If you love to travel and also enjoy earning rewards, your Costco Anywhere Visa® Card by Citi could be a game-changer. This versatile credit card offers excellent cashback opportunities, especially when used for eligible travel purchases. But, what counts as “eligible travel,” and how can you make the most of your rewards? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this blog, I’ll break down everything you need to know to maximize your rewards with your Costco Visa when you travel.
1. What Exactly Is Eligible Travel?
Let’s start with the basics. Eligible travel purchases for your Costco Visa typically include expenses like airfare, hotels, car rentals, and cruises. Whether you’re booking directly through an airline or a travel agency, these purchases usually qualify for rewards. However, keep in mind that not all types of transportation count, like rideshares or public transit. It’s important to check the details.
2. Earn 3% Cash Back on Travel Purchases
One of the best perks of the Costco Anywhere Visa is the 3% cash back you earn on eligible travel purchases. This includes everything from booking flights and hotel stays to renting cars. So, if you’re a frequent traveler, this can add up to significant savings over time.
3. Can You Use Costco Travel?
Yes, you can! Costco Travel is an online travel agency that offers vacation packages, cruises, rental cars, and even hotels at competitive rates. If you book through Costco Travel using your Costco Visa, those purchases count as eligible travel, allowing you to earn 3% cash back. Bonus tip: Costco Travel often includes exclusive perks, such as free upgrades or complimentary amenities.
4. Booking With Third-Party Travel Websites
Many people use third-party booking sites like Expedia or Priceline for convenience and discounts. The good news? Booking through these platforms still counts as eligible travel for your Costco Visa. Just make sure the transaction is categorized under “travel,” which is typically the case.
5. Exclusions on Eligible Travel
While most travel purchases qualify, a few exclusions apply. For example, parking fees, tolls, and commuter transportation don’t count as eligible travel. If you’re booking through a small travel agency, you’ll also want to verify that the purchase is coded under “travel” to earn rewards.
6. Using Your Card Internationally
Planning a trip abroad? Your Costco Visa has no foreign transaction fees, making it perfect for international travel. Every time you swipe your card for hotels, flights, or rental cars outside the U.S., you’ll still earn that 3% cash back, without worrying about extra charges. Plus, the Visa is widely accepted around the world, so you won’t run into issues with merchants.
7. Redeem Your Rewards Efficiently
Your cashback rewards with the Costco Visa can only be redeemed at Costco, but don’t worry—it’s easy to turn your points into savings. Every February, you’ll receive a reward certificate, which you can use to pay for purchases at Costco or cash out. This makes it super convenient if you’re a Costco regular.
8. Combine It With Your Costco Membership
Your Costco Visa and membership work together like a dream team. Not only do you earn 3% back on travel, but you also get 4% back on gas, 2% at Costco, and 1% on other purchases. If you’re a Costco Executive Member, you can stack these savings with the 2% reward you earn on most Costco purchases, giving you even more value when booking travel-related purchases.
9. Pay Attention to Special Promotions
Citi often runs limited-time offers for Costco Visa holders, especially when it comes to travel. These promotions may include extra cash back, discounts, or exclusive deals on travel purchases. Keep an eye out for these offers in your inbox or on the Citi mobile app to take advantage of even more savings.
10. Protect Your Purchases While Traveling
Your Costco Visa comes with built-in travel protection benefits, including travel accident insurance and damage & theft protection for car rentals. This can give you extra peace of mind when booking your trips. Be sure to review your card’s specific terms and conditions to know what’s covered and any limits to your protection.
11. How to Track Your Cash Back Rewards
It’s super easy to keep tabs on the cash back rewards you’re earning with your Costco Visa. Citi provides a straightforward dashboard within their mobile app and online account management portal. You can track how much you’ve earned on each category—travel, gas, and even your Costco purchases. This can help you stay on top of your rewards and ensure you’re making the most of your card on travel expenses.
12. Partner Airline and Hotel Programs: Double Dip on Rewards!
Here’s a pro tip to really maximize your travel rewards: if you’re a member of a hotel or airline loyalty program, you can double dip on rewards. Use your Costco Visa to book flights or hotels through partner programs like Hilton Honors or Delta SkyMiles, and not only will you earn points with those programs, but you’ll also score 3% cash back on the same purchase. It’s a win-win for frequent travelers!
13. Costco Vacation Packages Offer Exclusive Deals
One of the hidden gems of using Costco Travel is their vacation packages. These bundles often include flights, accommodations, and sometimes even car rentals—all at competitive rates. Not only will you earn 3% back on the entire purchase, but Costco also throws in perks like resort credits or free breakfast at some hotels. These packages are a great way to maximize your travel savings without the hassle of booking everything separately.
14. Business Travel Is Eligible Too!
If you’re a small business owner or frequently travel for work, you can still take advantage of the Costco Visa’s travel perks. Any business-related travel purchases, such as flights, car rentals, and hotels, will count toward your 3% cash back rewards. This can be especially beneficial if you often book trips and want to save on company travel expenses while earning cash back for personal or business use.
15. Make the Most of Hotel Loyalty Programs
Another smart move is to use your Costco Visa when booking hotel stays that are part of loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy or Hyatt. Not only will you be earning 3% cash back, but you’ll also accumulate loyalty points from the hotel chain. This allows you to stack rewards, giving you free nights or upgrades on future trips while simultaneously earning cash back on your current stay.
16. Time Your Big Travel Purchases
If you know you have a large travel expense coming up, like a long vacation or business conference, plan to use your Costco Visa. The bigger the purchase, the more cash back you’ll earn. Whether you’re booking a luxury hotel stay or long-haul international flights, making these purchases with your Costco Visa ensures you’re getting the most out of every dollar spent.
17. Combine Rewards With Your Partner’s Costco Visa
If your partner or spouse also has a Costco Visa, you can pool your travel purchases to really rake in the cash back. When both of you use your cards for eligible travel expenses like hotels, car rentals, and even Costco Travel packages, you’ll both benefit from 3% cash back. This can significantly increase your savings over time, especially if you’re frequent travelers.
18. Costco Visa Travel Insurance Perks
Aside from earning cash back, the Costco Visa also provides travel protection benefits. These perks include travel accident insurance, rental car insurance, and even trip cancellation coverage. This means that if something goes wrong with your trip—whether it’s a flight cancellation or a damaged rental car—you could be covered, helping you avoid out-of-pocket expenses. It’s like having peace of mind built right into your card.
19. Using Points for Future Trips
When the time comes to redeem your cashback rewards, you’ll receive an annual certificate, which you can use at Costco warehouses. Although you can’t redeem these points directly for travel, the cashback can free up some of your budget for future travel plans. It’s like earning back your travel budget one trip at a time, making it easier to plan your next adventure!
21. Redeem Your Costco Visa Rewards Efficiently
When it’s time to redeem your Costco Visa rewards, remember that these come in the form of an annual reward certificate. This certificate can be used at any Costco warehouse to either make purchases or be redeemed for cash. The key here is efficiency—plan ahead to use the reward strategically. For instance, you could use the reward for large household purchases at Costco, freeing up other funds for your future travel plans. It’s a smart way to save on everyday essentials and reallocate your savings toward more exciting adventures.
22. Costco Travel Cruises: A Hidden Gem for Rewards
If you’re a cruise lover, Costco Travel has got you covered! Booking a cruise through Costco Travel means you’ll earn 3% cash back on the entire purchase, plus benefit from Costco’s unbeatable cruise deals. On top of that, many cruises booked through Costco Travel include exclusive bonuses like onboard credits, room upgrades, or prepaid gratuities. Not only will you earn rewards, but you’ll also enjoy perks that make your vacation even more enjoyable.
23. Rental Cars and Travel Insurance Benefits
One often-overlooked perk of using the Costco Visa for travel is the rental car insurance that comes with it. When you pay for a rental car with your Costco Visa, you’ll receive complimentary rental car coverage, which can save you from paying for extra insurance at the rental counter. Additionally, should anything go wrong on your trip, like lost luggage or trip interruptions, you’re also covered by the card’s travel insurance benefits. These perks add tremendous value to every trip you book.
24. Use Your Rewards to Book Your Next Trip
While Costco Visa rewards come in the form of cash back, you can strategically use these savings for your next trip. Redeeming your cash back and allocating it towards future flights, hotels, or other travel-related expenses means you’re essentially funding your next adventure with rewards from your last one. It’s a cycle of saving that makes frequent travel even more affordable and enjoyable.
25. Maximize Rewards on Last-Minute Deals
Did you know that you can use your Costco Visa to take advantage of last-minute travel deals? If you’re flexible with your dates, check out Costco Travel for last-minute vacation packages, cruises, or hotel deals. By booking last-minute, not only will you score a great deal, but you’ll also earn that sweet 3% cash back. It’s a fantastic way to save both on the front end and earn rewards for future trips.
26. Plan Your Next Adventure with Confidence
Now that you know all the ins and outs of eligible travel expenses for your Costco Visa, you’re fully equipped to maximize your rewards and enjoy stress-free trips. Whether you’re booking flights, hotels, cruises, or vacation packages, your Costco Visa has got you covered with 3% cash back and a range of travel protection benefits. So, start planning your next adventure with confidence, knowing that you’re not just spending money—you’re earning it back along the way!
Final Thoughts
Travel is one of life’s greatest joys, and with the Costco Visa, it just got a whole lot more rewarding. From earning 3% cash back on eligible travel expenses to enjoying perks like travel insurance and exclusive deals, this card is designed to help you get the most out of every journey. Remember to use your Costco Visa strategically, take advantage of all the travel perks, and watch your rewards grow.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your once-a-year vacation, this card is an excellent travel companion. Ready to maximize your rewards and hit the road? Your Costco Visa is waiting to help you unlock your next adventure.