Travel credit cards have changed dramatically in 2026, and what works for occasional vacations no longer works for expats living abroad, digital nomads, and long-term international travelers. Annual fees are higher, credits are more restrictive, and many so-called “premium” perks are still designed for U.S.-based spending, making them difficult or impossible to use overseas. For people who live abroad full-time, the real challenge is maximizing rewards on everyday international spend, earning flexible points, and accessing benefits that function globally—not just on paper. The best travel credit cards in 2026 are the ones that deliver consistent value outside the U.S., offer broad international acceptance, and reward how expats actually travel, dine, and live abroad.
