A few weeks ago, I received a targeted mail offer for a fairly new rewards credit card-the First National Bank TravElite American Express Card.
Its bevy of benefits caught my eye right away.
Not only was the card offering 3x points on travel purchases and 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases, but it came with 25,000 bonus points worth $250, a $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit, a $100 airline credit and no foreign transaction fees.
The craziest benefit, however, is the fact there's no annual fee.
Based on the fact there's no annual fee and ample benefits, then yes, this card itself is probably "worth it" for most people. If you want to earn rewards and valuable travel perks without an annual fee, I would even go so far as to say this could be your best option.
Then again, there are plenty of other rewards cards that offer higher-grade travel benefits.
The newer Chase Sapphire Reserve, for example, offers 3x points on travel and dining, with a $300 annual travel credit, airport lounge access, Global Entry credit, car rental discounts and a whole host of travel protections. Plus, you can transfer Chase points to an array of travel partners like Southwest Airlines, Marriott, British Airways, Hyatt and IHG. However, the Chase Sapphire Reserve does have a $450 annual fee.
[READMORE]READ MORE: Amex Platinum Rolls Out New Set of Perks[/READMORE]
Another top-tier travel credit card, the TravElite competes with is the Platinum Card from American Express. This card has high-value perks that include $200 in Uber credits, a $200 airline credit each year, airport lounge access, a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck and other important travel benefits. Plus, you can transfer points to popular travel partners associated with the Membership Rewards program.
Alas, the annual fee on the Platinum Card from American Express is $550!
First National Bank TravElite American Express Card: Pros and Cons
What makes the First National Bank TravElite American Express card so intriguing is that you earn 3x points on travel purchases plus valuable perks with no annual fee. That's great, right?
Unfortunately, this card does come with some notable downsides that are obvious when you compare it to other cards:
There's no option to transfer points. The biggest letdown is that you cannot transfer your points to hotel or airline loyalty programs. Without that option, the points you earn aren't as valuable.
Your rewards are only redeemable for statement credits. While there's nothing wrong with receiving statement credits, it's unfortunate the First National Bank TravElite American Express card offers only this option.
You can book flights or hotels or make other purchases with your card, then redeem your points for one cent each. However, you won't have access to a special travel portal.
You don't get complimentary airport lounge access. Many people sign up for premier travel credit cards in order to get Priority Pass membership. This card doesn't offer it.
[READMORE]READ MORE: Earn 10x on Resturants with This Amex Card[/READMORE]
So, is the First National Bank TravElite American Express card worth it?
If you love free stuff, then absolutely. At the very least, you should consider signing up to get the annual $100 travel credit, free TSA precheck or Global Entry, and the signup bonus.
But if you're big into travel, you may want to pick a more lucrative and flexible card for your everyday spending. While the TravElite card does offer a way to earn "free travel," statement credits can only take you so far.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
