8 Best Credit Cards to Maximize Airbnb Rewards

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated September 15, 2025

Booking an Airbnb stay becomes more rewarding with the right credit card. The best options offer higher earning rates on travel purchases, turning regular expenses into valuable rewards. Choosing a card with strong Airbnb perks can help travelers save more and enjoy greater flexibility when redeeming points or cashback.

  • American Express® Green Card

    The American Express® Green Card is designed for travelers who want to earn points on everyday spending. It offers simple ways to collect Membership Rewards points that can be used for various travel expenses, including Airbnb stays.

    This card also provides useful travel benefits to make trips more comfortable and flexible. It suits people looking for a straightforward rewards program with a focus on travel.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x Membership Rewards points on travel, including Airbnb purchases
    • 3x points on restaurants worldwide
    • 1x points on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $150
    • APR: 20.24% to 29.24% variable APR on eligible charges
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Up to $199 Clear Plus annual statement credit (enrollment required; terms apply)
    • Access to valuable airline and hotel transfer partners

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong 6% return on Airbnb spending based on TPG’s May 2025 valuations
    • Bonus points on a wide range of travel and dining purchases
    • Flexible redemption through airline and hotel partners

    Redemption Options:

    Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, gift cards, or transferred to airline and hotel loyalty programs for potentially higher value.

    Credit Requirements:

    Typically requires a credit score of 670 or higher for the best approval odds.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The annual fee is higher than some mid-tier travel cards, and the benefits may not justify the cost for infrequent travelers.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers clear travel rewards and flexible points, making it easy for new cardholders to start earning and using points efficiently.

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers straightforward travel rewards that make it easy to earn points on everyday purchases. It is designed for travelers who want simple ways to rack up points and use them toward travel costs like Airbnb stays.

    This card does not limit rewards to specific categories, so users earn points on all spending. It is well-suited for people who want flexibility in how they redeem travel rewards.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5 miles per dollar on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
    • 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, including Airbnb stays

    Welcome Bonus:

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

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • APR: 19.99%–29.24% (Variable)
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Access to 15+ airline and hotel transfer partners

    Key Benefits:

    • Versatile rewards that can be used for Airbnb stays or transferred to partners
    • Simple earning structure with consistent rewards on all purchases
    • Strong welcome bonus value for frequent travelers

    Redemption Options:

    Miles can be redeemed for Airbnb stays, other travel purchases made in the last 90 days, or transferred to airline and hotel partners for potentially higher value.

    Credit Requirements:

    Generally requires a credit score of 670 or higher for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Top earning rates apply only to travel booked through Capital One Travel, which may limit flexibility for some users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple earning structure and flexible redemption make it easy to understand and use.

  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is designed for travelers who want to earn rewards on everyday spending and travel purchases. It offers flexible points that can be used for a wide range of travel-related expenses.

    This card stands out with its high earning rates on travel and dining, making it useful for Airbnb bookings. It also provides travel perks like airport lounge access and travel insurance.

    Earning Structure:

    • 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
    • 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
    • 2x miles on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

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

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $395
    • APR: 19.99%–29.24% (Variable)
    • $300 annual travel credit for Capital One Travel bookings
    • Access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass
    • Anniversary miles bonus

    Key Benefits:

    • Premium lounge access for cardholders
    • Transfer miles to 15+ airline and hotel partners
    • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
    • Rental car elite status

    Redemption Options:

    Miles can be redeemed for Airbnb stays, other travel purchases made in the last 90 days, or transferred to Capital One’s travel partners for greater value.

    Credit Requirements:

    Generally requires a credit score of 740 or higher for the best approval odds.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Top bonus categories are limited to travel booked through Capital One Travel, with no additional categories outside of travel.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers simple, flexible rewards and travel perks that make earning and using points easier for new card users.

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a popular travel rewards card designed to reward users with flexible points. It is well-suited for those who spend on travel and dining, offering solid earning rates.

    This card earns Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be transferred to partners or used for travel bookings. It provides a user-friendly way to collect and spend points across many travel categories, including Airbnb stays.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5 points per dollar spent on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
    • 3 points per dollar on dining, including takeout and delivery
    • 2 points per dollar on other travel purchases
    • 1 point per dollar on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • APR: 19.99%–28.24% (Variable)
    • Anniversary bonus points
    • Premium travel protections

    Key Benefits:

    • Valuable points transferable to 14 airline and hotel partners
    • Strong earning rates on travel and dining
    • Flexible redemption options through Chase Travel or partner programs

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners for up to 2.05 cents per point in value or redeemed through Chase Travel at up to 1.75 cents per point.

    Credit Requirements:

    Typically requires a credit score of 670 or higher for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    No lounge access, and Airbnb bookings do not qualify for the $50 annual hotel credit.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a straightforward points system and versatile rewards that new users can easily understand and use.

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®

    The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium travel rewards credit card that appeals to frequent travelers. It offers strong rewards on travel and dining purchases, making it a good match for Airbnb bookings and those who frequently travel.

    It provides a point system that can be valuable when redeemed through Chase’s travel portal or transferred to airline and hotel partners. The card’s travel perks add extra value beyond just earning rewards.

    Earning Structure:

    • 8x points on purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠
    • 4x points on flights and hotels booked directly
    • 3x points on dining worldwide and Airbnb stays
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $550
    • APR: 20.24%–28.74% (Variable)
    • Access to 14 airline and hotel transfer partners
    • Premium lifestyle credits and IHG elite status

    Key Benefits:

    • High earning rates on travel and dining
    • Premium travel protections and airport lounge access
    • Valuable transfer partnerships for maximizing points

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners for high-value redemptions or redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards for travel, cash back, and experiences.

    Credit Requirements:

    Requires excellent credit, typically a score of 740 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    High annual fee, and bonus travel earnings are limited until the $300 credit is used.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers straightforward travel rewards with flexible redemption choices, which can help new users get more from their Airbnb spending.

  • Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

    The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is designed for small business owners who want to earn points on everyday spending. It offers a straightforward way to collect rewards that can be used for travel and other expenses.

    This card stands out for its flexible points system and strong earning rates on business-related purchases. It is a good fit for those who often book travel, including Airbnb stays, through their business accounts.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent each account anniversary year on travel (including Airbnb), shipping, internet, cable, phone services, and select advertising purchases
    • 1x point per dollar on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    Earn 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • APR: 20.24%–26.24% (Variable)
    • Access to 14 airline and hotel transfer partners
    • No limit on 1x points earned outside bonus categories

    Key Benefits:

    • High points on common business expenses
    • Points transfer to multiple airline and hotel partners
    • No foreign transaction fees

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners for maximum value or redeemed through Chase Travel for bookings including flights, hotels, and car rentals.

    Credit Requirements:

    Requires good to excellent credit, typically 670 or higher.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Must qualify for a business card to apply, and bonus category spending is capped at $150,000 annually.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple rewards structure and useful points that can be easily redeemed or transferred, making it a good starting card for business travel rewards.

  • Prime Visa

    The Prime Visa card is designed for travelers who want to get rewards on everyday purchases, including Airbnb stays. It offers simple rewards without complicated rules, making it easy to earn points on a variety of expenses.

    This card also provides good value for those who spend moderately and want to maximize rewards on travel-related purchases. It fits well for users who want straightforward benefits without extra fees.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5% cash back on Airbnb gift cards purchased through Amazon (with eligible Prime membership)
    • Bonus rewards on Amazon and Whole Foods purchases
    • Additional exclusive bonuses on select Amazon categories

    Welcome Bonus:

    Get a $150 Amazon gift card instantly upon approval, exclusively for Prime members.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0 (Prime membership required)
    • APR: 19.49%-28.24% Variable
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Rewards redeemable for cash back, gift cards, or travel through Chase Travel

    Key Benefits:

    • High 5% return on Airbnb bookings via gift card purchases
    • Flexible redemption options, including Amazon purchases and travel
    • Instant welcome bonus upon approval

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be applied at Amazon checkout, redeemed for gift cards, deposited as cash back, or used for travel bookings through Chase Travel.

    Credit Requirements:

    Requires good to excellent credit for approval, along with an active Amazon Prime membership.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Not valuable for those who don’t shop on Amazon often; Airbnb gift cards cannot be used for stays of 28 days or more.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The Prime Visa offers clear rewards and easy redemption, perfect for those new to rewards cards.

  • Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

    The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card offers a solid rewards program for travelers and everyday spenders. It focuses on earning points across popular purchase categories, making it useful for people who book stays on platforms like Airbnb.

    This card has no foreign transaction fees, which helps when traveling abroad. It also provides features to help manage and track spending easily through the Wells Fargo app.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x points on hotels
    • 4x points on airlines
    • 3x points on restaurants and other travel, including Airbnb stays
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

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

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • APR: 20.24% to 29.24% variable
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • $50 annual statement credit with a $50 minimum airline purchase
    • Access to seven airline transfer partners

    Key Benefits:

    • Strong return on Airbnb stays and a variety of travel purchases
    • Valuable transfer partners for maximizing redemption value
    • Flexible redemption options through Wells Fargo Rewards

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, PayPal purchases, gift cards, or transferred to airline partners for greater value.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need a credit score between 670 and 850, falling into the good to excellent range.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Fewer transfer partners compared to some competitors, which may limit flexibility for certain travelers.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    The card is straightforward with no annual fee and flexible rewards that suit various spending habits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What credit cards offer the best rewards for Airbnb bookings?

Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Capital One Venture Rewards, and Wells Fargo Autograph Journey offer strong rewards for Airbnb purchases. These cards provide higher earning rates than standard rewards cards. They also give flexible redemption options for travel, statement credits, or transfers to partners.

How do I maximize points with Airbnbs using the Chase Sapphire Preferred card?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred earns 2x points on Airbnb as part of its travel category. These points can be transferred to 14 airline and hotel partners for more value. You can also redeem them through Chase Travel for up to 1.75 cents per point.

Which card offers the highest cash back for Airbnb stays?

The Prime Visa offers the highest cash back for Airbnb stays when you purchase Airbnb gift cards on Amazon with an eligible Prime membership. This method earns 5% back, giving it an edge over other cards in the list. The rewards can be redeemed at Amazon checkout, as cash back, for gift cards, or for travel bookings.

Are there any special Airbnb offers available for credit card holders?

Some cards occasionally run promotions or give statement credits for Airbnb stays. These offers are often time-limited and vary by issuer. Cardholders should check their account benefits and the Airbnb site for current deals.

What are the benefits of using an Airbnb gift card for stays?

Using Airbnb gift cards lets you prepay for bookings without using credit directly. With the Prime Visa, you can earn 5% back by buying these gift cards on Amazon. The bonus can add significant savings to your next stay.