Have fair credit but still dream of earning travel rewards? You’re not alone. Many travelers think you need a top-tier credit score to get approved for travel credit cards. Luckily, that’s not true. Even with a fair credit score (typically 580-669), you can still access some valuable travel-focused credit cards that offer decent rewards, lower fees, and helpful benefits.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best travel credit cards for fair credit, their benefits, how to qualify, and how you can use them wisely to boost your credit and your travel experiences. We’ll also share smart tips on how these cards can tie into your broader financial plans, including small business loans, loan to buy a business, and even the benefits of a loan of credit card through platforms like Millendeal.
Understanding Fair Credit and Its Impact on Travel Cards
Fair credit is typically defined as a FICO score between 580 and 669. While this score doesn’t unlock premium cards, many issuers do offer solid options designed specifically for those with improving credit. These cards might not come with luxury perks, but they do offer real value through:
- Travel rewards points or miles
- No or low annual fees
- Flexible redemption options
- Credit-building opportunities
If you’re just starting out, a travel card can be a great first step towards a stronger financial profile. Check out our curated list of Top Cashback Credit Cards for 2025 that also work well for fair credit holders looking to earn while they spend.
Benefits of Travel Credit Cards for Fair Credit
Here’s what you can generally expect from travel cards tailored for fair credit:
Feature | What You Get |
Rewards Programs | Earn points or miles on travel, dining, and more |
Redemption Flexibility | Use rewards for flights, hotels, car rentals, or statement credit |
Low Entry Barriers | Designed for applicants with scores as low as 580 |
Credit Improvement Tools | Some cards report to all three credit bureaus |
Additional Perks | Travel insurance, no foreign transaction fees (on select cards) |
These benefits help you not only save money but also improve your credit, which can be useful when applying for other financing options like a loan to buy a business.
Best Travel Credit Cards for Fair Credit in 2025
Let’s look at some standout options that offer excellent value even if your score isn’t perfect:
1. Capital One QuicksilverOne Rewards
- 1.5% cash back on every purchase
- Annual Fee: $39
- Credit Line Review after 6 months
- Credit Score Needed: 580+
2. Discover it® Miles
- Unlimited 1.5x Miles on all purchases
- First-year match of all miles earned
- No annual fee
- Credit Score Needed: 630+
3. Petal® 2 “Cash Back, No Fees” Visa
- 1-1.5% cash back and some travel perks
- No fees of any kind
- Reports to all credit bureaus
- Credit Score Needed: 600+
Want more flexible rewards options? See our Best Credit Cards for Students with No Credit History – many also suit users with fair credit looking to build their score and travel more.
How to Choose the Right Card for Travel
When selecting a travel card, especially with fair credit, consider these key factors:
- Annual fees: Some travel cards waive them in the first year, but check for value in return.
- Rewards rate: A decent return is at least 1.5x points or miles per dollar.
- Redemption options: Ensure points convert easily to flights, hotels, etc.
- Foreign transaction fees: If you plan to travel internationally, choose a card that doesn’t charge extra.
- Credit-building potential: Choose cards that report to all bureaus.
Also, consider your long-term financial goals. If you’re eyeing small business loans or planning to buy a business, managing your travel card wisely can support your credit profile.
Millendeal Tip: Use Credit Wisely to Build Business Opportunities
A travel card can be more than a ticket to free flights. Responsible use can grow your credit and prepare you for bigger financial moves. For example:
Credit Usage | Financial Opportunity |
On-time payments | Improved credit score |
Low utilization | Better chances for business loans |
Long history | Strong credit for purchasing a business |
When you’re ready to level up financially, explore Millendeal’s tailored options for loan of credit card, small business loans, and loan to buy a business at Millendeal.com.
Travel Cards vs. Business Credit Cards
If you’re building a business, it might be wise to explore business credit cards in addition to personal travel cards. While travel cards offer rewards for daily use, business credit cards often give higher limits and business-specific perks. Read our guide on Top 7 Business Credit Cards for Startups in 2025 to see if they align better with your goals.
How to Improve Fair Credit for Better Travel Cards
If you’re not satisfied with the current travel card offerings for your score, take proactive steps to raise your credit:
- Pay on time: Set auto-pay or reminders
- Keep utilization low: Below 30% of your credit limit
- Don’t close old accounts: They help your credit history
- Dispute errors: Clean up inaccurate credit report items
Within 6-12 months, these habits can upgrade you from fair to good credit, opening up more premium travel card opportunities and financing options.
Final Thoughts: Travel Smart, Build Credit, and Grow with Millendeal
You don’t need a perfect credit score to explore the world. With the right travel credit card, even those with fair credit can earn rewards, build financial strength, and unlock bigger opportunities. From cash back and miles to credit-building tools, these cards provide great value for everyday spending.
Want to take it further? Use your improved credit to explore loan of credit card options or fuel your business with small business loans and a loan to buy a business — all with guidance from Millendeal.
Ready to boost your credit and your travel game? Visit Millendeal today to explore your financing and credit card options tailored to your needs.
FAQs
Q1. Can I get a travel credit card with a 600 credit score?
Yes, many travel cards for fair credit accept applicants starting around 580-600. Look for those with low fees and credit-building tools.
Q2. Are travel rewards worth it if I have fair credit?
Yes. Even if the perks aren’t as luxurious, you can still earn miles, avoid fees, and build credit for future premium cards.
Q3. What’s better for travel – cashback or miles?
It depends on your goals. Cashback offers flexibility, while miles typically stretch further for flight redemptions.
Q4. Can I convert personal credit card rewards for business travel?
Yes, many allow you to use points/miles for both personal and business expenses.
Q5. How does Millendeal help with credit card loans or business financing?
Millendeal connects users with curated financial products, including loan of credit card, small business loans, and loan to buy a business.
