Learn how travel credit cards with annual fees under $100 can earn you free flights, hotel nights, and perks.

Hosts Meghan Coyle and Sally French discuss travel credit cards with annual fees under $100 to help you earn meaningful rewards without splurging on a premium card. But first, they break down the latest travel headlines, including Hyatt's award chart changes taking effect May 20, Disney's 2026 Halloween event dates, expiring welcome offers on the Disney Inspire and Chase Freedom Unlimited cards, new Chase Sapphire Reserve perks at The Edit collection hotels, and the Trump administration's potential bailout of Spirit Airlines.

Then, they discuss why a sub-$100 annual fee card can punch well above its weight for the right traveler. They break down their picks across four categories: cards for travel spending, everyday spending, hotel co-brands, and airline co-brands. You'll get tips on free night certificates, statement credits, and transfer partners, plus when these cards genuinely compete with premium options.

Card benefits, terms and fees can change. For the most up-to-date information about cards mentioned in this episode, read our reviews:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: Strong Option for Travel Rewards

• Chase Sapphire Reserve Review: A High-End, High-Maintenance Card

• Chase Freedom Unlimited Review: A Potential One-Card Solution

• Chase Freedom Flex: Multiple Bonus Rewards in One Card

• Bank of America Premium Rewards Credit Card Review

• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey Review: Highly Rewarding for Travelers

• Wells Fargo Autograph Review: Big Rewards, No Annual Fee

• PenFed Pathfinder Rewards Card: Premium Credits, With a Few Caveats

• Capital One Venture Review: Easy Earnings, Effortless Redemptions

• Capital One Venture X Review: A Steal of a Deal Among Premium Cards

• Bilt Obsidian Card: Fine for Foodies, Complex for Housing

• Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Review: Premier Perks Abound

• IHG One Rewards Premier Review: Free Nights on a Silver Platter

• World of Hyatt Card Review: Lavish Benefits, Reasonable Cost

• Citi AAdvantage Platinum Credit Card Review

• Atmos Rewards Ascent Review: Well Worth $95 a Year

• JetBlue Plus Review: Bundle of Benefits, Reasonable Fee

• Disney Inspire Visa: A Whole New World of Generous Benefits

Resources discussed in this episode:

• Hyatt's New Award Chart Raises Points Prices for Most Nights

• A First Look at MSC World America: A Family-Friendly Cruise

• The Guide to Wells Fargo Transfer Partners

• The Guide to Bilt Transfer Partners

Want even more tips and tricks to get the most out of your travel dollars? Subscribe to TravelNerd, our free newsletter designed to help you crack the code on spending less on your travel. 

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