel duffel bag doubles as a weekender bag, offering space to store clothes and other essentials for a quick getaway. At just over $20, it won’t break the bank, and you don’t have to sacrifice on style, either — it’s available in 35 colors and designs.

$16 at Amazon

Amazon

Trust us: travel shoe bags are essential. They’re a simple packing tool, as they’ll keep the dirt and grime on your shoes away from your clothes. This set of 12 is transparent, so you’ll be able to see which pair of shoes is in each bag when you get to your destination.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

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December 30, 2022
Mercury retrograde is here. Here’s everything you need to make it through | CNN Underscored

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On Dec. 29, Mercury will go retrograde for the fourth and final time in 2022. During this stretch, which ends on Jan. 18, 2023, you may hear all sorts of things being blamed on the planet of communication’s retrograde period, from technology mishaps to misunderstandings with friends and loved ones.

But what exactly is Mercury retrograde, why do people make such a big deal about it and is there anything that can be done to avoid its pitfalls and blunders?

Constance Stellas, an astrologist and author of the Guided Astrological Journals, says, “Mercury retrograde describes a time period that comes 3 or 4 times a year when Mercury, the planet of communication, appears to be moving backwards in his orbit. In truth, it’s an optical illusion.” This illusion occurs because Mercury is the closest planet to earth, and its orbit is shorter than the earth’s orbit. “In the retrograde period,” Stellas explains, “Mercury speeds by the earth and like a fast car kicks up dust as it whizzes by. The “dust” or mental confusion can accompany this planetary motion.”

You may have heard people warn of electronics going haywire during the Mercury retrograde period, and that’s because of the planet’s connection to all things involved in communication.

“Let’s look at the meaning of Mercury and then see how we can use his mercurial power,” Stellas says. “Mercury was the messenger god and he ruled all communication and thought-filled connections between people as well as documents. Thinking clearly, thinking slowly, reaching for words, remembering names — all these functions are ruled by Mercury.

Though it may sound like cause to head inside and lock the doors, Stellas says there are some upsides to the turbulent Mercury retrograde period. “The message during retrogrades should be to slow down and take a mental vacation. Re-flect, re-do, re-imagine.”

As Mercury’s retrograde period approaches, here are our favorite gift ideas — for giving and for self-giving! — that can help you to navigate the chaos of technology gone awry and communication gone hinky, and to soothe you when inevitable disruptions occur.

“This retrograde period is in the sign of Capricorn. Pluto, god of the underworld, is also currently in Capricorn and will influence the tone of this retrograde period,” Stellas says. “Pluto urges us to transform, to uncover deep thoughts and insights into personal problems and global concerns.” The timing is spot-on, with this retrograde period falling at the start of a new year, with its “what will happen?” vibe.

To help you survive the turbulent retrograde period, “Get a personal crystal,” Stellas says. “You can find one at a mineral store or a new age shop. Go to the store and see if a quartz crystal “winks,” at you; if it feels comfortable in your left hand, or if it just appeals to you. If so, that is a personal crystal for you.” If you can’t make it to a new age shop, buy a crystal set and see which among them most speaks to you.

Manifestation candles make a nice gift — if you want to make it a gift to self, no one will argue! These 6 oz natural soy wax scented candles are hand-crafted with crystals and herbs, and are available in 5 variations: Love, Abundance, Sweet Dreams, Happiness or Healing.

“Soothing” and “calming” are key words to bear in mind during this time of upheaval. “Mercury retrograde is a great time to slow down,” says Annabel Gat, a senior astrologer at Vice and the author of “The Moon Sign Guide” and “The Astrology of Love & Sex.” “I’m not sure how bath products, pajamas or a beautiful journal to vent out your Mercury retrograde confusion could go wrong!”

A weighted blanket mimics the feeling of being held, which signals the brain that it is safe to release tension — which can be beneficial during times of stress. The Bearaby Napper’s woven design allows for airflow, making it a perfect choice for people who find standard weighted blankets too hot, or for those who are looking for a warm weather alternative; our reviewer calls it “among the best weighed blankets we’ve ever tried.”

Another entry in the “clever and useful” category of gifts is the Lost and Found Labels from Tile. Just stick them onto jackets, lunchboxes, water bottles or anything else easily left behind and loseable. Activate the labels with the Tile app, and then if anything is lost, people who have found the item can (hopefully!) scan the QR code and access the return details.

The popularity of weighted blankets inspired other uses for the anti-anxiety technology, like this weighted bathrobe for adults. The super soft, quilted robe comes in three weights — 12, 15 or 17 pounds — and a choice of soothing gray or calming navy.

To help you prepare for the year ahead, “Pick up a copy of The Llewellyn’s 2023 Daily Planetary Guide,” Stellas says. “It’s perfect for keeping track of what the planets are up to throughout the whole year.”

Space enthusiasts and astrology lovers alike will love this very cool planetarium projector, which beams accurate star patterns on a ceiling or wall for any date and time you specify. The projector can replicate more than 8,000 stars and 60 constellations, with adjustable speeds to simulate the Earth’s rotation.

Anything that makes life a little easier will be welcome during mercury’s retrograde period. This little thing is such a handy tool, anyone will thank you for it! It has a tiny ceramic blade that precisely and easily cuts through boxes and packaging tape but is safe to the touch, and a built-in magnet so you can stick it on the fridge for easy access.

It may not look like much, but our associate manager of business development, Hayley Kinne, says of this back and neck massage tool, “I truly don’t know how I endured my regular shoulder stress spasms before this magical, massaging miracle device entered my life.”

“Another great practice during Mercury retrograde is a screen fast,” Stellas says, “or at least carving out times when you are not glued to the internet, computer and phone.” One way to start making a break from screens is to use a paper planner, like this weekly planner with plenty of room to jot down to-dos, goals and notes in addition to appointments and events.

“Don’t forget the value of journaling,” Stellas says. “If you’re looking for an individual guide, check out my Guided Astrological Journals for every sun sign.”

Mercury retrograde encourages us to slow down, and for many people that means tucking into a good book. For fans of reading in bed, this handy, bendable neck light is a game-changer. Complete with three color modes (yellow, warm white and cool white), three brightness levels and up to 80 hours of light from the included rechargeable battery, it’s also great for camping or hands-free repairs.

To usher in a new perspective, as well as to calm the mind, Stellas suggests buying a kaleidoscope. “Watching the different patterns as you turn the dial calms the mind,” she says.

This particular retrograde period begins at the very end of the year, when cold weather has set in in many places. This is a good time to upgrade or replace your pajamas with a winter-weight set that can take you through to the first chilly days of spring.

Massaging beauty rollers have become wildly popular, and if you’ve had your eye on one but haven’t pulled the trigger, this is a great time to treat yourself. We especially like ice rollers, which reduce puffiness and calm inflamed skin in addition to providing a soothing, gentle facial massage.

For a turn on traditional scrapbooking, this photo album journal is a great way to revisit the past during Mercury retrograde. Choose from white inside pages or black sheets with transparent photo insert bags.

Created for anyone who needs a good excuse to light a candle when things go wrong, Anecdote Candles’ Astrological Storming candle was created to smell like full moons and Mercury in retrograde. Top notes include hints of apple and pear, with bottom notes of exotic violet, sandalwood and incense.

If you’re looking for a Mercury retrograde gift idea, pairing the photo journal with a mini instant camera makes a thoughtful and surprising present for a stressed-out friend or loved one.

As Gat says, this isn’t the time to splurge on big new purchases, but it may be the time to buy items you’ve had your eye on. If you don’t already have a portable phone charger, this is the time to get one; the Anker charger was our pick for best portable charger.

“Mercury retrograde may find us running into friends from the past, or even revisiting a retro style,” Gat says. “A book about a scene or era from the past could be fun to peruse!” This gorgeous coffee table book about the art deco era certainly fits the bill!

“Astrologers famously advise against making big purchases or electronics during Mercury retrograde,” Gat says. “But if there is a purchase you have been itching to make for a long time, now could be a good time to reconsider purchasing it. Mercury retrograde is all about the ‘re’ words, so revisiting those shoes you really wanted to buy but didn’t at the time may work out.” Record player is, of course, an “re-” word and a necessary investment if you plan to purchase a rereleased album.

Slowing down is a major theme of Mercury retrograde, and a period of quietude is also a great time to pick up a new hobby or devote yourself to the study of a new subject. “If someone who has been interested in learning more about astrology but hasn’t had the time for it decides they want to jump in during Mercury retrograde, why not check out my two books, ‘The Moon Sign Guide’ or ‘The Astrology of Love & Sex,’” Gat suggests.

A smart way to cope with the turmoil of Mercury retrograde is to slow way down. Go ahead and cancel plans you’re not that excited about, or take some items off your to-do list. Use the reclaimed time to read or listen to music while relaxing with a cup of calming tea; look for teas made from herbs like lavender, lemon balm or mint that can help to soothe tattered nerves.

If you’re looking for a Mercury in retrograde gift idea, this spa-themed gift set fits the bill. The set features bath salts, a spray and a body oil, all of which are made with essential oils and crystals — everything you’d need to keep calm during Mercury’s turbulent retrograde period.

Mercury retrograde kits come in many forms! For those with a more spiritual bent, ritual kits offer a convenient introduction to cleansing rituals; this kit contains cleansing botanicals and intention candles, plus a candle holder and abalone shell for the botanicals, and instructions for using them to create a ritual of your own during Mercury retrograde.

Of course, one of the main themes of Mercury’s retrograde period is technology mishaps — and no amount of calming teas will help when you have an accident involving an expensive piece of tech. If you’re prone to clumsiness, protect your phone with a drop-tested military-grade phone case. This slim silicone phone case offers a lot of protection without the bulkiness of similar models, and it comes in 26 color options.

Because technology mishaps are so common, another smart investment to make during Mercury retrograde is an external hard drive for backing up your important documents. Our reviewer gave My Passport high marks for storage space and its “stylish yet rugged package.”

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December 29, 2022
Nintendo Switch tips & tricks: 11 things Switch owners need to know | CNN Underscored

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So you finally got a new Nintendo Switch. Congratulations! Nintendo’s mega-popular console is a gateway to some of the best titles out there right now, whether you’re looking to get lost in Pokémon Scarlet on a plane ride or have a raucous Super Smash Bros. party with friends in the living room.

But while the Switch is a pretty user-friendly device, there are a few things you should know about in order to get the absolute most out of your new system. So whether you’re rocking the shiny new Switch OLED, the standard Switch or the ultra-portable Switch Lite, here are some tips and tricks — as well as some handy accessory recommendations — to keep in mind.

Nintendo

Once your Switch is set up, you’re going to want to add some friends so that you can keep tabs on what your buddies are playing — and boggle at just how many hours they’ve put into Animal Crossing.

There are a few ways to do this, but you’ll want to start by selecting your profile icon from the top left of the home screen and then selecting Add Friend. From there, you can search by friend code (more on that in a sec), search for local users that are in the same room or search for users you’ve played with recently. And if you’re looking to give out your own friend code, you can find it right at the top of the Profile menu.

Mike Andronico/CNN

The Nintendo Switch doesn’t offer much in the way of personalization, but you can at least switch between light and dark modes for the main menu. To do this, simply go to System Settings > Themes and pick between Basic White and Basic Black. We’ve been team Basic Black for life ever since we made the switch, but to each their own.

Michael Andronico/CNN

Want to play some handheld Mario Kart on the couch without disturbing your loved ones? After years and years of waiting, you can finally pair your Bluetooth headphones with your Nintendo Switch. To do this, put your headphones or earbuds in pairing mode, go to System Settings, select Bluetooth audio and choose Pair Device. From there, simply pick your headphones from the list and you should be good to go.

4. Get a microSD card to expand your storage

Unless you’re dead-set on buying all of your games physically, we’d recommend that almost every Nintendo Switch owner pick up a microSD card to expand the system’s internal storage. Your system’s storage (32GB for the Switch and Switch Lite; 64GB for the Switch OLED) will fill up fast with games, saves and screenshots, so we suggest going with at least a 128GB card (like this popular SanDisk model that goes for as low as $16) so that you can keep your entire game library with you at all times.

Psyonix Games

You’ve already dropped a few hundred bucks on that new Switch, and we don’t blame you if you don’t feel like shelling out even more for new games. Fortunately, there are some great Switch titles on the eShop that are completely free to download.

To find the free stuff, open the Nintendo eShop from the main menu, select Search/Browse and select Price Range. From there, scroll all the way down for free titles, which include some excellent games like Fortnite, Pokemon Unite, Rocket League and Apex Legends.

At this point, we’d say that a Nintendo Switch Online membership is all but essential for Switch owners. The standard Switch Online membership costs $20 for a year, and is necessary for playing games online as well as being able to back your saves up to the cloud — two things you’ll likely want to do. The service also gets you access to a sizable library of NES and SNES classics that include The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario World.

Those serious about retro gaming will want to consider the Switch Online + Expansion Pack plan. For $50 a year, this premium option has all of the benefits of Switch Online plus a collection of Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games, as well as access to special in-game content such as the Happy Home Paradise DLC for Animal Crossing: New Horizons, the Splatoon 2 Octo Expansion and the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Booster Pack.

Nintendo

If you have a big Switch library, digging through all of your games and apps to find something specific can be a bit cumbersome. Fortunately, Nintendo recently made it easier to organize your game collection with Groups, a feature that lets you easily sort software into different folders. To access Groups, simply go to the home screen, scroll all the way to the right, select All Software, and press the L button. This will pull up the Groups menu, which will allow you to organize your library however you see fit. Perhaps you want to sort your games by genre, or make a dedicated folder for streaming apps once it’s time to binge YouTube and Hulu. It’s all up to you!

8. Take screenshots and videos

As you’ll play your Switch, you’ll undoubtedly run into some gorgeous vistas while exploring Hyrule or pull off a sick play in a heated Fortnite game. To capture these moments, simply press the capture button on your left Joy-Con (or the left side of your controller) to take a screenshot, or hold it down for a few seconds to take a 30 second video. From there, you can go to the Album menu on the home screen to edit and post your captures to a variety of social media sites.

9. Download your cloud saves — and turn on automatic backup

If you just upgraded to a new Switch model and have Switch Online, knowing how to download your cloud saves is key. To do this, highlight the game you want to download a save for from the main menu, press the + button and scroll down to Save Data Cloud. If there’s a newer save available from the cloud than the one on your system, you’ll have the option to download it here.

You can expedite this process a bit by turning on automatic save data backups. If you want to do that, go to System Settings > Data Management > Save Data Cloud and then select Settings. From there you have the option to both backup and download cloud saves automatically, making it much easier to have your most up-to-date save regardless of which Switch you’re playing on.

We don’t blame you for never wanting to leave the house these days, but if you plan on doing so with your Switch, a carrying case is a must. There are a ton of options for the various Switch models available, but this $24 Orzly model is one of the most popular and cheapest cases out there for the standard Switch and Switch OLED. If you have a Switch Lite, you might want to consider a protective shell like this well-liked $15 JETech option.

The Nintendo Switch isn’t quite an entertainment powerhouse, but if it’s the only device you have handy at the time, it can double as a decent streaming tablet with access to a few apps. YouTube, Hulu, Twitch, Crunchyroll and Funimation are all available on the Nintendo eShop for free, giving you a few options for watching videos and powering through entire seasons of shows when you need a break from gaming.

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December 23, 2022
I’ll never travel without the Twelve South AirFly Bluetooth adapter again. Here’s why | CNN Underscored

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Very seldom does a product come along that completely changes how we travel. There are already such a vast number of products that have elevated how we fly — from ultra-supportive neck pillows to blackout eye masks and even AirTags that help us track our luggage at every step of the journey. The Twelve South AirFly Duo is another game-changer that every frequent — and occasional — traveler should carry with them.

Simply put, with this Bluetooth wireless transmitter, it becomes possible to watch and listen to films, TV shows and more from an in-flight entertainment system via your own wireless headphones. In other words, you can say goodbye to the often-terrible airline-supplied wired headphones and keep your favorite noise-canceling Bluetooth headphones in your ears.

A travel must-have for watching in-flight entertainment with your own headphones

We swear by the small but mighty AirFly Duo. The Bluetooth wireless transmitter is a fantastic packing addition for any traveler who’s keen to use their favorite headphones without sacrificing quality sound. It’s small and lightweight, extremely easy to pair with Bluetooth devices — including non-Apple devices! — and carries 20+ hours of use on a single charge. If you travel often, the AirFly Duo is a sound investment.

Ultimately, the AirFly Duo solves one of the most annoying problems about air travel: the inability to listen to the in-flight entertainment system with your own quality set of headphones or earbuds. AirFly calls itself “the missing link between wireless headphones and wired headphone jacks,” meaning that you can also use AirFly well beyond the airplane, including on treadmills, gaming devices and more. The product works by plugging into the headphone jack of almost any electronic device, connecting to your Bluetooth wireless headphones and, really, that’s it.

It’s the simplicity of the AirFly Duo that we particularly love. Upon receiving the device, you’ll get the AirFly itself — which measures a compact 4.1 inches — a quick start direction booklet, charging cable and a handy drawstring protective pouch, which can easily fit in a travel backpack or even in your pocket. Really, no more is needed, and we appreciate that Twelve South gives you just the essentials without overdoing it.

Emily McNutt

Pairing the AirFly with your favorite set of wireless headphones couldn’t be easier. After fully charging the device with the included charging cable, we were able to pair our set of AirPods Pro within 30 seconds with the push of a couple of buttons — one on the AirFly and one on the AirPods case. During our testing on a nearly completely full airplane, the AirFly had no difficulties producing sound without interfering with other Bluetooth headphones in the small space.

What we particularly loved about the AirFly Duo is the fact that you can share audio with your travel partner. Because the device can be connected to two wireless Bluetooth devices at the same time, you and your travel partner can simultaneously watch the same movie in flight. Say goodbye to starting and pausing a film on your individual screens at the exact same time — the AirFly Duo ensures you stay in sync during your film or TV show.

When we tested the AirFly Duo on our transatlantic flight from London to New York, the device’s battery lasted throughout the entire journey. According to Twelve South, the AirFly Duo can last 20 hours on a single charge. And even if you do need to charge it, we love that you can do so while simultaneously using it via the external plug. So long as there’s a power source nearby — including from a TSA-approved battery pack — you can keep your AirFly going.

Even if you’re not an Apple user, the AirFly is compatible with devices beyond AirPods as well. And, if the Duo doesn’t suit your needs, there are other AirFly options out there. There’s also the AirFly Pro ($55 at Amazon), which, in addition to being capable of connecting two sets of headphones, also allows you to put the device into Receive Mode to send audio from your phone to a car or speaker.

There’s plenty to love about the AirFly Duo. From its small and compact size, including the handy drawstring pouch, to the ease in connecting the device to your favorite headphones, it’s a terrific product that travelers should be excited to try out.

There’s so much to love about the AirFly Duo that it was difficult for us to pinpoint any flaws. However, we found it a bit annoying that when turning the AirFly off and then back on again, there was a slight lag in connecting our Bluetooth-equipped wireless headphones. Though after a few seconds, the two devices paired on their own without an issue. If nothing else, you may just have to be patient and not attempt to “over-pair” your AirFly. Let it do its thing — because it really does it well.

If we’re going to be very picky, the AirFly Duo isn’t exactly cheap. At just under $50 per device, it is an investment. That being said, it’s an investment that we believe is worth it — especially if you travel frequently.

Will we be flying without the AirFly Duo again? Probably not. Overall, the ease of the device makes it worth carrying along on every trip. It’s compact enough to store in any travel bag, easy enough to connect with a number of devices and perhaps best of all, you can say goodbye to airline-supplied headphones forever. If you travel frequently — or seldom but have other places to use the transmitter — the AirFly devices are an absolute no-brainer.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

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December 21, 2022
Why AirTags are the ultimate travel companion this upcoming holiday season | CNN Underscored

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The holiday travel rush is in full swing. As parts of the country brace for potential disruptions, some travelers are trying to beat the weather and get to their destination sooner. Planes and hotels are widely full, travelers are facing long queues, cancellations, massive crowds and plenty of other travel nightmares. But perhaps the most frustrating is when your luggage goes missing. You’ve got to somehow track down your belongings that were in the airline’s care and then wait to be reunited — all while trying to enjoy the start of your long-awaited vacation or time home for the holidays. As far as travel nightmares go, lost luggage is up there as one of the worst.

To be honest up front, I am great at strategically losing things — or rather, losing stuff with style. (I hope you appreciate the “Toy Story” reference.) So when a product comes along that’s a perfect way to keep track of my belongings — especially when traveling — I’m adding it to my travel bag.

I’ve been a big fan of Apple’s $29 item tracker, dubbed AirTag. The long-rumored AirTag product finally launched last spring, and while it’s not the first item tracker to exist, it has two key features that set it apart from the rest to make it the ultimate travel companion: access to the Find My network and Precision Finding technology.

The Federal Aviation Administration has ruled that having an AirTag in your luggage is permitted and, in fact, not a safety hazard. The devices only contain 0.1 grams of lithium, which falls below the FAA’s limit.

“Luggage tracking devices powered by lithium metal cells that have 0.3 grams or less of lithium can be used on checked baggage,” the FAA said in a statement. “Apple AirTags meet this threshold; other luggage tracking devices may not.”

But, you may be wondering what makes them so special? Let’s explain why.

The ultimate travel companion

The Apple AirTag is the perfect tool to bring on your next trip. Its simplicity, functionality and size will ensure you never lose track of your bags while on the go. The peace of mind that your bags have made it on your trip is worth the reasonable price tag.

The most important thing to know about the AirTag is that it operates on Apple’s Find My network. That’s the same network that powers Find My for all your Apple devices: iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Apple Watch, AirPods and Mac. It’s a tool that makes it easy to track down exactly where your device is and even plays a tone for easy locating.

It’s also the sheer size of the network that gives the item tracker a leg up. The Find My network is made up of over a billion connected devices. So, as you’re walking around an airport and there’s an AirTag in your luggage, it can be pinged by devices that make up that network and pinpoint yours on a map. In our testing, it was more reliable and quicker to update than a competing Tile tracker.

Now, in a pretty dense area like an airport — say Newark Liberty International (EWR) or New York–Kennedy (JFK) — having so many devices around enables frequent location updates for your AirTag, allowing for more accurate location tracking. The opposite can be said for a rural spot of New Jersey versus New York City. The more devices your AirTag can reach, the more accurate and up-to-date the AirTag’s location is.

And yes, you need an iPhone to use AirTag. You can set it up by holding it near your iPhone and using the on-screen prompts to name it and tie it to your Apple ID. Now, from a privacy standpoint, Apple’s been issuing updates to address common issues with smart trackers and some of the larger stalking issues with the AirTag.

Currently, you’ll get notified if your iPhone finds an AirTag near you that’s not registered, along with a notification if you depart without an AirTag that is registered to you. Apple is working to speed up those notifications. With the “Precision Finding” feature, Apple will locate an unwanted or unregistered AirTag near you. Apple’s also released a Tracker Detection app in the Play Store for Android, which can be used to find an AirTag that might be around you without an iPhone. Apple will also make it more apparent when setting up an AirTag that there are some negative use cases and ways to report them to the authorities.

Jacob Krol

During my initial testing of AirTag, I flew from Newark to Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), and it was a pretty great test. I placed an AirTag in the inside pocket of my suitcase and said goodbye as I checked the luggage. I also had one in a leather loop accessory on my backpack.

Within the Find My app on my iPhone, I was able to select “Jake’s Luggage” and view it on a map. I could see where my luggage was in real time — still at the front of Newark Airport. And while I didn’t physically have a line of sight on my luggage, I did have peace of mind that it was on its way to meet me at my final destination.

And sure enough, when I checked it a bit later while at the gate, the luggage was closer to the aircraft. By the time I boarded and was in my seat rocking a pair of AirPods Max, I could see that the luggage was safely under me and a little farther back in the plane’s cargo hold — it seemed like I got a better seat than my suitcase. And while airplane mode is required while on the aircraft, even as we flew over the East Coast of the United States, I could see the luggage AirTag updating in real time.

Ultimately, it was the peace of mind during the flight that the AirTag gave me, and that’s much more than what I previously got when traveling. The $29 AirTag addition effectively lowered my stress. And when it came time to deplane and make my way through PBI to baggage claim, I kept tabs on my luggage in the Find My app. It was a bit slower to update as I meandered my way through a pretty quiet terminal, but I could at least get the gist that my bag was on the ground.

Jacob Krol

While I hoped the carousel would have been confusing enough to use Precision Finding, I could immediately spot my red Away bag. Precision Finding uses augmented reality, or AR, to give you large directional arrows along with distances to find your AirTag on an iPhone 11 or newer. It’s pretty awesome and is a game changer for item trackers to offer such pinpoint accuracy.

If you want to supercharge the AirTag as the ultimate travel companion, it’s worth checking if your airline offers any luggage-tracking services of its own. For instance, Delta will keep tabs on your bag and update you via its app for Android or iOS. In it, you can track the bags attached to your itinerary as they’re scanned at each part of the journey and make their way through the airport and onto the plane.

From dropping off your bag at check-in until it’s loaded onto the plane and then onto the baggage claim carousel, AirTag combined with an airline’s bag-tracking app feels like a superpower.

Jacob Krol

The one downfall of the AirTag? There’s no built-in key ring hole, like on the Chipolo or Tile tracker, which is a shortcoming. Keep in mind that while you’re spending $29 on the tracker, you’ll then want to get an accessory especially to make it suitable for travel.

If you have a pocket or a secure spot to tuck the AirTag in within your luggage, you don’t necessarily need an additional accessory. But considering that it will be attached to your luggage, we think it’s worth the investment of a keychain or loop accessory. We’ve rounded up a plethora of AirTag accessories from lanyards to keychains, and even some that you can customize.

One of our favorites is the Belkin Secure AirTag Holder, which physically clamps the AirTag and ensures that it won’t fall out. It will cost you around $13 when not on sale, which is much more inexpensive than Apple’s leather keychain or leather loop.

The perfect AirTag accessort

If you’re going to travel with an AirTag, you don’t want to lose it in your luggage. Consider this secure AirTag holder and lock it in place on your bag so it doesn’t get misplaced.

While I haven’t physically lost my luggage with an AirTag attached, I’ve used it for a few trips and use one on my keys every day. If you’re good at losing things with style or have a habit of misplacing things — and have an iPhone — the AirTag makes a lot of sense. And as you’re making the final packing checks ahead of holiday travel, it’s worth spending a little bit more and getting an AirTag for the peace of mind alone.

And if you’re going to see family, you can get four AirTags for $99 if you feel like gifting. If not, get one for yourself for $29.

AirTags for the whole family

If you want to make sure the whole family is able to track their bags this holiday travel season, consider a four-pack of AirTags.

Looking for a credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards.

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December 20, 2022
29 splurge Christmas and holiday gifts over $100 for the luxury traveler in your life | CNN Underscored

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Shopping for the traveler who only enjoys the finest doesn’t have to be difficult. Ensure they’re equipped with whatever five-star luxury hotel stay or vacation they have planned for the new year with new top-of-the-line travel gear.

If you’re looking to splurge this holiday season on your favorite traveler, we’ve got a list of go-to splurge gifts over $100 for every travel lover in your life. From fun luggage to luxury loungewear to the best noise-canceling headphones on the market, we’ve combed the internet to make your holiday gift list that much easier to get through.

Not focused on luxury? Click here to check out the 48 best holiday and Christmas gifts for the frequent traveler in your life.

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$295 at Away

Give the gift of Y2K nostalgia with Away’s new early-2000s-inspired limited-edition collection. Designed to transport travelers back in time and to the places they love, the Y2K Collection features the brand’s iconic polycarbonate suitcases in white, black and blue with an iridescent finish. The shine captures the magic and luster of the holiday season, too. Plus, you’re still gifting a piece of quality luggage — in fact, Away’s The Carry-On took the title of the best overall hard-shell carry-on luggage in our testing thanks to its smart features, thoughtful organization and chic design.

~~$168~~ $143 at Cadence

Cadence Capsules are a must-have for any traveler. The customizable, leakproof and magnetic pods can cling together to form a hive of all a traveler’s necessities from medicines to lotions, jewelry and much more. The Build Your 12 set from Cadence is fully customizable for the favorite traveler in your life, from the color of the Capsules to the descriptive tiles on the lid of each. They’re TSA-approved, too, so they’re a great option even for travelers who swear by traveling without a checked bag. Check out our review of Cadence Capsules here.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

~~$300~~ $245 at Amazon

For the travel-obsessed bibliophile in your life, give the gift of taking a whole library on vacation. The Amazon Kindle Oasis is our pick for the best overall e-reader thanks to the access to Amazon’s library as well as an adjustable display, comfortable design and basic, easy-to-use controls.

$500 at Dyson

For the person in your life who needs perfect hair no matter their location, Dyson’s Corrale Hair Straighter is a cordless piece of magic. It should never be left home thanks to its supreme hair-straightening capabilities, universal voltage (though you’ll likely still need a travel adapter for international travel) and a flight-ready feature that leaves the stresses of traveling to other tresses. This gift set comes with the straightener and case, charging dock, detangling comb, travel pouch, paddle brush and charging cable.

$175 at July

We love July. The brand’s travel products are built to last, offer all the amenities a traveler could want and are incredibly chic. Included in that is the Carry All Backpack Series 2, which is available in four different colors. It has a capacity of 20 liters and features a hidden pocket with magnetic closure, a 16-inch laptop sleeve and a five-year warranty.

$135 at Allbirds

You can always count on Allbirds to help you shop consciously, and the brand makes some of our favorite shoes for traveling. The new Pacer collection is made for the city walker and is also crafted from 100% plastic- and petroleum-free plant leather. You’ll hardly be able to just buy one pair as a gift because once you slip these on, you’re good for day-to-night exploring.

~~$775~~ $700 at Paravel

For the serial over-packer in your life, consider gifting them space to store all their travel necessities. Paravel is one of our favorite travel brands out there. Not only are its products versatile and created with sustainability at the top of mind, but they’re also incredibly chic — like this Aviator set of suitcases. This duo features the Aviator Carry-On, which we loved in our testing, and the Aviator Grand, a 28-inch checked bag. The Aviator line features a 10-year limited warranty, so these bags will be with your favorite traveler for the long haul.

$229 at Bloomingdale’s

If traveling in style is important, that should include how jewelry travels, too. Wolf 1834’s travel jewelry cases have been crafted with care since the brand was founded nearly 190 years ago. Made of leather, this jewelry case features multiple compartments, ring bars and pouches to keep your valuables shiny, untangled and, most importantly, safe while on the go. A zipper enclosure ensures everything stays in place.

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$150 at Ultimate Ears

If you’re buying for someone who loves music and wants to take their favorite tunes on the go, a quality portable speaker is essential. This option from Ultimate Ears took the title of best all-around portable speaker in our testing, thanks to a spectacular 360-degree sound that’s packed into a waterproof and dustproof canister. And, at a price that won’t break the bank, this makes for a fantastic gift.

$250 at Bloomingdale’s

Shinola’s Vachetta Leather Travel Watch Case is the perfect small statement piece for someone who loves to travel. And what better way to help them stay punctual than by keeping their timepieces safe on the go. Available in two colors — navy and tan — it’s made of leather with a fabric lining and zip closure. The case holds two watches and is padded inside for added protection.

~~$150~~ $105 at Bloomingdale’s

Keeping your electronics in order can be one of the more frustrating parts of travel. Between tangled cords, small items lost at the bottom of your bag and different storage spaces for everything, staying organized can be a massive task. The Royce New York Leather Tech Accessory Travel Case is such a great gift to help keep your travel lover from unraveling during transit. It has space to store everything from TSA-approved power banks to adapters, laptop chargers, USB cables, headphones and more inside the three interior elasticized loops, interior slip pocket and interior mesh zip pocket.

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$220 at Amazon

This 25-inch expandable bag from Travelpro took the title of best soft-sided checked luggage in our testing. It’s an extremely well-rounded suitcase that can cater to all kinds of travelers — including luxury travelers. Not only does it have comfortable carrying handles, but it’s also expandable, durable and extremely maneuverable. We also love that it’s available in 11 colors for every style.

~~$335~~ $318 at Amazon

Made of 100% cashmere and big enough to double as a travel blanket, White + Warren’s Cashmere Travel Wrap Scarf is a great companion on a long-haul flight. It’s available in seven colors to match any style, and not only is it perfect for keeping warm while you travel, but it’s the perfect accessory on arrival at your destination, too.

$165 at Bloomingdale’s

This little magic wand of a product is brilliant after a long flight. Your travel-lover will never look weathered after landing with the antioxidant-rich Chanel Le Lift Crème Riche. The perfect accompaniment for keeping skin protected against environmental stressors, including airplanes, this is a great product to keep in a toiletry bag for easy access throughout the journey.

$595 at Royce & Rocket

If you’ve got someone who’s uber-organized on your list, the Royce & Rocket Castle Classic suitcase could be perfect. The brand’s latest collection features patent-pending built-in shelving so that packing — and unpacking — is easier than ever before. The hard-shell checked bag features a durable polycarbonate exterior and four wheels for easy rolling, but the star of the show is the interior compression system and shelving.

$280 at Beek

It’s hard to choose which Beeks to buy as a gift, as they’re all comfortable and incredibly chic. But for someone who’s hopping aboard a train, plane or into a car, we think Beek Gallito Shearling Slides are a perfect choice. Since they’re so easy to slip on and off, they’re perfect for when you need to use the lavatory in-flight or when heading through security screening. Made of either leather or suede with a memory foam molded footbed, these sandals offer both arch and foot support. Plus, for every pair you buy, Beek donates a day’s worth of meals to a child in need.

$230 at Monos

The sleek pairing of the Monos Metro Duffel and Metro Backpack is a delightful gift for the long weekend traveler. The Monos Metro bags feature the brand’s proprietary QuickSnap Modular Kit System that allows the brand’s Folio Kit to be easily detached or swapped without sacrificing the original look of the bag. We love how the set can be used alone or in conjunction for seamless packing and organization on the go.

$159 at Bellroy

A quality travel wallet is key for any traveler to arrive with all of their most important documents in one place. This leather folio has room to fit two passports, up to eight cards, cash, boarding passes and even space for a full-size pen.

$178 at Christy Dawn and $198 at Christy Dawn

There is something so satisfying about loungewear for travel — you get to look good but also be perfectly comfortable, you can dress it up or dress it down, you can mix and match or layer away. In any case, whether a train, plane or automobile, Christy Dawn’s Sonny Pant and Sonny Sweater will make your loved one a comfortably clothed traveler.

From $269 at Sea to Summit

Go to the backcountry without compromising on comfort with Sea to Summit’s lightweight and super-warm sleeping bag. It’s packable to fit in an included compression bag and storage cell, so you can fit it easily in a travel backpack and take on your outdoor adventure.

$215 at Dagne Dover

We love Dagne Dover bags, and that includes this large weekender carryall bag. It works as a carry-on bag for air travel or for standalone use on a weekend trip. Inside, it’s got a dedicated laptop sleeve that can accommodate up to a 16-inch device. It’s made of a durable neoprene fabric, which will not only withstand travel, but can also be hand-washed in a mild detergent and cold water to stay fresh and clean for years to come.

$230 at Amazon

It’s never a bad idea to upgrade a travel backpack. Peak Design’s 30-liter Travel Line Backpack makes for effortless packing, especially when paired with Peak Design’s Packing Cubes. Expandable, compressible and built with simplicity in mind, the travel backpack includes zippered stow pockets, a padded laptop sleeve and everything else needed to travel far, travel fast and never check a bag again.

$295 at MZ Wallace

MZ Wallace is one of our favorite travel brands. Not only do we love its classic design, but its products are made to last. This tote bag is the perfect carry-on, as it also has a luggage sleeve and two exterior slip pockets. It’s also got an adjustable, removable crossbody strap for easy maneuvering through the airport and beyond. And, best of all, there’s a zip-top closure so belongings won’t fall out of the bag during a bit of turbulence.

$210 at REI

One of our favorite pairs of travel shoes, the Blundstone Original 500 Chelsea Boots make a great gift for someone who wants to wander the streets for hours but can also sit down to a nice dinner and drinks at the end of a day of exploring. These booties are flexible, breathable and yet still chic — and they’re able to brave the rain, too.

~~$195~~ $155 at Bloomingdale’s

If you’re shopping for an urban explorer, you can’t go wrong with a versatile crossbody bag that can go from day to night. This Tumi bag doubles as both a wallet and a purse thanks to the removable, adjustable shoulder strap. Inside, there are six card pockets, and outside, there’s a slip pocket, a zip pocket and open pockets. So, you’ll be gifting plenty of storage space for all kinds of travel with this Belden collection classic.

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~~$379~~ $329 at Amazon

Travel can be a noisy ordeal, whether it’s the loud hum of the aircraft’s engines, the baby crying three rows back or noisy hotel neighbors. Thankfully, noise-canceling headphones can help alleviate those problems. This set from Bose took the title of the best noise-canceling over-ear headphones in our testing thanks to their superior noise-canceling ability and sleek design.

$158 at Tentree

If a traveler is hoofing it around a city all day, a puffer vest is certainly the way to keep them covered but not overheated. Tentree’s Cloud Shell Puffer Vest is that cozy and chic gift that will wow whoever gets it, plus it’s got sustainability built in because Tentree plants 10 trees for every item purchased.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

$300 at Amazon

For the traveler who’s heading away but wants to keep tabs on their home, a good home security system can provide peace of mind. In our testing, the Ring Alarm Pro was incredibly seamless to install and customizable for the user’s wants with a ton of features, earning it our title of the best home security system overall. You can read our full review here.

$700 at REI

For the traveler who’s eyeing a road trip, a cargo carrier can make all the difference for clearing up space inside the car for everyone to spread out. This rooftop cargo carrier has loads of capacity and can fit on most vehicles. Plus, DualSide opening means you can access the contents of the carrier from either side of the vehicle.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards of 2022.

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December 19, 2022
32 budget travel items you need to have | CNN Underscored

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Travel is more expensive in 2022, but what you bring doesn’t have to be. When it comes to travel, packing the right gear can make travel more comfortable from start to finish, whether you’re traveling on a budget or if you’re splurging on a 5-star trip.

Any and every globetrotter can benefit from picking up some of these affordable travel items that make traveling just a little bit easier, a little bit less stressful and a lot more fun. Ultimately, you don’t have to spend a fortune on luxury travel goods to travel more comfortably. Here are the top budget travel items under $50 you need to have or gift to the budget traveler in your life this holiday shopping season.

Not worried about budget? Click here to check out the 49 best holiday and Christmas gifts for the frequent traveler in your life.

~~$45~~ $40 at Amazon

We’ve deemed this wireless transmitter one of the most useful items to have when traveling. The AirFly Duo uses Bluetooth to ensure you can listen to and watch in-flight entertainment using your favorite wireless headphones. With the AirFly, you can skip those cheap airline headphones, pair your own set with the device, plug it into the seat back entertainment and enjoy watching and listening to your favorite shows, music and movies in comfort. Check out our full review of it here.

$23 at Amazon

This universal travel adapter comes complete with four USB ports, one USB-C port and one traditional AC socket to charge up to six devices at once. Best of all, you can use this small but mighty device in just about all international destinations from Europe to the United Kingdom, Australia and more. Although it’s only an adapter and not a voltage converter, it’ll charge up phones, e-readers, smartwatches, laptops and more when traveling abroad with just one small device instead of carrying various plugs and converter options.

$26 Amazon

These durable polyester packing cubes come in a four-piece set, with two medium-size cubes and two large-size cubes. Store clothes, shoes, dirty laundry or whatever else to best organize a suitcase. Your favorite traveler can see exactly what they’ve packed in each cube, thanks to the mesh top covers.

~~$20~~ $17 at Amazon

Whether your favorite traveler is a budding travel influencer or simply wants to get good photos of themself, this selfie stick tripod combo can be slipped into your suitcase for infinitely better travel photos. The stick is 9 inches when collapsed and weighs just 10.5 ounces, meaning it’s not only affordable, but it’s also lightweight and compact. It connects with most Apple and Android devices as well as smaller DSLR cameras and comes with a detachable remote.

CNN Underscored Best Tested

$40 at Amazon

Sleeping well while traveling doesn’t have to come at a steep price. In fact, our favorite travel neck pillow is available for just $40 and is pretty much guaranteed to help your favorite traveler sleep better on long flights. In our testing, we dubbed this neck pillow the “Goldilocks of travel pillows,” thanks to its firm support but equal parts softness and portability.

~~$18~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

This simple but effective device will make any plane journey easier. It clamps to the tray table of the seat in front of you, allowing you to insert your phone and stream your favorite TV shows and movies hands-free.

$25 at Amazon

The ideal gift for moms, wives, girlfriends and friends, this compact pouch makes it easy to travel with jewelry — and it’s one of Oprah’s Favorite Things of 2022. With several storage spots and removable dividers for various types of jewelry, you’ll never end up with tangled necklaces or lose an earring with this case. Even those who don’t travel with a lot of jewelry will appreciate having their wedding ring or stud earrings safely tucked away in this case when on the go.

$26 at Amazon

Your favorite traveler can slip this 100% organic mulberry silk pillowcase into their carry-on to use on a plane, at a hotel or anywhere else to make sleeping on planes, trains and buses feel so much more luxurious. The pillowcase keeps hair soft and prevents breakage. When it comes to skin, it can help retain moisture, prevent acne and keep wrinkles at bay. It even comes with a matching scrunchie.

~~$30~~ $17 at Amazon

If you can’t swing the hefty price tag for the newest Apple AirPods, you’ll be impressed by the price-to-quality factor of Kurdene’s wireless headphones, which come with a portable charging case that you can tuck into your pocket or bag when traveling. The sweatproof earbuds are comfortable for ears and have clear, dynamic 3D surround sound. The headphones can run for about six hours on a single charge, and the case can charge them four times over if your trip is extra long.

$14 at Amazon

Compression socks are an important travel accessory. Experts agree that the health benefits of wearing them on long travel days can be significant. This set of three pairs is available in a wide range of colors, offering a good amount of compression made from a breathable fabric.

$25 at Jo Malone

This compact, solid perfume has a fresh aroma, and it’s easy to drop into a carry-on even when your baggie of liquids is already full. You can dab it on your wrist, behind your ears or on your neck when you need a scented pick-me-up, the ideal alternative to an expensive liquid perfume formula.

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~~$20~~ $10 at Amazon

Sleep through jet lag, red-eye flights, loud hotel rooms and whatever other noisy and uncomfortable sleep situations travel throws at you with the Mavogel Cotton Sleep Mask. We consider it the best sleep mask out there, as it blocks out all the light around you, allowing for a darker and more peaceful sleep on the road or in the air.

$40 at Amazon

Whether your favorite traveler is a budding influencer or simply wants to get some memorable travel shots, this Lens Kit from Xenvo snaps onto any Android or Apple phone, as well as many tablets and laptops. The wide lens captures an additional 45%, which means photos — especially ones of travel landscapes and family members — will be comprehensive and sharp. The lens system is easy to attach and use for both amateur photographers and professionals.

From $10 at Amazon

These portable, quick-dry towels are perfect for any travel situation: camping, hiking, beach trip or even visits to destinations where you won’t have access to a dryer. The durable, lightweight towels are made of polyester and polyamide material and are super absorbent, drying fast when you’re on the go. The towels come in various sizes and colors, and each comes with its own portable case for storage.

$20 at Amazon

This four-pack of Mario Badescu facial spray is perfect for all of your different moods during travel. Energize with the sage and orange blossom, relax with the lavender, revitalize and glow with rose and freshen up with the cucumber and green tea. The under-60-milliliter mist bottles are small enough to fit into your zip-lock baggie of liquids during a long-haul flight.

$38 at Amazon

This collapsible, space-saving water bottle is a must-have for staying hydrated when traveling. In our testing, we found it perfect for travelers because not only does it have a filter that can make just about any water drinkable, but it also collapses so you can easily pack it in your favorite travel backpack and then expand it when you’re ready to fill it up. It’s both sustainable and affordable, saving you money and hassle on buying overpriced water bottles in the airport and elsewhere. Check out our full review of it here.

~~$16~~ $7 Amazon

These Anbow reusable earplugs offer a noise level reduction level of NRR 32, meaning they’ll block out pesky noise on planes or anywhere else you need to sleep. Made of high-quality, BPA-free silicone material with an ergonomic shape, they’ll comfortably fit into ears pain-free. Unlike foam earplugs, these are made for long-term use and reuse.

$48 at Amazon

Connect this waterproof, wireless speaker to a phone via Bluetooth and play music whenever, wherever. It’s small enough to accompany travelers on trips but strong enough to play favorite tunes at an impromptu barbecue or beach visit. With 10 hours of playtime, it can be clipped onto a backpack, beach bag or stroller with ease.

From $14 at Cadence

Courtney Thompson

This travel system of refillable, leakproof and magnetic containers helps organize personal care products. The customizable capsules come in various sizes and colors that can be mixed and matched to fit anyone’s needs. We tested them out and found the sustainable products to be leakproof, airtight and waterproof — and extremely convenient for shorter trips. Although an entire system of six costs more than $70, budget travelers can use just a few single Capsules that will magnetically cling to each other for less than $50. Check out our full review of them here.

$23 at Amazon

With so much concern about wiping down plane seats and tray tables, it seems we’ve almost forgotten about our skin, which can be greasy, dry or tired after a long day of travel. These natural, biodegradable face wipes from Ursa Major are individually wrapped to easily tuck into a purse, carry-on bag or pocket. Complete with ingredients like aloe, willow bark and birch sap and a light, lavender and citrus scent, skin will feel refreshed and clean after using one of these wipes after a plane nap or hike.

$22 at Amazon

A TSA-approved power bank is essential for any kind of traveler. And, when you can secure a great one for just over $20, it’s the perfect gift. This slim power bank is ideal for travelers as it’s small enough to tuck in a crossbody bag, backpack or pocket but it holds enough power to charge an iPhone 12 more than two times. Whether your favorite traveler likes to keep the music going, use their phone for maps or posting photos on social media, help make sure their device always stays charged on the road.

$10 at Amazon

These polyester foldable bags are perfect to use as a beach bag, laundry bag, grocery bag, personal item on a plane, emergency diaper bag or any other situation where you might need some storage. Toss a few of these bright, patterned bags in a suitcase folded up and open them to use whenever needed.

$30 at Amazon

This fold-up travel blanket has a carrying case with a strap that slides over your trolley handle, making it easy to take along on plane trips or train journeys. The cotton-poly blend blanket will keep you warm, can double as a comfortable sitting option for spontaneous trips to the beach or can even be used as a pillow when folded up in its carry bag.

$4 at Amazon

Amazon

Things like air travel, jet lag and different climates can wreak havoc on skin. Give your face a little extra love at a low price with this stress and rehab sheet mask that can be easily added to your suitcase. Ingredients such as green tea purify your skin, while coconut and turmeric rejuvenate and brighten your face. The mask even has caffeine to wake up skin and make it glow.

$17 at Amazon

This 20-liter foldable backpack is incredibly easy to take along during any kind of travel. It folds up to pocket size so it can be packed away and then opens up to use for hiking, shopping, a beach day or anything else once at a new destination. Although the nylon fabric is thin in order to fold up better, it’s tear-resistant, it’s water-resistant and it has a sturdy metal zipper.

~~$16~~ $13 at Amazon

This digital luggage scale will save your favorite budget traveler on excess baggage fees, and it’s small enough to pack in a suitcase to ensure bags are never overweight. The scale, which comes with a battery, can weigh bags up to 110 pounds.

$16 at Amazon

Keep hands germ-free and smelling delicious while traveling with this travel-size rosewater sanitizer mist. Not only will this rid hands of germs, but the mist also contains Detoskin, which provides blue-light protection, and Vitasource, which can help firm skin by boosting collagen.

$7 $6 at Amazon

You may be required to show not only a passport but also a vaccination card when entering some countries. Protect both documents with this passport and vaccine card holder, made from water-resistant faux leather. The holder comes in various colors, so you can select just the right one to match your favorite traveler’s luggage or personal style.

$10 at Amazon

This Vitamin E-infused, SPF 30 lip balm keeps lips moisturized regardless of the season. With three different summery scents (they’ll have you daydreaming of sun and sand even in the wintry cold) and a silky and smooth finish, this balm protects lips from dry plane air and keeps them hydrated throughout a trip.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards of 2022.

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December 19, 2022
41 of the most useful travel products you can buy on Amazon | CNN Underscored

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Whether you’re on the road for business or leisure, a tedious day of travel can be stressful. But there are travel products and accessories out there that can make any trip more manageable and comfortable. Better yet, you don’t have to spend a day shopping across multiple sites to find the best ones. Instead, discover some of the most useful travel products from one spot: Amazon.

Whether it’s suitcases, headphones, passport cases, travel clothing, toiletries or handy tools that can improve the way you travel, Amazon has it all. Here are some of the best travel products you can buy as gifts or for yourself on Amazon.

~~$18~~ $13 at Amazon

Amazon

This small but mighty tool will help you stream your favorite entertainment from your phone without having to hold your device. The phone mount attaches to the tray table of the seat in front of you and allows you to view your favorite TV shows and movies at eye level. For just more than $10 when on sale, this simple device can make a world of difference on any travel journey.

~~$249~~ $229 at Amazon

Amazon

Especially good for those who want to travel light, these tiny earbuds have powerful noise-canceling capabilities despite their small size. The headphones boast clear sound and provide a comfortable fit, making them a top pick when it comes to wireless earbuds. Best of all? They can be slipped into a pocket, purse or carry-on when on the go.

~~$321~~ $289 at Amazon

Amazon

When it comes to hard-shell carry-on luggage, durability is one of the most important requisites. Travelers who don’t want to sacrifice style for function don’t have to with this Delsey Paris carry-on, which is made of lightweight, crack-resistant polycarbonate. The bold red interior is a playful touch, and the exterior’s faux leather accents make this suitcase a fashionable yet sturdy option for toting your belongings around — in fact, it was our runner-up choice for luxurious hard-shell carry-on bags.

~~$34~~ $32 at Amazon

Amazon

This travel amenity kit offers six of Malin + Goetz’s best-selling travel products in a clear, biodegradable bag: grapefruit face cleanser, peppermint shampoo, cilantro hair conditioner, bergamot hand and body wash, Vitamin E face moisturizer and Vitamin B5 body moisturizer. The products are 100% vegan, free of sulfates and stored in travel-size recyclable aluminum tubes, perfect for your next weekend getaway.

~~$42~~ $30 at Amazon

Amazon

This backpack was made for travelers of all kinds, and it comes at a price that’s hard to beat. Inside, you’ll find a separate compartment that can hold up to a 15.6-inch laptop as well as plenty of small pockets and organizational compartments to make packing and traveling a breeze. Plus, it’s got a USB charger outside and a built-in charging cable inside so your phone can stay charged while you’re on the go.

$12 at Amazon

Amazon

Using a portable luggage scale means you’ll never be caught with an overweight bag again. This easy-to-grip scale comes with a digital screen and sturdy fabric hook, making it simple to weigh your bag on the go and then store the scale back in your suitcase. It comes in muted tones like silver and gray, or go bold with a red or orange shade so you can quickly find it in your bag.

$60 at Amazon

Although selecting the right travel pillow can be highly personal, the Ostrichpillow Go Neck pillow tends to fit most travelers thanks to its firm 360-degree neck support and plush memory-foam filling. Unlike the traditional travel neck pillow, this option offers added support and folds down to 60% of its size for easy storage. In our testing, we found this neck pillow to be the best splurge option out there, and it’s a surefire way to ensure you travel more comfortably.

From $20 at Amazon

Amazon

This functional travel jewelry case made the list of Oprah’s favorite things for 2022 — and it’s a great find on Amazon for just $20. Available in seven plush velvet colors, the case offers ample storage space for all of your most precious jewelry items. And your jewelry will arrive intact thanks to the case’s zipper closure.

$25 at Amazon

Amazon

Packing cubes make packing your suitcase infinitely easier and much more organized. And while we love fancy sets from Paravel, where you can monogram your initials, or Away’s sleek sets, those new to packing cubes can opt for this affordable Amazon Basics set, which comes with four mesh cubes in various sizes. With durable double zippers and soft yet sturdy fabric that comes in various color options, it’s no wonder these cubes have nearly 13,000 positive reviews.

$15 at Amazon

Amazon

Tray tables can be one of the dirtier spots on an airplane, but these tray masks help you to keep your hands — and your belongings — germ-free while traveling. Simply place the mask over the tray and use your table as normal. Then, when your flight is done, take the mask off and use it as a trash bag. Perfect for kids and complete with several games on one side of the mask, this is both an activity and a way to help you travel safer.

$45 at Amazon

Amazon

This handy device uses Bluetooth to seamlessly connect your noise-canceling headphones or earbuds to the in-flight entertainment system without pesky cords. This way, you can stream in-flight entertainment to your own headphones instead of the uncomfortable ones that airlines provide. The AirFly Duo has a battery life of more than 16 hours, so you can get the most entertainment on even the longest flights.

$229 on Amazon

Amazon

Traveling with small children doesn’t have to be stressful. The JetKids by Stokke is a combination ride-on suitcase and fold-out bed for children, making both airport time and flying time infinitely easier. The suitcase is wheeled, with straps for both adults to pull and kids to hold on to. It has space for your little one’s essential items inside, and it also comes with a fold-out bed (yes, they can still wear the seatbelt) that fits even in the smallest economy plane seats.

~~$20~~ From $14 at Amazon

Amazon

This silicone holder will keep your favorite makeup brushes safe during transit. It can fit up to two large makeup brushes or up to eight smaller brushes. We love that this case is available in 10 colors for every travel style, and it’s easy to clean if mascara or other makeup smears onto the exterior of the case.

$71 at Amazon

Amazon

Let’s face it, fanny packs are back in style. This Lululemon version — which can also be slung over the shoulder or across your chest thanks to its adjustable straps — is perfect for storing your passport and phone at the airport or your key essentials when exploring a new city.

$12 at Amazon

Amazon

Amazon is great for travel essentials like these leak-proof containers. Perfect for all of the liquids and gels you want to bring on your trip — from shampoos to conditioners, toners to moisturizers and much more — these silicone bottles come in their own quart-sized zipper pouch. We love, too, that each of the bottles is less than 3.4 ounces, meaning you’ll be able to zip through airport security without having to worry about your liquids and gels being too large.

~~$20~~ $18 at Amazon

Amazon

Our pick for the overall best sleep mask is available on Amazon for less than $20 when on sale. Mavogel’s soft jersey cotton sleep mask is a cozy option that effectively blocks out all of the light. We love the adjustable nose wire, which you can tweak to fit your face, ensuring no light enters around the nose bridge area. Tapered wings also block out any light from the sides, and the adjustable head strap is tangle-free.

$10 at Amazon

Amazon

These days, it’s hard to travel with no cords. An electronic travel carrying case can go a long way to ensuring you don’t arrive with a tangled mess of cords and power plugs. Available on Amazon for just $10 and in 10 different colors, this case will not only keep your cords organized, but the hard shell will keep everything safe and secure while in transit.

From $155 at Amazon

Amazon

For those who want a classic tote, look no further than the Longchamp Le Pliage bag, a fan favorite for travelers and fashionistas alike. The water-resistant nylon bag is simple yet durable, and the leather straps and button closure offer an understated elegance. The bag is roomy enough to be an under-the-seat carry-on, ideal for taking along everything you might need to survive a long flight.

~~$30~~ From $16 at Amazon

Amazon

We love products that make travel easier, and that includes this handy drink caddy. Perfect for families and solo travelers alike, this caddy straps onto your carry-on bag’s handle and offers a space for everything from your phone to your passport and even a drink. It’s simple to use and comes in 28 different color and style options to best match your suitcase.

~~$499~~ $469 at Amazon

Amazon

Play games, watch movies or take notes with this convenient travel-sized iPad Mini. With an 8.3-inch display and an A15 bionic chip, the device is ultra-speedy and small enough to fit into your carry-on. Creatives can sketch and take notes using the Apple Pencil, which connects wirelessly to the device.

~~$50~~ $40 at Amazon

Amazon

We love the convenience of this three-in-one charging unit. Perfect for travelers, as it folds up and can fit in a pocket or purse, the device can charge three devices at once: your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods. Plus, we love that it can be arranged as a stand to hold your phone while simultaneously charging your device.

$90 at Amazon

Amazon

Parents never need to worry about watching Netflix from the hotel bathroom again with this breathable crib cover, which brings total darkness to Pack ‘n Play travel cribs. Once your baby or toddler is asleep, you can turn on the lights and enjoy your hotel room without having to worry about the light waking up your child. Lightweight and washable, it’s easy to put in your checked luggage for your next family vacation.

$29 at Amazon

Apple

Never stress about lost luggage again when traveling with a trusty Apple AirTag. The ultimate travel companion, just add one to each of your suitcases so you can track your luggage wherever you go.

~~$17~~ From $10 at Amazon

Amazon

A good travel wallet should not only offer the storage needed to keep all of your favorite credit cards and cash, but it should also offer RFID-blocking protection. This trifold faux leather wallet comes in 40 different color options and has room to store your passport, boarding pass, up to three credit cards, an ID, a SIM card, cash and more. It’s simple but effective, and for less than $15 when on sale, it’s a travel must-have.

~~$32~~ $18 at Amazon

Amazon

Amazon is a great place for stocking up on tools that will make you travel better and safer — and that includes a travel door lock. The Addalock travel door lock is both portable and lightweight. It installs in seconds at your destination without any tools required and will offer an added level of security to provide peace of mind on your next trip. With more than 10,000 5-star reviews, this device not only offers top-notch security but also at an affordable price point.

From $18 at Amazon

Amazon

Venture anywhere with this handy travel adapter, which you can use in more than 150 countries. It comes complete with dual USB ports, as well as plugs for the US, EU, UK and Australia. Use it to charge your devices and more throughout travels to Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and beyond.

$130 at Amazon

Amazon

Banish that exhausted, jet-lagged look with this travel pack of best-selling Sunday Riley products: Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment, CEO Vitamin C Brightening Serum, A+ Retinoid Serum and Auto Correct brightening and depuffing eye cream. Each of the bottles is just 15 milliliters, so you can easily take them along in your carry-on bag through TSA security.

~~$60~~ $48 at Amazon

Amazon

The Sony XB13 is our pick for best travel speaker thanks to its compact size and quality sound. It’s durable and comes with a built-in cloth strap that lets you securely attach the device to just about anything. Plus, you can pair two XB13 speakers together to provide a stereo sound on your next getaway. For less than $50 when on sale, it’s a great addition to any traveler’s packing list.

~~$16~~ $10 at Amazon

Amazon

If you’re traveling somewhere with a beach, a pool or really any body of water, make sure your phone stays protected. We love this pack of two waterproof phone pouches that will keep your devices safe. Each case comes with a detachable lanyard, too, so you can wear your device around your neck and not miss out on any photo-worthy moments of your vacation.

$94 at Amazon

Amazon

This Swedish brand’s bags are durable enough to survive winters in the Arctic Circle, so they can easily handle the average traveler’s journey. The iconic Kanken backpack is made from dirt-proof and water-resistant vinylon. It hasn’t really changed since 1978 — and for good reason. It’s a cult classic bag that comes with a few additional zip pockets and ergonomic shoulder straps.

~~$230~~ $140 at Amazon

Amazon

Our pick for the best budget checked suitcase is also a favorite among reviewers on Amazon. It’s expandable, meaning it can fit more than many other hard-shell suitcases, and it’s lightweight — one of the lightest we tested. We love its smooth-rolling wheels and the fact that it’s available in 15 different colorways.

~~$748~~ $648 at Amazon

Amazon

These days, it’s all about video, and this Sony digital camera is ideal for content creators, professionals and even beginners. With a 24-70mm Zeiss lens, automatic face tracking, a directional mic for more precise sound and an easy-to-find record button, you’ll be able to seamlessly create all the video travel memories you want.

$30 at Amazon

Amazon

Yes, Amazon can even be a great spot to find personalized travel gear. This personalized luggage tag is buffed just enough to look rustic while still looking chic when attached to your bags. It comes with a card pocket and a snap closure, and you can personalize the tag with your initials.

From $42 at Amazon

Amazon

If you plan to travel with your four-legged friend, this pet travel bag is a suitable option at a price point that won’t break the bank. It’s approved by most airlines to fit under the seat in front of you. We especially love that the set comes with everything you’ll need for pet travel: one tote bag, two food carriers, a water-resistant placement and two collapsible bowls.

From $26 at Amazon

Amazon

This tiny portable charger is small enough to slip into a pocket or purse but strong enough to charge your iPhone up to two and a half times. It comes in three different colors and a Micro USB cable so you’re set for keeping your devices charged while on the go.

~~$50~~ $38 at Amazon

Amazon

This cozy scarf is one of the most versatile travel clothing options out there. It keeps your neck warm, but you can also use it as a hoodie, shawl or travel blanket. But its best features are the two hidden zipper pockets for added storage, which can fit key items like your phone, credit cards, cash or passport.

From $25 at Amazon

Amazon

This bag folds to close and opens to hang. Made from water-resistant polyester, the bag’s inside is transparent so you can easily locate your items. Elastic straps help keep your bottles upright to prevent spillage and leaks, and the metal hook allows you to hang the bag from a doorknob, shower or towel rack when you arrive at your destination. Pair it with a top-selling Bagsmart Jewelry Organizer for the ultimate travel set for your toiletries and jewelry.

From $76 at Amazon

Amazon

Made partly from recycled cotton, the Vera Bradley large duffle is ideal for the traveler who wants to store their items in a soft-shell, flexible weekender-style bag complete with handy mesh interior storage pockets. For those who want the traditional quilted, patterned look, there are several color and pattern schemes to fit your preferred aesthetic. If you prefer something more subtle, opt for a basic black, navy or army green, all of which offer the brand’s signature pattern style on the interior instead.

From $16 at Amazon

Amazon

This leak-proof, filter-equipped water bottle is a must-have for travelers as it collapses and folds when not in use. When open, its plastic body is easy to grip and the cap won’t leak. Plus, it’s got its own filter so you can fill up with water from basically anywhere — from a river to a hotel’s bathroom sink.

~~$22~~ From $15 at Amazon

Amazon

We think that travel shoe bags are a must-have for those who want to keep the grime from their shoes away from their clean clothes. Each of the four bags in this pack features a strong zipper and is made of lightweight, waterproof nylon fabric.

Looking for a travel credit card? Find out which cards CNN Underscored chose as our best travel credit cards currently available.

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December 17, 2022
How to travel with your favorite foods, according to the TSA’s rules | CNN Underscored

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Visiting home often means your parents will insist you bring back enough food to stock your fridge until the next December holidays. It may also mean you want to bring your favorite neighborhood pastries home for your family to experience themselves. But there are specific food rules and regulations you’ll want to keep in mind before checking in for your flight.

Thankfully, it’s pretty easy to navigate what you can and cannot bring with you when traveling through the airport. It ultimately comes down to the rules of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and whether what you’re looking to bring on board is a solid or a liquid. Above all, you’ll want to keep in mind the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids, which means you can bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces or less per item — including food.

If you’re unsure about taking anything through security, you should consider packing it safely in your checked luggage rather than in your carry-on bag . Here’s what you need to know about traveling with your favorite foods.

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The rules about what you can and cannot bring on an airplane vary largely depending on what it is you’re looking to travel with and if you’re looking to carry the food on board or place the food in your checked bag. Thankfully, the TSA has an extensive list detailing what you are — and are not — allowed to bring in both your carry-on bag and checked bag. Here are some highlights of the rules.

The TSA allows for unlimited cooked meat to be transported in carry-on bags as well as in checked bags. Note that TSA officers might ask you to remove the leftover turkey, fish or vegetables from your bag if they obstruct other items in the X-ray machine.

Are you bringing creamy or solid cheese along with you? It’ll make a difference when it comes to the TSA screening process. While solid cheese is allowed, you cannot carry creamy cheeses more than 3.4 ounces. For both solid and creamy cheese, it may require additional security screening.

Mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables

Mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables are allowed in both your carry-on bag and your checked luggage as long as they’re separated from any sauces or stews. If you do have liquid in your veggies, you’ll want to ensure it’s less than or equal to 3.4 ounces.

If you happen to have fresh vegetables or crudités in your leftovers, you’ll want to be a little more careful. Travelers flying from Hawaii, Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands to the US mainland will not be permitted to bring most fresh vegetables due to the risk of spreading invasive plant pests.

Both baby food and baby formula as well as breast milk are allowed “in reasonable quantities” when you’re carrying them on. You may need to remove these items from your bag in order for them to be screened separately.

Pies and cakes

Good news for those looking to bring something sweet with them: Both pies and cakes are permitted through the security checkpoint. They may require additional screening.

Catching an early flight? Unfortunately, a fresh cup of coffee isn’t permitted through the TSA checkpoint unless it’s under 3.4 ounces. Coffee beans, on the other hand, are allowed through security either as grounded or full beans. You can, however, bring an empty travel mug through security and fill it up once you’ve cleared the checkpoint.

Generally speaking, canned foods are allowed. However, the TSA recommends keeping them in your checked bag, as some canned foods may be subject to additional screening because of how they look on the X-ray machine or because they don’t meet the 3-1-1 rules for liquids, gels and aerosols.

Wine and other alcoholic beverages with less than 70% alcohol by volume are allowed in checked luggage in limited quantities (up to 1.3 gallons per passenger) and must be unopened and in original retail packaging. Note that mini bottles of wine or alcohol are permitted in carry-on luggage as long as they fit into a single quart-sized bag. And remember, according to the Federal Aviation Administration’s rules, passengers are not permitted to drink any alcohol on board unless it’s been provided by the airline.

If you’re traveling across the country with leftovers, it only makes sense that you’ll want to keep them fresh in transit. Frozen ice packs are allowed through security as long as they are frozen solid at the time of the security screening. If your ice pack is even partially melted or slushy, it won’t pass inspection.

If you’ve ever wanted to bring a live lobster on a plane, you’ll be pleased to know that they are allowed through security, though they must be transported in a clear, plastic, spill-proof container. However, you’ll need to check with your airline beforehand to see if they’ll permit the lobster to travel on board.

Understanding the rules and regulations of traveling with food is one thing, but you’ll also want to ensure all that good stuff is properly sealed and won’t leak in your luggage. We’ve pulled together some of our favorite reusable travel food containers to ensure your leftovers arrive safe and sound.

~~$13~~ $12 at Amazon

You don’t need a cupboard full of reusable containers if all you’re planning on packing is a couple of turkey sandwiches for the road. Think of the Stasher storage bag as a more eco-friendly and sustainable alternative to a single-use Ziploc-style plastic bag — it’s one of our favorite eco-friendly food storage options out there.

$45 at Amazon

This multiuse food storage container set is a game changer for traveling with leftovers. Not only is it completely see-through and easy for TSA officers to instantly see what you’ve packed, but it’s also crafted from high-quality glass and BPA-free plastic.

$45 at Amazon

If you’re planning on bringing back a fair bit of leftovers or you’re hoping to check most of the goods in your suitcase, you might want to consider something with an additional snap closure. The Rubbermaid Brilliance Storage offers a 100% leakproof design that’s both BPA-free and dishwasher-safe.

~~$13~~ $9 at Amazon

This “twist and seal” food storage solution from Rubbermaid is a great option for everything from small snacks and veggies to sauces and gravies. The leakproof design mimics that of a childproof medicine bottle and won’t come loose or open up in your bag.

$30 at Amazon

This pie carrier by Sweet Creations is large enough to fit an entire small pie, and the locking system allows for easy transport through the airport and beyond.

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December 15, 2022
The 10 best Canadian towns to visit during the holidays | CNN Underscored

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Canada has a reputation for horrible winters. But all that fresh snow and the chilly December air make for a cozy holiday escape that helps to foster a mindset of embracing the magic of winter rather than dreading the cooler months.

In fact, it’s the perfect time to reconnect with our neighbors to the north and plan a magical getaway for the holiday season.

Whether you’re hoping to spend your holidays hitting the ski slopes in the Canadian Rockies or you’d prefer to sip mulled wine while browsing Christmas markets in Old Montreal, here are some of the most festive places in Canada to spend the holidays.

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We’re pretty sure Whistler had to be the inspiration behind “Walking in a Winter Wonderland.” The world-famous ski destination offers picture-perfect powder, decadent local food and a whole bunch of alternative outdoor activities for those who prefer to keep their feet firmly planted on the ground.

Between the heated outdoor pool, three hot tubs and views of surrounding mountains and forests, the Four Seasons Whistler will be among your best bets for a luxurious holiday getaway in Whistler. It’s just an eight-minute walk from the base of the Whistler Blackcomb ski elevators.

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Lake Louise is a picture-perfect outdoor destination at any time of year, but it’s particularly magical come Christmas. The cozy mountain town offers the perfect setting to rest and relax with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or to strap on your skates and spin around the frozen 200-foot-deep turquoise lake in the middle of the mountains.

If you’re hoping to find the right combination of rustic and luxurious, look no further than the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This bucket-list property is one of the oldest luxury hotels in Canada and boasts breathtaking views of the turquoise-hued lake and surrounding mountain ranges.

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Looking for a more adventure-focused holiday expedition? Head to Churchill, Manitoba. This small prairie town boasts more wild polar bears per capita than any other city in North America. Don’t worry about trying to spot a polar bear or other arctic critters yourself, though — expert-led tours and expeditions are abundant and easy to book.

The Polar Inn & Suites is a no-frills spot to spend the night. Each room includes a kitchenette and cozy dining space to refresh and recharge after a day of searching for polar bears — and maybe even the northern lights.

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The biggest city in Ontario is a fun weekend destination year-round, but it’s particularly magical in December. Head to the Distillery District for a glimpse of the twinkling lights and artisanal crafts that make up the Toronto Christmas Market or head to Nathan Phillips Square to skate around the lavishly decorated Toronto City Hall.

The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto takes the holiday season seriously — from “The Nutcracker” afternoon tea and Christmas dinner services to actual visits from Santa, this lavish property goes all out when it comes to conjuring holiday magic.

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Maybe you’ve visited Niagara-on-the-Lake during its peak summer season, but don’t overlook winter at the popular vacation city just yet. Here, you’ll find less-crowded skating spots, an annual mulled wine festival and a quick drive to the festive lights and sounds of Niagara Falls.

Looking for something at the intersection of cozy and lavish? The Prince of Wales hotel will do just fine. This royal-inspired property feels more like a sumptuous speakeasy than a small-town hotel thanks to its deep mahogany sitting rooms, open-air dining room and opulent suites and rooms that appear to be borrowed directly from Versailles.

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Looking for world-class skiing on the eastern side of Canada? You’ll want to head to Mont Tremblant. This popular ski destination has won the hearts of visitors and locals alike — and for good reason. Mont Tremblant is arguably the best ski mountain range east of Alberta, but also offers a beyond-charming village at the base of the mountain that will feel as if you’ve been transported to the North Pole proper.

There are dozens of charming addresses in the Mont Tremblant village, but the Sommet des Neiges will be your best bet should you be after a luxurious stomping ground geared toward skiing. The high-end property actually includes ski-in/ski-out facilities so you won’t have to transport your skis just to get to the slope.

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Quebec City is going to be one of the chilliest destinations on this list — it’s a city famous for its ice hotel, after all. But it’s well worth braving the cold for the centuries-old architecture and opulent holiday decor alone. Old Quebec City is packed with options for keeping warm, from indulging in a steaming pot of cheese fondue to sipping mulled wine in one of the city’s many cozy bars and pubs.

There’s really only one address that matters in Quebec City, and it’s the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. You’ve probably seen this stunning property already, as it’s the most photographed hotel in the world. But the interior is just as impressive as the chateau-esque property. Here you’ll find unabashed luxury and hospitality from the myriad of local-focused bars and restaurants (including a hearty Christmas dinner service) to the spa services and extracurricular activities like wine tasting with local cheese pairings directly from the property’s cheese cellar.

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Montreal is going to be your best bet for world-class dining and entertainment juxtaposed against centuries-old architecture and history. Grab a cup of mulled wine and make your way through the Village de Noël de Montréal at the Atwater Market or head straight to Les Grands Ballets Canadiens’ rendition of “The Nutcracker.”

You’ve got endless options when it comes to accommodations in Montreal, but there are a few standout properties depending on what neighborhood you’d like to call home. Check into the Ritz-Carlton, Montreal for timeless luxury downtown or drop your bags at the slightly more down-to-earth Hotel Nelligan if you’re hoping to spend the holidays exploring the cobblestoned streets of the Old Port.

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Nova Scotia is best known for its abundance of kind-hearted citizens and tight-knit community — and that’s only amplified come December. Strike up a conversation at one of the many pubs and bars around the downtown core and you’ll likely leave with an invite to a Christmas dinner or holiday party. Otherwise, warm up with a steaming bowl of lobster chowder and a drink at Bishop’s Landing or head to the Glow Halifax Christmas Light Festival, an interactive holiday light show and market that draws both visitors and locals alike.

Halifax might be quaint, but it’s packed with great historic and contemporary properties. The Westin Nova Scotian is going to be your best bet if you’re hoping to be right in the middle of the restaurants and shops at Bishop’s Landing. Head up Spring Garden Road to The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites should you prefer to be next to the Halifax Public Gardens.

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Planning a winter holiday in St. John’s is always a good idea. Not only will you find an abundance of Christmas dinner services, holiday craft markets and Celtic Christmas productions, but you’re actually about a four-hour drive to the port of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. It’s a quiet French territory off the coast of Canada where you’ll find everything from buttery croissants and pain aux chocolat to French architecture and shopping. Make sure to pack some euros.

Built on the site of the old Fort William at the base of Signal Hill, the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland is not just brimming with history, but also incredibly well-placed. It’s within walking distance of all of St. John’s best cultural offerings as well as a stone’s throw from the revered George Street.

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December 13, 2022