Best Summer Reward Credit Cards

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July 6th, 2011 - Posted by Tasha

It's summertime, when people typically spread their wings and leave the roost for family vacations and weekend get aways.  If you want to make sure you're getting something back for the money you plan to spend, it makes sense to look into credit rewards cards.  These type of cards reward users for using their credit card to make purchases, either with cash back, points or miles.  If you do a little bit of advance planning, you can choose a card that matches up with your summer plans and reap the benefits. To see all the cards we review, take a look at our Credit Card reviews section.

Road Trip: If you're planning on taking a family road trip, it's smart to use a card that will pay you back for all the driving and eating out you'll be doing.  The TrueEarnings® Card from Costco and American Express fits that sweet spot by giving users 3% cash back for their restaurant and gas purchases, 2% cash back on travel purchases and 1% cash back on all other purchases (including at Costco!).

Road Warrior: Going to be travelling a lot for business (or pleasure)?  Look into a card that helps earn you free flights or hotel stays.  The Marriott Rewards® Credit Card from Chase gives users a 22,500 point bonus after their first purchase, earns 3 points for every $1 spent at Marriott locations and 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases.  Or try the Continental Airlines OnePass® Plus from Chase, where you'll earn 25,000 bonus miles and $50 statement credit after your first purchase, 2 miles for every $1 spent when you purchase tickets from Continental Airlines on your Card, and 1 mile for every $1 spent on other purchases.

One Time Reward Bonus: Want to get your bonus right away?  The United Mileage Plus® Signature® Visa Card offers 25,000 bonus miles and a $25 travel certificate award for your first card purchase.  Or if cash is more your thing, the Chase Freedom® Visa Card - Bonus $200 Cash Back does just what it's name says and gives $200 cash back if you spend $500 within the first 3 months of receiving the card.